go on a captivating 9-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech. Your adventure begins in Fes, Morocco’s historic former capital nestled near the Atlas Mountains, where a local guide will unveil its ancient wonders. Journey south through Azrou to visit the famous Cedar Forest, home to Barbary apes, and continue via Midelt towards the Sahara. The highlight is your immersion in the Merzouga desert: explore the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes on a thrilling 4×4 tour, experience an unforgettable camel trek, and spend a magical night in a traditional Berber tent. You’ll also discover the vibrant Rissani market.
The journey continues through stunning landscapes, including lush palm oases, the dramatic Dades Gorges and Dades Valley (known as Asif N’dades in Berber), and the fragrant Roses Valley. Explore Ouarzazate, the “Gateway to the Desert,” and visit the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou. Finally, cross the spectacular Tizi N’Tichka Pass before dedicating a full day to exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech with a local guide.
Upon arrival at Fes Sais Airport, you’ll receive a warm welcome and be transferred to your hotel/Riad, marking the start of your 9-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech.
After breakfast, meet your local guide to explore Fes. Begin with the impressive Royal Palace gates, then delve into the historic Mellah (Jewish Quarter) with its 17th-century synagogue. Visit the Al Qarawiyyin University, one of the world’s oldest, and witness the ancient Chouara Tannery from a terrace overlooking the dyeing pits. Wander through the bustling souks (markets) and narrow alleys of the old Medina, enjoying lunch in its vibrant heart.
Today, journey towards Merzouga. Travel through Ifrane, “the Switzerland of Morocco,” and stop at the Cedar Forest near Azrou to see Barbary apes. After lunch in Midelt, continue via the Ziz Valley, known for its extensive palm groves, passing through Erfoud. Upon arrival in Merzouga, take a short break before a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes – Morocco’s largest sand desert. Enjoy a spectacular sunset over the dunes, capture stunning photos, and then settle into your traditional Berber tent for dinner under the stars, accompanied by Berber music.
Wake early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. After returning to your hotel by camel for breakfast and a shower, embark on a 4×4 exploration of Erg Chebbi, whose dunes can exceed 150m. You might cross tracks used in the Paris-Dakar rally. Stop at the Tissardmine oasis, then visit a nomad family to share Saharan mint tea and learn about their traditional lifestyle. Take in panoramic views of the entire Erg Chebbi desert. In Khamlia village, enjoy Gnawa music and another cup of tea. Savor a delicious Berber pizza for lunch before returning to your hotel for the night.
After breakfast, depart for Rissani, famous for its large traditional souks. Next, explore Erfoud’s fascinating fossil workshops (Erfoud also hosts an annual Date Festival). Continue through the palm groves of Tinejdad and Touroug to the magnificent Todra Gorges, a series of dramatic limestone river canyons. After lunch, many visitors enjoy a walk through Morocco’s highest and narrowest gorges. In the afternoon, drive to Boumalne Dades in the Dades Valley for dinner and your overnight stay.
After breakfast, explore the Dades Valley, admiring its rugged gorges and “sand castle” rock formations. Journey towards the Kasbah Ait Youl for stunning landscape views and a visit to a local family living in caves in the Boutaghrar area. Continue to Kelaat M’Gouna in the Valley of Roses, where you’ll have lunch. Proceed to the Skoura oasis, renowned for its vast palm groves, and visit the historic 17th-century Amridil Kasbah before arriving in Ouarzazate for your overnight hotel stay.
Today, explore Ouarzazate’s attractions, including the Taourirt Kasbah, Tifoultoute Kasbah, and the Atlas Film Studios. Then, journey to the iconic Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage kasbah famed as a backdrop for films like “Gladiator” and “Prince of Persia.” After lunch, travel to Marrakech via the spectacular Tizi N’Tichka Pass (2260m) in the High Atlas Mountains. En route, you may visit a Berber women’s cooperative to see Argan oil production. Arrive in Marrakech and check into your hotel for the night.
Dedicate today to exploring Marrakech, the “Red City.” Your guided tour includes the historic Medersa Ben Youssef, an ancient Islamic college. Navigate the vibrant, labyrinthine souks, experiencing their sights, sounds, and smells. Emerge onto the famous Djemaa el-Fna square, alive with musicians, storytellers, snake charmers, and food stalls. See the Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s iconic landmark. You may also choose to visit the Majorelle Garden (tickets often best booked in advance).
Your 9-day Moroccan adventure concludes with a transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure.
✔ 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
