5-Day Desert Tour From Marrakech to Fes

Name: 5-Day Desert Tour From Marrakech to Fes
Brand: Touring In Morocco
SKU: 12328763
Rating: 5 (1366 reviews)

Tailored 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes: Your Unique Adventure

Are you ready for an extraordinary adventure through Morocco’s most enchanting destinations? Join us on a 5-day adventure that promises to immerse you in the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient traditions of this beautiful country. And here’s the best part – we’re offering an exclusive discount for this unforgettable journey through Morocco’s most beautiful attractions. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the heart of Morocco while saving on your adventure. Book your customized 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes today and experience the magic of Morocco!

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Overview

Join us on a 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes and immerse yourself in Morocco’s finest attractions. On the first day, we’ll travel via the High Atlas Mountains to Ouarzazate, our overnight destination. The second day is spent exploring the desert, which is the peak of all Moroccan travels. The third day will be spent in the desert, visiting Nomad Berbers and learning about their way of life. On the fourth day, we’ll take a different route to Midelt. Finally, on the last day, we’ll take you to Meknes before wrapping out our journey in Fes. Join us on an unforgettable adventure around Morocco’s most beautiful attractions!

5-Day Marrakech to Fes Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Gorges

The 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes begins with your pickup from our meeting place in Marrakech. Our first leg takes us across the Tizi Ntichka pass, which has a height of 2260 meters and a length of around 200 kilometers. We’ll stop along the road to see a cooperative that produces argan oil, which is used in cosmetics. Following that, we’ll go to the famed Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, passing via other kasbahs like as Telouet.

Ait Benhaddou is a world-renowned tourist destination as well as a sought-after site for filmmakers. We’ll next go to Ouarzazate, sometimes known as “Ouallywood” owing to the presence of Atlas Studios, a film production and renting center. Ouarzazate has served as the setting for a number of well-known films, including Game of Thrones and Prison Break. After lunch in town, we’ll continue on to Dades Gorges, where we’ll spend the night. This is only the start of your Moroccan trip!

Day 2: Dades Gorges to Merzouga desert

Today is devoted to our desert excursion on the 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes. Our journey begins with a drive through picturesque valleys on the way to our first destination, the Todra Gorges. Here, we will pause to investigate the surrounding area and take a leisurely meander along the renowned Todra canyons. These canyons, which reach heights of approximately 300 meters, are renowned for being a primary climbing and photography destination in Morocco. We will then resume our journey, passing through small Berber villages and stopping for lunch in Tinghir or Tinjedad.

We embark on the final phase of our trip following our meal. The Merzouga desert is widely regarded as the zenith of all excursions in Morocco. To begin our desert journey, we will ride camels through the mesmerizing golden sands. Along the way, we will stop to take in the majestic scenery and behold a magnificent arid sunset. Our Nomadic camp, situated in the center of the desert, will be reached at last. The evening begins with a delectable traditional Moroccan feast, after which our team builds a campfire and performs mesmerizing drumming under the twinkling stars. It’s a memorable evening.

Day 3: Merzouga desert/The desert trip

On the third day of our 5-day desert trip from Marrakech to Fes, we engage in desert exploration. Typically, our desert excursions begin with a visit to the Nomads, Morocco’s indigenous people. Spending time with these Berber Nomads provides invaluable insight into the genuine Moroccan way of life, as they scrupulously preserve the nation’s original traditions and culture.

After our Nomadic encounter, we’ll make our way to Glb Nass, which translates to “the people’s heart” in English, where we’ll stop to take in the view and admire the majesty of the Sahara dunes. The kohl mine in M’Ifiss, once possessed and utilized by the French colonial dominion, is our next destination.

Then, we will travel to Khamlia, where we will experience a delicious supper and have the chance to meet the Gnawa people. These people are originally from Mali and Gabon, but they have made Morocco their home, establishing in villages similar to the one we are visiting. You will have the opportunity to enjoy their music and watch their distinctive dance performances.

The rest of the day will be spent investigating additional locations, such as the Hassi Labied Oases.

Day 4: Merzouga desert to Midelt

After breakfast at your desert lodging, we will embark on our trip to Midelt. In Rissani, one of the greatest traditional markets in the southeast of Morocco, will be our first visit.

We will then travel to Erfoud, a city known for its fossil workshops. Here, you will have the opportunity to view numerous fossils that are indigenous to the area.

