Embark on a captivating 4-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech, a journey that immerses you in the natural beauty, history, and culture of Morocco. From the lush cedar forests of the Middle Atlas to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, and finally to the ancient Kasbahs and bustling city life of Marrakech, this tour is one of the most recommended ways to travel across Morocco.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy a mix of landscapes, heritage sites, and local experiences—from spending a night in a traditional desert camp to visiting famous film locations in Ouarzazate. It’s the perfect adventure for anyone eager to discover Morocco’s diverse charm.
We begin our Morocco journey from the cultural capital of Fes, heading south toward the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains. The first stop is Ifrane, famously nicknamed the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture and cool climate. Then, we make our way to Azrou to explore the ancient Cedar Forests, home to the playful Barbary macaques.
Continuing through scenic mountain roads, we pass Midelt and drive along the breathtaking Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves and hidden oases. In the afternoon, we arrive in Merzouga, where the vast dunes of the Erg Chebbi await. Tonight, you’ll relax in a traditional desert hotel or riad on the edge of the dunes.
After breakfast, we explore the magical surroundings of Merzouga. First, we visit a seasonal desert lake, then head to Khamlia Village to enjoy traditional Gnawa music played by local descendants of sub-Saharan African slaves.
Next, we venture into the black desert, visiting the ancient Mifis mines and meeting Berber nomads who still live traditionally in tents. Enjoy a delicious Berber pizza with them before returning to the hotel for a short rest.
In the late afternoon, your camel trek into the heart of the Sahara begins. As the sun sets over the dunes, you’ll ride into the golden landscape led by your camel guide. The night is spent under the stars in a comfortable desert camp, complete with dinner and traditional music by the campfire.
Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the dunes—a highlight of any Morocco desert experience. After breakfast and a shower at camp, you ride your camel back to the village and begin the journey to Ouarzazate.
We pass through Rissani, the birthplace of Morocco’s ruling dynasty, and continue to the dramatic Todra Gorges, a paradise for hikers and photographers. After exploring the towering rock walls and nearby oasis, we travel through the scenic Dades Valley and Rose Valley, stopping to appreciate their unique landscapes.
We reach Ouarzazate in the evening, known as the “Hollywood of Africa” for its film studios and desert scenery.
Our final day starts with a visit to the historic Taourirt Kasbah, once a residence of the Glaoui family. Then, we explore the world-renowned Atlas Studios, the largest film studio in Africa, where parts of The Mummy, Gladiator, and Game of Thrones were filmed.
Next, we head to the iconic Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most stunning fortified villages. After your visit, we drive across the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass through the High Atlas Mountains, enjoying panoramic views along the way.
We arrive in the vibrant city of Marrakech in the late afternoon. If you’d like to extend your stay, we can arrange a guided tour of the city’s key attractions, including the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, souks, palaces, and gardens.
this 4-day Fes to Marrakech desert tour offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure, making it one of the top travel Morocco experiences. Whether you’re riding camels through the Sahara, exploring Berber villages, or discovering historical kasbahs, every day brings something unforgettable.
Let us know if you’d like to combine this with a guided Marrakech city tour or extend your Moroccan journey further!
