4-day Morocco Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes
This 4-day Morocco Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes is for travelers who want to explore the Berber villages and nature of south of Morocco, including a sunset camel trek and overnight in the desert, on their way from Marrakech to the former imperial capital of Fes! Ideal for trekkers looking to hike in the gorges!
Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou –Boumalne Dades – Merzouga – Fes (4 days / 3 nights)
Trip highlights
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs.
- Explore Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO site and famous film location.
- Visit Ouarzazate’s movie studios and the historic Taourirt Kasbah.
- Discover Boumalne Dades’ unique Monkey Fingers rock formations.
- Hike through Todra Gorge’s dramatic cliffs and palm-lined trails.
- Ride a camel into Merzouga’s dunes for a Sahara Desert sunset.
- Sleep under stars in a traditional desert camp with Berber hospitality.
- Drive through Ziz Valley’s lush date palms and rugged bluffs.
- Stop in Ifrane, known as “Morocco’s Switzerland,” en route to Fes.
Morocco Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou
Cross the High Atlas Mountains as you follow the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs.to one of the most impressive kasbahs in Morocco: Ait Ben Haddou. Ait Ben Haddou, a traditional ksar listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and still inhabited today. It’s a fantastic example of a fortified village and has also been the location for such films as Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia.
Day 2: Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Boumalne Dades
Continue your exploration of southern Morocco as you head to Ouarzazate. Ouarzazate was founded by the French and used as an outpost for the French Foreign Legion. It is home to the Taourirt Kasbah, former property of the ruling Glaoui tribe before Morocco took independence from the French. Ouarzazate is also known as Morocco’s Hollywood. Many international movies have featured its surroundings assets and backdrops, such as Kudun, Kingdom of Heaven and most recently, Games of Thrones. These movie sets are open to the public. Visit a women’s embroidery co-operative to see firsthand the intricate craft.
Day 3: Boumalne Dades – Todra Gorge – Merzouga
Boumalne Dades is known for its interesting rock formations, referred to locally as Monkey Fingers. Appreciate the winding road near Boumalne Dades when you arrive at the top of Dades Gorges and gaze upon the serpentine route.
Continue through Todra Gorge. Dramatic steep cliffs border the road, and this is a natural starting point for the area’s hiking trips and rock-climbing expeditions. Close-by is Tinghir, a bustling yet charming town.
Finally, arrive in Merzouga to head out into the Sahara Desert. The rocky flat landscape quickly gives way to rolling sand dunes. Enjoy a sunset camel trek before your night under the stars in your desert tent. The swaying gait of your camel among the quiet peacefulness of the desert is typically the most favorite experience in Morocco.
Day 4: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Ifrane – Fes
Wake up early for any sunrise photo opportunities amidst the golden sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, then meet up with your driver. Traverse the Ziz Valley, where fertile green date palm tree groves marry brown bluffs. Midelt, known for mining and agriculture, is the mid-way point for today’s drive, where you may stop for lunch. Pass through Ifrane, a decidedly European town known as Morocco’s Switzerland and home to the Al-Akhawayn University. Continue through Immouzer du Kandar is a popular weekend getaway and summering spot for many Moroccans wishing to leave the heat of Fes and Meknes. This area is well-known for its inhabitants’ cave dwellings. Evening arrival in Fes.
Tour Overview
- Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou
- Day 2: Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Boumalne Dades
- Day 3: Boumalne Dades – Todra Gorge – Merzouga
- Day 4: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Ifrane – Fes
Frequently asked questions
This 4-day tour blends UNESCO sites, Sahara camel treks, and Berber culture, connecting Marrakech to Fes via hidden gems like Todra Gorge and Erg Chebbi dunes.
Yes! The gentle 1-2 hour camel ride is beginner-friendly, with guides ensuring safety and comfort during the sunset journey.
Most breakfasts and dinners are included, featuring Moroccan dishes like tagine. Lunch stops let you try local cafes at your own cost.
Optional short hikes in Todra Gorge and Dades Valley cater to all fitness levels. Wear sturdy shoes for rocky paths.
Travel in a private, air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan with a driver/guide. Desert transfers use camels and 4×4 vehicles.
