5 Days Merzouga desert tour from Marrakech to Fez – An unforgettable adventure through Morocco

Set off on an extraordinary adventure through Morocco with our immersive Merzouga desert tour, a 5-day private journey that will take you from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the historic city of Fez. This unforgettable expedition is much more than just a transfer between two imperial cities: it’s a deep dive into the soul of southern Morocco. Along the way, you will travel through a fascinating variety of landscapes, from the winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains to lush oases and fertile valleys dotted with palm trees. You will explore ancient kasbahs that whisper stories of centuries past and cross dramatic gorges sculpted by time. The highlight of your trip is undoubtedly the golden dunes of Merzouga, where the immense silence of the Sahara embraces you and the setting sun paints the sands with shades of fire and gold. Whether you are looking for cultural immersion, scenic beauty or desert adventure, this Merzouga desert tour is carefully designed to awaken your senses and give you an authentic Moroccan experience you will never forget.

✈️ Departure point: Marrakech
📍 Arrival point: Fez
🕔 Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
⏰ Departure time: 8.00 am

⭐ Tour highlights :

1. Crossing the Moroccan Atlas via the Tizi N’Tichka pass.
2. Explore the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning earthen architecture and its role as a backdrop in many iconic films.
3. Discover the Valley of the Roses and the Dades Gorge
4. Hiking in the heart of the Todra Gorge
5. Camel ride in the Merzouga desert
6. A magical night in a luxurious Berber camp under the stars
7. Exploration of Fez, Morocco’s oldest imperial city

🗺️ Itinerary of the 5-day tour from Marrakech to Fez:

🚗 Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Gorges de Dades

Your Merzouga desert tour begins at 8:00 am with a comfortable departure from Marrakech in a private air-conditioned vehicle, designed to offer both relaxation and panoramic views throughout the journey. As you leave the bustling city behind, the road winds upward into the majestic High Atlas Mountains, where nature unfolds in all its glory. Your journey will take you up the iconic Tizi N’Tichka pass, reaching 2,260 meters above sea level, where panoramic views unfold—craggy mountain peaks, stepped agricultural terraces, and hidden Berber villages nestled along the steep slopes. Along the way, you’ll pause at scenic lookouts to breathe in the crisp mountain air and capture stunning photographs of this spectacular gateway to southern Morocco.

The road then leads to one of the country’s most iconic historical treasures: the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou. This fortified red-earth village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a remarkable testament to Moroccan earthen architecture. With its dramatic towers and narrow alleys, the kasbah feels like a journey back in time. It’s no wonder that this cinematic backdrop has starred in legendary productions such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and The Mummy. You’ll have time to explore the kasbah’s labyrinthine alleys and soak in the Saharan ambiance before continuing your route.

After a scenic stop for lunch in Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” the adventure continues eastward. You’ll pass through the palm groves of Skoura, a verdant oasis where ancient kasbahs peek through swaying date palms. Then comes the enchanting Valley of the Roses, where fragrant blooms burst into color during spring, and local cooperatives produce artisanal rose water and beauty products.

As the day draws to a close, the road winds into the dramatic Dades Gorges, a stunning natural corridor carved by the Dades River. Before reaching your charming guesthouse or hotel nestled in the heart of the gorges, you’ll stop to marvel at the incredible rock formations known as the « Monkey’s Fingers »—a surreal, A breathtaking terrain carved over thousands of years by the relentless dance of wind and water, revealing nature’s artistry in every curve and crevice.. This first day of your Merzouga desert tour promises a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural discoveries, and historical marvels—setting the tone for an unforgettable Moroccan journey.

Night in a traditional riad or hotel in the Dades Valley.

🏞️ Day 2: Dades Gorges – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert

After enjoying a nourishing breakfast surrounded by the beauty of the Dades Valley, your journey continues along the legendary Route of a Thousand Kasbahs, a road lined with ancient fortresses, crumbling mudbrick villages, and panoramic desert views. As you head towards Tinghir, the scenery shifts to reveal a peaceful oasis where rows of date palms sway gently under the sun and the contrast between arid mountains and lush green valleys is striking. Tinghir is a hidden gem of southern Morocco, a town where time slows down and the rhythm of life is still closely tied to nature.

You’ll follow the course of the Todhra River, whose waters nourish the valley, until you arrive at the majestic Todra Gorges. Towering cliffs rise over 300 meters high on either side, creating a breathtaking canyon with a narrow passage at its heart. This awe-inspiring natural site is a haven for photography enthusiasts, adventurers drawn to the wild beauty of nature, and climbers eager to conquer its dramatic rock formations. Take time to stroll along the cool gorge floor, listen to the echo of your steps between the cliffs, and absorb the raw beauty of this geological marvel.

After enjoying a free lunch in the area, the road continues deeper into the desert landscape toward Erfoud, a town renowned for its rich fossil deposits and lively date harvest festival. Here, you can find a variety of artisanal fossil products and learn about the region’s prehistoric past—a stark contrast to the ever-shifting sands just beyond the horizon.

