5-Day Marrakech to Fes Sahara Desert Tour
About This Tour
This private 5-day Morocco journey begins in Marrakech and finishes in Fes. Along the route, you will experience Marrakech, High Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Skoura, and more. The itinerary is designed to balance long scenic drives with meaningful stops, authentic local experiences, and time to enjoy the destination rather than simply pass through it. With Sahara Star Tours, the experience is arranged as a private trip with air-conditioned transport, local support, and an itinerary that can be tailored to your travel style. This route is ideal for travelers who want to combine Morocco's landscapes and cultural heritage with a genuine Sahara experience.
Highlights:
- Merzouga Sahara and Erg Chebbi dunes
- Desert camel trekking at sunset
- Overnight in a desert camp with dinner and breakfast
- UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
- Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains
- Fes medina and historic cultural sites
Program Itinerary
Marrakech – High Atlas mountains – Tizi n'Tichka pass – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Ouarzazate
The 5 days Marrakech to Fes desert tour starts with an early pick up from the airport or your accommodation in Marrakech. Next drive through the fascinating High Atlas mountains, and Tizi n'Tichka pass. Stops will be made for panoramic views of the breathtaking landscapes. Next you visit the Kasbah of Telouat. After that you continue to visit the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou. A fortified village recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Furthermore, the Kasbah has appeared in many movies including: Gladiator, Alexander, The Mummy…etc. And also TV series including Game Of Thrones. Next, you head to “The gate of the desert” Ouarzazate. Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel
Ouarzazate – Palm groves of Skoura – Amridil Kasbah – Rose valley – Dades Valley
After breakfast, you explore the city of Ouarzazate. Firstly, you visit the Atlas studios, where various famous movies were shot, and also visit the Taourirt Kasbah -A fortified mud castle, and one of the most ancient and spectacular Ksars in Morocco. After that you drive east to visit Amridil Kasbah surrounded by palm groves in Skoura. Next continue to Kalaa Magouna famous for the Rose Valley. A Rose Festival is held annually in May, where the locals offer their rose products, from: perfumes, rose water, oil, to cosmetic products. Next, you drive to Dades valley through Boumalne Dades. Inevitable stops at the “monkey fingers” rock formation, and on a spot atop a mountain overlooking the Dades valley. Dinner and overnight in a hotel in Boumalne Dades.
Boumalne Dades – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga Sahara – Overnight in a Luxury Camp
After breakfast, you continue the 5 days desert tour to Todra Gorges, the course of Todra River has carved out a grand canyon through the mountains -Making a high red cliff-sided canyon. You can wander in the gorges and appreciate the beauty of the landscape. Next drive through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad. Enjoy free time for lunch on the way. In the afternoon, you reach the Sahara desert of Merzouga. Where you switch to camels and cross the sandy desert. A stop will be made for you to enjoy the desert sunset on top of a high dune. Next continue to the desert luxury camp. There, you can enjoy the Berber drumming while dancing around the campfire, under a vast star-filled sky. Dinner and overnight in the camp.
Explore Merzouga Region – Nomads – Khamlia – Merzouga lake – Erg Chebbi – Desert Oasis
Wake up early in the morning is a must do, in order to contemplate the desert sunrise, in the middle of the desert. Free time for breakfast. Next you return on camels to Merzouga, where the driver awaits. You dedicate the day to explore the region of Merzouga. The area has so many incredible sites, from sand dunes, wild lake, mines, fossils areas to fabulous oases. Which are ideal places for so many outdoor activities. Firstly, you start our journey in Merzouga, by driving off-road to visit an ancient eyeliner mine. Next you pay the nomads a visit, in their handmade woven tent. Learn how they live while drinking a Berber tea. Our next destination is the Khamlia village, where you will enjoy the Gnaoua music, and dancing performances. Its inhabitants are originating from sub-Saharan countries like Mali, Sudan and Niger. Enjoy free time for lunch in a restaurant. After that you take a stroll in a palm trees grove. Next drive a few kilometres to see the wild lake of Merzouga, also called flamingos lake. Dinner and overnight In a hotel.
Merzouga Dunes – Erfoud – Midelt – Cedar Forest – Ifrane – Fes
On the last day of your 5 days Marrakech to Fes desert tour. You wake up early morning to contemplate the desert sunrise in the middle of the desert. Free time for breakfast, next you return on camels or via the Camp’s 4×4 to Merzouga where the driver awaits. Next, you leave the desert to visit Rissani town, the ancient capital of Tafilalet. Rissani still a major trading center in the region, with a large souk lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. After a stroll in Rissani souk, you continue to Erfoud where you visit one of the workshops of fossilized marble After that you drive along the Ziz river, you stop for a panoramic view of the Ziz Valley. Enjoy free time for lunch in Midelt. Next, you continue to Cedar Forest, where the Barbary Macaques live. You can feed them while walking through the forest. After that you visit Ifrane, famous for its low temperature, snow and the alpine-style houses -It is often called the Switzerland of Morocco. Finally, you are dropped off at the airport or your accommodation in Fes. End of the tour
Expedition Media Gallery
A visual glimpse of the spectacular landscapes awaiting you.
Inclusions & Trip Details
What's Included
- Private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan
- Experienced local driver/guide and private transfers
- Fuel, road tolls and standard vehicle operating costs
- Accommodation in selected riads/hotels as specified in the itinerary
- Breakfasts and included dinners according to the itinerary
- Desert camel trek and access to the desert camp
Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
- Flights and airport services not explicitly listed
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Tips and gratuities
Interactive Route Map
Explore your complete journey route on this interactive map. Select any destination marker to discover what awaits you on each day.
Route Milestones
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private or shared tour?
This is a private experience: the vehicle, driver, and itinerary are reserved for your group. The route and pace can be adjusted around your travel preferences.
How long is the camel ride, and is there an alternative?
The camel trek usually lasts around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the camp and the day’s route. A 4×4 transfer can be arranged instead, and ATVs may be available at an additional cost.
Is the desert camp tent private?
The luxury desert camp accommodation described for this itinerary uses private tents with private bathrooms and hot running water, subject to the camp booked.
Where are pickup and drop-off provided?
Pickup is arranged from your accommodation, airport, or agreed meeting point in Marrakech, depending on the itinerary. The tour finishes in Fes; the exact drop-off is confirmed when you book.
What type of vehicle is used?
Transportation is provided in a private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan. For larger groups, a minibus can be arranged. Vehicle type and group capacity are confirmed before travel.
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Yes. Share your dietary preferences when booking so the riads, hotels, and desert camp can prepare suitable meals. Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and other common requirements can be discussed in advance.
Is this itinerary suitable for all ages?
Yes, although some days include long drives of up to about 7 hours. Regular stops are planned, and travelers who prefer shorter driving days can request a longer or customized itinerary.
When is the best time to take this tour?
Spring and autumn generally offer comfortable conditions across Morocco. Winter can also be excellent for the southern desert, while mountain areas may be colder; your route can be adapted to the season.
