This is more than just a tour. It is the perfect 5-day desert trip from Marrakech to Fes. What makes this journey special is a warm visit with a nomadic Berber family, where you can see their traditional way of life.
The adventure starts with a drive through the High Atlas Mountains to the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah and the film city of Ouarzazate. The highlight of the trip is the Sahara Desert, where you will see huge canyons, ride a camel during a beautiful sunset, and watch a peaceful sunrise from a luxury desert camp.
The journey ends with a scenic drive through the Ziz Valley, known for its many palm trees, before arriving in the historic city of Fes. You will finish the trip with unforgettable memories of a true Moroccan experience.
✔️Journey over the majestic High Atlas Mountains, pausing to capture breathtaking panoramic views.
✔️Explore the legendary Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a timeless UNESCO World Heritage treasure and epic film location.
✔️Stand in awe within the colossal, sheer-walled canyon of the Todra Gorge.
✔️Embark on an iconic camel trek at sunset for an unforgettable journey into the Erg Chebbi dunes.
✔️Witness both a spectacular desert sunset and a glorious Saharan sunrise painting the dunes in incredible colors.
✔️Spend a magical night under a brilliant canopy of stars, experiencing the profound peace of the Sahara.
✔️Share a moment of genuine connection with a local nomad family for an authentic and heartfelt cultural exchange.
✔️Encounter playful wild Barbary apes in the ancient cedar forests of the Middle Atlas.
Your adventure begins as we depart from Marrakech, ascending into the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Our first major stop is the legendary Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site whose timeless beauty has been immortalized in films like Gladiator and shows like Game of Thrones. After exploring its ancient, mud-brick streets, we continue to Ouarzazate, the famed “Gateway to the Sahara.”
Our journey then takes us through the fragrant Valley of Roses before arriving in the dramatic Dades Valley. Here, you’ll settle into a comfortable hotel for the evening, enjoying a delicious dinner amidst the stunning rock formations.
Rewrite this using simple English: After breakfast, a scenic drive takes us towards Tinghir, where we admire lush palm groves and traditional Berber villages lining the Todra River. Our path leads to the magnificent Todra Gorge, a colossal canyon where you can walk between sheer rock walls rising hundreds of feet.
Upon arriving at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes, your camel caravan awaits to carry you across the golden sand into the heart of the desert. You’ll witness a spectacular sunset from atop a high dune. Then arrive at your luxury desert camp for a magical evening of dinner and stargazing.
Your day starts with an amazing sunrise over the sand dunes of the Sahara. After a filling breakfast at the camp, we set off for a full day of exploring the desert. We travel by 4×4 vehicle, driving off-road to visit a nomadic Berber family. You will be welcomed with traditional mint tea and have the chance to sit with them, learn about their daily life, and understand their culture.
Next, we continue to the old, abandoned mines of Mefis, then travel to the village of Khamlia. There, you will enjoy the strong and spiritual sounds of live Gnawa music. Depending on the season, we may also stop at Lake Merzouga, a temporary lake where migratory birds gather.
After a lunch break, we take you to your Riad near the sand dunes. The afternoon is free for you to relax, swim in the pool, or take a peaceful walk in the sand. Dinner will be served at the Riad. If you wish, you can also choose to spend another magical night at the desert camp under the stars.
Enjoy breakfast at your Riad before we begin our scenic journey north to the imperial city of Fes. Our first highlight is the spectacular Ziz Valley, where we will stop at a panoramic viewpoint to take in the breathtaking sight of a vast river of palm trees carving through the arid landscape.
We’ll continue our drive, pausing for lunch in Midelt or another convenient town. Afterwards, we ascend into the Middle Atlas Mountains, winding through ancient cedar forests. Keep an eye out for the region’s native Barbary apes, often seen playing by the roadside. Our last stop is for a short break in Ifrane, a pristine town whose alpine architecture has earned it the nickname ‘the Switzerland of Morocco.’
From Ifrane, we head to the historical city of Fes, where we will spend the night.
Spend a full day discovering the historic city of Fes with a local guide. The tour starts at the beautiful gates of the Royal Palace, then continues into the narrow streets of the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the walk, you will visit famous places such as Al-Qarawiyyin University, the Al-Attarine Madrasa, and the well-known Chouara Tanneries. You will also explore the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter. The day ends with a visit to a fortress, where you can enjoy a wide view of the city before returning to your Riad.
Pack light, comfortable clothing, a warm jacket (nights can be cold), sunscreen, sunglasses, a scarf for sand protection, and sturdy shoes. A camera is a must for capturing the stunning landscapes!
Yes, luxury desert camps offer private tents with ensuite bathrooms, including showers and toilets.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but camel riding is optional. Private vehicle transport ensures comfort for all ages.
You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 SUV or minivan (depending on group size), ensuring a smooth ride through Morocco’s diverse landscapes.
Yes! Solo travelers are welcome. You can either book a private tour or join a shared group tour (subject to availability).
Wi-Fi is not available in the desert camp, but you may have limited mobile reception near Merzouga. This is a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty.
Desert tours run in most weather conditions, but in rare cases of extreme sandstorms, camel treks may be adjusted for safety. Your guide will ensure alternative arrangements.
Yes! Most desert camps and guesthouses can accommodate dietary restrictions if notified in advance.
Absolutely! You can upgrade to an extra night in the desert, add a quad biking excursion, or include a visit to a local Berber family (additional cost applies).
It’s recommended to bring 300-500 MAD (~$30-$50) for lunches, souvenirs, and tips. ATMs are scarce in the desert, so withdraw cash in Fes or Marrakech.
Experience the magic of Morocco’s Sahara on this 5-day journey from Marrakech. Whether it’s the golden dunes, ancient kasbahs, or starry desert nights, this tour promises unforgettable memories.
