Overview

This 7 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is a perfect loop combining the cultural charm of imperial cities with the raw beauty of the Moroccan desert. Travel from vibrant Marrakech to the historic city of Fes, journeying through the High Atlas Mountains, cinematic Ouarzazate, palm-lined oases, dramatic gorges, and the endless dunes of Merzouga. Ride camels into the Sahara, meet Berber nomads, explore ancient kasbahs, and witness Morocco’s diverse landscapes; from mountains and valleys to the golden sand of the Erg Chebbi. On the return to Marrakech, pass through Middle Atlas towns like Ifrane and Azrou, completing a rich and immersive Moroccan experience.

Highlights

Scenic drive over the High and Middle Atlas Mountains
UNESCO site of Ait Ben Haddou
Camel trek and overnight camp in Erg Chebbi
Desert nomad and village visits (Khamlia, oasis, fossils)
Fes medina guided walking tour
Cedar forests and Barbary apes in Azrou
Optional stop at Ouzoud Waterfalls
Rich mix of nature, culture, and history

Day 01 :

Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Gorges

Begin your journey with a scenic drive through the Tizi n’Tichka pass in the High Atlas Mountains. Visit the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Ben Haddou and continue to Ouarzazate, known for its movie studios and Taourirt Kasbah. Proceed through Skoura and the Valley of Roses, reaching the Dades Gorges by evening. Overnight in a guesthouse nestled in the canyon.

Day 02 :

Dades Gorges – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)

After breakfast, travel to the stunning Todra Gorges. Enjoy a walk in the canyon before heading to Erfoud, famous for its fossils. By afternoon, reach Merzouga, where you’ll begin a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Watch the sunset from the dunes, enjoy dinner, and sleep in a desert camp under the stars.

Day 03 :

Explore Merzouga – Nomads – Khamlia – Oasis Visit – Return to Camp or Riad

Spend the day exploring the desert region: visit nomadic Berber families, discover the village of Khamlia with its Gnawa music, and stop by a desert oasis. You can also explore fossil sites or take an optional 4x4 tour. Return to the camp (or local riad) for dinner and another night in the desert.

Day 04 :

Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Azrou – Ifrane – Fes

Wake up early to watch the sunrise, then depart Merzouga toward the Middle Atlas. Pass through the scenic Ziz Valley and stop in Midelt for lunch. Continue through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you might see wild Barbary apes, and then visit the alpine-style town of Ifrane. Arrive in Fes by evening. Overnight in a riad in the medina.

Day 05 :

Explore Fes (Guided Tour)

Spend the day exploring Morocco’s oldest imperial city with a local guide. Visit key sites like the Al-Qarawiyyin University, Bou Inania Madrasa, the tanneries, Mellah (Jewish quarter), and the blue gate of Bab Boujloud. Wander through Fes el Bali’s maze-like alleys and discover traditional artisan workshops. Overnight in your Fes riad.

Day 06 :

Fes – Middle Atlas – Beni Mellal – Ouzoud

Begin your return toward Marrakech through a different route. Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains with stops in Berber villages and towns like Beni Mellal. Depending on your pace and preferences, you may overnight near the scenic Ouzoud Waterfalls. Dinner and overnight in a guesthouse.

Day 07 :

Ouzoud – Marrakech

On the final day, enjoy the lush natural surroundings or take a short hike if staying near the waterfalls. Continue the drive back through the Atlas foothills and arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon. End of tour.