Shared 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes

After breakfast, your group departs toward Skoura Oasis, a fertile palm grove dotted with hidden kasbahs. You’ll stop at Kasbah Amridil, a perfectly preserved fortress with fascinating insights into rural Berber architecture.

Next, pass through the fragrant Rose Valley (famous in April/May during the rose festival) and journey into the heart of the Dades Gorges, where layers of red rock create spectacular canyon walls.

Continue to Todra Gorges, a popular spot for hikers and climbers, where 300-meter-high limestone walls create a natural corridor. After a walk and free time for photos or a snack, head east through Erfoud and Rissani toward the edge of the Sahara.

As the sun begins to dip, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, gateway to the towering Erg Chebbi dunes. Prepare for your camel trekking experience, where each traveler will ride their own camel into the golden dunes, arriving at a traditional desert camp just before nightfall.

Enjoy a hearty dinner under the stars and gather around the campfire for Berber music and storytelling, often the highlight of the tour.

Overnight: Merzouga Desert Camp
Included: Camel ride, accommodation, breakfast, dinner, group transport

Wake up early if you wish to watch the desert sunrise, an unforgettable moment as the dunes slowly shift colors under the early light.

After breakfast at camp, you’ll join your group for a 4×4 exploration of the desert. First stop: Khamlia village, where the Gnawa community, descendants of former sub-Saharan slaves, will welcome you with live spiritual music and dancing.

Continue off-road to visit a nomadic Berber family living in tents near the Algerian border. Get a glimpse of their day-to-day desert life and share some mint tea with them. A traditional Berber lunch may be included today, depending on the group’s choice (sometimes it’s a “madfouna” desert pizza).

In the afternoon, visit the market town of Rissani, with its authentic souks, ksars, and date shops. Then return to Merzouga, where you can relax or join the group again for a second sunset camel ride back to the camp, depending on your package.

Overnight: Same desert camp or hotel in Merzouga
Included: Breakfast, dinner, desert activities, cultural visits

After breakfast, say goodbye to the desert and embark on one of the most scenic drives in Morocco. Your group will head north, following the Ziz Valley, an immense green ribbon of palm trees that cuts through the arid landscape.

Stop at Errachidia’s dam for photos, then continue to Midelt, a town nestled between the High and Middle Atlas Mountains, where you’ll break for lunch.

As the road winds further into the Middle Atlas, you’ll reach the Cedar Forest of Azrou, home to the famous Barbary macaques. Feed the monkeys or take photos before continuing to Ifrane, a town surprisingly alpine in style with flowerbeds, clean streets, and French-style chalets. It’s often called “Little Switzerland”.

By evening, your group arrives in Fes, one of Morocco’s most culturally rich cities. Check in to a charming riad and rest after this adventurous journey.

Overnight: Fes
Included: Transport, accommodation, breakfast

After breakfast, meet your local city guide for a full exploration of the ancient medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its chaotic charm and cultural treasures.

Highlights include:

• Al Quaraouiyine University, considered the oldest university in the world

• Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas, Islamic schools with incredible architecture

• The Chouara Tanneries, where centuries-old leather production is still in full swing

• The Nejjarine Museum, showcasing traditional wood arts

Stroll through winding souks and artisan quarters, then enjoy a free afternoon to shop for souvenirs, relax in a rooftop café, or explore additional sites like the Mellah (Jewish Quarter) or the Royal Palace gates.

In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers one last time for dinner (optional) or simply enjoy your final night in Fes.

Tour Ends: You can either stay an extra night or continue on your journey from Fes.

Included: Guided tour, breakfast