4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Start Point: Marrakech
End Point: Marrakech
Transport: Private
Accommodation: Hotel
Age range: All
Language: English
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Summary of 4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes on a 4-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes. This adventure takes you through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, green valleys and the vast Sahara. From the bustling city of Marrakech, travel to the historic kasbahs of Telouet and Ait Benhaddou, explore the cinematic landscapes of Ouarzazate and witness the beauty of the Dades Gorges. Experience the thrill of camel trekking through the dunes of Erg Chebbi and spend a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp. Finish your journey in the cultural city of Fez, enriched by the unforgettable sights and experiences along the way.
This 4-day journey is not just a tour; it’s an immersion into Morocco’s rich culture, stunning natural scenery and historic heritage. Whether navigating the winding roads of the Atlas Mountains, exploring the vibrant marketplaces or simply enjoying the serene desert sunrise, this tour offers an incredible blend of adventure, culture and relaxation.
Places You’ll See
- Kasbah of Telouet
- Ait Benhaddou
- Ouarzazate Atlas Studios
- Dades Gorge
- Todra Gorge
- Erg Chebbi dunes
HIGHLIGHTS OF 4 DAYS DESERT TOUR FROM MARRAKECH TO FES
- Guided tour of the historic Kasbah of Telouet.
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou.
- Explore the film sets at Ouarzazate Atlas Studios.
- Scenic drive through the Valley of Roses and Skoura Oasis.
- Hike and explore the stunning Dades and Todra Gorges.
- Camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
- Overnight stay in a traditional Berber desert camp.
- Witness the sunrise over the Sahara Desert.
- Journey through the lush Ziz Valley.
- Spot Barbary Apes in the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains.
Why Starting this Trip from Marrakech
Starting this journey from Marrakech offers an ideal introduction to Morocco’s vibrant culture and history. As one of the country’s most bustling cities, Marrakech is a melting pot of sights, sounds, and flavors. The city’s rich heritage, from the bustling medina to the stunning architecture of the Koutoubia Mosque and the serene Majorelle Garden, sets the stage for the adventure that lies ahead.
Marrakech serves as a gateway to the diverse landscapes of Morocco. The route from Marrakech to Fes covers a vast array of terrains, from the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains to the arid Sahara Desert. Starting in Marrakech allows travelers to gradually transition from the lively urban environment to the tranquil and otherworldly landscapes of the Moroccan wilderness.
Day by Day Itinerary
4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes full itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech to Ouarzazate via Telouet and Ait Benhaddou
Start your adventure with a drive from Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, offering panoramic views of the scenic landscape. Visit the Kasbah of Telouet, once the residence of the powerful Glaoui family. This former warlord’s palace stands as a reminder of Morocco’s intriguing history, with its impressive architecture and intricate decoration. Continue to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Kasbahs and as a filming location for several Hollywood movies. Explore the ancient fortress with a guided tour before heading to Ouarzazate for an overnight stay in a local hotel.
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
Day 2: Ouarzazate to Dades Gorge via Skoura and Rose Valley
Begin the day with a visit to the Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate, where many famous films have been shot. Then travel through the Skoura Oasis, known for its lush palm groves and beautiful kasbahs. Proceed to the Valley of Roses, where, during the season, local Berber children sell fragrant roses. The journey continues along the road of a thousand kasbahs to the Dades Gorge, with its dramatic rock formations and towering cliffs. Take in the stunning scenery as you wind through the valley fields and mysterious Tamnalt Hills before spending the night in a hotel.
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
Day 3: Dades to Merzouga via Todra Gorge and Erg Chebbi Camel Treks
Leave Dades behind and make your way to the Todra Gorge, a breathtaking canyon with cliffs that reach up to 200 meters high. After exploring the gorge, travel towards Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Upon arrival, embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi to reach a desert camp. Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under the stars and spend the night in a nomad tent, experiencing the magic and tranquility of the desert.
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
Day 4: Merzouga to Fes via Ziz Valley and Cedar Forests
Rise early to witness the sunrise over the Sahara dunes—a truly magical experience. After breakfast in Merzouga, depart for Fes. The journey takes you through the scenic Ziz Valley, known for its lush palm groves and fortified villages. Continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through cedar forests where you might spot Barbary Apes. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel in Fes, marking the end of an incredible adventure.
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
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What makes the 4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes an adventure?
The “4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes” is an adventure that takes you through some of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes and cultural sites. This journey is packed with a variety of experiences, each offering its own sense of excitement and discovery. From the moment you leave the bustling streets of Marrakech, you are plunged into a world where every turn reveals a new facet of Morocco’s diverse beauty.
