5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Sahara Desert
5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Sahara Desert, OVERVIEW :
Experience an unforgettable 5-day tour from Marrakech to Fez, crossing the High Atlas Mountains, exploring the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou, and visiting Ouarzazate and the Rose Valley. Discover Todra Gorge, a camel trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes, and spend a magical night in a desert camp. Immerse yourself in Berber culture with visits to Khamlia village and nomadic families. Conclude your adventure with scenic drives through the Ziz Valley, cedar forests, and Midelt before arriving in Fez.
highlights of the 5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Sahara Desert:
- Cross the breathtaking Tizi N’tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains.
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a renowned cultural and cinematic site.
- Visit the vibrant Ouarzazate, home to the Atlas Studios and historic kasbahs.
- Discover the stunning Dades Valley and Rose Valley, famous for its natural beauty.
- Marvel at the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge, a favorite for panoramic views.
- A camel trek through the golden Erg Chebbi dunes and enjoy a night in a desert camp.
- Experience the unique music and dances of Khamlia village.
- Visit nomadic families and learn about their traditional desert lifestyle.
- Enjoy sandboarding and a mesmerizing sunset and sunrise in the Sahara Desert.
- Travel through the lush Ziz Valley, scenic Midelt, and cedar forests with playful monkeys.
- Conclude your journey in the historic city of Fez.
Itinerary of 5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Sahara Desert
Day 1 : Marrakech – High Atlas – Ouarzazate.
After we met at the place that we had agreed upon. We will start our tour southeast through the High Atlas via Tizi N’tichka pass (2260 m in altitude), visit the Kasbah of Ait Benhadou, and stop for lunch in a local restaurant that crosses the Atlas at about 2.300m with stops to enjoy the spectacular views offering and see the Berber villages. The Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site since 1986, where many films took place such as Alexander, Gladiator, Babel… In the afternoon, we will continue our way to Ouarzazate “the Hollywood of Africa” and stop for pictures next largest studio in Africa “Atlas Studio”. Dinner and Overnight in Ouarzazate.
Day 2 : Ouarzazate – Skoura – kelaat M’gouna – Dades valley
After having breakfast in the hotel, today we will drive to Boumalne Dades via Skoura to visit the 17th century Kasbah of Amridil, then to the capital of roses and stop for stretch legs and have a coffee and take the way that leads to nomad families living in caves and have a cup of minty tea, and have lunch in a local restaurant, then continue our way to Dades valley, Dinner and overnight in The Hotel.
Day 3 : Dades valley – todra Gorge – Tinejdad – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, our Day will begin by driving to Erg-Chebbi via Tineghir the old Moroccan Berber Jewish capital, and visit the Todra Gorge On our way we will have many stops for panoramic views, and after that, we will head to touroug to have lunch. In the afternoon we will continue our way to the Erg-chebbi desert passing by the Erfoud city capital of fossils and Rissani, then to the captivating dunes of Erg Chebbi, (Merzouga ). Arrive at the hotel where you will spend the night.
Day 4 : Merzouga – Khamlia – Nomad family – 4×4 Sahara Excursion
The first day in the desert will begin by driving to Khamlia village lived by black-skinned Berber to enjoy their amazing music with different dances, continue off-road to a nomadic family to discover their lifestyle and have a cup of tea then continue our way and make a stop of one hour and a half for lunch under the shade of a tree typical of the desert. In the afternoon we will head back to the Hotel to have a cup of minty tea and relax to get ready for the camel ride to the camp which will take about 1 hour & 30min enjoying the fabulous sunset and ski boarding from the top of the next highest dune to the camp, Feel like a nomad as you spend the night under a sky lit up by millions of stars and amidst Berber music.
Day 5 : Erg Chebbi Dunes – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Fes
Make sure to wake up early to take pictures of the sunrise from the top of the next highest sand after breakfast you will ride your camel back to the hotel, and after that, we will drive toward Fes via Erfoud the city of fossils and dates to visit a local fossil craft workshop, then crossing the high and middle atlas mountains enjoying the panoramic views and having lunch in Midelt. In the afternoon, we will continue our way to the Switzerland of Morocco passing by the cedar forest to enjoy seeing the monkeys. Arriving at Fes and drop off at your accommodation.
included :
- Transport in 4×4 car with Air condition
- Private driver/English speaking guide
- Accommodation (dinner and breakfast) in hotels
- Camel ride through the desert
- Sleep in desert tent
excluded :
- Airline tickets
- Noon meals
- Drinks
- Entrance fees
5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Sahara Desert – Gallery
Map of the 5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Sahara Desert
More info about the sites we will visit and see in this 5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Sahara Desert
Marrakech – The Red City
Marrakech, Morocco’s vibrant “Red City,” is one of the country’s most iconic destinations and a former imperial capital. Founded in 1062 by Abubakar Ben Omar, cousin of Almoravid King Yusuf ibn Tashfin, the city quickly grew into a major religious, cultural, and trading hub. Its name and nickname come from the striking red sandstone ramparts built in the 12th century by Ali Ben Youssef.
Today, Marrakech is famous for its bustling medina, colorful souks, ornate palaces, and lively squares like Jemaa el-Fnaa. Beyond history, it is also a modern city with an international airport, universities, and cultural institutions, blending tradition and modernity seamlessly.
Aït Benhaddou Kasbah
About 30 km from Ouarzazate lies the legendary Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. This fortified ksar, with its clay walls and dramatic towers, stands as one of Morocco’s most impressive examples of traditional architecture. Over centuries, it has resisted both time and climate, making it a symbol of Morocco’s resilience.
