4 Day Desert Tour Marrakech to Fes

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Day 1: Marrakech » Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate » Dades Valley [315 Km]
8 stops
1
After breakfast in your hotel, the driver will pick you up. After about one hour, you will reach this place to have a break, use the toilets, have some coffee, and take some pictures.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
2
Atlas Mountains View
At this place, we will visit some Argan cooperatives. Argan refers to the argan tree and the oil produced from its kernels in Morocco. The argan tree is unique to southwestern Morocco, thriving around Essaouira and Agadir. Berbers have used argan oil, extracted from the tree's fruit, for centuries for culinary and cosmetic purposes. Argan oil is prized for its health benefits and is vital to Moroccan culture and commerce.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
3
Tizi n Tichka
The Tizi n'Tichka, also spelled Tizi n Tichka, is a mountain pass in Morocco that links the southeastern outskirts of Marrakesh to the city of Ouarzazate through the High Atlas mountains . It sits above the vast Marrakesh plains and is considered a gateway to the Sahara Desert. The Atlas Mountains are a massive mountain range stretching for almost 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) across North Africa, forming a geologic barrier between the Sahara Desert to the south and the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean to the north .
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
4
Ait Ben Haddou
Ait Ben Haddou is a fortified village, or ksar, in Morocco. It's famous for its traditional earthen clay architecture, a great example of what you'd find along old caravan routes. The whole place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's been featured in movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones! You could have lunch either in Ait ben Haddou or Ouarzazte.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
5
Located in Ouarzazate, Morocco, Atlas Studios is a famous film studio known for its vast desert landscapes and historical set pieces. Many blockbuster movies have been filmed there, including Gladiator, Prince of Persia, and Game of Thrones. Tourists can even visit the studios and take a guided tour through the sets, providing a glimpse into the world of filmmaking.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
6
Vallee Des Roses
The Roses Valley, also known as the M'Goun Valley, is a beautiful valley in Morocco famous for its rose bushes. The valley comes alive in spring, from April to May, when the roses bloom and fill the air with their fragrance. This is also the time of the Rose Festival, a celebration of the rose harvest. The roses are used to produce rosewater and other cosmetic products. Even if you can't make it during the bloom, the valley is a scenic destination year-round.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
7
Monkey Fingers in Boumalne Dades is a fascinating rock formation that looks like a giant hand reaching up from the valley floor. These "fingers" are actually conglomerate boulders weathered loose from the cliffs. The best view is from the village of Tamlalt on the other side of the valley, but you can also hike through the narrow slot canyons behind the formation for a more adventurous experience.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
8
The Tisdrine bends are a series of dramatic curves along the Dades River Valley in Morocco . Located between the towns of Boumalne Dades and Msemrir, this scenic route is a popular stop for travelers driving through the Dades Gorges. The hairpin bends and steep cliffs offer stunning views of the valley below. The best way to experience the Tisdrine bends is to drive or bike along the road. There are also a number of viewpoints where you can pull over and take in the scenery. If you're looking for a more adventurous activity, you can try hiking or rock climbing in the area. Keep in mind that the roads can be narrow and winding, so be sure to drive slowly and carefully. Also, there are not many facilities along the route, so be sure to pack snacks and drinks if you're planning on spending a while exploring.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Day 2: Dades » Todra Gorges » Erfoud » Erg Chebbi (Merzouga) [255 km]
6 stops
9
After breakfast at your hotel, you will depart for a panoramic view of Dades Valley. The Dadès Valley, also known as the Dadès Gorges, is a series of rugged canyons carved out by the Dadès River in Morocco. The river originates in the High Atlas mountains and flows some 350 kilometres (220 mi) southwest before joining the Draa River at the edge of the Sahara. The walls of the gorges range from 200 to 500 meters (650 to 1600 feet) high.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
10
Tinghir
You will have multiple stops to take pictures of Todgha Valley at this place. The Todgha River isn't exactly a long and winding river, but it's carved itself a spectacular place in history. Located in the eastern part of Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, the Todgha River is famous for carving out a series of stunning limestone canyons, known as the Todgha Gorges.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
11
Todra Gorge
The Todgha Gorges are a series of limestone river canyons in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco, near the town of Tinerhir. The Todgha and neighboring Dades Rivers are responsible for carving out these deep cliff-sided canyons, on their final 40 kilometers (25 mi) through the mountains. The height of the canyon walls can vary, but in some places can be up to 400 meters (1,312 ft) high. After this visit, you could have lunch in either Tinghir or Tinjdad.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
12
