🏜️ 5 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Grand Sahara Journey | Erg Chebbi Dunes Desert Camp Experience
Overview of Itinerary – Marrakech Desert Tours
The 5 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes is the ultimate way to experience Morocco’s most diverse landscapes at a relaxed pace. This journey connects the cultural heart of Marrakech with the historic imperial city of Fes, guiding you through the dramatic High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, lush valleys, deep gorges, and the breathtaking dunes of the Sahara Desert.
At the center of your adventure is an unforgettable stay at Erg Chebbi Dunes Desert Camp, where you’ll ride camels across golden dunes, watch the sunset paint the Sahara sky, and fall asleep beneath a blanket of stars. This tour is perfect for travelers who want time to explore, connect with local culture, and enjoy the beauty of Morocco without rushing from place to place.
Day-by-Day Itinerary – Marrakech Desert Tours
🗓️ Day 1: Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Ben Haddou → Ouarzazate
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from your riad or hotel in Marrakech. Travel through the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road pass in Morocco, with scenic stops for panoramic mountain views.
Explore the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its earthen architecture and cinematic history. Continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Sahara,” where you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional hotel or riad.
🗓️ Day 2: Ouarzazate → Valley of Roses → Dades Valley → Todra Gorge
After breakfast, drive through the fragrant Valley of Roses and follow the scenic road into the Dades Valley. Enjoy time to walk along the river and admire the unique rock formations.
Continue to the impressive Todra Gorge, where towering canyon walls create one of Morocco’s most dramatic natural landscapes. You’ll spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse near the gorge.
🗓️ Day 3: Todra Gorge → Erfoud → Merzouga → Erg Chebbi Dunes Desert Camp
Today, the desert truly begins. Travel through the town of Erfoud, famous for fossils and date palms, before reaching the edge of the Sahara in Merzouga.
Meet your camel caravan and enjoy a peaceful sunset camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Arrive at Erg Chebbi Dunes Desert Camp, where you’ll be welcomed with mint tea, a traditional Moroccan dinner, and an evening of Berber music and storytelling around the campfire.
🗓️ Day 4: Merzouga → Desert Exploration → Nomad Villages → Erg Chebbi
Wake early to witness a magical sunrise over the Sahara. After breakfast, explore the desert region in a 4×4 vehicle. Visit nomadic families, learn about their traditional lifestyle, and discover hidden oases and black volcanic landscapes.
Return to the dunes in the late afternoon to relax, try sandboarding, and enjoy another peaceful night near Erg Chebbi Dunes Desert Camp.
🗓️ Day 5: Merzouga → Ziz Valley → Midelt → Cedar Forest → Fes
After breakfast, begin your journey north through the lush Ziz Valley, famous for its endless palm groves and river-fed oases. Continue to Midelt, a quiet mountain town between the Middle and High Atlas ranges.
Pass through the Cedar Forest, where you may spot Barbary macaques, before descending toward the historic city of Fes, where your tour ends in the evening.
Tour Highlights – Marrakech Desert Tours
- 🌄 Cross the High Atlas Mountains & Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- 🏰 Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
- 🏜️ Walk through the scenic Dades Valley & Todra Gorge
- 🐪 Sunset camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes
- 🌌 Overnight at Erg Chebbi Dunes Desert Camp under the stars
- 🎶 Traditional Berber music & campfire experience
- 🚙 4×4 desert exploration and nomad village visits
- 🌴 Scenic drive through the Ziz Valley palm oasis
- 🐒 Spot monkeys in the Middle Atlas Cedar Forest
What’s Included in Marrakech Desert Tours
- ✔️ Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver
- ✔️ Hotel/riad pickup in Marrakech & drop-off in Fes
- ✔️ 3 nights in handpicked hotels/guesthouses
- ✔️ 1 night at Erg Chebbi Dunes Desert Camp
- ✔️ Daily breakfast and dinners during the tour
- ✔️ Sunset & sunrise camel trekking
- ✔️ 4×4 desert exploration in Merzouga
- ✔️ Traditional Berber music at the camp
- ✔️ Scenic sightseeing stops and photo breaks
What’s Not Included in Marrakech Desert Tours
- ❌ Lunches and drinks
- ❌ Entrance fees to monuments (if applicable)
- ❌ Personal expenses and souvenirs
- ❌ Tips for driver and local guides
FAQ – Marrakech Desert Tours
How far is Fes from Merzouga?
The distance is approximately 460 km, with scenic mountain and valley landscapes along the route.
Is the camel trek safe for beginners?
Yes, the camel ride is gentle and led by experienced local guides, making it suitable for most travelers.
What should I pack for the desert?
We recommend warm clothing for the evening, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera.
Can I choose a luxury desert camp?
Absolutely! You can upgrade to a luxury tent at Erg Chebbi Dunes Desert Camp with a private bathroom and premium bedding.
Is this tour suitable for families and couples?
Yes, this tour is ideal for families, couples, and small groups, and can be customized to match your travel style.
Reviews of Marrakech Desert Tours
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes
“This 5-day tour was the highlight of our Morocco trip. The camel trek and night at Erg Chebbi Dunes Desert Camp were unforgettable.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sahara desert tour Morocco
“Perfect pace, beautiful scenery, and very professional service. The Ziz Valley and desert sunrise were incredible.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best Morocco desert camp
“Amazing experience from start to finish. The camp was comfortable, and the Berber music made the night magical.”
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