The site has also gained fame as a backdrop for numerous films and series, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Visiting Aït Benhaddou feels like stepping into another era where history and landscape merge beautifully.
Ouarzazate – The Hollywood of Africa
Known as the “doorway to the desert,” Ouarzazate sits at the crossroads between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara. Its cinematic landscapes have earned it the nickname “Hollywood of Africa,” attracting major film productions from around the world.
The city offers much more than its film studios, visitors can explore centuries-old kasbahs, palm-lined valleys, and vibrant local markets. Ouarzazate is the perfect mix of history, culture, and desert adventure.
Tinghir and the Todra Gorge
Located in the lush Todra Valley, Tinghir is a charming oasis town surrounded by dramatic cliffs and palm groves. Its name derives from the Amazigh word “Tinghir,” meaning “shoulder,” inspired by the surrounding mountain formations.
Nearby, the Todra Gorge is one of Morocco’s most spectacular natural wonders. Towering limestone walls rise nearly 300 meters high, making it a paradise for hikers, climbers, and photographers. Spending a night here allows you to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of oasis life.
Merzouga and the Sahara Desert
The small village of Merzouga is the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes, where endless golden sands stretch to the horizon. While the town itself is modest, its surroundings are breathtaking. Here you can ride camels across the dunes, watch magical sunsets, and spend a night under the stars in a traditional Berber desert camp.
The Sahara experience is often the highlight of the Marrakech to Fes journey, a blend of adventure, tranquility, and timeless beauty.
Midelt – The City of Apples
Nestled between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas ranges, Midelt is best known for its apple orchards and cool mountain climate. Each year, the town hosts an apple festival celebrating its rich agricultural traditions.
Midelt is also an important mining area, famous for semi-precious stones like vanadinite. Surrounded by scenic mountains and valleys, it serves as a refreshing stop on the way to northern Morocco.
Azrou’s Cedar Forest
In the Middle Atlas Mountains lies the majestic Cedar Forest of Azrou, home to some of the oldest cedar trees in Africa, many of which are hundreds of years old. The forest is also famous for its population of Barbary macaques, a rare species of monkey that roams freely among the trees.
Walking through these towering cedars is both a peaceful and unforgettable experience, offering a stark contrast to the desert landscapes earlier in the tour.
Ifrane – The “Switzerland of Morocco”
Often nicknamed the “Little Switzerland of Morocco”, Ifrane is a charming mountain town with alpine-style houses, clean streets, and a cool climate. Situated 1,655 meters above sea level, it’s one of the coldest inhabited places in the country, with snow in winter and lush greenery in spring and summer.
Originally developed during the French colonial era, the town has retained its unique European-inspired architecture. Its natural beauty, waterfalls, and parks make it a refreshing stop before reaching Fes.
Fes – The Cultural Capital of Morocco
Your 5-day journey ends in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart. With a population of over 1.7 million, it is the country’s third-largest city and home to one of the best-preserved medieval medinas in the world.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, Fes el-Bali (the old city) is a maze of narrow alleys, bustling souks, mosques, and madrasas. Notably, it is also the largest car-free urban area in the world. Walking through Fes is like stepping back in time, offering a perfect conclusion to your Morocco desert adventure.
FAQs About the 5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Sahara Desert
How long does it take to travel from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert?
Most travelers reach the Sahara Desert in Merzouga by private car with a driver, though there are also bus and flight options.
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By Car: From Marrakech, it usually takes two days to reach Merzouga. The first overnight stop is typically in Boumalne Dades, before continuing the journey to the desert the next morning.
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By Bus: Supratours operates a daily bus leaving Marrakech at 7:30 AM and arriving in Merzouga around 8:00 PM.
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By Plane: You can fly from Marrakech to Errachidia Airport, about 135 km from Merzouga. From there, a taxi or tourist transfer will take you to the desert.
Is five days too much time in Marrakech?
Five days is actually an ideal amount of time in Marrakech. It allows you to explore the bustling medina, visit palaces and gardens, shop in the souks, and take day trips to nearby destinations like the Atlas Mountains or Essaouira.
Is 5 days in Morocco enough?
Yes, five days is enough for a first taste of Morocco. With a well-planned itinerary, you can combine city sightseeing, desert adventures, and cultural experiences. Popular routes include Marrakech to Fes via the desert, giving you a balance of history, landscapes, and local encounters.
What is the highlight of the 5-day Marrakech to Fes tour?
The main highlight is the overnight stay in a Sahara desert camp. Riding camels over the dunes at sunset and sleeping under a sky full of stars is often the most unforgettable part of the journey.
What type of accommodation is included on this tour?
You’ll stay in a mix of comfortable riads, traditional guesthouses, and desert camps. Options range from standard to luxury, depending on your preference.
How many hours per day will we spend driving?
On average, you’ll be on the road for 4–6 hours a day, with plenty of scenic stops along the way to visit kasbahs, valleys, and viewpoints. The longest driving stretch is between Marrakech and the Dades Valley (about 6 hours).
What should I pack for the 5-day desert tour?
Pack light but don’t forget:
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Comfortable walking shoes
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A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
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Warm clothing for chilly desert nights
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A small backpack for day essentials
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Camera to capture the landscapes
Is the camel ride in the desert comfortable and safe?
Yes, camel rides are a traditional and safe way to experience the dunes. Most rides last about 1–2 hours. For those who prefer not to ride, 4×4 vehicles are available as an alternative.
Can the tour be customized?
Absolutely. This itinerary can be tailored with extra nights, luxury camp upgrades, or additional stops like the Todra Gorge or Aït Ben Haddou.
