DESRT TOURS
5 Days Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour
About this tour
Embark on a captivating 5-day journey from Fes to Marrakech, blending Morocco’s natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure. Traverse the Middle Atlas Mountains, palm-filled valleys, stunning gorges, and the golden Sahara Desert. Highlights include a camel ride at sunset, a magical night under the desert stars, visits to historic kasbahs, and cinematic locations. The tour concludes in Marrakech, where tradition and vibrant city life merge for an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
Explore UNESCO-listed Kasbahs: Aït Ben Haddou and Telouet
Scenic drive across the High Atlas Mountains
Sunset camel trek across Erg Chebbi dunes
Overnight stays in private luxury desert tents with campfire experiences
Visit the Gnawa village of Khamlia and historic Rissani
Camel trek across Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset and sunrise
Learn about local crafts, including fossil workshops in Erfoud
Itinerary
Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Sahara Desert
After breakfast, leave Fes and journey south through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known for its Alpine-style architecture and peaceful streets, and admire its famous stone lion. Continue to Azrou’s cedar forests to see Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. After a scenic drive through Midelt, surrounded by apple orchards, travel through the palm-lined Ziz Valley. By late afternoon, reach the edge of the Sahara and enjoy a camel ride across the dunes at sunset. Arrive at the desert camp for an evening of traditional music, storytelling, and stargazing.
Day 2: Sahara Desert – Tinghir – Todgha Gorges – Dades Valley
Wake up early for sunrise over the dunes—a serene, unforgettable moment. After breakfast, head through small villages and oases toward Tinghir. Visit the dramatic Todgha Gorges, a canyon with towering rock walls and flowing river. Continue through the Dades Valley, famous for its winding roads, unique rock formations, and scenic viewpoints. Overnight in Boumalne Dades, surrounded by nature.
Day 3: Boumalne Dades – Valley of Roses – Skoura – Ouarzazate
Travel through the Valley of Roses, known for its fragrant rose fields and traditional rose products. Pass through traditional Berber villages and the palm oasis of Skoura before arriving in Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert and a hub for Morocco’s film industry. Explore the film studios, stroll the town streets, or relax and enjoy the calm atmosphere.
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
Visit the iconic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring its alleys and viewpoints. Continue through the High Atlas Mountains, passing traditional villages and breathtaking valleys before descending to Marrakech. Enjoy a relaxed evening immersed in the city’s vibrant energy.
Day 5: Marrakech City Exploration
Discover Marrakech’s highlights with a local guide. Explore Jamaa El Fna square, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the serene Majorelle Garden. Wander through the medina’s narrow streets, filled with souks, artisans, and local markets. After lunch, your tour concludes, leaving you with memories of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and desert adventure.
5 Days Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour
What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes for medina streets, mountains, and dunes
- Light clothing with a warm layer for cool desert nights
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection
- Small backpack for essentials during day trips
- Camera to capture Ait Ben Haddou, Erg Chebbi dunes, Todra Gorge, and Dades Valley
Tips for First-Time Travelers:
- Carry cash for desert villages, markets, and excursions
- Dress modestly in traditional areas and Berber villages
- Stay hydrated, especially in desert and mountainous regions
- Roads may be winding and travel times longer than expected
- Always ask before photographing locals
Climate Overview:
- Fes: Hot summers, mild winters
- Middle Atlas Mountains: Cool, possible snow in winter
- Dades Valley & Todgha Gorge: Warm days, cooler nights
- Sahara Desert: Hot days, cold nights
- Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou: Dry, sunny, warm
- High Atlas Mountains: Cool, scenic
Marrakech: Hot summers, mild winters
Main Distances:
- Fes → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Sahara Desert: 460 km (~8h)
- Sahara Desert → Tinghir → Todgha Gorges → Dades Valley: 180 km (~4h)
- Dades Valley → Valley of Roses → Skoura → Ouarzazate: 120 km (~3h)
- Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → Marrakech (via High Atlas): 200 km (~4h)
