5 day desert journey from Fes to Marrakech

Day 1: Fes ⇢ Ifrane ⇢ Ziz Valley ⇢ Merzouga Desert

Your 5-day journey from Fes to Marrakech begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or riad in Fes. From here, we travel toward the Sahara, making several memorable stops along the way. The first is the charming alpine-style town of Ifrane, followed by the peaceful cedar forests near Azrou where Barbary macaques are often seen. The journey continues through the scenic Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves and panoramic landscapes.

In the afternoon, we arrive at the Merzouga Desert. Here you will experience a traditional camel trek across the golden dunes, stopping atop a high dune to admire a spectacular desert sunset. Upon arrival at the luxury camp, you will be welcomed with a refreshing cup of tea before settling into your private tent. Later, enjoy a delicious dinner at the camp and spend the evening gathered around the campfire with rhythmic drumming and traditional Berber music beneath a sky full of stars.

Day 2: Discovering the Merzouga Desert

Early risers may begin the day by watching a magnificent sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, prepare for a full day exploring the Merzouga region.

Our first stop is the village of Khamlia, famous for its traditional Gnawa music. We then travel off-road to M’Fis, an abandoned settlement known for its historic Galena mines, a mineral traditionally used in cosmetics.

You will also visit a nomadic family living near the dunes of Erg Chebbi, offering a unique opportunity to learn about their daily life and experience genuine Berber hospitality.

After lunch, we head to a beautiful riad overlooking the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. You can relax, unwind, or enjoy a swim before sunset. Later, take a peaceful walk toward the dunes to watch another stunning sunset over the desert.

If you prefer, you may also choose to spend an additional night at the desert camp—just let us know when booking.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert ⇢ Rissani ⇢ Todra Gorge ⇢ Dades Valley

After breakfast at your riad in Merzouga, we depart for Dades Valley.

During the journey, we stop at several fascinating locations including Rissani, the oasis town of Tinghir, and the spectacular Todra Canyon and Todra Gorge. If our visit to Rissani coincides with market day (Sunday, Tuesday, or Thursday), you will have the chance to explore a lively traditional Moroccan souk filled with local crafts, spices, and delicious street food. Throughout the drive there will be plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and discover local traditions.

At Todra Canyon, enjoy a relaxing walk through the impressive gorge, surrounded by towering rock cliffs.

Later in the afternoon, we arrive in Dades Valley where you will check into your hotel. Enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 4: Dades Valley ⇢ Bou Tharar ⇢ Kelaat M’Gouna ⇢ Skoura Oasis ⇢ Ouarzazate

Begin the day with breakfast at your hotel before enjoying a walk through Dades Valley or taking part in a guided hike in the impressive Monkey Fingers Canyon, known for its unique rock formations and scenic views.

Leaving the valley, we continue along an adventurous off-road route toward Kelaat M’Gouna. Along the way we may stop to visit a nomadic Berber family living in a mountain cave near Bou Tharar, where you can share a cup of tea and learn about their lifestyle.

Our journey then leads us to Kelaat M’Gouna, famous for its Rose Valley. During spring, the valley becomes especially beautiful as thousands of roses bloom across the landscape.

We continue on to Skoura, a stunning oasis filled with palm groves. Historically, Skoura was an important stop for camel caravans traveling between the Mediterranean and Sub-Saharan Africa. Here you will visit the historic Amridil Kasbah, which provides insight into traditional life more than 300 years ago.

Afterward, we transfer you to your hotel in Ouarzazate for dinner and an overnight stay.

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

After breakfast at your hotel, we begin exploring Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa” and known as an important gateway to the desert. The visit includes the historic Taourirt Kasbah and the famous Atlas Studios, offering insight into the region’s cultural and cinematic history.

Next, we travel to Ait Ben Haddou, home to one of Morocco’s most iconic kasbahs and a remarkable example of traditional architecture. This UNESCO-listed site has appeared in well-known productions such as The Mummy, Gladiator, and Game of Thrones.

After exploring the village and enjoying lunch, we continue our scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains on the way to Marrakech. Along the route we stop at panoramic viewpoints and visit the historic Telouet Kasbah, once the powerful residence of the El Glaoui family.

In the afternoon we arrive in Marrakech, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation, bringing your unforgettable 5-day journey from Fes to Marrakech to an end.