Discover an unforgettable 6 days from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert and onward to Fes. Travel through the High Atlas Mountains, visit ancient kasbahs, explore deep gorges, and experience the magical dunes of Merzouga. Along the way, enjoy guided city tours, cultural encounters, and breathtaking natural landscapes. This tour combines adventure, history, and authentic Moroccan experiences in one complete itinerary.
Highlights 6 days from Marrakech to Fes
- Guided tour of Marrakech
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Visit the UNESCO site Ait Ben Haddou
- Explore Ouarzazate and the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs
- Discover the dramatic Todra Gorge
- Experience Dades Valley landscapes
- Camel trek in Erg Chebbi
- Overnight in a Sahara desert camp
- Visit nomadic families and Khamlia village
- Explore Rissani and desert markets
- Travel through Ziz Valley and cedar forests
- Pass through Ifrane and Middle Atlas Mountains
- End the tour in Fes
Itinerary 6 days from Marrakech to Fes
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
Your 6 days from Marrakech to Fes begins in Marrakech. First, arrive at the airport and meet your driver or assistant. Then, transfer to your hotel or riad in the city center. Meanwhile, take time to relax after your flight. After that, enjoy your first walk near the medina if time allows. The atmosphere is lively and colorful. Next, explore nearby streets filled with cafés and local shops. The sounds of the city create a warm welcome. Later, you can visit Jemaa el-Fnaa square at your own pace. Street performers and food stalls make the experience unique. Meanwhile, the energy of the city continues until late evening. Then, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or your accommodation. The evening is free for rest and adjustment. Finally, overnight stay in Marrakech prepares you for the journey ahead. This first day is calm and easy. It helps you recover from travel and get ready for the adventure. The desert journey will begin after exploring the city tomorrow.
Day 2: Guided Tour of Marrakech
After breakfast, begin a full guided tour of Marrakech. First, visit the famous Koutoubia Mosque area and surrounding landmarks. Then, continue to the elegant Bahia Palace. The architecture is rich and detailed. Next, explore the Saadian Tombs and learn about Moroccan history. Meanwhile, your guide explains local traditions and culture. After that, walk through the vibrant souks of the medina. Colors, spices, and handmade crafts fill the narrow streets. Then, enjoy free time for shopping or photos. Later, reach the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Musicians, storytellers, and food stalls create a unique atmosphere. Meanwhile, the square becomes more active in the afternoon. Next, take a break at a rooftop café overlooking the city. Afterward, continue exploring hidden corners of the medina. Finally, return to your riad for relaxation. Dinner is optional and at leisure. This day gives a deep introduction to Marrakech culture, history, and daily life before starting the desert journey.
Day 3: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Ben Haddou – Dades Gorges
After breakfast, your desert journey begins. First, leave Marrakech and travel through the High Atlas Mountains. The road climbs through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass with stunning panoramic views. Meanwhile, Berber villages appear along the slopes. Next, stop for photos and short breaks in the mountains. After that, continue toward the famous Ait Ben Haddou. Walk through its ancient alleys and explore its traditional clay architecture. Then, continue to Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the desert. The landscape becomes more arid and cinematic. Afterward, follow the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. Palm groves and old fortresses appear along the way. Meanwhile, the scenery slowly changes from mountains to valleys. Later, pass through the Valley of Roses with small villages and scenic views. Finally, arrive in the Dades Gorges. Towering cliffs and winding roads create a dramatic setting. Dinner is served at your accommodation. Overnight stay in a peaceful mountain lodge surrounded by nature.
Day 4: Dades Gorges – Todra Gorge – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, continue deeper into southern Morocco. First, drive through the Dades Valley with its rocky landscapes and traditional villages. Soon, reach the spectacular Todra Gorge. Walk between massive canyon walls and enjoy the river scenery. Next, continue toward Erfoud, famous for fossils and date palms. Meanwhile, the landscape becomes gradually more desert-like. Green valleys fade into dry plains. After that, pass small oases and scattered settlements. Then, approach the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. Later, begin a camel trek into the Sahara Desert. The silence and beauty of the dunes create a magical experience. Meanwhile, the sunset colors the sand in orange and gold. Finally, arrive at your desert camp. Enjoy dinner, music, and a night under the stars. The Sahara experience becomes the highlight of your journey.
