4 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech
4 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech
Descriptions
A 4-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech offers an immersive journey through Morocco’s contrasting landscapes, from the ancient alleyways of Fes, across the Middle Atlas Mountains, into the heart of the Sahara, and finally to the vibrant streets of Marrakech. This journey provides a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural experiences.
Included
- Transport at a comfortable vehicle
- English speaking driver/guide
- Dinner and breakfast
- Accommodations
- Berber music in the camp
- Stops for panoramic views and free time for lunch
- Camel for each in the desert
Excluded
- Lunches
- Soft drinks
- Tips
Itinerary
Day 1: Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane and Midelt
Ascending Through the Atlas to the Edge of the Sahara
Depart early from Fes and head towards the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop is Ifrane, a charming town known as “Morocco’s Switzerland,” followed by a visit to the cedar forests near Azrou, where you might spot Barbary macaques. Continue through the scenic Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves and gorges, reaching Merzouga by the evening.
In Merzouga, a small village on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes, you’ll embark on a camel trek into the heart of the Sahara for an unforgettable night in a desert camp, enjoying traditional music and a sky filled with stars.
Day 2: Exploring Merzouga and Surrounding Areas
A Full Day in the Desert
Spend the day exploring the Merzouga area. Witness a stunning sunrise over the Sahara and perhaps visit local nomadic families, explore the desert landscapes, or visit the nearby Khamlia village known for its Gnawa music. Engage in activities such as sandboarding or an ATV ride through the dunes. Spend another tranquil night in your desert camp, under the vast Saharan sky.
Day 3: Merzouga to Dades Valley via Todra Gorges
From Desert Vistas to the Towering Canyons
After another beautiful desert sunrise, depart Merzouga for the Todra Gorges, a towering and narrow canyon that’s a paradise for climbers and nature enthusiasts alike. After exploring the gorges, continue your journey to the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes and rock formations. Spend the night in Dades or a nearby area, surrounded by the serene beauty of the valley.
Day 4: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou
Ancient Kasbahs and Mountain Passes
Depart from the Dades Valley and head towards Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa” due to its film studios. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah and then continue to the Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its striking architecture and history as a backdrop for many films.
After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, ascend the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, enjoying panoramic views and the changing landscape. Arrive in Marrakech by the late afternoon or evening, ready to dive into the vibrant energy of the city.
A Tapestry of Moroccan Experiences
The 4-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech provides a comprehensive exploration of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the ancient streets of Fes to the tranquil dunes of the Sahara and the bustling energy of Marrakech. This journey offers a blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, creating a rich and varied experience of Morocco’s heritage and contemporary life. As you depart, you carry with you memories of dramatic landscapes, warm hospitality, and the timeless allure of the desert, leaving a lasting impression of this captivating country.
