OVERVIEW OF 6 DAYS TOUR FROM OUARZAZATE TO FES VIA DESERT AND ATLAS MOUNTAINS

Discover the very essence of Morocco through this carefully curated 6-day journey from Ouarzazate to Fes via the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains. This itinerary has been thoughtfully designed for travelers seeking both cultural depth and scenic diversity—whether you are planning a meaningful family vacation or a refined romantic escape.

At the heart of this experience lies a two-night stay in the magnificent dunes of Erg Chebbi, offering an immersive encounter with the Sahara’s vast silence and luminous skies. Far from the distractions of modern life, the desert reveals its elemental beauty—golden expanses, shifting light, and the profound stillness that defines Morocco’s southern frontier.

After embracing the serenity of the desert, the journey continues northward through the cedar forests and elevated towns of the Middle Atlas. Along the way, you will discover alpine-influenced Ifrane and the mountain town of Midelt before arriving in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual capital. The tour concludes in the labyrinthine medina of Fes, where centuries of scholarship, craftsmanship, and tradition converge.

This itinerary offers a seamless and enriching exploration of Morocco’s diverse landscapes—mountains, valleys, desert dunes, and historic cities—within a thoughtfully paced and comfortable framework.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 6 DAYS TOUR FROM OUARZAZATE TO FES VIA DESERT AND ATLAS MOUNTAINS

• Explore the ancient earthen ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Walk through the towering limestone walls of the spectacular Todra Gorge
• Experience a camel trek across the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi
• Spend two unforgettable nights in a luxury desert camp beneath a star-filled sky
• Immerse yourself in the profound silence of the Sahara Desert
• Travel through the scenic cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains
• Discover the distinctive alpine charm of Ifrane
• Arrive relaxed and enriched in the historic city of Fes

ITINERARY FOR: 6 DAYS TOUR FROM OUARZAZATE TO FES VIA DESERT AND ATLAS MOUNTAINS

DAY 1: OUARZAZATE – AÏT BENHADDOU – SKOURA – DADES VALLEY

Your journey begins in Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” After meeting your driver-guide, you will first visit the legendary ksar of Aït Benhaddou. This remarkable mud-brick fortress, perched along an ancient caravan route, stands as one of Morocco’s most iconic architectural treasures. Its winding alleys and earthen towers evoke centuries of trans-Saharan trade and cinematic history.

Continuing through the palm groves of Skoura, you will visit Kasbah Amridil, an exceptionally preserved example of southern Moroccan fortified architecture. The route then follows the celebrated “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” leading toward the dramatic Dades Valley.

By late afternoon, you will arrive in the Dades region, where sculpted rock formations and winding canyon roads create an unforgettable natural panorama. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be in a charming hotel or riad nestled within the valley.

DAY 2: DADES VALLEY – TODRA GORGE – ERFOUD – ERG CHEBBI (LUXURY DESERT CAMP)

After breakfast, the journey continues toward the impressive Todra Gorge. Towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically above a narrow canyon carved by the Todra River. A leisurely walk through the gorge allows you to appreciate its scale and geological beauty.

From there, the landscape gradually transforms as you travel toward Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops and desert gateway atmosphere. The road then leads to Merzouga, where the first golden dunes of Erg Chebbi come into view.

In the late afternoon, you will embark on a camel trek into the Sahara. As the sun descends, the dunes glow in shifting shades of amber and rose. Upon arrival at your luxury desert camp, you will be welcomed with mint tea before enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner under the open sky. The evening concludes with live Berber music around the campfire. Overnight in a private, well-appointed desert tent.

DAY 3: ERG CHEBBI – DESERT EXPLORATION – NOMADIC ENCOUNTERS – 4×4 EXCURSION

Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, when the desert reveals its most delicate palette of colors. After breakfast, the day is dedicated to exploring the wider Erg Chebbi region.

A 4×4 excursion takes you beyond the dunes to discover remote desert landscapes. You will visit the village of Khamlia, home to the Gnawa community, whose spiritual music reflects deep sub-Saharan influences. A performance here offers insight into a unique cultural heritage.

Later, you will visit a nomadic family living in traditional tents. Sharing tea with them provides a rare and authentic perspective on desert life—its resilience, simplicity, and profound connection to the land.

Return to the camp in the afternoon for relaxation. Optional activities such as sandboarding or additional camel rides may be arranged. Dinner and a second night in the desert camp allow you to fully absorb the tranquility of the Sahara.

DAY 4: ERG CHEBBI – RISSANI – ZIZ VALLEY – MIDELT

After breakfast, you will depart the desert and travel to Rissani, historically significant as the cradle of the Alaouite dynasty. If the visit coincides with a market day, you may explore the vibrant traditional souk, where traders gather from surrounding villages.

The journey continues through the spectacular Ziz Valley, a vast ribbon of palm groves stretching across arid terrain. Scenic viewpoints reveal the dramatic contrast between fertile oasis and rocky plateau.

Ascending into the Middle Atlas Mountains, the climate gradually cools as you approach Midelt, known for its apple orchards and crisp mountain air. Dinner and overnight stay in a comfortable hotel.

DAY 5: MIDELT – AZROU CEDAR FOREST – IFRANE – FES

Following breakfast, the route proceeds through the cedar forests of Azrou. Here, you may encounter the famous Barbary macaques in their natural habitat, adding a moment of lightness to the mountain landscape.

The journey then continues to Ifrane, often described as Morocco’s “Little Switzerland” due to its alpine-style architecture, clean streets, and European ambiance. A brief stop allows you to appreciate this striking contrast to the desert scenery experienced earlier in the week.

By afternoon, you will arrive in Fes. Transfer to your riad or hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

DAY 6: FES MEDINA – GUIDED CULTURAL EXPLORATION

Your final day is devoted to exploring Fes, one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in the Islamic world. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you will navigate the intricate streets of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest car-free urban area.

Highlights include the Al-Attarine Madrasa, the iconic Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate), and the renowned Chouara Tanneries, where traditional leather production techniques continue much as they have for centuries. You will also encounter vibrant souks filled with spices, textiles, ceramics, and handcrafted goods.

After the guided visit, free time allows for personal exploration or relaxation before the conclusion of your tour in Fes.