Overview
Embark on an extraordinary 5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes that captures the essence of Morocco’s most diverse and breathtaking landscapes. This carefully crafted tour takes you from the vibrant city of Marrakech through the dramatic High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, the magical Sahara Desert, and finally to the historic city of Fes. Experience the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco, from UNESCO World Heritage sites to traditional Berber villages, desert adventures, and unique natural landscapes.
- Duration: 5 days/4 night
- Start: Marrakech
- End: Fes
- Tour Style: Private
Highlights of the 5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Ait-Ben-Haddou Kasbah, a cinematic marvel featured in Hollywood films.
- Experience an unforgettable camel trek and overnight stay in the Merzouga Sahara desert.
- Discover the dramatic Todra Gorges and the unique "Monkey Fingers" rock formations.
- Visit traditional Berber nomads and experience their authentic desert lifestyle.
- Explore the vibrant Rissani market and Erfoud's fascinating fossil workshops.
- Encounter Barbary Macaques in the beautiful Cedar Forest near Ifrane.
- Journey through diverse landscapes from desert sands to alpine-like mountains.
Why private 5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes
This extraordinary 5-day journey is more than just a tour – it’s a comprehensive exploration of Morocco’s most diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Designed for travelers who want to maximize their experience, this expedition offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the country’s remarkable geographical and cultural diversity.
From the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains to the golden sands of the Sahara, from ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites to traditional Berber villages, this tour provides an immersive experience that captures the essence of Morocco. Each day brings new landscapes, experiences, and insights, ensuring that you’ll return home with a deep understanding of this fascinating country.
Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, adventure seeker, or photography lover, this tour offers something extraordinary: camel treks at sunset, starry desert nights, encounters with nomadic cultures, historic kasbahs, and landscapes that range from desert to alpine forests. It’s not just a journey through a country, but a passage through history, culture, and natural wonder.
itinerary
This immersive 5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is designed to showcase the incredible diversity of Morocco’s landscapes, cultures, and natural wonders. From mountain passes to desert dunes, ancient kasbahs to historic cities, you’ll experience the heart and soul of this magnificent country.
Day 1: Marrakech ⇢ High Atlas Mountains ⇢ Ait Ben Haddou ⇢ Ouarzazate
Your 5-day desert tour begins with an early morning pick-up from Marrakech. We’ll traverse the High Atlas Mountains, stopping at the Tizi-N-Tichka Pass for breathtaking panoramic views. Our first major stop is the legendary Ait-Ben-Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has starred in numerous films like “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.”
After exploring the kasbah, we’ll continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Here, we’ll visit the Atlas Studios and the Taourirt Kasbah, immersing ourselves in the region’s cinematic history. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel.
- Distance: Approximately 250 km
- Highlights: High Atlas Mountains, Tizi-N-Tichka Pass, Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
Day 2: Ouarzazate ⇢ Skoura ⇢ Rose Valley ⇢ Dades Valley
We’ll begin by exploring the Palm Groves of Skoura and visiting the picturesque Amridil Kasbah. Our journey continues to the Rose Valley in Kalaa Magouna, famous for its annual Rose Festival in May. Here, you’ll discover local rose products and learn about this unique local industry.
The afternoon takes us to the Dades Valley, where we’ll stop at the remarkable “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and enjoy a viewpoint overlooking the stunning valley landscape. We’ll spend the night in a hotel in Boumalne Dades.
- Distance: Approximately 200 km
- Highlights: Amridil Kasbah, Rose Valley, Dades Valley Landscapes
Day 3: Dades Valley ⇢ Todra Gorges ⇢ Merzouga Desert After breakfast, we’ll visit the Todra Gorges, a spectacular canyon carved by the Todra River. The towering red cliff walls create a dramatic landscape perfect for exploration and photography. We’ll continue our journey to the Merzouga Desert, where the real adventure begins.
As evening approaches, you’ll embark on a camel trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes, stopping to witness a magical desert sunset. The night will be spent in a luxurious desert camp, enjoying traditional Berber music and hospitality under a canopy of stars.
- Distance: Approximately 300 km
- Highlights: Todra Gorges, Camel Trek, Desert Sunset, Luxury Camp Experience
Day 4: Merzouga Region Exploration
An early morning sunrise in the desert is a must-see experience. After breakfast, we’ll explore the Merzouga region in depth. Our adventures include visiting an ancient eyeliner mine, meeting nomadic families in their traditional tents, and experiencing the unique Khamlia Village with its Sub-Saharan music and dance performances.
We’ll also visit the wild Merzouga Lake (Flamingo Lake) and explore local palm groves. The day offers a deep dive into the desert’s culture, wildlife, and natural beauty.
