5-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour via Merzouga

Day 1 – Marrakech to Dades Valley via High Atlas & Ait Ben Haddou

We will leave the red city of Marrakech at 8 am for the Dades Valley. We drive across the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n'Tichka pass at 2,260 meters of altitude, which offers fantastic panoramic views.

We will have time to enjoy impressive landscapes and Berber villages and also take a break for coffee or mint tea in a picturesque location.

In the afternoon, we'll visit the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous film location. This Berber kasbah has appeared in over 50 movies and was once a key stronghold along the ancient Salt Road, where caravans transported enslaved people, gold, ivory, and salt. You can still see the salt pans in the valley.

Then, we'll pass through the strategic city of Ouarzazate, also known as the "Hollywood of Africa".

After Ouarzazate, we'll continue to the Dades Valley via Skoura, Kelaat M'gouna, and the Berber villages along the valley. We will spend the night in the Dades Valley, where you'll be immersed in the unique culture and stunning landscapes.

• Drive: Marrakech to Dades Valley - approx. 310 km (around 6-7 hours)

Day 2 – Dades Valley to Merzouga via Todra Gorges

After breakfast, we will drive through the valley to see the amazing rock formations known as "Monkey Fingers". You'll also see the still-standing 19th-century Kasbah of Ait Youl.

We leave the Dades Valley and continue toward Tinghir and the scenic Todra Valley, a place of breathtaking beauty where you'll enjoy panoramic views of the old adobe Berber villages.

At the Todra Gorge, we'll walk between the towering 300-meter-high red cliffs, a favorite spot for rock climbers from around the world.

We'll continue to Erfoud and Rissani, where we'll have lunch. Then, we'll head to the desert village of Merzouga, where you'll be welcomed with mint tea before checking into your riad.

• Drive: Dades Valley to Merzouga - approx. 244 km (around 4-5 hours)

Day 3 – Merzouga Desert Experience & Camel Trek

After breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on an exploratory journey of the area. We will begin the day with Gnawa music at the village of Khamliya, 7 kilometers south of Merzouga, a small desert village with a rich history whose inhabitants are descendants of enslaved people brought from Sudan.

Not far from there is Dayet Srij, a seasonal salt lake that attracts a wide range of migratory birds, including desert warblers and flamingos, especially when full.

You may also visit the souq of Rissani if you are there on a market day (Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday). This is the region's most authentic market where locals trade everything from produce and spices to livestock.

After that, we will enjoy one of the area's most delicious lunches at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, you will start the guided camel ride, led by an experienced camel guide, to explore the vast dunes of the Erg Chebbi. The sunset over the golden sands is often described as unforgettable.

Overnight accommodations will be in a luxury desert camp equipped with flush toilets and hot showers. Dinner and breakfast included.

• Drive: Merzouga area - approx. 50 km (around 3-4 hours)

Day 4 – Merzouga to Midelt via Ziz Valley

Just before sunrise, your camel guide will wake you to witness one of the most breathtaking sunrises over the dunes. You'll then ride back to the hotel for breakfast and a shower if desired.

After breakfast, we head to Errachidia via Rissani and Erfoud. In Rissani, you'll explore the traditional souk, known for its vibrant displays of dates, spices, and local goods.

Our journey continues through the spectacular Ziz Valley, with a stop to enjoy panoramic views over the Ziz Gorge, before arriving at our hotel in Midelt for dinner and overnight stay.

• Drive: Merzouga to Midelt - approx. 259 km (around 4-5 hours)