Next, you’ll reach Rissani, once the powerful capital of the Tafilalet region and the birthplace of Morocco’s reigning royal family, the Alaouites. This desert town is steeped in history and spiritual significance, with a traditional souk where local life unfolds much as it has for centuries. Its strategic location once made it a key stop for caravans traveling across the Sahara.

As the sun begins its descent, you reach Merzouga—an iconic gateway to the vast Sahara, where golden dunes rise like waves on the horizon, welcoming you into the heart of the desert. Awaiting you are the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, rising like waves frozen in time. Here begins a magical chapter of your Merzouga desert tour: a peaceful camel trek into the vastness of the desert. Mounted on your camel, you’ll ride over the undulating dunes under the ever-changing sky, making your way to a traditional Berber desert camp tucked away in the heart of the sands.

As the last rays of sunlight dip below the horizon, casting a warm tapestry of amber and deep rose across the desert dunes, you’ll witness a breathtaking moment that etches itself into memory—one of the true highlights of your adventure.Upon arrival at the camp, a warm Moroccan welcome awaits: savor a delicious traditional dinner under the stars, followed by a spirited evening of Berber music, dancing, and storytelling around a glowing campfire. Let the rhythm of the desert drums carry you into the night as you rest in your cozy tent beneath a blanket of stars.

🐪 Day 3: Full day in Merzouga and surroundings

As dawn breaks over the endless dunes of Erg Chebbi, those who wish can rise early to witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara—a breathtaking moment where the golden light slowly kisses the sand, creating a serene and almost spiritual atmosphere. After this unforgettable scene, enjoy a hearty breakfast at the camp before setting off for a full day of exploration in the heart of the Sahara.

Today’s journey delves deeper into the soul of the desert and the traditions that bring it to life. Your Merzouga desert tour continues with a visit to the remote black mountains behind the dunes, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet nomadic Berber families who continue to live in harmony with the desert, following ancestral ways of life. You’ll learn about their daily routines, their connection to the land, and the simplicity of a life shaped by nature’s rhythm.

Your journey then leads you to the village of Khamlia, a modest yet culturally rich Saharan hamlet celebrated worldwide for the hypnotic rhythms and spiritual energy of its traditional Gnawa music. Originating from Sub-Saharan Africa, Gnawa is more than just music—it’s a spiritual and cultural expression passed down through generations. In Khamlia, you’ll be warmly welcomed by local musicians who will share their hypnotic rhythms and sacred chants with you during a live performance that invites you to feel the soul of the desert.

Following this cultural immersion, enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by locals, giving you a true taste of Saharan hospitality and flavors. Whether it’s tagine, couscous, or freshly baked bread cooked in sand ovens, the experience is as authentic as it gets.

In the afternoon, take a peaceful walk through the Hassi Labied oasis, a lush green haven that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding dunes. Palm trees sway gently in the wind, irrigation channels snake through the land, and the silence is broken only by birdsong and the rustle of date palms. It’s a place where the desert breathes life into the earth, and where locals tend their gardens as they have for generations.

This immersive day is a highlight of your Merzouga desert tour, offering not just scenery, but deep cultural connection. You’ll come away with a richer understanding of the Saharan way of life, its traditions, its people, and its endless, awe-inspiring landscapes.

As the sun sets once again, return to your comfortable accommodation in Merzouga for a second peaceful night. Surrounded by the vast silence of the desert, you’ll fall asleep under a sky filled with stars, feeling the profound stillness that only the Sahara can offer.

🌄Day 4: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Cedar Forest – Fès

After a final breakfast in the tranquil surroundings of Merzouga, your Merzouga desert tour continues with a scenic journey toward the imperial city of Fès. This last leg of the adventure is a true road trip through the diverse landscapes of Morocco, showcasing the incredible geographical variety of the country.

Leaving the golden dunes behind, you’ll begin your ascent through the majestic Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s most fertile and expansive palm groves. As you wind your way along the road carved into the cliffs, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of verdant oases nestled between dramatic rock formations. A photo stop at the panoramic viewpoint of Aoufous offers a stunning perspective on one of the largest and most picturesque oases in the region—a ribbon of green running through the arid expanse, fed by the Ziz River and lined with traditional mudbrick villages.

Continuing northward, you’ll reach the town of Midelt, set between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains. Known for its apple orchards and crisp mountain air, Midelt serves as a perfect stop to stretch your legs and enjoy lunch amid a refreshing change of scenery.

The road then climbs into the Cedar Forests of Azrou, a peaceful natural sanctuary home to ancient cedar trees and a troop of curious Barbary macaques (magots). Here, you’ll have the chance to observe these playful monkeys in their natural habitat, a favorite moment for wildlife lovers and families alike.

