OVERVIEW OF 5 DAY TOUR FROM FES TO MARRAKECH  

This five-day journey from Fes to Marrakech offers a comprehensive exploration of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage within a carefully structured itinerary. Over the course of five days and four nights, you will experience an extraordinary transition from the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas to the golden dunes of the Sahara, and from dramatic mountain gorges to ancient fortified kasbahs.

The tour begins in Fes, traveling southward to Ifrane—often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco”—and through the majestic cedar forests inhabited by Barbary macaques. After a pause in Midelt for lunch, the journey continues along the breathtaking Ziz Valley before reaching the Merzouga Desert.

In the Sahara, you will ride camels across the dunes, witness a magical sunset and sunrise, and spend the night in a luxury desert camp set deep within the sands. The itinerary further includes visits to Rissani’s traditional market and Erfoud, renowned for its fossil craftsmanship. You will then explore the impressive Todra and Dades Gorges, as well as remarkable kasbahs such as Aït Ben Haddou and Amridil.

The adventure concludes with a scenic crossing of the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass before arriving in Marrakech.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 5 DAY TOUR FROM FES TO MARRAKECH

• Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains and visit to Ifrane
• Encounter with Barbary macaques in the cedar forest
• Panoramic journey along the Ziz Valley
• Camel trekking experience in the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Overnight stay in a luxury Sahara desert camp
• Exploration of Rissani’s traditional market and Erfoud’s fossil workshops
• Visit to the Todra and Dades Gorges
• Discovery of Kasbah Amridil and the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou
• Crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

 ITINERARY FOR: 5 DAY TOUR FROM FES TO MARRAKECH 

DAY 1: FES – IFRANE – CEDAR FOREST – MIDELT – ZIZ VALLEY – MERZOUGA SAHARA

Your five-day journey begins with an early pickup from the airport or your accommodation in Fes. Traveling south through Imouzzer, you will reach Ifrane, distinguished by its alpine-style architecture, cool climate, and carefully maintained streets—hence its nickname, the “Switzerland of Morocco.”

The route continues through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, home to the Barbary macaques. Here, you may observe these remarkable primates in their natural environment while enjoying the serene mountain atmosphere.

Proceed to Midelt for lunch. Situated between the Middle and High Atlas ranges, Midelt is known for its apple orchards and mineral resources. In the afternoon, cross the Tizi-n-Tilghmt Pass and follow the winding course of the Ziz River, whose valley is lined with expansive palm groves and fortified villages.

By late afternoon, you will arrive at the Merzouga Desert. Here, you will mount your camels and begin a tranquil trek across the dunes. A pause atop a high dune allows you to witness the mesmerizing sunset as the desert glows in warm hues. Continue to your luxury camp, where dinner is served beneath a vast canopy of stars, accompanied by traditional Berber drumming around the campfire. Overnight in a private desert tent.

DAY 2: EXPLORE MERZOUGA REGION – NOMADS – KHAMLIA – MERZOUGA LAKE – ERG CHEBBI – PALM GROVE

An early awakening is highly recommended to experience the spectacular sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast at the camp, return by camel to Merzouga village, where your driver awaits.

The day is devoted to exploring the broader Merzouga region by 4×4 vehicle. The area offers diverse landscapes, including dunes, seasonal lakes, mineral mines, fossil fields, and lush oases.

Begin with an off-road excursion to visit an ancient kohl (eyeliner) mine. Continue to meet nomadic families in their traditional woven tents, where you will share Berber tea and gain insight into their resilient desert lifestyle.

Next, visit Khamlia village to enjoy a performance of Gnawa music, rooted in sub-Saharan African heritage. After lunch at a local restaurant, stroll through a palm grove oasis before visiting the seasonal Merzouga Lake—also known as Flamingo Lake—an important site for migratory birds. Dinner and overnight accommodation are arranged at a hotel in Merzouga.

DAY 3: MERZOUGA SAHARA – RISSANI – ERFOUD – TODRA GORGES – DADES VALLEY

After breakfast, depart the desert for Rissani, the historic capital of the Tafilalet region. Rissani remains a vital commercial center, particularly on market days (Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday), when its traditional souk becomes vibrant and animated.

Following a stroll through the market, continue to Erfoud to visit a fossil workshop where ancient marine fossils are crafted into decorative and architectural pieces.

Travel through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad before arriving at the Todra Gorges. Here, the Todra River has carved a dramatic canyon with towering red limestone cliffs. You may take a leisurely walk through the gorge and admire its imposing scenery. After lunch, proceed to the Dades Valley via Boumalne Dades, stopping to admire the distinctive “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and panoramic views of the valley. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.

DAY 4: DADES VALLEY – ROSE VALLEY – PALM GROVES OF SKOURA – OUARZAZATE

After breakfast, continue toward Kalaat M’Gouna in the Valley of Roses, renowned for its annual Rose Festival held in May. Local artisans produce rosewater, perfumes, essential oils, and cosmetic products derived from the region’s fragrant blooms.

After lunch, drive through the palm groves of Skoura to visit the beautifully restored Kasbah Amridil, an exceptional example of southern Moroccan architecture.

Continue to Ouarzazate, where you will visit the renowned film studios that have hosted numerous international productions, as well as the historic Taourirt Kasbah. Dinner and overnight accommodation in Ouarzazate.

DAY 5: AÏT BEN HADDOU KASBAH – HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS – MARRAKECH

On the final day, depart Ouarzazate to visit the celebrated Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fortified ksar has appeared in numerous films and television productions, including Gladiator, Alexander, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones. Its earthen architecture stands as a remarkable example of traditional pre-Saharan construction.

After exploring the kasbah, continue toward Marrakech via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains. Several scenic stops will be made for photographs and lunch.

Upon arrival in Marrakech, you will be transferred to your accommodation or the airport. This concludes your five-day Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour.