6-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Trip
From Marrakech
6 Day
To Fes
About this trip
Embark on a 6-day adventure from Marrakech to Fes, traversing some of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes. This journey takes you from the bustling streets of Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, and the vast Sahara Desert, ending in the historic medina of Fes.
Experience camel treks across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes, luxurious nights under the stars in desert camps, and cultural encounters with nomads and Berber communities. Along the way, explore cinematic sites in Ouarzazate, dramatic gorges and valleys, lush oases, and traditional markets, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Trip Highlights:
Cross the High Atlas and Middle Atlas Mountains with breathtaking scenery
Explore the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou and historic Kasbah Telouet
Camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset
Walk through the dramatic Dades Valley and Todra Gorges with a local guide
Experience a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset and sunrise
Spend nights under the stars in private luxury desert tents
Visit the Gnawa village of Khamlia and historic Rissani
Scenic drives through Midelt, Azrou, Ifrane, and the Ziz Valley
6-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech – Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Aït Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate
Begin your adventure with a morning departure from Marrakech. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka pass, stopping for panoramic views of the mountains and traditional Berber villages.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, an iconic fortified village featured in numerous films. Continue to Ouarzazate to explore Kasbah Taourirt and the famous Atlas Studios before heading to a nearby oasis for your first overnight stay.
Day 2: Ouarzazate – Skoura – Valley of Roses – Dades Valley – Todra Gorge
After breakfast, travel through the Skoura Oasis and visit the beautifully restored Kasbah Amerhidil. Continue to the Valley of Roses, where locals craft rosewater and perfumes.
Drive toward the Dades Valley, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and scattered kasbahs. End the day at Todra Gorge, with towering cliffs and a flowing river—perfect for walks and photography.
Day 3: Todra Gorge – Tinjdad – Erfoud – Merzouga
Start with a short hike in Todra Gorge to admire the impressive rock formations. Continue through Tinjdad and Erfoud, visiting local fossil workshops and traditional irrigation channels.
Arrive at the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga and ride camels to your luxury desert camp. Climb the dunes to watch a spectacular sunset, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, and spend a magical night under the stars.
Day 4: Merzouga – Desert Exploration and Nomad Villages
Wake early for sunrise over the dunes, then return to your camp by camel. Spend the day exploring the desert surroundings, visiting nomad villages and experiencing local life.
Meet the Gnawa people of Khamlia to enjoy their unique music and cultural traditions. Return to your desert camp in the evening for dinner, music, and a peaceful night in the Sahara.
Day 5: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Midelt
Depart the desert and head north through the Ziz Valley, stopping in Rissani to explore its traditional souk and learn about the town’s historical significance.
Visit Erfoud for fossil workshops and continue through the oases of Errachidia, capturing the breathtaking landscapes along the way. Arrive in Midelt for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Midelt – Azrou – Ifrane – Fes
After breakfast, journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Azrou to explore cedar forests and spot wild Barbary monkeys. Continue to Ifrane, often called “Moroccan Switzerland,” and explore its charming alpine-style town.
Arrive in Fes in the late afternoon, concluding your 6-day Marrakech to Fes desert adventure with drop-off at your accommodation.
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What’s Included & Excluded
- Private or small-group transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional, licensed driver and/or local guide (depending on the trip)
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, riad, or agreed meeting point
- Accommodation (hotels, riads, desert camps) as specified in the itinerary
- Breakfasts & dinners (depending on the type of accommodation chosen)
- Activities and experiences listed in the itinerary (quad biking, camel trekking, excursions, etc.)
- All fuel, road tolls, and parking fees
- Local assistance and 24/7 customer support during your trip
- International or domestic flights
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
- Drinks and meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to monuments and attractions (unless otherwise stated)
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and staff (optional but appreciated)
- Optional activities not listed in the trip program