Overview of Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour 5 Days
The 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is one of the most popular and scenic travel routes in Morocco . Spanning five days allows travelers to experience the transition from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the medieval charm of Fes at a relaxed and comfortable pace . Along the way, you will traverse both the High Atlas and Middle Atlas mountain ranges, explore historic Kasbahs, wander through deep canyons, and spend two nights experiencing the magic of the Sahara Desert .
Highlights of Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour
Traverse the Atlas Mountains: Drive through the High Atlas and Middle Atlas mountains, crossing the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters .
Visit Ait Ben Haddou: Explore the iconic, UNESCO-listed mud-brick fortress that has served as the backdrop for famous films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones .
Wander the Gorges: Walk through the towering vertical clay cliffs of the Todra Gorges, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Morocco .
Sahara Desert Experience: Ride camels over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, witness spectacular desert sunsets and sunrises, and sleep in a traditional desert camp under the stars .
Discover Nomadic Life: Meet local Berber families, experience their hospitality, and listen to traditional spiritual Gnawa music .
Alpine Morocco: Visit Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and feed the Barbary macaques in the ancient cedar forests of Azrou .
Itinerary Day by Day of Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Skoura
The journey begins with an early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Marrakech . You will drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass, stopping for panoramic photos of Berber villages . By midday, you will arrive at the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou for a guided walk through its ancient streets . After lunch, the tour continues to Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” to visit the Atlas Film Studios . The day ends in the palm groves of Skoura, where you will enjoy dinner and spend the night .
Day 2: Skoura – Rose Valley – Dades Gorges
After breakfast, you will visit the historic Kasbah Amridil in Skoura, a beautifully preserved 17th-century fortress . From there, the route heads east through Kalaat M’gouna, the heart of the Rose Valley, famous for its annual Rose Festival and local rose-infused cosmetic products . You will then drive into the Dades Valley, winding up the dramatic curves of the Dades Gorges . Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at a hotel overlooking the valley .
Day 3: Dades Gorges – Todra Gorges – Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
After enjoying breakfast with stunning valley views, you will head toward the spectacular Todra Gorges . You will have time to walk along the shallow riverbed framed by 300-meter-high canyon walls . The journey continues through the fossil town of Erfoud before reaching Merzouga, situated at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes . Here, you will mount camels for a sunset trek into the dunes to reach your desert camp . Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, a campfire, and Berber drum music under a canopy of stars .
Day 4: Merzouga Desert Exploration
This day is dedicated to fully experiencing the Sahara Desert . You will explore the surrounding dunes in a 4Ă—4 vehicle, visiting a nomadic family to learn about their daily life and traditions . Afterward, you will visit the village of Khamlia to enjoy live Gnawa music performed by local musicians . In the afternoon, you can try sandboarding on the dunes or simply relax at the camp . Another night of traditional dining and stargazing awaits at the desert camp .
Day 5: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Cedar Forest – Ifrane – Fes
Wake up early to catch a magical sunrise over the dunes before breakfast . After leaving the desert, you will drive through the lush, palm-filled Ziz Valley . The route then climbs into the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Midelt for lunch . Afterward, you will pass through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you can spot and feed wild Barbary macaques . After a brief stop in the alpine town of Ifrane, you will arrive in Fes in the evening, marking the end of your 5-day adventure .
What’s Included in Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour
Private transportation in an air-conditioned 4Ă—4 vehicle or minivan
Professional, English-speaking local driver/guide
Fuel expenses
Accommodations (3 nights in hotels/riads and 1 night in a desert camp)
Daily breakfasts and dinners (except in major cities)
Camel trek in the Sahara Desert (one camel per person) or 4Ă—4 transfer
Sandboarding equipment at the desert camp
What’s Not Included in Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour
Lunches and drinks
Dinners in Marrakech and Fes
Local guides at specific historical monuments (optional)
Entrance fees to historical sites, museums, and film studios
Tips and personal expenses
FAQ for Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour
Are vegetarian or special dietary options available during the tour?
Yes, most accommodations and desert camps can easily accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and other dietary restrictions . It is highly recommended to inform your tour operator of any dietary needs at the time of booking .
How long is the drive on the final day from Merzouga to Fes?
The drive on the fifth day takes approximately 7 hours of actual driving time . However, the journey is broken up with several scenic stops, including the Ziz Valley, the cedar forest of Azrou, and the town of Ifrane .
What should I pack for the desert camp overnight?
It is best to pack a small daypack with essentials for your night in the desert, as your main luggage will remain secured in the transport vehicle. Recommended items include sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, comfortable walking shoes, and warm clothing, as desert temperatures can drop significantly at night.