Embark on a 5-day tour of Morocco from Fes to Marrakech, going deep into the Sahara and traveling through the Moroccan desert and the country’s stunning south. Start with the ancient city of Fes and head south past cedar forests of Azrou and Swiss-lookalike Ifrane. We then pass through the fascinating Ziz Valley and reach Merzouga, the door to the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. Go on an unforgettable sunset camel ride and spend the night in a magical desert camp under the stars. Discover ancient kasbahs, hike the immense gorges of Todgha, and marvel at the cinematic landscapes of Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate. The adventure ends in bustling Marrakech where the sights, sounds and smells of the medina await. This 5-day itinerary offers a mix of culture, adventure and beautiful landscapes in a Morocco full-peat treat!
Your 5 days tour from Fes to Marrakech starts after breakfast. Your driver will pick up you and head through stunning landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Today’s first stop is Ifrane, also known as Little Switzerland for its alpine architecture. Next, head on to the Cedar Forest of Azrou, where you will encounter the mischievous Barbary macaques have some caution feeding them as you breathe in the crisp mountain air.
As the landscape changes we drive down through the Ziz Valley, with its palm oasis and old kasbahs. We arrive by midafternoon into the golden sands of Merzouga where your camel awaits. Mount up and ride into the erg, enjoy a stunning sunset over the sand dunes, then spend the night under a starry sky in a deluxe desert camp, complete with camel hair tent, Berber-style dinner, and live music on the edge of the dunes.
Wake early to see the sunrise over the dunes before breakfast at the camp. Today is all about exploring the crystal desert of the Sahara. Explore the village of Khamlia, with a welcome of Gnawa music and tea. Then visit a nomadic Berber family that still lives in traditional tents, and tinker around the Mifiss fossil mines, a snap-shot into the deep ancient history of the desert.
Have lunch and savor the Berber Pizza, a delicacy from the region and one of the locals’ favorite meals before visiting the seasonal Salt Lake of Dayet Srij if full, it is a wonderful area for bird migration. Relax back at a comfortable desert hotel in Merzouga to recharge and prepare for the next day.
After breakfast we leave the desert and drive toward Rissani, the place where the Moroccan dynasty started. Stroll through its bustling souq with locals haggling over spices, dates, and handcrafted goods, especially on market days (Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday). Then it’s time to admire the colossal limestone walls of the Todgha Gorges – 300m cliffs on either side. Take a tranquil stroll along the river and have lunch before continuing into the heart of the Dades Valley with its fortress-like kasbahs and amusing red rock formations. Overnight at a picturesque Riad or guesthouse nestled between dramatic canyons.
Today, enjoy travelling along the legendary Route of a Thousand Kasbahs paying a call to Kalaat M’Gouna, also known as the Valley of Roses. Stop by a women’s cooperative, where they make fragrant rose-based goods, from essential oils to soaps to perfumes. Continue to Skoura, a fertile garden of palm groves and deteriorating kasbahs great for photos and a brief stretch of the legs. Then head to Ouarzazate, known as Morocco’s “Hollywood,” where you spend time (optional) at Atlas Studios and stay overnight at your hotel.
Your final day kicks off with a visit to the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar that has starred in films like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones. Wander through its mudbrick alleyways and climb to the top for panoramic views.
Then cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters), stopping for breathtaking photo opportunities. By afternoon, we arrive in Marrakech, where your tour ends with a drop-off at your riad or hotel—full of memories from a journey across Morocco’s most iconic and diverse landscapes.
This 5 days tour from Fes to Marrakech was carefully designed by our team at Desert Excursion Morocco to showcase the best of the country’s culture, landscapes, and local life. That said, we know every traveler is unique. If there’s something you’d like to change maybe add a stop, stay longer somewhere, or skip a part we’re happy to personalize the itinerary just for you. Our team is available around the clock to answer questions, suggest options, or help you plan a custom route. Also, keep in mind: the more people on the tour, the lower the cost per person, since transportation costs are shared. Don’t hesitate to reach out we’re here to make your Moroccan adventure exactly what you’re dreaming of!
The tour includes private transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan, an experienced English-speaking driver/guide from Desert Excursion Morocco, accommodation in traditional riads and desert camps, daily breakfasts, some dinners (especially in the desert and remote areas), a camel trek in Merzouga. Entrance fees and lunch are generally not included, but we’re happy to advise on the best options each day.
Absolutely! We believe no two travelers are the same. If you want to spend more time in a particular city, skip a stop, or add something unique (like a cooking class or quad biking in the desert), just let us know. We’ll adjust the itinerary to suit your interests, pace, and travel style.