The next stop on our journey is the Ziz Valley, the largest source of dates in Morocco. While traveling along the Ait Chakr pass, we will halt at one of Morocco’s most magnificent viewpoints. From this vantage point, you can observe the tens of thousands of palm trees in the Ziz Valley.

Our journey continues towards Midelt, with the Errachidia Dam serving as our next stop. The government created this reservoir to provide a vital water source for the residents of the region.

You will spend the night in Midelt, signaling the conclusion of the fourth day of your five-day excursion from Marrakech to Fes through the desert.

Day 5: Midelt to Fes

The last day of your 5 days desert trip from Marrakech to Fes features a welcome change of scenery. We will begin the day by driving again through the High Atlas Mountains, passing through the Cedar forest, where we will make our first halt. We will reach the city of Meknes upon exiting the forest.

Our exploration of Meknes begins with a visit to Sahrij Souani, a picturesque lake in the city’s center. The tour of Meknes will resume with visits to Lhdim square and Bab Mansour. After exploring the grandeur and history of Meknes, we will travel to the neighboring city of Volubilis, home to Roman ruins and the former capital of the kingdom of Mauritanian.

Our tour will then take us directly to Fes, where our services will conclude.

Reviews

Wonderful tour! Highly recommended

I went on a 5-day trip with Touring In Morocco. Hassan, our tour guide, was very amazing, offering extensive explanations throughout the journey. The desert adventure and the wonderful camel ride were unquestionably the highlights of the trip for me. The view when we arrived at the desert camp was nothing short of beautiful, with a sky covered with many stars and the nice addition of music performed for us. Overall, I'd want to convey my appreciation for their great service and heartily suggest Touring In Morocco to anybody contemplating a trip to this amazing nation.

David L

January 2023

Amazing five days!

My family and I enjoyed a fantastic trip from Marrakech to Fes, with the gorgeous Sahara desert serving as the highlight of our tour. We were just blown away by the experience. Our arrival in the desert was the most memorable aspect of the journey for me. It had a great impact on my family, and meeting the nomads was genuinely remarkable and memorable. I am certain that I will return to this incredible journey in the future. Until then, I'd want to express my deepest gratitude to the trip organizers, who played a huge part in making my family very happy throughout our voyage!

kate S

March 2023

Awesome guide!

Youssef is the greatest! I had a fantastic time with this travel business; it was the highlight of all my excursions. Youssef, our guide and driver, took excellent care of us and made sure we had a fantastic experience. He is not only amusing, but also quite knowledgeable. I had a terrific time and would strongly suggest it to everyone! Thank you very much.

Mariza N

June 2023

Stunning Views

Experience Morocco’s magnificence on our 5-day desert trek from Marrakech to Fes. This journey will take you from the stunning golden desert sands to the lovely kasbahs and towering mountain ranges, showing the wonderful country’s unique splendor. Come along with us on this fantastic adventure.

Hotel Pickup & Dropoff

Our comprehensive tour service ensures not only your pick-up from your accommodation or the airport but also allows you to select your preferred drop-off point in Marrakech. Your convenience is our priority.

Professional Guide/driver

Touring In Morocco only works with seasoned specialists and professionals to guarantee that your experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Book your journey with us and discover the true spirit of Morocco. Our tour guides and drivers are committed to making your trip really memorable.

Photography locations

If you have a great appreciation for fascinating photos and a love for photography, this 5-day desert adventure from Marrakech to Fes offers a fantastic chance to discover Morocco’s most renowned and visually spectacular locations.

Any Questions?

While we’ve meticulously planned our 5-day journey from Marrakech to Fes, it’s important to note that our team is more than willing to cater to your specific needs and preferences. If you have any questions or would like to make customizations to your itinerary, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us by completing the booking request form. Your satisfaction and comfort are our top priorities.

Payments accepted

To confirm your booking with us, we require a deposit to secure the reservation (the amount depends on the tour and number of passengers). The rest of the payment is paid in cash (preferably in EUR) when you meet your driver here in Morocco.

Destinations' overview

Merzouga Desert Adventure: A Highlight of Your 5-Day Marrakech to Fes Tour

The Merzouga desert has emerged as a key actor in Moroccan tourism and the national economy in recent years. It has become an appealing and highly sought-after resort due to its beautiful golden sand dunes. Merzouga is located in the extreme southeast of Morocco, only a stone’s throw from Algeria. It is secluded, but not isolated. Travelers go on multi-day excursions to spend a night in authentic Berber tents with the inhabitants. Some risk the lengthy drive to the desert in their own cars, while others choose guided excursions that allow them to see numerous fascinating spots along the route. Above all, Merzouga’s desert and varied activities are often regarded as the apex of Moroccan vacation experiences.

