4-Day Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech
Overview
This 4-day adventure takes you from Fes to Marrakech, combining the majesty of Morocco’s mountains with the allure of the Sahara Desert. Journey through charming mountain towns, cedar forests, and winding Atlas passes, meet nomadic communities, and explore the golden Erg Chebbi dunes with a memorable camel trek. Discover the Todra and Dades Gorges, visit historic kasbahs including the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, and experience the vibrant culture and scenery of southern Morocco. The tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and desert adventure.
Duration : 4 days / 4 nights
Start : Fes
End : Marrakech
Min people : 1
Tour Highlights
- Discover Ifrane, the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and its Alpine charm
- Spot Barbary macaques in the cedar forests near Azrou
- Traverse the Middle and High Atlas Mountains with panoramic viewpoints
- Explore the dramatic Ziz Gorge and scenic desert landscapes
- Experience a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset
- Visit nomadic settlements and learn about traditional desert life
- Listen to authentic Gnawa music in Khamlia Village
- Explore Rissani market and Erfoud fossil workshops
- Hike and photograph the stunning Todra Gorges
- Drive through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs and the Roses Valley
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah and Ouarzazate
Itinerary
Day 1: Fes – Middle Atlas Mountains – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert – Camel Trek
The journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Fes, heading toward the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop is Ifrane, a charming mountain town often referred to as “Morocco’s Switzerland” for its Alpine-style architecture and tranquil surroundings. Continue through the cedar forests near Azrou, where you may spot the playful Barbary macaques in their natural habitat.
Passing through the dramatic peaks and winding valleys of the Atlas, you reach Midelt before traversing the Tizi N’Talghamt pass and the stunning Ziz Gorge. Stop to enjoy panoramic views of the desert approaching the towns of Errachidia, Erfoud, and Rissani. Arriving in Merzouga, you’ll be welcomed with mint tea before embarking on a camel trek into the golden Erg Chebbi
dunes. Conclude the day at a traditional Berber desert camp, enjoying dinner under the stars surrounded by towering sand dunes.
Day 2: Erg Chebbi Dunes – Nomad Villages – Tisardmin Oasis – Khamlia
Rise early to witness the most spectacular sunrise over the dunes, a moment that captures the serenity and vastness of the Sahara. Return to Merzouga on camelback for breakfast before exploring the greater Erg Chebbi region, home to Morocco’s tallest sand dunes.
Travel along historic routes once used for desert expeditions, visiting Tisardmin Oasis and encountering nomadic settlements to learn about traditional desert life. Stop at a viewpoint to admire the full expanse of the Erg Chebbi, then continue to Khamlia Village, known for its Gnawa music heritage, where you can relax with a cup of tea while listening to spiritual melodies. The afternoon is free to enjoy the dunes or town, culminating with a desert sunset before dinner and overnight in the area.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani Market – Erfoud Fossils – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
After breakfast, leave the desert and visit the lively Rissani market, a hub of Berber trade with colorful spices, textiles, and crafts. Continue to Erfoud to see fossil workshops showcasing the region’s rich geological heritage. Journey through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad before arriving at the magnificent Todra Gorges, a cliff-sided canyon ideal for short hikes and photography.
In the afternoon, travel to the scenic Dades Valley, also known as the Valley of the Monkeys, where striking rock formations and kasbahs dot the landscape. Stop at key viewpoints to admire the valley’s natural beauty before dinner and overnight amid the dramatic gorges.
Day 4: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech
Begin the day with a panoramic view of the Dades Valley from a strategic lookout, capturing the winding road lined with historic kasbahs. Continue along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” passing the lush Skoura palm groves and the Roses Valley.
Arrive in Ouarzazate to explore the historic Taourirt Kasbah and, optionally, the region’s film studios. Then, visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, famous for its stunning mud-brick architecture and as a backdrop for numerous international films. After a break for lunch, drive across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N’Tichka Pass, stopping for photos of the dramatic mountain landscapes before descending into Marrakech. The tour concludes upon arrival in Marrakech in the early evening.
Gallery
Included
- Private transportation with a professional local driver
- Hand-picked accommodations (riads, kasbahs, boutique hotels or desert camps, depending on itinerary)
- Breakfasts included in most accommodations throughout the trip
- Dinners in the desert and remote regions, when applicable
- Cultural and heritage activities listed in your itinerary
- Local certified guides at major historical sites and selected cities
- Camel ride in the Sahara for desert tours
- Assistance from our dedicated team throughout your stay
Excluded
- International flights to and from Morocco
- Lunches and beverages, unless specified
- Entrance fees to certain monuments or optional activities
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Tips for guides and drivers (at your discretion)
Map
Booking
Know before you go
-
Long driving days: Expect 6–8+ hours on the road each day.
-
Early departures: Starts early to cover distances and enjoy key sights.
-
Varied landscapes: High Atlas Mountains, Aït Ben Haddou, Dades Valley, Todra Gorges, Sahara dunes.
-
Camel trek included: Sunset (and often sunrise) ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes.
-
Desert camp night: Traditional or luxury camp depending on booking.
-
Weather contrast: Hot days, cold desert nights — layers are essential.
-
What to pack: Comfortable shoes, sun protection, warm clothes, water, snacks.
-
Meals: Breakfasts and some dinners included; lunches and drinks usually not.
-
Cash needed: For lunches, drinks, tips, and small purchases.
-
Fast-paced itinerary: Ideal for travelers with limited time.
-
Photo opportunities: Bring camera/phone, extra battery or power bank.
-
Basic comfort stops: Some roadside restaurants and facilities are simple.
Reviews
FAQ
How long is the drive each day?
Expect long drives of about 6–8+ hours per day, with scenic stops along the way.
What should I pack?
Comfortable shoes, warm layers for the desert night, sun protection, toiletries, water, snacks, and a power bank.
Is it suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, but keep in mind the long driving hours. Let the operator know in advance for adaptations.
Will it be cold in the desert?
Yes, desert nights can be cold, especially from October to Marc
Do I need cash?
Yes. Bring cash for lunches, drinks, tips, and personal purchases.