You’ll stay in carefully selected accommodations that reflect the beauty and culture of Morocco. In cities like Marrakech and Fes, you’ll stay in charming riads in the medina. In the desert, you’ll sleep in a traditional yet comfortable Berber-style camp under the stars. Options range from standard to luxury we’ll match your preference and budget.
The camel ride is a highlight for many travelers and offers an unforgettable view of the dunes at sunset. While it can be a bit bumpy, it’s usually quite manageable, and the ride is paced gently. If you have back or mobility issues, let us know in advance we can arrange a 4×4 transfer to the camp instead.
Pack comfortable clothes suitable for both warm days and cooler evenings, especially in the desert. A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a light jacket, sturdy walking shoes, and a small backpack are recommended. For the desert night, a warmer layer is useful. Don’t forget your camera, a reusable water bottle, and any necessary medications.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and can be adapted for all ages. We’ve hosted couples, families with young kids, and older travelers. We adjust travel times, breaks, and even accommodation preferences to ensure everyone is comfortable and enjoying the experience.
Daily driving time varies. Some days involve 3–4 hours of scenic driving, while longer transfers (like Merzouga to Fes) may take up to 7–8 hours with stops. We make regular breaks for photos, meals, and sightseeing to keep the journey comfortable and enjoyable.
Breakfast is included daily, and dinners are included in more remote locations like the Dades Valley and the desert. In cities such as Marrakech and Fes, meals are not included so you can explore local restaurants and cuisine. Your driver/guide will always recommend great places to eat.
Of course! Morocco offers many delicious vegetarian dishes like tagines, couscous, and salads. Please let us know about any dietary needs in advance, and we’ll ensure your meals are prepared accordingly both in accommodations and during the desert camp experience.
Booking is easy just contact us through our website or WhatsApp. We’ll confirm the itinerary, price, and details with you. A small deposit is typically required to reserve your spot, and the balance can be paid in cash upon arrival or via other agreed-upon methods. We’re flexible and transparent throughout the process.
From the second we were picked up in Fes, this trip went above and beyond our expectations. Our guide, Mohamed was extremely well informed, kind and clearly passionate about sharing the beauty of Morocco. The drive through the Atlas Mountains was beautiful, but I’d have to say the camel ride into the dunes of Merzouga was my favorite moment watching the sun set over the Sahara is a memory I will treasure for a lifetime. The desert camp was cosy, the food was delicious, and the Berber music by the fire made the best atmosphere. Each day was something different: the oasis, Todra Gorge, and the stunning Ait Ben Haddou. Ending in Marrakech was perfect. If you want to see the best of Morocco in a small amount of time I cannot recommend this tour highly enough!
I did the 5-day tour from Fes to Marrakech, and I can truthfully say that it was one of the most rewarding travel experiences I have ever done. Everything was so organized from hotel pick up to guided stops. Mohamed was our driver, and guide, and we felt safe, informed, and entertained the whole ride. And who can forget riding camels in/through the Erg Chebbi dunes, staying at the desert camp, and driving to local markets in Rissani. We also enjoyed the local cultural touches such as meeting a nomadic family and tasting true Berber pizza. You get a little bit of everything in this tour: Adventure, Culture and Beautiful Scenery. Highly recommended for those who wish to really experience Morocco.
Morocco offers diverse weather across regions. Expect hot days in the desert, cool nights in the mountains, and moderate temps along the coast. Bring layers, a scarf or hat for sun protection, and a warm jacket for cooler evenings.
While cities accept cards, many villages, desert stops, and local shops don’t. Bring enough Moroccan dirhams, especially for snacks, souvenirs, and tips along the way.
Morocco is a Muslim country. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Women may prefer wearing scarves in more conservative towns.
For the camel ride and desert stay, wear comfortable pants (not shorts), closed shoes or sandals, and bring a small backpack with water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a flashlight.
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and riads, but don’t expect strong connections everywhere especially in the desert. Download maps and entertainment in advance.
If you need reliable communication or internet on the go, consider buying a local SIM card or ensuring your mobile plan covers Morocco.
Morocco is a large country and this tour covers a lot. Enjoy the scenery, bring snacks, and consider a travel pillow for comfort on the road.
Tipping your driver/guide, hotel staff, and local guides is a common and appreciated gesture in Morocco. Keep small bills for this purpose.
Part of what makes Morocco magical is its unpredictability. Be flexible, open-minded, and ready to experience real moments whether it’s dancing under desert stars or sipping mint tea with a nomadic family.
Traveling through different climates and regions especially the desert can dehydrate you quickly. Always carry a bottle of water (your driver can help you find clean bottled water on the way). When it comes to food, Moroccan cuisine is delicious, but it may be spiced differently than you’re used to. To avoid stomach upsets, ease into unfamiliar dishes, avoid raw foods in small roadside places, and consider bringing basic medication like probiotics or anti-nausea tablets just in case.
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