6 Days Desert Tour Fes to Marrakech
Overview
Experience 6 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech and discover the best of Morocco’s culture, history, mountains, valleys, and Sahara Desert. This immersive tour combines the ancient heritage of Fes, the beauty of the Middle Atlas Mountains, and the magic of the Sahara with the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech.
Begin with a guided exploration of Fes Medina, one of the oldest and most fascinating medieval cities in the world. Travel through the alpine town of Ifrane, the cedar forests of Azrou, and the spectacular Ziz Valley before reaching the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga.
Enjoy a memorable camel trek at sunset, spend a magical night in a traditional desert camp, and experience authentic Berber hospitality beneath a sky filled with stars. Explore the Sahara in depth by visiting nomadic families, listening to traditional Gnawa music in Khamlia village, and discovering hidden corners of the desert.
Continue through Rissani, Todra Gorge, Dades Valley, and Ouarzazate before visiting the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah. Finally, cross the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains and arrive in Marrakech, completing an incredible Moroccan adventure.
Highlights
- Enjoy a guided tour of the historic Fes Medina.
- Visit Al Quaraouiyine University, the world’s oldest university.
- Explore Ifrane, known as the Switzerland of Morocco.
- See Barbary macaques in the Cedar Forest of Azrou.
- Admire the panoramic views of the Ziz Valley.
- Ride camels across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
- Watch Sahara sunsets and sunrises.
- Spend a night in a traditional Berber desert camp.
- Meet nomadic families and learn about desert life.
- Experience authentic Gnawa music in Khamlia village.
- Visit the seasonal lake of Dayet Srij.
- Try sandboarding or enjoy a 4×4 desert excursion.
- Walk through the spectacular Todra Gorge.
- Explore Ouarzazate, known as the Hollywood of Morocco.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah.
- Discover the historic Telouet Kasbah.
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
- Finish your adventure in Marrakech.
6 Days Desert Tour Fes to Marrakech Itinerary
Day 1: Fes Sightseeing Tour with a Local Guide.
Your adventure begins with a full-day guided tour of Fes, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual capital.
You’ll explore the ancient Medina of Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Walk through narrow alleyways filled with traditional shops, colorful markets, and centuries-old monuments.
Highlights include the famous Al Quaraouiyine University, Bou Inania Madrasa, the historic tanneries, Nejjarine Fountain, and the impressive gates of the Royal Palace.
After discovering the rich history and culture of Fes, you’ll spend the night in a traditional riad inside the medina.
Day 2: Fes ⇢ Azrou Cedar Forest ⇢ Midelt.
After breakfast, we’ll leave Fes and head south through the Middle Atlas Mountains.
Our first stop is Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” because of its alpine-style architecture, clean streets, and mountain atmosphere.
We’ll continue to the Cedar Forest of Azrou, home to the famous Barbary macaques. You’ll have time to walk among the giant cedar trees and observe the monkeys in their natural habitat.
After crossing beautiful mountain landscapes and wide plateaus, we’ll arrive in Midelt, a peaceful town known for its apple orchards and stunning mountain scenery.
Dinner and overnight stay in Midelt.
Day 3: Midelt ⇢ Ziz Valley ⇢ Erfoud ⇢ Merzouga Desert.
After breakfast, we’ll continue south through the breathtaking Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s largest palm oases. Enjoy panoramic views of thousands of palm trees stretching across the valley floor.
Passing through Erfoud, famous for fossils and dates, we’ll reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert.
In the late afternoon, you’ll begin an unforgettable camel trek across the dunes of Erg Chebbi. As the sun sets, the golden sands create one of the most beautiful landscapes in Morocco.
At the desert camp, you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber music around the campfire, and an unforgettable night beneath the stars.
Day 4: Full Day Exploring the Merzouga Desert.
Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the dunes before breakfast.
Today is dedicated to exploring the Merzouga region and experiencing authentic desert life. We’ll visit Khamlia village, where you’ll enjoy traditional Gnawa music performed by descendants of ancient African communities.
Next, we’ll meet local nomadic families and learn about their lifestyle, traditions, and daily life in the Sahara.
We’ll also visit Dayet Srij, a seasonal desert lake that attracts flamingos and other migratory birds when conditions allow.
In the afternoon, you can relax, try sandboarding, take a walk through the dunes, or join an optional 4×4 desert excursion.
Dinner and overnight stay in Merzouga.
Day 5: Merzouga ⇢ Rissani ⇢ Todra Gorge ⇢ Ouarzazate.
After breakfast, we’ll leave the Sahara and travel to Rissani, an important historic town known for its traditional market and ancient caravan routes.
We’ll continue to Todra Gorge, one of Morocco’s most impressive natural wonders. The canyon’s towering cliffs rise more than 300 meters above the river, creating a spectacular setting for a short walk and photos.
After exploring the gorge, we’ll drive through the beautiful Dades Valley and pass several traditional Berber villages before arriving in Ouarzazate.
Known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” Ouarzazate has served as a filming location for many international productions, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Dinner and overnight stay in Ouarzazate.
Day 6: Ouarzazate ⇢ Ait Ben Haddou ⇢ High Atlas Mountains ⇢ Marrakech.
After breakfast, we’ll visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You’ll have time to explore its ancient mud-brick buildings, narrow alleys, and panoramic viewpoints while learning about its fascinating history.
Next, we’ll visit Telouet Kasbah, once the residence of the powerful Glaoui family. Hidden in the High Atlas Mountains, this remarkable fortress is one of Morocco’s lesser-known treasures.
We’ll then cross the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass at an altitude of 2,260 meters, enjoying breathtaking views of mountain landscapes and traditional Berber villages.
By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Marrakech, where your unforgettable 6-day desert adventure comes to an end.
Gallery
Price Include And Exclude
Include
- Convenient Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off.
- Private, air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable journey.
- Car fuel.
- Experienced, professional driver and tour guide to enhance your experience.
- Camel ride per person.
- Sanboarding.
- Accommodation: Desert camp & hotels/riads
- Transfer either by car or camels from the camp.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner x5
Not Included
- Lunches.
- Drinks.
- Entrance fee to monuments.
- Tipping (Optional)
Why Choose This Tour?
- Visit Morocco’s four most famous destinations: Marrakech, Merzouga, Fes, and Casablanca.
- Ride camels across the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Spend two unforgettable nights in the Sahara Desert.
- Discover authentic Berber culture and meet local nomadic families.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou.
- Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Fes Medina.
- Visit the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
- Travel through the High Atlas Mountains, Draa Valley, Ziz Valley, and Cedar Forest.
- Experience a perfect of desert landscapes, culture, history, and local traditions.
- Ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, and small groups.
- If this itinerary doesn't align with your needs, we can adjust and tailor it to suit your preferences. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for customization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the guided tour of Fes included?
Yes, a guided sightseeing tour of Fes with a local guide is included on the first day.
Is the camel trek included in the tour?
Yes, the camel ride in Merzouga is included and takes you across the Erg Chebbi dunes to the desert camp.
Can I go to the desert camp by 4x4 instead of a camel?
Yes, a 4×4 transfer can be arranged if you prefer not to ride a camel.
How many nights will I spend in the desert?
This tour includes one night in a traditional Sahara desert camp and one additional night in Merzouga for a deeper desert experience.
What should I pack for the Sahara Desert?
We recommend comfortable clothes, walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a warm jacket for cool evenings.