5 days desert tour from Fes

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga (Sahara Gateway)

Your 5-day desert adventure commences with a departure from Fes, journeying south. Our first scenic stop is Ifrane, often called “Morocco’s Little Switzerland” due to its alpine architecture. Shortly thereafter, we’ll pause in the Azrou cedar forest, a natural habitat for playful Barbary macaques – feel free to observe and perhaps even feed them.

Following lunch in Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas, our route ascends the Tizi N’Talghomt pass. The landscape gradually transforms as we approach Erfoud, passing through Errachidia and the breathtaking Ziz Valley. Here, a stop is planned to admire the vast panorama of lush palm groves stretching out below.

Upon arrival in Merzouga, on the very edge of the Sahara Desert, you’ll settle into your hotel or riad for the night. Dinner and breakfast are, of course, included.

Day 2: Merzouga Area Exploration – Nomadic Encounters – Sunset Camel Trek & Desert Camp

Today is dedicated to exploring the diverse surroundings of Merzouga. Initially, we’ll visit Khamlia, a village renowned for its Gnawa musicians who preserve their unique cultural heritage through captivating spiritual music. Afterward, the journey continues into the starkly beautiful “Black Desert,” a landscape of dark volcanic rocks.

Next, discovery awaits at a historic mining village, offering a glimpse into its past under French colonization, where some locals still extract minerals like coal and baryte. A truly special experience is planned with a visit to a Berber nomadic family. During this encounter, you’ll share traditional mint tea inside their handmade tent and gain insight into their resilient desert lifestyle.

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani Market – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate (Hollywood of Africa)

Greet the day with an optional, awe-inspiring sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast at the camp, we’ll journey back to Merzouga village (by camel or 4×4). Our adventure continues to Rissani, an ancient trading hub and the cradle of Morocco’s Alaouite dynasty. If our visit coincides with a market day (Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday), you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of its authentic souk.

From Rissani, we travel through vast landscapes dotted with acacia trees, eventually reaching the stunning Draa Valley near Agdez, renowned for its extensive palm groves offering breathtaking views. By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Ouarzazate, often dubbed the “Hollywood of Africa” for its film studios, and check into our accommodation for the night.

Afternoon: Sahara Camel Trek & Desert Camp Magic
Later in the day, prepare for an iconic experience as you mount your camel for a trek across the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi dunes. This provides a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning photos as the golden sands shift with the light. Once at our traditional desert camp, you can try sandboarding down the dunes or simply take a peaceful walk to witness a spectacular desert sunset.

As night falls, everyone gathers around a crackling campfire for a delicious Moroccan dinner, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Berber drums. Finally, before retiring to your comfortable tent, take a moment to gaze at the brilliant, star-studded Saharan sky – an unforgettable night indeed.

Day 4: Ouarzazate – Skoura Oasis – Valley of Roses – Dades & Todra Gorges

Following breakfast, the tour embarks on the famous “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Marvel at ancient fortified villages (Kasbahs) standing proudly amidst lush palm groves. A visit is scheduled to the beautifully restored Kasbah Amredhil in the Skoura oasis, allowing exploration of its small museum showcasing traditional farming tools and historical artifacts.

Subsequently, the route passes through the scenic Valley of Roses, arriving in Kelaat M’gouna. Here, you can visit local cooperatives that produce fragrant cosmetics from the valley’s renowned roses (especially vibrant during the May rose festival). A short, picturesque detour then leads into the dramatic Dades Valley for lunch, surrounded by unique rock formations.

Ultimately, the day concludes as we head towards the majestic Todra Gorges, where towering canyon walls create a spectacular natural corridor. You’ll spend the night in a charming guesthouse with views overlooking the valley.

Day 5: Todra Gorges – Middle Atlas Villages – Fes

Enjoy a final Moroccan breakfast amidst the beauty of the Todra Gorges. Today, the return journey to Fes commences. The route will take us back through authentic Berber villages and across the diverse landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains, offering different perspectives than our initial drive.

Arrival back in Fes is anticipated in the late afternoon or early evening, where your memorable 5-day desert tour concludes.