5 Days from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert

Morning – Departure from Fes

Our journey begins in Fes and we head to Erfoud. We will pick you up from your accommodation in Fes in the morning.

First Stop – Ifrane, the Switzerland of Morocco

We will stop in Ifrane, known as the Switzerland of Morocco. This alpine style town was built by the French in the 1930s. Unlike anywhere else in Morocco, Ifrane has red tiled roofs, flower filled roundabouts, and a stone lion carved into the rock.

Crossing the Middle Atlas

During the journey, we will cross the beautiful landscape of the Middle Atlas, enjoying panoramic views and the variation in the surroundings.

We will pass through:

• The Cedar Forest, one of the largest remaining cedar forests in Africa
• Wild Barbary macaques, which you can observe from a safe distance
• The Ziz Valley, a dramatic oasis of thousands of palm trees

We make several stops for panoramic photographs.

Afternoon – Arrival in Erfoud

We arrive in Erfoud, a town known for its fossil industry. The desert around Erfoud is rich in marine fossils, dating back to when the Sahara was under water.

Evening – Overnight in Erfoud

You will spend the night in a hotel or riad in Erfoud. Enjoy dinner and rest after your first day of travel.

Morning – Journey to Merzouga

Today, we will explore the Sahara. The drive takes approximately 1 to 2 hours to reach Merzouga.

Stop in Rissani – The Ancient Capital

We will make a stop in Rissani, the ancient capital of Morocco, to immerse ourselves in Berber culture. Rissani was the home of the Alaouite dynasty, the current ruling family of Morocco.

The traditional souk is authentic and not tourist oriented. You will see:

• Spices, dates, and dried fruits
• Traditional Berber rugs and textiles
• Handmade pottery and metalwork
• Livestock market (on certain days)

This is a fascinating glimpse into real desert life.

Afternoon – Arrival in Merzouga

We arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert, in the late afternoon.

Late Afternoon – Camel Ride into the Dunes

Camels will be waiting for you for an exciting ride through the dunes. Each person receives their own camel. Your experienced guide will lead you across the soft golden sand.

The camel trek is timed to arrive at a high dune just as the sun begins to set. Enjoy a magical sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes, the tallest in Morocco, reaching up to 150 meters high.

Evening – Night in a Berber Camp

You will spend a magical night in a Berber camp under the impressive starry Sahara sky. You will be welcomed with mint tea. The camp consists of comfortable tents with mattresses, blankets, and pillows. Shared bathroom facilities are available.

Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner. After dinner, live Berber music around the campfire.

Early Morning – Sunrise in the Desert

Wake up early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the golden dunes. This is one of the most beautiful moments of the entire journey.

After sunrise, enjoy breakfast at the camp. Then you will ride your camel back to Merzouga village (or take a 4x4 transfer if you prefer).

Morning – Departure to Todra Gorges

Leaving the dunes behind, we will head to the stunning Todra Gorges. The drive takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Exploration of Todra Gorges

The Todra Gorges are a spectacular narrow canyon of red rock, carved by the Todra River over thousands of years. The canyon walls rise up to 300 meters high, in some places only 10 meters apart.

You will have time to:

• Walk through the narrow canyon between the towering cliffs
• Take spectacular photographs
• Watch rock climbers scaling the vertical walls

Afternoon – Journey to Dades Valley

We continue toward the Dades Valley, where you will enjoy stunning mountain landscapes and visit ancient kasbahs.

The Dades Valley is known for its dramatic rock formations, winding river, and traditional Berber villages. The valley is often called the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.

You will visit:

• The famous monkey fingers rock formation
• Ancient kasbahs along the valley
• Panoramic viewpoints over the valley

Evening – Overnight in Dades Valley

You will spend the night in a hotel or riad in the Dades Valley, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Enjoy dinner.

Morning – Departure to Marrakech

On this day, we will head to Marrakech, making a stop in Ouarzazate.

Midday – Stop in Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate is known as the Door of the Desert or the Hollywood of Africa. Here, you will:

• Visit the famous Atlas Film Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world. Movies filmed here include Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones.
• Explore the Taourirt Kasbah, a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture. The kasbah was once the residence of the Glaoui family, who controlled much of southern Morocco.

Afternoon – Crossing the High Atlas

After Ouarzazate, we continue our journey toward Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass at 2,260 meters. The winding road offers spectacular views of mountains, valleys, and Berber villages.

We make several stops for photographs and rest breaks.

Late Afternoon – Arrival in Marrakech

We arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening. Your driver will drop you off at your accommodation.

Evening – Free time in Marrakech

You have the evening free to begin exploring the Red City or simply relax after your journey.

Today marks the end of our adventure. You will have time to explore Marrakech once more before being transferred to the airport for your departure flight or to continue your travels through Morocco.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to:

• Visit the famous Jemaa el-Fna square
• Explore the vibrant souks for last minute souvenirs
• Return to the Majorelle Gardens
• Enjoy a final Moroccan meal

Your driver will transfer you to Marrakech Menara Airport at the appropriate time.