5 Days Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour

This 5-day journey from Fes to Marrakech is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Traveling from the north to the south of Morocco, you will experience the changing landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains, vast palm-filled valleys, dramatic gorges, and the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. Highlights include a camel ride across the dunes at sunset, an unforgettable night beneath the stars in the desert, and visits to historic kasbahs and film-famous locations. The tour concludes in Marrakech, where ancient traditions and vibrant city life come together in an unforgettable way.

• Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains and cedar forests.
• Encounter wild Barbary macaques in their natural habitat.
• Camel trek across the Sahara dunes at sunset.
• Overnight experience under the stars in the Erg Chebbi Desert.
• Explore Todgha Gorges and the beautiful Dades Valley.
• Discover the Valley of Roses and traditional Berber villages.
• Visit Ouarzazate, known as Morocco’s cinematic capital.
• Explore the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou.
• Cross the High Atlas Mountains via a spectacular mountain pass.
• Guided exploration of Marrakech’s most iconic landmarks.

Day 1: Fes ➝ Ifrane ➝ Azrou ➝ Midelt ➝ Ziz Valley ➝ Sahara Desert

After breakfast, your journey begins as you leave Fes and head south through the Middle Atlas Mountains. The route offers fresh mountain air, rolling hills, and impressive panoramic views. Your first stop is Ifrane, a charming town known for its clean streets, alpine-style architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. A short walk allows you to admire the surroundings and visit its famous stone lion monument.

Continuing onward, you enter the cedar forests near Azrou, home to Barbary macaques that roam freely among the trees. Here, you can observe the monkeys and enjoy the natural setting before continuing toward Midelt, a town surrounded by agricultural lands and known for its apple production. Lunch is taken along the way.

In the afternoon, the scenery gradually changes as you travel through the Ziz Valley, where thousands of palm trees stretch along the riverbanks, creating a striking contrast against the arid landscape. By late afternoon, you reach the edge of the Sahara Desert. Camels await to take you on a memorable ride across the dunes. As the sun sets, the sand glows in shades of gold and orange, creating a magical atmosphere. You arrive at the desert camp where the evening is filled with traditional music, storytelling, and a peaceful night under a sky full of stars.

Day 2: Sahara Desert ➝ Tinghir ➝ Todgha Gorges ➝ Dades Valley

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a quiet and unforgettable moment. After breakfast, you leave the desert and travel through a series of small villages and oases toward Tinghir, a town surrounded by lush palm groves and dramatic mountain scenery.

From Tinghir, you visit the impressive Todgha Gorges, where massive rock walls rise sharply on both sides of a narrow canyon. The cool air and flowing river create a refreshing contrast to the desert. You’ll have time to walk through the gorge, take photos, and appreciate the scale of this natural wonder.

After lunch, the journey continues through the Dades Valley, famous for its winding roads, rock formations, and scenic viewpoints. The landscape here is a mix of rugged mountains and fertile valleys, offering excellent opportunities for photography. You arrive in Boumalne Dades in the evening, where you relax and enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by nature.

Day 3: Boumalne Dades ➝ Valley of Roses ➝ Erfoud ➝ Skoura ➝ Ouarzazate

Following breakfast, you travel through the Valley of Roses, an area well known for its rose fields and traditional products made from rose petals. In spring, the valley is especially vibrant, but its beauty and local charm can be appreciated year-round. Along the way, you pass through small Berber villages where daily life continues much as it has for generations.

The journey continues through the Skoura oasis, dotted with palm groves and old kasbahs, before reaching Ouarzazate. Often referred to as the gateway to the desert, this city is closely linked to the film industry. You will visit the famous film studios where many international movies and series have been filmed.

After lunch, you have time to explore the city at your own pace, stroll through its streets, or simply relax. The evening is free, allowing you to enjoy the calm atmosphere of this historic crossroads between the mountains and the desert.

Day 4: Ouarzazate ➝ Ait Ben Haddou ➝ High Atlas ➝ Marrakech

Today begins with a short drive to the iconic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou. This impressive fortified village, built from earth and clay, is one of Morocco’s most important historic sites and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will explore its narrow alleys, climb to higher viewpoints, and learn about its history and role as a former trading post and film location.

After lunch, the journey continues through the High Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking views of valleys, traditional villages, and dramatic mountain landscapes. The route winds through a famous mountain pass before descending toward Marrakech.

Upon arrival in the red city, you settle in and enjoy a relaxed evening. The energy of Marrakech can already be felt in its lively streets and colorful surroundings.

Day 5: Marrakech City Exploration

The final day is dedicated to discovering Marrakech with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. You will visit the city’s most famous landmarks, including lively squares, historic monuments, and beautiful gardens. Highlights include the bustling Jamaa El Fna square, known for its street performers and vibrant atmosphere, the elegant Koutoubia Mosque, and the peaceful Majorelle Garden.

You’ll also explore parts of the old medina, where narrow streets are filled with souks, artisans, and traditional markets. After lunch at a local restaurant, you are transferred back, marking the end of your 5-day Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour, an experience rich in culture, landscapes, and unforgettable memories.

• 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

• International flights to and from Morocco
• Lunches and beverages, unless specified
• Entrance fees to certain monuments or optional activities
• Personal expenses and souvenirs
• Tips for guides and drivers (at your discretion)