This 4-day adventure from Fez to Marrakech offers a rich exploration of the Moroccan Sahara Desert. Starting from the cultural hub of Fez, you’ll journey through stunning landscapes to the Sahara in Merzouga, spend a night in a traditional Berber camp, visit the historic Ait Ben Haddou, and finally arrive in the vibrant city of Marrakech. This trip is perfect for experiencing the best of southern Morocco.
Day 1: Fez – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
We’ll depart from Fez, making our way through picturesque landscapes towards Midelt. Along the way, we’ll stop in Ifrane, often referred to as the Switzerland of Morocco, and the famous cedar forests of Azrou, where you can see monkeys in their natural habitat.
Continuing through the Middle Atlas Mountains, we’ll pass Errachidia and the stunning Ziz Valley, stopping to admire the views. In Erfoud, known for its fossil factories, we’ll explore briefly before heading to Merzouga. Dinner and accommodation will be in a hostel near the dunes.
Day 2: Merzouga – Erg Chebbi
After breakfast, we’ll start our journey around the dunes, visiting various nomadic settlements.
One notable stop is Khamlia, where you can enjoy a live Gnawa music performance.
We’ll also visit the M’ifis mines and have tea with a nomadic family in their desert tent, learning about their way of life.
In the afternoon, you’ll take a camel ride to a desert camp, enjoying the sunset over the dunes.
Dinner and overnight will be in a traditional Berber tent.
Day 3: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley – Ouarzazate
We’ll wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes,
then return by camel to the lodge for a hot shower and breakfast.
The route continues with a visit to Rissani, the first imperial city of Morocco.
We’ll then head to the dramatic Todra Gorges, pass through the beautiful Dades Valley, and visit the oasis of Skoura.
We’ll arrive in Ouarzazate for dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech
After breakfast, we’ll visit the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou,
a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular filming location for movies like “Gladiator” and “Kingdom of Heaven.”.
We’ll then journey through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, enjoying panoramic views of Berber villages.
In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in Marrakech, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel or the airport, concluding our services.
what includes :
1- Accommodation:
* Night in a hostel in Merzouga (Day 1)
* Night in a traditional Berber camp in the desert (Day 2)
* Night in a hotel in Ouarzazate (Day 3)
2- Meals:
* Breakfast on Days 2, 3, and 4
* Dinner on Days 1, 2, and 3
3- Transportation:
* Private transportation with air-conditioned in a comfortable vehicle
4- Guided Activities:
* multi languages driver/guide
* Camel ride in the desert
* Visit to Khamlia for Gnawa music
* Tour of nomadic camps and the M’ifis mines
* Visit to Rissani, Todra Gorges, Dades Valley, and Ait Ben Haddou
Not Included :
1- Meals:
* Lunches on all days
* Breakfast on Day 1
* Dinner on Day 4
2- Personal Expenses:
* Any additional personal expenses
3- Optional Activities:
* Any activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
4- Entry Fees:
* Entrance fees to any attractions not specified in the itinerary
Tour Highlights :
Day 1: Fez to Merzouga via Midelt and the Ziz Valley
* Ifrane: Visit this charming town known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture and cool climate.
* Azrou Cedar Forest: Stop to see the famous cedar trees and watch Barbary macaques in their natural habitat.
* Middle Atlas Mountains: Enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque mountain landscapes.
* Ziz Valley: Marvel at the lush oasis and dramatic gorges of this beautiful valley.
* Erfoud: Explore this town known for its fossil factories and learn about its geological significance.
* Merzouga: Arrive at the edge of the Sahara Desert, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hostel near the dunes.
Day 2: Exploring Merzouga and Camel Trekking
* Dune Adventure: Embark on a journey around the Erg Chebbi dunes, visiting various desert settlements.
* Khamlia: Experience the captivating live Gnawa music performed by local musicians in this village.
* M’ifis Mines: Discover the traditional mining practices in the area and visit a working mine.
* Nomadic Tea: Have tea with a nomadic family in their tent and learn about their unique lifestyle.
* Camel Ride: Ride camels through the stunning dunes to a Berber camp.
* Sunset in the Sahara: Witness an unforgettable sunset over the golden dunes.
* Berber Camp: Spend the night in a traditional Berber tent, enjoying a delicious dinner under the starry desert sky.
Day 3: Merzouga to Ouarzazate via Todra and Dades Gorges
* Sunrise over the Dunes: Wake up early to see the breathtaking sunrise from the top of a dune.
* Camel Ride Back: Return by camel to the lodge for a hot shower and breakfast.
* Rissani: Visit the first imperial city of Morocco, known for its historical significance.
* Todra Gorges: Explore the dramatic canyons with towering cliffs and beautiful scenery.
* Dades Valley: Drive through this picturesque valley, known for its rock formations and scenic beauty.
* Skoura Oasis: Visit the lush oasis filled with palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
* Ouarzazate: Arrive in the city often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Day 4: Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
* Ait Ben Haddou: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a famous kasbah that has been featured in numerous films.* High Atlas Mountains: Travel through the stunning landscapes of the High Atlas, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
* Panoramic Views: Enjoy the breathtaking views of Berber villages and dramatic mountain scenery.
* Arrival in Marrakech: Arrive in the vibrant city of Marrakech in the afternoon, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel or the airport.