Experience the Best of Morocco: 6-Day Marrakech to Fes Sahara Tour

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Roses Valley – Dades Valley (Drive: Approx. 6 hours)

Your exclusive 6-day Marrakech to Fes Sahara tour begins with a prompt morning pick-up from your Marrakech hotel or riad (or airport arrival). We set off on a captivating drive through the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, navigating the winding Tizi-N-Tichka pass at an altitude of 2260m. We'll make several stops for you to admire and photograph the breathtaking mountain vistas.

Our journey continues to the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO-listed fortified village that has served as a stunning backdrop for epic films like Gladiator and TV series like Game of Thrones. After exploring this historic ksar, we proceed to Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Morocco." Following a leisurely lunch break, our route takes us towards the fragrant Roses Valley, via the verdant Skoura palm grove, famed for its Amridil Kasbah. We conclude our day in Boumalne Dades, where dinner and a restful overnight stay await in a charming hotel/riad.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert – Sunset Camel Trek – Luxury Camp (Drive: Approx. 5 hours)

After a delicious breakfast, we delve into the scenic beauty of the Dades Valley, making a photo stop at a viewpoint overlooking the dramatic Dades Gorges. Our next destination is the impressive Todra Gorges, where the Todra River has sculpted a magnificent canyon with towering red cliffs. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the gorge, appreciating its natural grandeur. We continue through the palm-fringed oases of Touroug and Tinjdad, allowing time for lunch en route.

In the afternoon, we arrive at the threshold of the Merzouga Sahara Desert, where the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes rise majestically. Here, you will exchange your vehicle for a traditional camel trek, venturing into the golden expanse of the Sahara. As the sun begins to set, we'll pause atop a high dune to witness a truly magical desert sunset. Your camel journey continues to our exclusive luxury desert camp, where a warm Berber welcome awaits. Savor a delectable dinner, followed by an evening of traditional Berber drum music and dancing around a crackling campfire, all under a breathtakingly clear, star-studded sky. Overnight in your private, well-appointed tent.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert Exploration: Nomads, Khamlia Gnawa Music, Erg Chebbi Tour (Drive: Approx. 2h, plus extensive exploration)

Waking early to witness the serene beauty of a Sahara sunrise over the dunes is an unmissable experience. After enjoying breakfast at the camp, you'll return by camel or 4x4 vehicle to Merzouga village to meet your driver. Today is dedicated to a comprehensive exploration of the fascinating Merzouga region, an area rich in natural wonders and cultural heritage, offering incredible sites from vast sand dunes and wild lakes to ancient mines, fossil beds, and lush oases – perfect for diverse outdoor activities.

Our 4x4 desert adventure begins with an off-road drive to visit an ancient eyeliner mine. We then have the privilege of visiting a local nomad family in their traditional, hand-woven tent, offering a unique opportunity to learn about their resilient way of life while sharing a customary Berber tea. Our next destination is Khamlia village, renowned for its vibrant Gnawa music and dance performances, a spiritual and rhythmic tradition brought by inhabitants originating from sub-Saharan countries like Mali, Sudan, and Niger. After a break for lunch at a local restaurant, we'll enjoy a tranquil stroll through a palm grove. Later, we drive a short distance to observe the wild lake of Merzouga, also known as the flamingos' lake (seasonal). Dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at a hotel in Merzouga.

Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani Market – Erfoud Fossils – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes (Drive: Approx. 7 hours)

Following breakfast, we bid farewell to the desert and journey to Rissani, the historic capital of the Tafilalet region. Rissani remains a vital trading center, and if our visit coincides with a market day (typically Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Sundays), you'll have the chance to explore its bustling and authentic traditional souk. After our Rissani exploration, we continue to Erfoud, a town famous for its rich fossil deposits, where we can visit a workshop specializing in fossilized marble.

Our drive then takes us along the picturesque Ziz River, offering a stop for stunning panoramic views of the expansive Ziz Valley with its lush palm groves. We'll break for lunch in Midelt, a town nestled in the Atlas Mountains. The journey proceeds to the beautiful Cedar Forest near Azrou, a natural habitat for wild Barbary macaques, where you may have the chance to observe and feed them. Our final stop before reaching our destination is Ifrane, often dubbed the "Switzerland of Morocco" for its alpine-style architecture, pristine environment, and cool climate. We arrive in Fes in the evening, where you'll check into your accommodation and have a free evening to perhaps take a first stroll through the ancient Medina.

Day 5: Fes Medina Guided Tour: A Journey Through Morocco's Cultural Heart (Drive: Approx. 30 min / Walking Tour: 3-4 hours)

After breakfast at your Fes riad or hotel, prepare for an immersive exploration of Fes, one of Morocco's most iconic imperial cities and its undisputed cultural and spiritual epicenter.

Your day of discovery begins with a driving tour to key vantage points. Our first stop is the magnificent Royal Palace Gate (Dar el Makhzen), renowned for its stunning brass doors. We then visit "The Mellah," the historic Jewish Quarter, offering a glimpse into a significant aspect of Moroccan heritage. Next, we ascend to the Borj Sud fortress for breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the sprawling ancient Medina. The driving portion of our tour concludes with a visit to a traditional Ceramic Village & School, where you can witness artisans at work, practicing age-old pottery techniques.

Following this, you will embark on an enriching walking tour through the heart of the medieval Fes el-Bali (Old Medina), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's largest and best-preserved historic towns. Accompanied by an expert local guide, you will navigate its labyrinthine alleyways, discovering architectural marvels and cultural treasures such as the Al Attarine Madrasa, the historic University and Mosque of Al Quaraouiyine (considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world – exterior view for non-Muslims), and the iconic, pungent Chouara Tanneries, where leather is still dyed using traditional methods.

After this unforgettable journey through the annals of Fes's rich history and vibrant culture, you will be escorted back to your riad to relax and absorb the day's experiences.

Day 6: Departure from Fes: Transfer to Fes-Saïss Airport (Drive: Approx. 30 minutes)

On the final day of your tour, and depending on your flight schedule, we will arrange a comfortable and timely transfer from your Riad in Fes to Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ) for your departure.

This concludes your memorable 6-day Morocco desert tour from Marrakech to Fes with Africa Excursion. We wish you a safe journey onward!