5 days trip from Fez to Marrakech through the Sahara desert

Highlights of the 5-day trip from Fez to Marrakech

1. Cross the majestic Atlas Mountains and admire their spectacular panoramas.
2. Stroll through the cedar forest of Azrou and observe the Barbary macaques.
3. Experience an off-road adventure in the Sahara desert.
4. Take an unforgettable camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes.
5. Experience an enchanting evening beneath the stars in an authentic Berber desert camp.
6. Explore the impressive Todra Gorge and its breathtaking cliffs.
7. Visit Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco”, and its legendary film studios.
8. Discover the unmissable Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Detailed itinerary

Day 1: Departure from Fès – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

Your 5 days trip from Fez begins in the soft light of morning, as you leave the vibrant alleys of the imperial city and set off toward the majestic Sahara. The road first leads you to Ifrane, affectionately called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” With its tidy streets, alpine-style houses, and fresh mountain air, This tranquil town feels worlds away, offering a calm and quiet beginning to the adventure that awaits.

Further south, the landscape gently transforms as you enter the cedar forest of Azrou. Here, among the ancient trees, you may catch a glimpse of Barbary macaques leaping from branch to branch — a rare and charming encounter with Morocco’s wildlife. The journey continues through dramatic mountain scenery to Midelt, a tranquil town nestled at the foot of the High Atlas. There, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch break surrounded by rugged peaks and fresh mountain breezes.

In the afternoon, your route takes you through one of Morocco’s hidden jewels: the Ziz Valley. This lush, palm-filled canyon snakes through the arid plateau like a ribbon of life, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. As the sun sinks toward the horizon, you’ll reach Merzouga—the gateway to the Sahara, where endless golden dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. Your evening is spent in a welcoming riad, where warm hospitality, local flavors, and desert silence come together to offer you a first taste of the magic that awaits in the dunes.

Day 2: Exploring Merzouga – Black Desert – Nomads – Erg Chebbi Dunes

The second day of your 5 days trip from Fez is dedicated to a deeper encounter with the soul of the desert. After enjoying a generous breakfast at your Merzouga accommodation, the journey sets off across the sweeping plains that stretch beyond the golden dunes. You’ll visit the humble dwellings of Berber nomads who have lived in harmony with this harsh yet beautiful environment for generations. With every smile and shared story, they open a window into a way of life rooted in age-old traditions and quiet strength.

Next, the route takes you to the M’Fis mines, a historical site that reveals another layer of the region’s identity. Then comes a striking change of scenery: the “black desert,” a dramatic landscape of volcanic rock that stretches as far as the eye can see, mysterious and silent — a place that feels like another planet.

As the afternoon sun softens, you’ll return to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi for one of the most unforgettable moments of your journey: a camel ride into the heart of the desert. As you sway gently atop your camel, the horizon burns with the colors of sunset, turning the sands into a sea of fire and light.

Your day ends at a traditional Berber camp, where a delicious dinner awaits under a sky ablaze with stars. Around the warmth of the campfire, the rhythmic beats of local drums and the haunting melodies of nomadic songs carry you into a night of wonder and serenity.

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges

On the third morning of your 5 days trip from Fez, rise early to witness the breathtaking beauty of the desert at sunrise. As the golden light slowly reveals the rolling dunes of Erg Chebbi, the silence of the Sahara creates a moment of absolute serenity. A camel ride back to Merzouga allows you to savor the last peaceful moments in the desert, where time seems to stand still.

After a nourishing breakfast, the road leads to Rissani, steeped in history as the cradle of the Alaouite dynasty. Its traditional market bustles with life — a colorful mosaic of local traders, spices, fabrics, and desert produce that speak of centuries of commerce and culture.

Next, you’ll stop in Erfoud, a town renowned for its unique fossil treasures. Here, you’ll discover workshops where fossilized marble is transformed into intricate art and decor, revealing stories from prehistoric Morocco.

