4-Day Morocco Desert Tour: From Fes to Marrakech via Sahara, Gorges & Kasbahs
Tour Summary:
Take the road less traveled on this 4-day journey from the spiritual heart of Fes to the red city of Marrakech. This adventure weaves through cedar forests, palm-filled valleys, towering gorges, and sun-soaked dunes — offering an unforgettable camel trek, stargazing in a luxury desert camp, and scenic drives through Morocco’s most iconic landscapes.
Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert
Your journey begins with a drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Pass through Ifrane, a charming town often called “Morocco’s Switzerland,” and continue through the cedar forests of Azrou, home to wild Barbary apes.
Cross the Ziz Valley, where palm groves line the riverbed, and reach the vast Sahara near Merzouga by late afternoon. There, you’ll meet your camel caravan and ride across the dramatic Erg Chebbi dunes as the sun sets. Enjoy a magical night in a luxury desert camp with traditional Berber music and dinner under the stars.
Included Experiences:
- Scenic drive through Ifrane, Azrou & Midelt
- Sunset camel ride into the Sahara
- Overnight in a luxury desert camp
Day 2: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley
Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over the dunes before heading west toward Rissani, known for its ancient market and links to Morocco’s Alaouite dynasty. Continue to the desert town of Erfoud, famous for fossils and dates, then make your way into the Todra Gorge — where massive cliffs rise dramatically on both sides of a clear mountain stream.
Take a walk through the gorge, then drive along the winding road to the spectacular Dades Valley, home to red rock formations and centuries-old kasbahs.
Included Experiences:
- Desert sunrise & optional morning camel ride
- Visit to the traditional market of Rissani
- Walk through Todra Gorge
- Overnight in a scenic kasbah hotel in Dades Valley
Day 3: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou
After breakfast, travel along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through Rose Valley, known for its springtime harvest of fragrant Damask roses. Stop in Skoura Oasis, a lush palm grove dotted with ancient kasbahs, before continuing to Ouarzazate, Morocco’s cinematic capital.
In the afternoon, explore the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar and one of the most famous kasbah villages in North Africa. Spend the evening in a charming riad with views of the old fortress.
Included Experiences:
- Scenic stops in Rose Valley & Skoura
- Visit Atlas Studios or Taourirt Kasbah (optional)
- Explore Ait Ben Haddou ksar
- Overnight near Ait Ben Haddou
Day 4: Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
Depart Ait Ben Haddou and cross the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, winding through remote Berber villages and terraced hillsides. Stop along the way for panoramic views before arriving in the bustling city of Marrakech by the afternoon.
Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the colorful souks, visit Jemaa el-Fnaa square, or relax in your riad after this epic Moroccan adventure.
Included Experiences:
- High Atlas mountain pass crossing
- Scenic photo stops and local village views
- Drop-off in Marrakech (hotel or riad)
What’s Included:
- Private transport with English-speaking driver
- 3 nights accommodation (luxury desert camp, kasbah hotel, traditional riad)
- Daily breakfasts and 2 or 3 dinners
- Camel trek and desert experience
- All monument entrance fees
- Local expert in Ait Ben Haddou
- Pick-up from Fes / Drop-off in Marrakech