Book an exciting 4 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as you embrace the mesmerizing desert attractions. This journey begins in the cultural capital of the north, Fes, and traverses the sublime Middle Atlas Mountains, with magical stops in Ifrane the “Little Switzerland” of Morocco and the cedar forests of Azrou inhabited by lively Barbary macaques. As the scenery changes to desert, we visit the green Ziz Valley, before we arrive at Merzouga with its golden dunes.
Experience a traditional camel ride and spend the night in a Bedouin camp gazing at the stars. The itinerary also includes picturesque Todgha Gorges and the rugged Dades Valley, cinematic Ouarzazate and the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah. Pass through the beautiful High Atlas Mountains and over the panoramic Tizi n’Tichka road pass, ending in the enchanting city of Marrakech, a combination of color, culture, and city bustle.
Your 4 days tour from Fes to Marrakech starts in the morning when you get picked up from your accommodation. We drive through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains and stop first in the lovely town of Ifrane, with it’s alpine architecture and clean, European feel often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Our journey will take us through to the cedar forest of Azrou, where we hope to see the wild Barbary apes that live here.
Following lunch in Midelt, we pass through the spectacular Ziz Valley with palm trees and ancient Kasbahs. Late afternoon, we reach the magical Sahara dunes of Merzouga. Here, you’ll trade in your 4×4 for a camel and walk into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes to see the sun set surreal over the desert. Dinner and overnight in a luxury desert camp between the dunes with a galaxy. to live Berber music.
After watching the sunrise over the dunes and having breakfast; in this day we will explore the culture and landscapes around Merzouga. We’ll start with the village of Khamlia, where you’ll be treated to a live show of Gnawa music traditional African spiritual rhythms. Carry on through the desert to a traditional nomadic Berber family, who will welcome you into their home under the clear blue sky. After a teacup with them leave for M’ifis a site was used for extracting Minerales and eyeliner.
We pause for lunch to taste the local Berber pizza in a traditional restaurant. Dependent on the season, we will likely explore the saltwater Dayet Srij Lake, home to flamingos and an array of birdlife. Walk through a serene, palm-tree grove near the oasis before sunset. Relax and freshen up this evening at a lovely hotel in Merzouga.
We will leave Merzouga after breakfast and visit Rissani: The former capital of the Tafilalt region and a former sultan’s city famous for it’s local market and also as a starting point for travelers journeying into the desert. We will stroll through the bustling souk (market days: Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday) we will taste a variety of local dates.
From there, we head off to the stunning Todgha Gorges – the highest, narrowest gorge in Morocco – imposing 300m/985ft high peaks and 25m/82ft wide. Following a picturesque stroll along the riverbed we take lunch before continuing through the beautiful Dades Valley, known for its spectacular canyons, rock formations and ancient kasbahs. Spend the night in a typical riad with views over the valley.
Today, we drive through the stunning Valley of Roses, which is famous for roses and rose products, and is covered in springtime vegetation. Next, we drive by the Skoura oasis, clumps of date palms and concealed kasbahs. Once in Ouarzazate “Hollywood of Africa.” get to explore the Atlas Film Studios and the Taourirt Kasbah. Thereafter, we travel to the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featured in movies such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
We soak up its mudbrick alleys and towers, before heading out, climbing over the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) and stop often for photo opportunities. Later in the evening we arrive Marrakech, where your 4-days desert tour finishes with a drop-off at your hotel or riad.
This 4 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 snow-kissed cedar forests of Azrou to the golden quiet of the Sahara, every place we visited during this trip was unmistakably a scene from the silver screen. The man who guided us, Mohamed, was courteous, informative, and incredibly passionate about Moroccan culture. The camel trip into the Erg Chebbi dunes was the highlight – to see the sun set across the desert was truly beautiful. The accommodations in the town and the desert camp were much more luxurious than what we had anticipated. Everything went well, and we never felt anything but safe and properly cared for. Ait Ben Haddou and the serpentine roads of the Atlas mountains were icing. Thank you for the memories!”
Dreamed about a tour in the desert with my wife and in Morocco and this fulfilled and more my expectations. From the chilly air of Ifrane to the hot sand dunes of Merzouga, it seemed like we were crossing through different worlds in a matter of days. Our driver, Youssef, was not just a guide — he was also a storyteller, a historian and a friend. The food was great, especially the Berber pizza in Khamlia. The Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley visit was relaxing and stunning together. We finished with full hearts in bustling Marrakech. Would highly recommend this tour to anyone travelling to 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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