Enjoy a 4 Days Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour with 2 nights in Merzouga. Explore Ait Ben Haddou, Todra Gorges, ride camels in Erg Chebbi, and spend two magical nights under the Sahara stars before ending in Fes.
This 4 Days Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour with 2 nights in Merzouga is the perfect way to explore Morocco at a more relaxed pace. Starting from Marrakech, you’ll cross the High Atlas Mountains, visit UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, explore the dramatic Todra Gorges, and experience the magic of the Sahara Desert. Spending two nights in Merzouga allows you more time for camel trekking, desert adventures, and authentic encounters with Berber nomads.
The journey ends in Fes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, with its UNESCO-protected Medina. This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to balance discovery, relaxation, and adventure.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (~2260 m). Along the way, stop for panoramic views of Berber villages and terraced valleys. The highlight of the day is exploring Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous filming location for Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
In the afternoon, continue through Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” and along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs until you reach the Dades Valley. Here, you’ll be amazed by its dramatic rock formations, including the Monkey Fingers. Overnight stay in a traditional riad overlooking the valley.
Driving distance: ~320 km
Driving time: ~6.5 hours
After breakfast, head towards the Todra Gorges, where towering cliffs rise 300 meters above a crystal-clear river. Take some time to walk inside the gorge and soak in its beauty, a paradise for climbers and nature lovers.
In the afternoon, continue through Erfoud, the gateway to the desert, until you reach Merzouga. Here, your desert experience begins with a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Arrive at your desert camp in time for sunset, followed by a traditional dinner, live Berber music, and stargazing under the clear desert sky.
Driving distance: ~270 km
Driving time: ~5.5 hours
This day is dedicated to discovering the Merzouga Desert and its surroundings. After breakfast, set off on a 4x4 excursion across the dunes, visiting nomadic families, fossil sites, and the village of Khamlia, famous for its Gnawa music.
In the afternoon, enjoy optional activities such as ATV quads, dune buggies, or horse riding across the Erg Chebbi dunes. Later, take a second camel trek or relax at camp before another night under the stars. Spending a second night in Merzouga allows you to fully embrace the rhythm of the Sahara.
Wake up early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the dunes before departing for Fes. Travel through the Ziz Valley, with its lush palm groves, and continue across the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Midelt, a town known for its apple orchards, and in the Cedar Forest of Azrou, home to the famous Barbary apes.
Arrive in Fes by evening and end your tour with a drop-off at your accommodation.
Driving distance: ~470 km
Driving time: ~7 hours