- Distance: Approximately 100 km
- Highlights: Nomad Encounters, Khamlia Village, Merzouga Lake, Desert Exploration
Day 5: Merzouga ⇢ Rissani ⇢ Erfoud ⇢ Cedar Forest ⇢ Ifrane ⇢ Fes
Our final day begins with another sunrise and a visit to Rissani, the ancient capital of Tafilalet. We’ll explore its vibrant traditional market before heading to Erfoud to visit fossil workshops. The journey continues through the Ziz Valley, with a stop for panoramic views.
We’ll visit the Cedar Forest, home to Barbary Macaques, offering a chance to see these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Our final stop is Ifrane, Morocco’s “Switzerland,” known for its alpine-style architecture and cool climate. The tour concludes with a drop-off in Fes.
- Distance: Approximately 400 km
- Highlights: Rissani Market, Ziz Valley, Barbary Macaques, Ifrane
Inclusive and Exclusive of the tour
Inclusive
- Pick-up at your Hotel or Riad.
- Comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4, van/minibus.
- Driver/guide speaking English
- Exciting camel trekking
- Experience through the Erg Chebbi dunes
- 4 Dinners
- 4 Breakfasts
Exclusive
- Lunches
- Beverages
- Entrance fees, when needed
- Tips (optional)
- Anything not in inclusive
Price of 5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes
Map of the tour
Book this tour now
Know Before You Go
When making your reservation, please be sure to communicate any dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences. Rest assured, we are committed to accommodating your specific meal preferences during your trip to ensure an enjoyable dining experience.
Throughout the desert tour, your guide will recommend lunch stops at local restaurants offering fresh, healthy options. However, if you have a particular restaurant in mind, feel free to inform your guide, and they will gladly assist in making it part of your journey.
For those seeking an added thrill, consider exciting activities like quad biking or buggy driving in the stunning Erg Chebbi Dunes. If you’re interested in these exhilarating desert experiences, just let your guide know, and they’ll help arrange the perfect adventure to enhance your trip.
To make the most of your desert experience, consider upgrading to our 5-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. This extended itinerary includes an extra night in Dades Gorges and another night in Ouarzazate, allowing you more time to explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Morocco. This tour breaks up the longer drive and offers a more relaxed pace, making it an ideal choice for those looking to fully experience the journey.
If you’re limited on time, a 4-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga might be a great option. This 4-day desert tour offers a perfect balance of exploration and adventure, giving you ample time to explore the Merzouga desert and its surroundings.
For those with only three days to spare, our 3-day desert tour from Marrakech provides a faster yet fulfilling experience. Please note, however, that this option includes just one night in the desert, ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience Morocco’s desert landscapes without the extended driving.
If you have an even tighter schedule, the 2-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is an excellent choice. Although shorter, it still provides a glimpse into the magic of the desert, with the highlights of Merzouga and the Sahara dunes.
No matter your choice, our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable desert adventure tailored to your interests and schedule.
Food Alergies
Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions you may have. We provide helpful information for vegans and vegetarians and will do our utmost to accommodate your needs, ensuring this information is communicated to your driver and hotels.
However, please be aware of the following considerations: We cannot guarantee the absence of allergen traces in containers, bags, or kitchens, as Morocco’s food standards may differ from those in your country. If any member of your tour has severe allergies, it is advisable to bring appropriate food items. Additionally, we cannot control potential insect encounters.
We recommend exercising extra caution in any uncertain situations.
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FaQ
What type of vehicles are used for the trip ?
What a great inquiry! “Private desert trips” require comfortable transportation. For groups bigger than 8, we employ Land Cruiser TXs, Ford 8-seater vans, Mercedes Bens Sprinter minibuses, and a variety of other comfortable vehicles.What a great inquiry! “Private desert trips” require comfortable transportation. For groups bigger than 8, we employ Land Cruiser TXs, Ford 8-seater vans, Mercedes Bens Sprinter minibuses, and a variety of other comfortable vehicles.
How far in advance should we book this tour ?
Making your vacation plans as soon as you can is encouraged because the early bird gets the worm.
How to pay for the tour ?
Initially, we ask that a small deposit be given to our account via PayPal during the booking procedure. Second, the balance must be paid in cash and should be handed to our driver/guide on the first day of the tour in euros, dollars, or the equivalent in dirhams.
How do i take my luggage to the camp?
At the start of your camel trek, a 4×4 vehicle will convey your luggage. As a result, your bags will be there when you arrive at the camp.
Is it possible to have vegetarian food or vegan food?
Serving vegan or vegetarian food is possible. On the first day of your trip, please email me or let your driver/guide know as soon as you can.
I don’t want to ride camels to the camp, how i do I reach the camp?
If you don’t want to ride a camel, we can transport you to the camp in a 4 × 4 vehicle.