Day 5: Merzouga Desert Exploration
After breakfast, explore the heart of the Sahara. First, visit nomadic families living in the desert near Merzouga. Learn about their traditions and simple lifestyle. Next, travel across vast dunes and rocky desert plains. The scenery feels endless and peaceful. Then, visit the village of Khamlia. Enjoy traditional Gnawa music and cultural performances. Afterward, continue to fossil areas and desert viewpoints. Meanwhile, several stops allow time for photos and relaxation. Later, return to the dunes for free time. Walk on the sand or simply enjoy the silence. The desert atmosphere remains calm and powerful. Next, prepare for a magical sunset over the dunes. The sky changes into warm colors. Finally, enjoy dinner and overnight stay in your desert camp. This day offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure in the Sahara.
Day 6: Merzouga – Rissani – Middle Atlas – Fes
After breakfast, begin your final journey toward Fes. First, leave the Sahara region of Merzouga and travel toward Rissani. The road passes through desert plains and small oasis villages. Meanwhile, the scenery slowly becomes greener. Next, continue through the famous Ziz Valley. Thousands of palm trees stretch along the river, creating a stunning contrast with the rocky mountains. After that, stop for photos and short breaks to enjoy the views. Then, drive toward Midelt, located between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. The air becomes cooler and fresher. Afterward, continue through cedar forests where Barbary macaques may be seen. The landscape becomes greener and more mountainous. Meanwhile, the journey offers many scenic viewpoints. Later, pass through Ifrane, known for its European-style architecture and clean streets. Finally, descend toward the plains and reach Fes in the evening. Your 6-day Morocco adventure ends here. The journey leaves unforgettable memories of desert dunes, mountain passes, and imperial cities.
Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for the entire tour
- Professional driver/guide
- Pick-up in Marrakech and drop-off in Fes
- 2 nights accommodation in Marrakech (Riad/Hotel)
- 1 night accommodation in Dades Valley
- 2 nights accommodation in Merzouga Desert camp (standard or luxury)
- Camel trek in the Sahara Desert
- Breakfasts during the entire tour
- Dinners in Dades and Merzouga
- Fuel, tolls, and transport costs
Excluded
- International flights
- Lunches and drinks
- Dinners in Marrakech and Fes
- Entrance fees to monuments and attractions
- Local guides (optional)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Tips and gratuities
FAQs – 6 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Sahara Desert
Is this tour private or shared?
This 6-day tour is usually offered as a private experience, but shared group options can also be arranged depending on availability.
Do I get guided tours in Marrakech and Fes?
Yes, guided city tours are included in both Marrakech and Fes with local official guides.
How long is the drive from Marrakech to the desert?
The journey from Marrakech to Merzouga takes around 8–10 hours, split over two days with stops at kasbahs, gorges, and scenic viewpoints.
Is camel trekking included?
Yes, a camel trek in Erg Chebbi is included, usually at sunset or sunrise.
Can I skip the camel ride?
Yes, a 4×4 transfer to the desert camp is available for travelers who prefer not to ride camels.
What type of accommodation is provided?
You will stay in a riad or hotel in Marrakech, a hotel in Dades Valley, and a desert camp in Merzouga (standard or luxury options).
What should I pack for the Sahara Desert?
Bring comfortable clothes, walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a warm jacket for cold desert nights.
Are meals included in the tour?
Breakfasts and dinners in the desert and Dades are included, while lunches and some city dinners are usually not included.
Is the desert camp comfortable?
Yes, camps include beds, blankets, and dining areas, with luxury options offering private bathrooms and better comfort.
When is the best time to take this tour?
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons, but the tour operates all year round.