4 Days from Marrakech to Fes desert tour

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley via Ouarzazate

Departure from Marrakech and the High Atlas Mountains

The tour begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, as you head towards the majestic High Atlas Mountains. As you traverse the winding roads, you’ll witness the scenic beauty of traditional Berber villages nestled along the hillsides.

Crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

The journey includes crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which, at 2,260 meters, is the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. This route offers sweeping views of the valleys, rugged mountain peaks, and terraced farmlands.

Visit to Ait Benhaddou

One of the most iconic stops of the day is Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Morocco’s most famous kasbah. Known for its impressive mudbrick architecture, Ait Benhaddou has been featured in numerous films and offers a glimpse into Morocco’s historic past.

Highlights:

• Wander through the kasbah’s maze of narrow alleys.
• Climb to the top for breathtaking views over the Ounila Valley.

Lunch in Ouarzazate

Continue on to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its bustling film industry. Here, you’ll enjoy lunch and may have the chance to visit Taourirt Kasbah or a local film studio.

Drive through Skoura Oasis and Rose Valley

After lunch, the journey continues through the Skoura Oasis, with its lush date palms and ancient kasbahs, and on to the beautiful Rose Valley. Known for its annual rose festival, the valley is a scenic area dotted with traditional Berber villages.

Overnight in Dades Valley

End the day in Dades Valley, also called the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” You’ll spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse or hotel, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga Desert

Exploring Dades and Todra Gorges

The morning begins with a visit to the striking Dades Gorges, known for its dramatic rock formations and winding roads. Then, you’ll continue to the towering Todra Gorges, with walls reaching heights of 300 meters. This area is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Activities:

• Take a walk through the Todra Gorges and enjoy the cool breeze along the river.
• Capture incredible photos of the towering rock walls and unique landscapes.

Onward to Merzouga and Erg Chebbi Dunes

After lunch, the landscape begins to shift as you approach the Sahara Desert. Upon reaching Merzouga, you’ll experience a true desert adventure with a camel trek to the Erg Chebbi dunes. As the sun sets over the vast dunes, the desert comes alive with a serene beauty that’s both awe-inspiring and peaceful.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

Your night will be spent in a traditional Berber desert camp under the stars. After a delicious Moroccan dinner, you can relax around the campfire and enjoy traditional music and storytelling. This night is a highlight of the tour, offering an immersive desert experience.

Desert Camp Activities:

• Authentic Moroccan dinner and Berber music.
• Stargazing under the clear desert sky.

Day 3: Merzouga to Midelt

Sunrise over the Sahara Desert

Start your day early to watch the sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. This magical experience offers stunning views as the sun lights up the Sahara sands. After breakfast at the camp, you’ll return to Merzouga on camels and prepare for the next leg of the journey.

Travel through Ziz Valley and Palm Groves

As you leave the desert, you’ll pass through the Ziz Valley, a lush oasis filled with date palms, kasbahs, and small villages. The scenic beauty of this valley, with its greenery framed by towering cliffs, provides a welcome contrast to the arid desert landscape.

Lunch in Midelt

Continue on to the town of Midelt, located in the foothills of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Here, you’ll stop for lunch and have some time to explore this quiet mountain town known for its apple orchards and traditional crafts.

Overnight in a Mountain Hotel

You’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel or guesthouse in Midelt, surrounded by the stunning mountain scenery. Enjoy a warm meal and a relaxing evening, preparing for the final day of travel.

Day 4: Midelt to Fes

Through the Cedar Forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains

After breakfast, continue your journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains. This region is famous for its cedar forests, which are home to the Barbary macaque monkeys. You’ll have an opportunity to stop and enjoy the forest, and you might even spot these playful monkeys along the way.

Passing through Ifrane – “The Little Switzerland of Morocco”

On the way to Fes, you’ll pass through Ifrane, a charming town known for its Alpine-style architecture and beautifully manicured gardens. Often called “Little Switzerland,” Ifrane provides a unique glimpse into Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

Arrival in Fes

By the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Fes, a city known for its ancient medina, historic sites, and vibrant culture. Your tour ends here, but Fes offers endless opportunities for exploration. From traditional souks to historic mosques, Fes is a fascinating destination to explore further.

What to Bring for Your 4-Day Tour

• Lightweight Layers: The desert can be hot during the day and cool at night.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Suitable for hiking in the gorges and walking through kasbahs.
• Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses: Essential for protection in the sunny desert climate.
• Camera: Capture the stunning landscapes and memorable experiences.
• Cash: Many local markets do not accept credit cards, so cash is recommended for small purchases.

Tips for an Unforgettable Desert Tour Experience

• Stay Hydrated: The desert climate can be dry and hot, so be sure to bring water.
• Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, especially in rural and traditional areas.
• Take Photos of Key Moments: From sunrise in the Sahara to the views from Tizi n’Tichka, these experiences are ones you’ll want to remember.
• Be Open to Local Cuisine: Trying Moroccan dishes along the way enhances the cultural experience.

The 4-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is a captivating journey through some of Morocco’s most scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. From the high peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the sand dunes of the Sahara and the ancient city of Fes, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth Moroccan experience, this tour leaves you with memories of Morocco’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage.