5 Days from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga, Dades and Ouarzazate
Discover an unforgettable 5-day private journey from Fes to Marrakech through the spectacular landscapes of Morocco. This carefully designed itinerary takes you from the historic city of Fes across the Middle Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of Merzouga. Spend two nights in the Sahara, enjoy a camel trek and explore the desert surroundings before continuing through the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Valley. Spend one night in the Dades Gorges and another night in Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the desert and a famous filming location. On the final day, visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou before crossing the High Atlas Mountains and arriving in Marrakech. This tour combines desert adventure, mountain scenery, local culture and Morocco’s most iconic southern landscapes.
5 Days from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga, Dades and Ouarzazate
Day 1: Fes to Merzouga Desert
Your private tour begins with an early departure from Fes toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. Travel through Ifrane, a charming mountain town surrounded by forests, before continuing to Azrou and its famous cedar forests. The route then crosses the mountain landscapes toward Midelt, known for its orchards and beautiful surroundings. After lunch, continue through the spectacular Ziz Valley and stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking the palm-filled oasis. Continue toward Erfoud, famous for fossils and dates, before reaching Merzouga in the afternoon. Upon arrival, begin your camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Ride through the Sahara while enjoying the changing colors of the sand before reaching your desert camp. Watch the sunset over the dunes, enjoy a traditional dinner and spend your first night in the Merzouga Desert under the stars.
Day 2: Merzouga Desert Excursion
Wake early to admire the sunrise over the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast, enjoy a full-day excursion around the Merzouga desert region. Travel by 4×4 to discover the landscapes and communities surrounding the dunes. Visit local villages and learn about the traditions and daily life of the people living near the Sahara. You may visit the Gnawa community and experience their traditional musical heritage. Continue toward the seasonal lake of Merzouga and enjoy views of the surrounding desert. The excursion can also include a visit to traditional nomadic areas where you can discover the lifestyle of families living in the Sahara. After exploring the region, return toward Merzouga and enjoy some free time. In the evening, admire the sunset over the dunes, enjoy dinner and traditional music around the campfire. Spend your second night in the Merzouga Desert.
Day 3: Merzouga to Dades Gorges
After breakfast, leave Merzouga and begin your journey toward the Dades Valley. Travel through the desert landscapes toward Rissani and Erfoud before continuing through the scenic landscapes of the Todra and Dades regions. Depending on the route and time available, you can stop at panoramic viewpoints and discover traditional villages along the way. Continue toward the impressive Todra Valley, where dramatic limestone cliffs and palm-filled landscapes create one of southern Morocco’s most beautiful settings. The road then continues toward the Dades Valley and its famous winding road and rugged rock formations. Arrive at your accommodation in the Dades Gorges area in the afternoon. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take time to explore the nearby landscapes. Spend your third night in a comfortable accommodation in the Dades Gorges.
Day 4: Dades Gorges to Ouarzazate
After breakfast, continue your journey through the Valley of Roses and the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs toward Ouarzazate. Enjoy the changing landscapes of southern Morocco, with fortified villages, valleys and mountains along the route. Depending on the season, you can stop in the Valley of Roses and visit local villages. Continue toward Skoura, known for its beautiful palm oasis and traditional kasbahs. After exploring the area, continue to Ouarzazate, often called the gateway to the Sahara and known for its film studios and historic kasbahs. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah or enjoy some free time to discover the city. Spend your fourth night in Ouarzazate.
Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Ait Ben Haddou
After breakfast, leave Ouarzazate and continue toward the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, one of Morocco’s most iconic historical sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the traditional fortified village and admire its architecture and surrounding landscapes. After the visit, continue through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass. Enjoy spectacular mountain views and make scenic stops along the road. The route then descends toward the Marrakech plain and the landscapes gradually become greener as you approach the Red City. Arrive in Marrakech in the afternoon or early evening, where your private driver will drop you off at your accommodation. Your 5-day journey from Fes to Marrakech through Merzouga, the Dades Gorges and Ouarzazate comes to an end.
Included
- Private transportation with a professional driver
- 4 nights of accommodation
- 2 nights in a Merzouga desert camp
- 1 night in the Dades Gorges
- 1 night in Ouarzazate
- Camel trek in the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Sunset and sunrise in the Merzouga Desert
- Full-day Merzouga desert excursion
- 4×4 desert excursion
- Visit to local villages around Merzouga
- Visit to Ait Ben Haddou
- Scenic stops in the Middle Atlas, Ziz Valley and High Atlas
- Breakfasts during the tour
- Dinners at the Merzouga desert camp
Excluded
- Lunches and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Entrance fees where applicable
- Tips and optional activities