The name “Merzouga” derives from the Merzoug family, who previously lived in the area. The local economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which is the largest and most important source of revenue. However, in other locations, agriculture takes primacy in feeding the local people.

Merzouga’s desert, called as Erg Chebbi, stretches for around 30 kilometers from Tighmert to Khamlia. However, when you go farther into the country, towards Rmlia and Jdaid, you will come across several additional deserts. The famed Znigui desert, for example, receives around 10% of Merzouga tourists.

Merzouga’s desert has become famous for its camel rides, luxury camping experiences among the dunes, and breathtaking sunset and dawn views.

Morocco's Iconic Kasbah: Ait Benhaddou's Charms

We will see the ancient wonder of Ait Benhaddou on our 5-day desert adventure from Marrakech to Fes. This walled settlement is around 30 kilometers from Ouarzazate, nestled in the High Atlas mountains. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

Ait Benhaddou is a beautiful masterpiece that exemplifies Moroccan architecture at its best. The combination of Berber structure with an Arabic influence adds to its originality. It has strong towers and walls that are intended for defense reasons. The towers are embellished with beautiful Moroccan clay artwork that showcases the region’s craftsmanship.

According to legend, the structure was built in the 11th century by Thami el Glaoui, a member of one of Morocco’s most prosperous dynasties. Despite the fact that most of its people have moved on, this site has withstood the test of time. Only around 40 households remain in the immediate neighborhood, albeit not in the main settlement. The majority of these households’ income comes from tourists that visit the area, since Ait Benhaddou receives around 130,000 visitors every year.

Ait Benhaddou is more than just a tourist destination; it is also a favorite setting for filmmakers and directors. It has appeared in a number of well-known films, including Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. The friendly welcome of the village’s people, which reflects the kindness that defines Moroccans, undoubtedly captivates both local and foreign visitors.

Ouarzazate: The Cinematic Jewel on Your Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” is a vital stop on the 5-day desert trip from Marrakech to Fes. This city is very important in Morocco since it has an international airport that allows people to go on desert excursions. Ouarzazate is well-known not just for its accessibility, but also for being a pioneer in solar energy. It is home to the world’s biggest solar energy plant, albeit it is not normally available to the public; instead, it is largely utilized for shooting movies and television shows, for which Ouarzazate is famous.

Ouarzazate, located around halfway to the Sahara desert near Merzouga, is an essential stop for most travelers. Despite its worldwide fame, its Berber name translates to “the city or place without noise,” and it does provide a peaceful setting.

The Atlas Studios are a popular tourist destination in Ouarzazate. There are two notable studios to visit. The Oscar Studio, situated in the northwest of the city, about 5 kilometers from the center, is the most popular. It provides tourists with mesmerizing vistas of magnificent set designs that take them back in time. Second, albeit older, the CLA Atlas Studio is located a little farther from the city center and draws less visitors.

Ouarzazate is more than simply a tourist attraction; it is also an important location for film and television production. For example, the city was used as a setting for the fifth season of Prison Break.

Off-Roading Adventures in Merzouga: A Thrill on Your 5-Day Desert Tour

The third day of our 5-day desert adventure from Marrakech to Fes itinerary will enable you to see several places that provide an in-depth view into the lifestyles of Moroccan Berbers, enabling you to experience their way of life.

To begin, our tours usually include a visit to the Berber Nomads. These folks continue to live simply in traditional tents. It’s worth mentioning that many of the people who live in Merzouga and the adjacent villages were previously nomads. In other words, most Merzouga villagers were nomadic before settling down and building permanent dwellings. The nomads you’ll meet on our journey earn their livelihood mostly by raising herds and selling them, frequently at old souks in Rissani or Erfoud. What makes this tour unique is that these nomads have retained the basic and traditional way of life in the desert, in line with the kindness and generosity typical of Berber Nomads.

Second, the desert journey gives you the chance to encounter the Gnawa people. These people are originally from African nations such as Niger, Gabon, and Mali. The Gnawa people, who live near Khamlia, some 4 kilometers from Merzouga’s town, have adopted Berber culture and the Tamazight language. They have gradually become an important component of the Merzouga community. In honor of their distinct culture, they have constructed a meeting spot known as “Dar Gnaoua,” where people assemble to play music and produce shows. This cultural event attracts both visitors and Moroccans, since it allows them to appreciate their unique music and customs.

