4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Begin your 4-day Morocco desert adventure with a morning departure from Marrakech. Journey through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m). Along the way, stop for panoramic views, Berber villages, and photo opportunities.

Arrive at the ancient fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has served as a backdrop for countless films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Take a guided walk through its narrow alleys and climb to the top for stunning views of the surrounding valleys.

Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” and visit the Taourirt Kasbah or take an optional tour of the Atlas Film Studios. Later, drive through the Skoura palm grove and along the scenic Valley of Roses before arriving at your accommodation in the stunning Dades Valley.

Overnight: Hotel or Riad in Dades Valley
Meals: Dinner & Breakfast

Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Erfoud – Merzouga (Night in Hotel)

After breakfast, head to the nearby Todra Gorge, a breathtaking canyon carved by the Todra River with vertical limestone cliffs reaching up to 300 meters high. Enjoy a short hike or explore the area at your own pace.

Continue through the desert towns of Tinjdad, Jorf, and Erfoud—a center for fossil mining and date cultivation. You’ll then arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi sand dunes.

Tonight, relax at a desert lodge or hotel near the dunes with dinner and preparation for tomorrow’s camel trek. Enjoy optional activities like sandboarding, quad biking, or a sunset walk on the dunes.

Overnight: Hotel in Merzouga (near dunes)
Meals: Dinner & Breakfast

Merzouga – Camel Trek – Desert Camp in Erg Chebbi

After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy free time to explore Merzouga village, visit nomadic Berber families, or learn about Gnawa music in the nearby town of Khamlia. In the afternoon, your camel caravan will be ready to take you deep into the Erg Chebbi dunes, where golden sands stretch for miles.

As the sun sets, marvel at the color changes in the dunes, one of the most iconic images of the Sahara. Arrive at your desert camp, where you’ll be welcomed with mint tea, a hearty dinner, and a night of traditional Berber music under the stars.

Optional upgrades available for a luxury desert camp with private bathroom and hot shower.

Overnight: Standard or Luxury Desert Camp in Merzouga
Meals: Dinner & Breakfast

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

Wake early to witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara Desert, followed by a camel ride or 4×4 transfer back to Merzouga for breakfast.

Depart toward Fes, passing through the lush Ziz Valley, known for its date palms and stunning canyon views. Stop in Midelt for lunch before continuing through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains.

Along the way, pause in the cedar forests of Azrou to see the Barbary macaques and visit Ifrane, Morocco’s charming alpine-style town often called “Little Switzerland.”

Arrive in Fes in the late afternoon or early evening, where the tour ends with a drop-off at your riad or hotel.

End of Tour.

The 4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes is one of the best Morocco itineraries for those seeking an authentic and immersive desert experience. This journey offers an unforgettable mix of breathtaking landscapes, historic landmarks, and Berber culture. You’ll explore the stunning High Atlas Mountains, visit iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah (a UNESCO World Heritage site), trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, and enjoy the beauty of Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley. This itinerary gives you more time to explore and soak in the beauty of Morocco, without feeling rushed.