Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes – 4 days

Marrakech to Fes desert tour – 4 days

Experience the wonders of Morocco with our 4-day desert expedition from Marrakech to the Imperial City of Fes. This journey offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Sahara Desert, specifically the captivating Erg Chebbi in Merzouga while traversing the prominent landmarks of the southern region.

From the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kasbah of Ait Benhdaou, and the expansive Todgha Gorges, you’ll witness the diverse landscapes and cultural riches of Morocco. Delve into the vibrant tapestry of Moroccan culture, steeped in tradition, as you encounter the Berber way of life in the tranquil oases.

Highlighting this adventure is the enchanting experience of camel rides, leading you to a magical night amidst the desert’s embrace. Here, beneath a mesmerising canopy of stars, the allure of the majestic dunes and celestial expanse create an unforgettable atmosphere.

4 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes – highlights:

• Journey through the captivating landscapes of the Atlas Mountains and the picturesque Berber villages.
• Discover the historical treasures of ancient Kasbahs, including Kasbah Teleout and the esteemed UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou.
• Indulge in delectable traditional cuisine, unwind in a charming guest house, and gain insights into life in the southern regions and lush oases.
• Rejuvenate as you explore the fertile Dades Valley and embark on invigorating hikes through the majestic Todra Gorges and surrounding mountains.
• Experience the enchantment of a sunset camel ride, try your hand at sandboarding, capture memorable moments through photography, and immerse yourself in nomadic music and rhythmic drumming.
• Dine under the star-studded sky and retreat to the comfort of a private tent in a luxurious desert camp nestled amidst the vast dunes.

What is included:

• Transport in a private air-conditioned & comfortable van or 4WD vehicle
• Experienced English-speaking nomad driver-guide
• Pick-up from Marrakech and drop-off at your hotel in Fes
• Meals: breakfast & dinner – with vegetarian and vegan options available
• Accommodation in comfortable hotels with air-conditioned rooms with private bathroom
• One night in a luxury desert camp in Erg Chebbi under private & comfortable tents equipped with private bathrooms and shower
• A camel ride for about two hours with a guide in Erg Chebbi and free sand-boarding, if desired
• Lunches with vegan and vegetarian options
• Berber drumming & music in the desert camp
• Hiking amid beautiful scenery and free time to explore the sites of interest
• Loca guides and entrance fees
• Tea/ coffee in the desert camp

What is not included:

• Drinks
• Tipping
• Extras

Itinerary:

1st Day: Marrakech – Ouarzazate

Start your 4-day desert trip from Marrakech to Merzouga at 08:30, departing from your hotel and journeying southwards towards the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. Traverse the awe-inspiring Atlas Mountains and marvel at the stunning landscapes en route. The vistas from these mountains, overlooking valleys and Berber villages nestled into the mountainsides, are simply breathtaking.

Following a crossing of the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, North Africa’s highest peak at 2260 meters, venture onto a side road leading to Kasbah Telouet, once the illustrious seat of the El Glaoui family, also known as the Palace of Glaoui.

Continuing your descent from the mountains, arrive at the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its cinematic history, having served as a backdrop for numerous Hollywood blockbusters. Just outside Ouarzazate, a stop at the Atlas Studios offers a glimpse into the magic of movie sets and their unique transformations.

Conclude the day in Ouarzazate, where you will spend the night in a charming riad.

2nd Day: Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Embark on your journey from Ouarzazate to the Dades Valley, beginning with a visit to the oasis of Skoura and the splendidly restored Kasbah Amridhil, showcasing exquisite adobe architecture.

Traverse the Road of One Thousand Kasbahs and the refreshing Valley of the Roses, where you can explore local cooperatives producing cosmetic items from the abundant roses.

Arriving at the breathtaking Dades Gorge, immerse yourself in nature with a stroll along the Boumalne Dades River before settling into your hotel in the gorges for the night.

3rd Day: Dades Valley – Merzouga

After breakfast, enjoy a walk through the Boumalne Dades Valley to discover the Berber way of life in the oases before continuing your journey to Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes.

En route, stop at the Todra Gorges for a short hike along the canyons, followed by lunch overlooking the gorges. Journeying towards Erfoud, observe the unique “khettarat” water channel system and explore a local workshop showcasing the art of transforming fossil-rich rocks.

Arriving in Merzouga, embark on a camel ride into the Sahara Desert, where you’ll witness a mesmerizing sunset atop Erg Chebbi. Enjoy an evening of traditional Moroccan entertainment and dinner before retiring to a nomad tent for the night.

4th Day: Merzouga – Fes

If you’re an early riser, catch the awe-inspiring sunrise over the dunes before returning to your hostel on camelback. After breakfast, depart for Rissani and Erfoud, then journey northwards to Errachidia along the Ziz Valley and Tafilalte Valley, renowned for its palm trees and fortified kasbahs.

Pause for lunch in Midelt, nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains, before traversing the Tizi-n-Talremt pass, offering scenic views of green oaks and cedar trees. Conclude your desert adventure in Fes, where your driver will transfer you to your hotel, marking the end of your memorable journey from Marrakech to Fes.

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