4 Days from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga Desert

An Unforgettable Journey through the Heart of Morocco

The 4-day tour from Marrakech to Fes via the Merzouga Desert is one of the most scenic and culturally enriching ways to experience the diverse landscapes of Morocco. This journey takes you from the vibrant city of Marrakech, through the stunning Atlas Mountains, and into the heart of the Sahara Desert, before arriving in the historic city of Fes. Each day brings a new adventure, offering a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and authentic Moroccan experiences.

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Gorges – Through the Atlas Mountains

Your adventure begins with an early departure from Marrakech, heading east toward the towering High Atlas Mountains. The road winds through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, Morocco’s highest mountain pass, offering incredible views of the rugged landscape and traditional Berber villages perched on the hillsides.

Ait Benhaddou: A Step Back in Time

Your first major stop is Ait Benhaddou, a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient ksar, with its clay-built architecture and narrow alleys, transports you back in time. Ait Benhaddou has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After exploring this historic village, you’ll head to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its film studios and proximity to the desert.

The Road to Dades Gorges

After a brief stop in Ouarzazate, the journey continues through the dramatic landscapes of Skoura and the Valley of Roses, where traditional Berber life thrives. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in the stunning Dades Gorges, known for its deep valleys and striking rock formations.

Overnight in Dades Gorges

You’ll spend the night in a charming local hotel or guesthouse, surrounded by the serenity of the Dades Valley. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and rest up for the adventures of the following day.

Day 2: Dades Gorges to Merzouga – Into the Heart of the Sahara

After breakfast, you’ll set off for the desert, passing through one of Morocco’s most spectacular natural sites: Todra Gorges.

Todra Gorges: Morocco’s Natural Masterpiece

The Todra Gorges are a must-see on this tour, with towering canyon walls reaching up to 300 meters high. The gorge is a popular spot for rock climbing, but even if you’re not scaling the cliffs, a short walk along the river offers stunning views and a chance to breathe in the cool, fresh air.

Journey to Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi Dunes

From Todra, the drive continues deeper into the desert, passing through small towns like Tinjdad and Erfoud, famous for their fossils and date palms. As you approach Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes, the landscape transforms into the vast, sandy expanse of the Sahara Desert.

Camel Trek into the Sahara Desert

The highlight of the day is the camel trek into the heart of the Sahara. You’ll ride through the rolling dunes of Erg Chebbi on the back of a camel, a timeless and quintessential Moroccan experience. As the sun sets, the sand turns golden and the sky bursts into brilliant hues of orange and pink, creating an unforgettable moment.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

Your night in the desert is spent at a traditional Berber camp, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars. The campfire often becomes a gathering place for storytelling and music, with your Berber hosts sharing their culture and traditions. You’ll sleep in a comfortable tent, with the vast desert stretching out around you in every direction.

Day 3: Merzouga to Midelt – Crossing the Ziz Valley

After an early breakfast, you’ll witness one of the most stunning sunrises imaginable as the sun rises over the sand dunes. It’s a magical moment that perfectly encapsulates the beauty of the Sahara. Afterward, the tour continues on to Fes, but not without some memorable stops along the way.

Ziz Valley and Erfoud

Leaving Merzouga, the journey takes you through the lush Ziz Valley, where palm groves and ancient fortified villages line the river. The contrast between the greenery of the valley and the arid desert is striking. The town of Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops and local crafts, is another fascinating stop on the way to Midelt.

Midelt: The Apple Capital of Morocco

By late afternoon, you’ll reach Midelt, a small town nestled between the High Atlas and Middle Atlas Mountains. Known for its apple orchards and as a base for exploring the surrounding mountains, Midelt is a peaceful and picturesque stop. Here, you’ll enjoy a relaxing evening in a local hotel, with views of the surrounding mountains providing the perfect backdrop.

Day 4: Midelt to Fes – Through the Middle Atlas Mountains

The final leg of the journey takes you through the beautiful Middle Atlas Mountains, a region known for its cedar forests, snow-capped peaks, and charming towns.

Azrou: A Taste of the Middle Atlas

On the way to Fes, you’ll stop in the Berber town of Azrou, known for its handicrafts, especially wood carving. The surrounding cedar forests are also home to Barbary macaque monkeys, and you may get a chance to spot them during a brief stop in the forest.

Ifrane: The Switzerland of Morocco

Next, you’ll visit Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its European-style architecture and alpine feel. Ifrane is a popular ski resort in the winter, but even in the warmer months, it’s a refreshing change of pace from the desert landscape. With its clean streets, green parks, and charming atmosphere, Ifrane offers a unique glimpse into another side of Moroccan life.

Arriving in Fes: The Cultural Capital of Morocco

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest and most vibrant cities. Known for its medieval medina, Fes el-Bali, Fes is a city that exudes history and culture at every turn. Its narrow alleyways, bustling souks, and stunning examples of Islamic architecture make it a fitting end to your 4-day journey from Marrakech to the Sahara and beyond.