As the day unfolds, you head into the dramatic landscapes of the Todra Gorge. Towering cliffs, carved by centuries of flowing water, rise up to 300 meters high, framing a narrow river path that invites exploration and awe. It’s the perfect setting for a peaceful walk or striking photographs.

You’ll spend the night in a charming local hotel nestled near the gorge — a well-deserved rest after a day rich in heritage, nature, and meaningful encounters.

Day 4: Todra Gorges – Dades Valley – Ouarzazate

The fourth day of your 5 days trip from Fez leads you through landscapes of striking beauty as you make your way to the Dades Valley, a region where nature and history meet in dramatic harmony. Towering rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion stand alongside centuries-old kasbahs, silent witnesses to a rich and complex past. The valley stretches out like a vibrant painting, with every curve in the road unveiling fresh scenes of beauty and contrast.

As you continue your journey, you’ll traverse the Valley of the Roses, where fields of Damask roses bloom in spring, perfuming the air with delicate fragrance. This region is renowned for its artisanal rosewater and cosmetic products, made using traditional distillation methods passed down through generations. A stop here offers a glimpse into the rural life of Moroccan villagers and a chance to purchase locally crafted rose-based treasures.

The road then brings you to Ouarzazate, often called the “gateway to the desert.” With its wide boulevards, ochre-colored buildings, and cinematic legacy, Ouarzazate is both modern and timeless. This city has played host to countless film productions, from Lawrence of Arabia to Game of Thrones, and a visit to the Atlas film studios offers a behind-the-scenes look at this magical world.

Not far from there stands the Taourirt Kasbah, a maze of earthen walls and hidden courtyards, once the residence of a powerful Glaoui family. Its preserved architecture tells tales of power, trade, and desert resilience.

As the sun sets over the surrounding hills, you’ll settle into a welcoming hotel in Ouarzazate, where comfort meets tradition — the perfect end to a day filled with discovery, contrasts, and captivating scenery.

Day 5: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

On the final day of your 5 days trip from Fez, you’ll begin with a visit to the iconic Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that seems frozen in time. This stunning fortress, with its sun-baked walls and labyrinthine alleys, has served as the breathtaking backdrop for countless Hollywood blockbusters, from Gladiator to The Mummy. Walking through its ancient streets, you’ll feel the weight of history and the magic of storytelling intertwined in every corner.

Leaving this cinematic jewel behind, the journey continues as you cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka pass. Perched at over 2,260 meters, this winding route rewards you with sweeping panoramas of rugged peaks, traditional Berber villages clinging to the slopes, and vast valleys stretching into the distance — a final feast for the eyes before your arrival.

As the afternoon light bathes the landscape in golden hues, you’ll reach Marrakech, the vibrant city where your unforgettable Moroccan adventure comes to a close — carrying with you memories etched deeply by the richness of culture, nature, and history experienced along the way.

Included / Not included

Included :

• Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Experienced driver (multilingual).
• Fuel for the entire trip.
• Accommodation on a half-board basis (breakfast and dinner included).
• Camel ride and overnight in bivouac.
• Activities and photo stops along the way.

Not included:

• Drinks and lunch.
• Tips and personal expenses.
• Local guides for certain visits.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How long is the journey to the desert?

The journey from Fez to Merzouga typically takes around 7 to 8 hours. Along the way, you’ll enjoy several well-timed stops to stretch, explore, and capture unforgettable views.

What kind of accommodation is included?

Your stay combines the charm of traditional Moroccan hotels with the unique experience of a desert camp, blending authentic comfort and local hospitality.

What is the climate like in the desert?

Desert days are warm and sun-filled, while nights can be refreshingly cool, especially during the winter months. Bringing layers is a smart choice to ensure you stay comfortable throughout your journey.

How much does a 5-day excursion from Fez to Marrakech cost?

Prices depend on the season and your selected options. Contact us today for a personalized quote designed around your needs and budget!