5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga desert with Camel Trek
5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga desert with Camel Trek - OVERVIEW:
This 5-day desert Morocco tour from Fes to Marrakech offers a captivating journey through stunning landscapes, from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert. Day 1 begins with a scenic drive through Azrou’s cedar forests, the mineral-rich town of Midelt, and the Ziz Valley before reaching the desert town of Merzouga. On Day 2, explore the dunes of Erg Chebbi, meet the nomadic Berber community in Khamlia, enjoy a traditional lunch, and experience a camel ride into the desert for a sunset and overnight stay in a desert camp. On Day 3, visit Rissani’s souk, hike the Todra Gorges, and spend the night in Dades Gorges. Day 4 includes a visit to Ouarzazate, the Kasbah Taourirte, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, famous for its film history. Finally, Day 5 takes you to Marrakech via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, where you’ll explore the city’s historic medina, gardens, and vibrant neighborhoods.
highlights of the 5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga desert with Camel Trek:
- Fes to Merzouga Desert: Cross the Atlas Mountains, and visit Azrou’s cedar forests, and the Ziz Valley. Stop at Erfoud and explore Rissani’s souk before reaching Merzouga.
- Merzouga Desert: Experience Gnawa music in Khamlia, enjoy a camel trek in the Erg Chebbi dunes, and spend the night in a Berber desert camp with dinner and music.
- Rissani, Todra Gorges, Dades Gorges: Visit Rissani’s souk, hike through Todra Gorges and explore the stunning Dades Gorges.
- Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou: Visit Kasbah Taourirte and movie studios in Ouarzazate, then explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou.
- Marrakech: Drive through Tizi n’Tichka pass and tour Marrakech’s medina, gardens, and modern district, Gueliz.
Details of the 5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert with Camel Trek
Day 1 : Fes – Azrou – Midelt – Rissani – Merzouga
On the first-day of our 5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga desert with Camel Trek, early in the morning, our driver will pick you up from your hotel and we cross the Atlas mountains, stop in Ifrane, the Switzerland of MoroccoVisit the Cedar Forest to see Barbary macaque monkeys. Lunch in Midelt with views of Jebel Ayachi. Midelt is a city famous for its minerals and apples. We continue passing a panoramic view of Ziz Valley to reach the city of Erfoud, famous for its fossil products. Then we drive to reach the Merzouga desert. We stay overnight in a local desert hotel with dinner and breakfast.
Day 2 : Erg Chebbi Desert
We explore the Merzouga desert by 4×4 and also visit the village of Khamlia, famous for musicians originally from Sudan and Mali. We will have tea with a Berber family living in the desert, and see how berber nomade live, and later today we prepare for a camel ride in the Sahara desert, guided by an experienced camel guide. We will watch the desert sunset over olden sand dunes of the Merzouga desert. Once we reach the desert camp, we will have cap of tea for hospitality, and enjoy a Berber dinner, and drum music at the campfire. We will sleep in tents of Merzouga desert camp.
Day 3 : Erg Chebbi – Rissani – Dades Gorges
Today we ride camels back from the Merzouga desert camp to the village. After breakfast and shower we drive towards Rissani city to visit the local souk, then to Tidra Gorges. Here we will walk in a narrow canyon, we experience hiking. Later, we continue the 5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga desert with Camel Trek, to Dades Gorges, where we stay overnight in a local hotel with dinner and breakfast.
Day 4 : Dades Gorges – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou
Today we continue our desert Morocco tour towards Dades Valley and Monkey Fingers Canyon, and Rose vally then to Ouarzazate. We will visit Kasbah Taourirte, a beautiful Kasbah, and also local movie studios, then we continue via the High Atlas mountains to the Ait-Ben-Haddou. Here we will visit the UNESCO site Kasbah – many movies were filmed at this place.