From the lush forests, the landscape transforms once again as you reach the alpine town of Ifrane. With its clean streets, steeply pitched red-roofed houses, and manicured gardens, Ifrane feels almost European—earning it the nickname “Little Switzerland of Morocco.” It’s a surprising and charming contrast to the desert scenery experienced earlier in the journey.

As the sun begins to dip, you’ll arrive in Fès, one of Morocco’s most important historical cities. Known as the country’s spiritual and cultural capital, Fès is a living museum, with its UNESCO-listed medina, centuries-old mosques, madrasas, and vibrant souks. It’s the perfect destination to conclude your 5-day Merzouga desert tour from Marrakech to Fès, a journey that has taken you across soaring mountains, lush valleys, timeless villages, and the golden sands of the Sahara.

You’ll be dropped off at your accommodation in Fès, carrying with you not just photographs and souvenirs, but unforgettable memories of southern Morocco’s natural wonders and cultural riches.

🕌Day 5: Guided tour of the imperial city of Fès

After several days of discovery through valleys, mountains, and the desert, your adventure concludes with a full-day guided tour of Fès, Morocco’s spiritual heart and one of the most culturally rich cities in the world. Often described as a living open-air museum, Fès is a maze of history, craftsmanship, and sacred knowledge.

Begin the day by stepping into the medina of Fez El-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest car-free urban area in the world. As you weave through its bustling, narrow alleyways, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back in time. The medina’s sensory explosion—filled with the sounds of artisans hammering copper, the scent of spices, and the vivid colors of traditional fabrics—offers an unforgettable immersion into Moroccan culture.

One of the most revered stops on the tour is the Al Quaraouiyine University, founded in 859 and recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest existing and continuously operating university in the world. This institution has shaped centuries of Islamic thought and Moroccan heritage and continues to function as a center of learning to this day.

Continue through the labyrinthine streets to the iconic tanners’ quarter, where leather is dyed using ancient, traditional methods. From a nearby terrace, observe the vibrant vats of red, yellow, and ochre, and learn about the intricate process that has remained unchanged for centuries.

The visit also includes two of Fès’s most beautiful madrasas—Bou Inania and Attarine. These ancient Islamic colleges showcase exquisite examples of Marinid architecture, with intricately carved cedarwood, zellige tilework, and serene courtyards that speak to the intellectual and spiritual legacy of the city.

Your guided journey also brings you to the majestic Royal Palace (Dar El Makhzen), notable for its golden brass doors and grand mosaics. Though the palace itself is not open to the public, the outer gates offer a striking photo opportunity and a glimpse of royal Moroccan architecture. Nearby, you’ll visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, the revered founder of Fès and one of Morocco’s most important spiritual figures. This sacred space reflects the deep religious heritage woven into the identity of the city.

To complete your exploration, head to Borj Nord, an ancient fortress offering a panoramic view over the medina. From here, the city sprawls out below in a harmonious blend of history and life, with minarets and rooftops glowing under the Moroccan sun—a perfect moment to reflect on the depth and beauty of your journey.

At the end of the tour, your driver will escort you back to your riad, where you can relax and absorb the memories of your immersive experience. If your flight is scheduled for the same day, you’ll be transferred directly to the Fès airport, concluding your incredible Merzouga desert tour with a heart full of discovery and wonder.

What’s included in Merzouga desert tour:

🚙 Private air-conditioned transportation (4×4 or minivan)

🛏️ 4 nights’ accommodation (hotels, riads and luxury desert camp).

🍽️ Breakfasts and dinners (except in Fez)

🐪Camel ride in the desert

🎶Evening entertainment in the camp: Berber music and campfire

🎒Luggage service

🚕Enjoy the convenience of pick-up and drop-off directly from your accommodation or the airport, ensuring a stress-free start and end to your journey.

🏜️ 4×4 option to access the camp (if desired)

🏂Free sandboarding in the dunes

What’s not included in Merzouga desert tour:

✈️ Flight tickets

🍴 Lunches

🥤Drinks not included

💰Tips (optional)

🎟️ Entrance to monuments (optional)

🔧Extras available on request for Merzouga desert tour:

🚗 Quad bike or dune buggy rental

🥗Vegetarian, vegan or halal menu

🧳 Multilingual tour guide (French, English, Italian, Spanish…)

Why choose Merzouga desert tour?

This tour is one of the most popular in Morocco. It combines the country’s must-see sights with an authentic immersion in Berber culture. It’s the perfect itinerary to discover the diversity of Morocco: mountains, valleys, kasbahs, deserts, medinas and local traditions. You’ll experience a safe, comfortable and personalized adventure, accompanied by a professional driver and passionate guides.

Book your desert tour from Marrakech now!

Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity. Book your 5 Days Merzouga desert tour from Marrakech to Fez now and let yourself be transported on a magical journey to the heart of authentic Morocco. Whether you’re a couple, a family or a group of friends, this tour is suitable for all traveler profiles.

→ Contact us to book or customize your itinerary according to your wishes!