In this, you can try nomads' clothes and do the traditional Moroccan Hanna.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
13
Khettaras are a traditional underground irrigation system used in Morocco, particularly in the regions of Drâa-Tafilalet and Marrakech. They're essentially gently sloping underground tunnels that tap into water tables and slowly channel the water to the surface by gravity. Vertical shafts at regular intervals provide access for maintenance and ventilation. These ingenious systems have been around for centuries, some estimates say over 2,500 years. They're a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of people living in arid regions. Even today, there are around 600 active khettaras in Morocco, providing a vital source of water for agriculture.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
14
Erg Chebbi
Imagine yourself perched atop a camel, swaying gently as it navigates the vast Erg Chebbi dunes. The wind whips through your hair, carrying the scent of sand and a hint of adventure. Below, the endless golden waves stretch out, sculpted by the desert winds. As you reach the crest of a dune, a breathtaking panorama unfolds – a sea of sand meeting the distant sky. This is the magic of a camel ride in Erg Chebbi. This unique experience transports you to the heart of the Moroccan desert.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Day 3: Merzouga Desert » Nomads Families » Erg Chebbi [40 Km]
5 stops
15
Merzouga
Today, you could choose between returning from the camp via camel or car. You will meet the driver to pick you up for some panoramic views and visit the nomads to discover how they live.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
16
The Mefis Mine is a baryte mine located in Morocco, roughly 52 kilometers southeast of Erfoud. It's known for its large vein, the Contamine vein, which is an impressive 40 meters thick and stretches for about 7 kilometers. This vein has produced some sizable baryte crystals, measuring up to 46 x 16 x 20 centimeters.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
17
Nestled near the Moroccan desert, Khamlia is a village known for its Gnawa community. Descended from sub-Saharan Africa, the Gnawa people brought their rich musical traditions to Morocco. Their music, also called Gnawa, features hypnotic rhythms played on instruments like the guell (metal castanets) and the three-stringed sintir. Khamlia even hosts an annual Gnawa festival, a vibrant celebration of their heritage. If you're visiting Morocco, you can experience Gnawa music in Khamlia, immersing yourself in this unique cultural expression.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
18
The Rissani Market is a bustling marketplace in Morocco, near the Merzouga Desert. It's a sensory overload of sights and smells, with sections dedicated to everything from spices and dates to clothes and livestock. The market is especially lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, making it a great place to experience the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs. After visiting the market, you could have lunch in Rissani or return to Khamlia.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
19
Hassilabied
Nestled amidst the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, Moroccan oases are verdant sanctuaries that offer a striking contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. These “jewels of the desert” result from centuries of human ingenuity and hard work. Desert dwellers have developed intricate irrigation systems, using canals to channel precious water from underground sources to nourish palm groves, fruit trees, and vegetable gardens.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Day 4: Merzouga » Ziz Valley » Azrou Cedar forest & Barbary Apes » Fes [466 km]
4 stops
20
After having breakfast at the hotel the driver will pick you up straight to Erfoud. Erfoud, Morocco, is known as a centre for fossil hunting and trade. The area boasts a rich fossil record, particularly from the Devonian period. Here, you'll find shops like Fossiles d'Erfoud and Achour Fossils Erfoud that sell fossils to collectors and tourists. These fossils can range from common varieties to rare and specialized pieces.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
21
The Ziz Valley is a breathtaking oasis located in southern Morocco. It's known for its dramatic landscapes, with the Ziz River snaking down through towering gorges and cliffs that date back to the Jurassic period. The river feeds a vast palm grove, one of the largest in Morocco, creating a striking contrast of lush green against the golden backdrop of the desert, a sight that will surely leave you in awe. The valley is also home to historic kasbahs, fortified villages that were once important centres of trade and commerce. Today, they offer a glimpse into Morocco's rich history and culture. Visitors to the Ziz Valley can enjoy various activities, including hiking, biking, and exploring the kasbahs. They can also visit the nearby town of Erfoud, a centre for the date trade.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
22
After having lunch in one of the following cities, Zayda or Midelt. Michlifen monkeys are actually Barbary macaques, also known as Magot monkeys. Michlifen is a region in Morocco with cedar forests that provide habitat for these monkeys. Sadly, the Magot monkey population is endangered due to illegal hunting.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
23
Ifrane
Nestled in Morocco's Middle Atlas Mountains, Ifrane is a charming town known for its alpine-style architecture and cool, refreshing climate. Nicknamed "Little Switzerland," Ifrane offers a unique escape with opportunities for skiing, hiking amidst cedar forests, and spotting Barbary macaques in the nearby national park.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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