Day 5 : Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech
We drive via the highest road pass in Morocco, called Tizi n’Tichka and we arrive in Marrakech. You will enjoy a guided tour of Medina, we will also visit other interesting parts of Marrakech including museums, palaces, Menara gardens, and Marjolle. We also visited a new part of the city called Gueliz. That will be the end of our services. This private Morocco 5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga desert with Camel Trek can be modified depending on your requirements. Don’t hesitate to contact us.
included :
- Transport in 4×4 car with Air conditioning
- Private driver/English speaking guide
- Accommodation (dinner and breakfast) in hotels
- Camel ride through the desert
- Sleep in a desert tent
excluded :
- Airline tickets
- Noon meals
- Drinks
- Entrance fees
Gallery – 5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert with Camel Trek
Map – 5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert with Camel Trek
Know Before You Go – 5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert with Camel Trek
Weather & Best Time to Travel
- Temperatures vary greatly during this trip, especially between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert.
- Summer (June–August): Very hot in the desert (up to 45°C / 113°F). Early starts help avoid extreme heat.
- Winter (December–February): Pleasant days but cold desert nights, sometimes below 0°C (32°F).
- Best months: March–May and September–November for comfortable weather.
What to Pack
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime
- Warm layers (jacket or fleece) for evenings in the desert
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
- Small backpack for the camel trek
- Power bank (electricity in desert camps may be limited)
- Scarf or shawl to protect from sun and desert wind
Health & Comfort Tips
- Camel riding requires basic balance; inform your guide if you have back, knee, or mobility issues.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, especially in warmer months.
- Motion sickness tablets are recommended if you are sensitive to winding mountain roads.
Money & Payments
- Bring some cash (Moroccan dirhams) for small purchases, tips, or souvenirs in remote areas.
- ATMs are limited after leaving major cities like Fes and Marrakech.
- Credit cards are rarely accepted in desert villages.
Connectivity & Electricity
- Mobile network coverage is available in most towns but can be weak or unavailable in the desert.
- Wi-Fi in desert camps is limited or not guaranteed.
- Charging devices may only be possible in common areas or during certain hours.
Cultural Awareness
- Morocco is culturally welcoming, but modest clothing is recommended in rural areas.
- Always ask permission before taking photos of locals.
- Respect local customs, especially during prayer times or religious holidays.
Food & Dietary Needs
- Moroccan meals are generally fresh and hearty; vegetarian options are widely available with advance notice.
- If you have allergies or special dietary requirements, inform us before the trip.
Photography Tips
- Sunrise and sunset in the Sahara offer the best lighting for photos.
- Protect cameras and phones from sand using cases or zip bags.
- A wide-angle lens is ideal for desert landscapes.
Who This Trip Is Best For
- Travelers seeking an authentic Sahara experience
- Couples, families, and small groups
- Adventurers are comfortable with long drives and changing climates
FAQs – 5 Days Trip from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert with Camel Trek
Is the camel trek safe for beginners?
Yes. The camel trek is suitable for beginners and guided by experienced local handlers. Camels are calm and trained, and assistance is provided when mounting and dismounting.
Can I skip the camel ride and go by 4x4?
Absolutely. If you prefer not to ride a camel, a 4×4 vehicle transfer to the desert camp can be arranged at no extra stress. Just let us know in advance.
How physically demanding is this trip?
This tour is moderate and suitable for most travelers. It involves some walking, long driving days, and optional short hikes. No special fitness level is required.
What are the desert nights like?
Desert nights can be cold, especially from October to March. Camps provide blankets, but we recommend bringing warm clothing for evenings and early mornings.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes. Families with children and older travelers can enjoy this trip. The pace is flexible, and adjustments can be made to ensure comfort.
Will I have access to Wi-Fi and phone signal?
Mobile coverage is available in most towns but limited or unavailable in the desert. Wi-Fi at desert camps is basic and not guaranteed.
What language does the driver or guide speak?
Drivers and guides usually speak English, French, Spanish, and Arabic. Other languages may be available upon request.
What currency should I bring?
We recommend carrying Moroccan dirhams in cash for small purchases, tips, or souvenirs. ATMs are not always available in remote areas.
Are special dietary needs accommodated?
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
What should I wear during the tour?
Comfortable, season-appropriate clothing is best. Modest dress is recommended in rural areas. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, sun protection, and warm layers for evenings.
Is sand a problem for cameras and phones?
Fine desert sand can affect electronics. Use protective cases or zip bags, and avoid changing lenses in windy conditions.
