6-Day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech

Experience an unforgettable 6-day private Sahara Desert tour from Fes to Marrakech. Discover the Middle Atlas Mountains, Merzouga dunes, camel trekking, desert camp, Todra Gorge, Rose Valley, Ait Ben Haddou, and the High Atlas Mountains with Desert Espace. Book your Moroccan adventure today!

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

Your unforgettable Sahara Desert tour from Fes begins with a morning pickup at your hotel or riad. You will travel through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains, experiencing a complete change in scenery and climate. First stop is Ifrane, a charming mountain town often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its alpine-style architecture and clean, cool environment. From there, head to the cedar forests of Azrou, home to the wild Barbary macaque monkeys that are unique to this region. This is a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Continue to Midelt, a town known for its vast apple orchards and as a resting point before entering the desert regions. Here you may enjoy lunch (not included) and take in the fresh mountain air. Afterward, cross the dramatic Ziz Valley, famous for its impressive palm groves and oasis villages, which offer a glimpse into traditional Berber life. The valley’s winding roads and natural beauty make it a highlight of your journey.

By late afternoon, arrive in Merzouga, a desert town located on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Check into your hotel, relax, and prepare for the adventure ahead. Spend your first night in Merzouga, enjoying the peaceful desert atmosphere.

Day 2: Merzouga – Camel Trekking – Erg Chebbi Dunes – Desert Camp

After an early breakfast, your real Sahara experience begins with a camel trek into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes, some of the highest and most majestic sand dunes in Morocco. Riding a camel across the soft sands gives you a true sense of desert life and its tranquility. As you reach your Berber desert camp, be captivated by the panoramic views of endless dunes stretching to the horizon.

Enjoy a spectacular sunset, an unforgettable moment where the colors of the desert change dramatically with the fading light. Dinner is served at the camp, featuring traditional Berber dishes. Later, gather around the campfire to listen to live Berber music and stories under the vast, starry Sahara sky. Spend the night in a traditional tent, experiencing the silence and magic of the desert.

Day 3: Sunrise Over the Dunes – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara dunes, a moment that fills the soul with awe and inspiration. After breakfast and a shower back at your hotel in Merzouga, depart for Rissani, an ancient caravan town known for its lively markets and rich history as a trading hub for salt and spices crossing the Sahara.

Continue your journey towards the spectacular Todra Gorge, a deep canyon carved by the Todra River with towering red rock walls rising up to 300 meters. It’s a favorite spot for hikers and climbers, as well as photographers. After exploring the gorge, drive to the picturesque Dades Valley, also known as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs due to its many traditional mudbrick fortresses dotting the landscape. Overnight in a comfortable guesthouse or hotel in Dades.

Day 4: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou

Begin your day exploring the fragrant Rose Valley, especially famous during springtime when rose fields bloom and rose water distilleries produce their aromatic harvest. Visit local Berber villages, where you can observe traditional crafts and lifestyles.

Next, drive to Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Sahara” and Morocco’s film-making capital. Here you can visit the historic Taourirt Kasbah, a striking example of Moroccan earthen architecture.

Then, head to the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most famous ksars (fortified villages). This ancient village has been the backdrop for many international films and offers a fascinating insight into Berber architecture and desert life. Spend the night in or near back to Ouarzazate.

Day 5: Ait Ben Haddou – Telouet Kasbah – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

Cross the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. Enjoy stunning views as you wind through mountain villages and landscapes. Stop at Telouet Kasbah, once a stronghold of the Glaoui family and an important stop on the ancient caravan route. This kasbah reveals fascinating history and beautifully restored architecture.

Descend into the bustling city of Marrakech in the late afternoon, marking the end of your desert journey. Marrakech’s vibrant medina, famous souks, and rich culture await your exploration. You will be dropped off at your hotel or riad to relax after an incredible adventure.

Day 6: Marrakech Free Day

Enjoy a free day in Marrakech to discover its colorful markets, gardens, and historic sites such as Jemaa el-Fnaa square, Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, and the Majorelle Garden. Optional guided city tours are available to deepen your understanding of Moroccan culture and history.

What’s Included:

• Private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan transport with experienced English-speaking driver/guide
• Pickup from Fes and drop-off in Marrakech
• 3 nights accommodation in hotels or guesthouses
• 1 night in a traditional Berber desert camp with dinner and breakfast
• Camel trekking experience in the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Visits to the Middle Atlas Mountains, Ziz Valley, Todra Gorge, Rose Valley, Ait Ben Haddou, and High Atlas Mountains

What’s Not Included:

• Lunches and drinks
• Entrance fees to monuments and sites
• Personal expenses, tips, and optional activities