Our trip also includes a stop at the Moroccan National Auto Museum.

Moroccan Valleys: Where Nature's Beauty Reveals Itself

Throughout our 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes itinerary, you will travel through numerous lovely valleys, each with breathtaking and intriguing vistas. Let’s look at these valleys in declining order of importance.

The Draa Valley, located in the southeast corner of the High Atlas mountains, is a noteworthy feature. This valley has the distinction of having Morocco’s longest river and valley, extending around 1,100 kilometers. It is distinguished by enormous groves of palm and olive trees, with the towns of Agdz and Ouarzazate benefiting mostly from the valley’s production. Numerous Berber settlements exist along the Draa River’s path, depending on its resources as their principal source of income.

Second, we come across the Ziz Valley, which is situated between the towns of Erfoud and Errachidia and is a major contributor to Morocco’s date output. The city of Erfoud has an annual celebration to honor the valley and its famous dates.

The majority of the other notable valleys are located between Marrakech and the Merzouga desert. These include the Ounila Valley, which runs in front of the Ait Benhaddou citadel, notably the section known as Oued El Maleh, which translates as “the salty river.” This moniker derives from its past position as a salt market. There is also the Rose Valley, which is well-known for its cosmetics manufacturing. Finally, there are other smaller valleys, such as Boumalne’s Dades Valley. Each of these valleys adds to the unique landscapes and rich cultural history that you will encounter on our desert adventure.

Erfoud and Rissani: Gateway to the 5-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Expedition

Cities in Morocco, notably in the southeast, have played important roles in the country’s history. During this 5-day desert journey from Marrakech to Fes, you’ll see two of Morocco’s most significant desert cities: Rissani and Erfoud.

Rissani

Rissani is the Tafilalt region’s capital. “Tafilalt” is a Berber name that translates to “the jug.” This location is also known as Sijilmassa, and it was an important halt for caravans moving from Niger to northern Morocco. Rissani enjoyed decades of affluence as a result of his historical significance. Notably, this city was the birthplace of Morocco’s present royal line, the Alaouite dynasty.

Tafilalt is Morocco’s biggest oasis, with enormous palm trees. Rissani is home to one of the most important traditional souks in the nation. Traditional modes of transportation, including as donkeys and horses, are still commonly employed by both residents and vendors at this lively market. The region generates a large amount of dates, which aid in the growth of the arid area.

Rissani residents meet for the traditional souk every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Nowadays, bigger marketplaces with a broader range of items on exhibit are common. While many purchases are made by locals, the souk also draws tourists from Rissani and Erfoud, maintaining the city’s vitality.

Erfoud

Erfoud, around 50 kilometers from the Merzouga desert, is well-known as the principal source of fossils in the Southeast area. Throughout the year, small workshops in the city create different sorts of fossils. Erfoud has an annual festival honoring dates, a major agricultural product of the area. This festival is not just about exhibiting Moroccan dates; people from all around the world attend. The city’s historic history, cultural variety, and fossil industry make it an appealing tourist destination.

Ifrane: The Alpine Jewel and the Cedar Forest

During this 5-day desert journey from Marrakech to Fes, you will be able to see two separate locations: the cedar forest and Ifrane.

Ifrane

Ifrane is known as the “Little Moroccan Switzerland” because to its gorgeous position in the Middle Atlas highlands and pleasant temperature. The word Ifrane is of Berber origin and means “caves.” Ifrane is well-known for being one of the cleanest towns in Africa, ranking sixth in the world.

Ifrane’s fame originates from its reputation as a ski resort. Every winter, the city receives a large number of visitors from Morocco and beyond. Al Akhawayn University, one of Morocco’s most famous institutions, is located in the city and attracts students from all over the world. The Atlas lion monument, a notable landmark in Ifrane, is said to have been built by a German prisoner in payment for his release.

Gouraud Forest (Cedar Forest)

The Cedar Forest, also known as the Gouraud Forest, is located near Azrou. The forest was formerly home to a variety of animal species, many of which are now extinct, but it is currently best known for its Barbary macaques. Visitors often come to see these monkeys in their natural habitat, and the forest provides a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy Morocco’s diverse biodiversity.

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