Discover Morocco’s heart on this highly recommended 4-day desert tour. Journey from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga’s Erg Chebbi dunes. Experience the thrill of a camel trek. Spend a magical night in a desert tent under the stars, where you’ll meet welcoming nomadic people. Your journey also includes visits to Azrou and the breathtaking Todra Gorges. You’ll also explore Ouarzazate and the famed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah. This itinerary thoughtfully includes two nights for full Saharan immersion. The first is in a comfortable Merzouga hotel, setting you up perfectly for your dune adventure. The second night is spent in an authentic desert camp.
After breakfast in Fez, our journey south to Merzouga begins. We’ll traverse the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, making our first stop in Ifrane, often dubbed the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture. Next, we delve into the ancient Cedar Forest between Azrou and Ifrane, a tranquil woodland where you might spot playful Barbary apes and diverse birdlife amongst the towering cedars.
Our route continues through Midelt, the regional “apple capital,” nestled in the mountains. We then descend into the magnificent Ziz Valley, a breathtaking panorama of lush palm groves, vibrant crops, and crumbling ancient Kasbahs within traditional Berber villages. As evening approaches, we arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. Here, you’ll settle into your hotel for dinner and a restful night, anticipating the desert adventures ahead.
Today is dedicated to exploring the captivating Merzouga desert region by 4×4. Our first visit is to Khamlia, the village of the Gnawa people. Here, you’ll be welcomed with traditional Saharan mint tea by a local family, learn about their unique lifestyle, and experience the powerful, spiritual rhythms of Gnawa music – a rich tapestry of ancient African Islamic songs.
The adventure continues as we visit nomadic families in their traditional tents, offering a glimpse into their resilient way of life. Lunch will be enjoyed in a local Berber village. As the afternoon sun begins to soften, you’ll embark on an unforgettable camel trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Arriving at your desert camp, you’ll enjoy dinner under a canopy of stars and spend the night in a traditional nomad tent, immersed in the Sahara’s profound tranquility.
Rise early to witness the magical spectacle of sunrise painting the vast sand dunes with golden light. After this breathtaking experience, we’ll return by camel to Merzouga for breakfast and a refreshing shower at your hotel. Our journey continues towards the Dades Gorges, passing through the dramatic Saghro Mountains, a rugged range south of the High Atlas. En route, we’ll explore the fossil-rich town of Erfoud. Our primary stop today is the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges, Morocco’s highest and narrowest canyon, perfect for a leisurely stroll along the riverbed. We then proceed to Boumalne Dades, where dinner and your overnight accommodation await, surrounded by majestic “sandcastle” Kasbahs and the peculiar “monkey toes” rock formations.
After breakfast, our journey continues towards Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco.” We’ll travel along the famed “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” and through the verdant Skoura oasis, with its abundance of palm trees (and in season, the fragrant Rose Valley). A highlight is the visit to the iconic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remarkably preserved 18th-century fortified village has served as a stunning backdrop for numerous films, including “Lawrence of Arabia,” “Gladiator,” and “Game of Thrones.” After lunch, we embark on the final leg of our journey, ascending the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass through the High Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Your unforgettable 4-day desert adventure concludes upon arrival in vibrant Marrakech.
✔ Private transport (4×4 or minivan) with A/C
✔ English/French-speaking driver/guide
✔ 1 night in a Dades Valley hotel & 1 night in a desert camp
✔ Camel trek in Merzouga (1 per person)
✔ Breakfast & dinner during the trip
✖ Lunches & drinks
✖ Entrance fees (Ait Ben Haddou, film studios, etc.)
✖ Tips for guides/drivers