One of the tour’s highlights is the drive through the High Atlas Mountains. The journey along the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass is an adventure in itself, with its winding roads and breathtaking views. As you ascend to the pass, you’ll encounter traditional Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. The thrill of navigating these mountain roads, combined with the stunning scenery, creates an unforgettable experience.
The desert portion of the tour is where the adventure truly comes alive. Riding a camel into the Erg Chebbi dunes is an iconic Moroccan experience that brings a sense of adventure and tranquility. The vast expanse of golden sands stretches out before you, and as you journey deeper into the desert, you’ll feel a sense of isolation and peace that is both exhilarating and humbling. Spending the night in a traditional Berber camp, under a sky filled with stars, is a moment of pure magic and an adventure that will stay with you long after the trip ends.
The final leg of the journey, from Merzouga to Fes, takes you through the Ziz Valley and the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains. This part of the trip showcases the incredible diversity of Morocco’s landscapes. From the lush palm groves of the Ziz Valley to the cooler, forested regions of the Middle Atlas, this tour offers a constantly changing backdrop that keeps the sense of adventure alive until the very end.
In summary, the “4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes” is a journey that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and thrilling experiences. Whether it’s the rugged mountains, the serene desert, or the ancient kasbahs, every aspect of this tour is designed to ignite a sense of adventure and wonder.
What's Included
The 4 day trip from Marrakech to Fes include:
- Pick up from your accommodation and drop-off
- Car + Fuel
- Camel Trek (Camel per person)
- Dinner & Breakfast
What's not Included
The 4 day trip from Marrakech to Fes does not include:
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Flights Tickets
- Entrance to monuments
- All accommodations are subject to change
Road map of 4-Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
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4 days from Marrakech to Fes Sightseeings
Kasbah of Telouet
Telouet is a historic kasbah that was once the stronghold of the powerful Glaoui family. Nestled in the High Atlas Mountains, the fortress is a blend of traditional Moroccan and European architectural styles. Adorned with intricate stucco work, zellij tile mosaics and cedar wood carvings, the kasbah offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the warlords who once ruled this region.
Ait Benhaddou
Ait Benhaddou is a striking example of Moroccan earthen architecture. This ancient ksar, or fortified village, has been the setting for many films and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its maze of narrow streets, high walls and mud houses evoke a sense of timelessness and transport visitors back in time. Climbing to the top of the hill offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area, making it a must-see for photographers and history buffs.
Ouarzazate Atlas Studios
Known as ‘Morocco’s Hollywood’, the Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate have been used for many international film productions, including Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia and Game of Thrones. Visitors can tour the studios and see the impressive film sets, props and costumes. This experience provides a unique insight into the film-making process and the important role that Ouarzazate plays in the global film industry.
Dades Gorge
The Dades Gorge is a stunning natural wonder with its towering limestone cliffs, winding roads and lush valley floor. It’s a nature lover’s and photographer’s paradise, offering opportunities for hiking, exploring traditional Berber villages and marvelling at the unique rock formations known as ‘monkey fingers’. The gorge changes colour throughout the day, making each visit a unique visual experience.
Todra Gorge
The Todra Gorge is one of Morocco’s most spectacular gorges, with towering rock walls that narrow to a gap of just 20 metres. The gorge is a popular spot for rock climbing, hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The cool, clear stream running through the gorge provides a refreshing break from the desert heat and the towering cliffs make a dramatic backdrop for photography.
Erg Chebbi dunes
The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are some of the highest and most beautiful in Morocco, reaching heights of up to 150 metres. A camel trek through these dunes is a quintessential desert experience, offering breathtaking views of the vast, undulating sands. Spending a night in a Berber camp under the stars allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil desert environment.
Frequently Asked Questions - 4 days from Marrakech to Fes
What is the best time of year to do this tour? The best time to do this trip is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are moderate and the weather is pleasant.
What should I pack for the 4 day desert trip? It’s a good idea to bring light, breathable clothing, a warm jacket for the cooler desert nights, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a camera.
Is the camel trek suitable for all ages? The camel trek is generally suitable for most ages, but those with back problems or mobility issues should consider alternative transport options.
Is accommodation included in the trip? Yes, the tour usually includes accommodation in hotels and a desert camp for the duration of the tour.
What kind of food is provided on the tour? The tour includes traditional Moroccan meals such as tagines, couscous and salads. Vegetarian options are usually available on request.
How long does the Erg Chebbi camel trek take? The camel trek usually takes 1-2 hours each way, depending on the route chosen and the pace of the group.
Is it possible to do the tour in reverse, starting in Fez and ending in Marrakech? Yes, many tour operators offer the option of doing this tour in reverse, starting in Fez and ending in Marrakech.