4 Days from Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour, Morocco

Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from the bustling city of Marrakech, leaving behind its vibrant streets and heading towards the serenity of the Atlas Mountains. As the road climbs higher, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of valleys, terraced villages, and dramatic peaks. The journey through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest in North Africa, is a stunning introduction to the natural beauty of Morocco. Along the way, you’ll stop to take in the panoramic views and visit some traditional Berber villages.

Arriving at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. This ancient ksar, with its towering kasbahs and earthen clay buildings, has been the backdrop for many famous films. Wander through its winding alleys and climb to the top for a magnificent view of the surrounding desert landscape. This site is not only a photographer’s paradise but also a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s rich history and architecture. After soaking in the history, you’ll continue to the nearby city of Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Desert,” where you’ll spend the night.

On the second day of 4 days from marrakech to fes, your journey takes you deeper into the desert landscapes. After a relaxing breakfast in Ouarzazate, you’ll visit the famous Taourirt Kasbah, a beautiful example of traditional Moroccan architecture, before heading towards the Todra Gorges. These towering canyon walls, carved by the Todra River, create a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight, especially when the sunlight hits them. Take time to walk through the gorge, feeling dwarfed by the massive cliffs that rise on either side.

From here, the road continues through the picturesque Ziz Valley, known for its lush date palm groves and scattered oases. This is one of Morocco’s most beautiful and fertile valleys, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding desert. As you near the town of Erfoud, you’ll notice the landscape becoming more barren and golden, signaling your approach to the vast Sahara Desert. By late afternoon, you’ll reach the edge of the desert in Merzouga, where a caravan of camels awaits to take you on a memorable trek into the dunes. As the sun sets, the sky will transform into a sea of pinks and oranges, casting long shadows over the rolling sand dunes. You’ll spend the night in a traditional Berber camp, enjoying dinner under the stars and experiencing the silence and magic of the desert.

Waking up to the soft glow of sunrise in the Sahara is an unforgettable experience. After a hearty breakfast at the camp, you’ll ride your camels back to Merzouga, where your driver will take you on a scenic drive through the Ziz Valley once more, but this time in daylight, allowing you to truly appreciate its beauty. The valley is dotted with small Berber villages and kasbahs, and you’ll have the chance to stop along the way to capture the incredible landscape.

The road will lead you to the mountain town of Midelt, located in the heart of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Midelt is known for its apple orchards and serves as a peaceful stopover between the desert and the northern cities. Here, you’ll enjoy a relaxing evening with views of the surrounding mountains, a perfect contrast to the desert heat.

On the final day of your 4 days tour from marrakech to fes, you’ll continue your drive north through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. Along the way, you’ll stop in the charming town of Ifrane, often referred to as “Little Switzerland” for its European-style architecture and cool, fresh climate. The town’s clean streets, alpine-style homes, and beautiful parks make it a unique stop in Morocco. You’ll have time to explore the town and enjoy its relaxing atmosphere before continuing on to Fes.

As you descend from the mountains, the landscape gradually changes to green fields and olive groves, signaling your approach to the ancient city of Fes. Rich in history and culture, Fes is one of Morocco’s most fascinating destinations. You’ll arrive in the late afternoon, with plenty of time to relax and reflect on your incredible journey from the red city of Marrakech, through the Moroccan desert, to this iconic city full of life and history.