5 Days Tour from Fes to Marrakech

Day 1: Fes to Ifrane – The Swiss Village

Departure from Fes

Your 5-day tour begins with an early pick-up from your accommodation in Fes. After meeting your guide and driver, you’ll depart for your journey towards Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its cool climate and European-style architecture.

Ifrane – Alpine Charm in Morocco

Stop in Ifrane for a brief visit. With its clean streets, picturesque parks, and charming Swiss-style chalets, Ifrane stands in stark contrast to the typical Moroccan city. Enjoy a walk through the town, take photos of the unique architecture, and stretch your legs before continuing your journey.

Azrou Cedar Forest

As you leave Ifrane, your next stop is Azrou, famous for its cedar forests and the playful Barbary macaques that inhabit the area. Take a walk through the forest and enjoy the scenic surroundings, as you watch these curious creatures move through the trees.

Arriving in Midelt

Continue your drive south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, arriving in Midelt, a small town nestled between the mountains. This is a great place to stop for a relaxing lunch, with views of apple orchards and the surrounding landscape.

Overnight in Midelt

After your day of exploration, you’ll spend the night in Midelt, where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and rest before the next leg of your journey.

Day 2: Midelt to Merzouga – The Gateway to the Desert

Ziz Valley and Rissani

In the morning, depart from Midelt and head toward Merzouga. On the way, you’ll pass through the Ziz Valley, a lush oasis with palm groves and traditional kasbahs dotting the landscape. Stop for a brief photo opportunity and take in the stunning views of the valley.

Further along, you’ll reach Rissani, a historic town known for its traditional markets and as the birthplace of the Alawite dynasty. If you wish, you can explore the local souks and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the market.

Arriving in Merzouga

By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll begin your camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. After a traditional welcome with Moroccan mint tea, board your camels and begin your journey into the desert. As you ride through the golden dunes, the landscape shifts, and the vastness of the Sahara Desert unfolds before you.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

You’ll reach a traditional desert camp, where you’ll spend the night. After enjoying a delicious Berber dinner, relax around a campfire while listening to local music under the stars. The tranquil desert night offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and experience the magic of the Sahara.

Day 3: Merzouga to Dades Valley – A Day of Desert Exploration

Sahara Sunrise

Start your day early with a desert sunrise that will leave you speechless. As the sun rises over the dunes, the shifting colors and shadows create an otherworldly experience. After watching the sunrise, return to Merzouga by camel and enjoy a hearty breakfast.

Exploring the Merzouga Region

In the morning, take a 4×4 desert excursion to explore the Merzouga region. This tour will bring you to:

• Khamlia Village – Famous for its Gnawa music and vibrant cultural traditions. The village offers a unique opportunity to interact with the locals and listen to live performances of traditional music.

• Mifiss Mines – Visit the salt mines in Mifiss, an important part of the region’s history and economy.

• Tisserdmin Oasis – A hidden oasis surrounded by palm trees, perfect for a peaceful break in the desert.

Dades Valley – A Dramatic Landscape

After your desert exploration, continue your journey towards the Dades Valley, passing through beautiful gorges and picturesque kasbahs along the way. The Dades Valley is famous for its rugged beauty, lush palm groves, and historical architecture. You’ll spend the night here, soaking in the views and relaxing in your accommodation.

Day 4: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate – Exploring Morocco’s Film Capital

Exploring the Dades Valley

Before leaving the Dades Valley, take a short morning hike to explore the stunning gorges and sandstone formations that have made this area famous. The unique scenery offers great opportunities for photography, and the natural beauty is mesmerizing.

Ouarzazate – The Hollywood of Morocco

Next, you’ll travel to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco.” Here, many famous films have been shot, including Gladiator, The Mummy, and Lawrence of Arabia. You’ll have the chance to visit the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the most recognizable film locations in the world.

If time permits, you can also visit the Atlas Film Studios, where you can take a tour of the facilities and learn more about Morocco’s role in the global film industry.

Overnight in Ouarzazate

You’ll spend the night in Ouarzazate, a city filled with historical charm and a relaxing atmosphere. After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a delicious dinner and unwind in your comfortable accommodation.

Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech – Crossing the Atlas Mountains

Tizi n’Tichka Pass – A Scenic Mountain Crossing

On your final day, you’ll travel through the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in Morocco. As you wind your way through the High Atlas Mountains, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, Berber villages, and lush valleys. This route provides some of the most breathtaking scenery of the entire tour.

Arriving in Marrakech

After a scenic drive, you’ll reach Marrakech, the vibrant city known for its bustling markets, palaces, and gardens. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or riad, where you can spend the evening soaking in the atmosphere of the Jemaa el-Fna square or explore the medina.

Why Choose the 5-Day Tour from Fes to Marrakech?

• Comprehensive Itinerary: This 5-day tour provides an in-depth experience of Morocco’s most iconic destinations, including the desert, mountains, and cities.

• Scenic Beauty: From the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, this tour offers stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.

• Cultural Immersion: Experience traditional Berber music, cuisine, and hospitality in the desert and mountain villages.

• Comfortable and Relaxed: With private transport and expert guides, this tour is designed to offer comfort and a well-paced journey.

What’s Included in the Tour

• Private transport from Fes to Marrakech

• Camel trek in the Sahara Desert

• 4 nights’ accommodation: One night in Midelt, one in Merzouga, one in Dades Valley, and one in Ouarzazate

• Meals: Breakfast and dinner each day

• Guided excursions: Local guides for desert activities, kasbah visits, and village tours

• Bottled water and refreshments

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Fes and Marrakech