4-Day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga

Overview

This 4-day adventure tour is the perfect way to connect the imperial city of Fes with the vibrant Marrakech while discovering Morocco’s breathtaking Sahara Desert and Berber heartland. Starting from Fes, the journey passes through the cool mountain towns of Ifrane and Azrou before descending to the arid Ziz Valley. Upon reaching Merzouga, you’ll take a camel ride across the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi and enjoy traditional Berber hospitality in a desert camp.

The journey continues through Rissani and Erfoud to reach the dramatic Todra Gorge, then winds through the stunning landscapes of the Dades Valley. On your final day, explore Ouarzazate and the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou before crossing the High Atlas Mountains and descending into Marrakech. This tour offers a rich mix of culture, nature, and unforgettable desert experiences.

  • 4 Days
  • Age 15+
  • From Fes to Merzouga
Destination:Fes, Ifrane, Middle Atlas Mountains, Azrou Cedar Forest, Ziz Valley, Merzouga, Erg Chebbi Dunes, Khamlia Village, Rissani, Erfoud, Todra Gorge, Dades Valley, Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou, Marrakech
Departure:Fes
Departure Time:7:30 AM (Day 1)
Return Time:Approximately 6:30 – 7:30 PM (Day 4)
Included:
  • Private air-conditioned 4×4 transportation
  • Professional English/French/Spanish-speaking guide (optional)
  • Hotel/riad pickup in Fes and drop-off in Marrakech
  • Camel trek at sunset and sunrise
  • Overnight in Merzouga desert camp (standard or luxury option)
  • 2 nights in hotel/guesthouses (Merzouga and Dades)
  • Dinner and breakfast during the tour
  • Free time to explore sites like Ait Ben Haddou and Todra Gorge
Excluded:
  • Lunches and drinks
  • Entrance fees (optional)
  • Personal expenses and tips

Tour Plan

Embark on a captivating 4-day desert journey from Fes to Merzouga and onward to Marrakech. Travel through the scenic Middle Atlas, discover the vast palm groves of the Ziz Valley, and experience a camel trek across the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes. Spend an unforgettable night in a desert camp under the stars, visit Berber villages and gorges, and explore the iconic kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou before reaching Marrakech.

01

7:30 AM to 6:30 PM

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

Depart Fes early morning and travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Pass through the Swiss-like town of Ifrane and the cedar forest of Azrou, home to wild monkeys. Continue through Midelt and the impressive Ziz Valley, with views of vast palm groves. Arrive in Merzouga by late afternoon and enjoy a relaxing evening in a local hotel near the dunes.

02

10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Day 2: Merzouga – Erg Chebbi – Camel Trek – Desert Camp

After breakfast, explore the Merzouga region including Khamlia village for live Gnawa music, and meet nomadic families nearby. In the afternoon, ride camels across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi as the sun sets. Arrive at your desert camp for a traditional dinner, music around the fire, and a peaceful night under the stars.

03

8:00 AM to 6:30 PM

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

Rise early to witness the desert sunrise and ride camels back to Merzouga. After breakfast, travel to Rissani and explore the local market, then continue through Erfoud and reach the spectacular Todra Gorge. Walk among its towering canyon walls before continuing to the scenic Dades Valley for an overnight stay in a local guesthouse.

04

8:00 AM to 7:30 PM

Day 4: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

Depart after breakfast and pass through the Valley of Roses and Skoura to reach Ouarzazate. Visit the famous kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass with several scenic stops. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening, concluding the tour.