Trip Overview
6 Days / 5 Nights: From Marrakesh to Fes via the Sahara Desert
A luxury overland journey across Morocco’s most iconic landscapes
Embark on an extraordinary 6-day journey from the bustling streets of Marrakesh to the cultural depth of Fes, weaving through the dramatic scenery of the High Atlas Mountains, cinematic kasbahs, lush valleys, and the golden silence of the Sahara Desert. This itinerary blends history, adventure, and refined comfort into one unforgettable Moroccan escape.
Whether you’re wandering ancient medinas, glamping beneath a star-filled sky, or sipping tea with nomads in the dunes, each day reveals a new layer of Morocco’s soul.
Day 1: Marrakesh – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate
Your journey begins with a scenic drive over the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, the highest in Morocco, offering spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains. Stop to visit the Telouet Kasbah, a former residence of the Glaoui family, before continuing to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar famous for its appearance in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. The day ends in Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” where you’ll settle into your boutique hotel for the night.
Day 2: Ouarzazate – Skoura – Rose Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
After breakfast, visit the legendary Atlas Film Studios and the Taourirt Kasbah, then head through the palm-dotted oasis of Skoura to visit Kasbah Amridil. Continue into the fragrant Rose Valley, famous for its annual harvest and rose-based beauty products. By afternoon, you’ll pass through the dramatic Todra Gorges, a stunning canyon carved by millennia of water and wind. Finally, arrive in Merzouga, where camels await to take you into the desert. Enjoy a magical sunset on the dunes before reaching your luxury Sahara camp for dinner, live music, and a night under the stars.
Day 3: Explore Merzouga Region – Nomads – Khamlia – Lake – Palm Grove
Wake early to watch the sun rise over the dunes, then return by camel to Merzouga for breakfast. Today is dedicated to exploring the surrounding desert region by 4×4. Visit a local nomadic family for tea and insight into their traditional way of life. In Khamlia, listen to hypnotic Gnaoua music performed by descendants of Sub-Saharan African tribes. Discover the Merzouga palm grove and visit the nearby seasonal lake, home to migrating flamingos when full. Spend the evening in a charming desert kasbah hotel.
Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes
Depart the Sahara, stopping first in Rissani, the cradle of the Alaouite dynasty and a bustling traditional market town. In Erfoud, visit a fossil workshop that showcases prehistoric marine life found in the region’s mountains. Drive north through the Ziz Valley, then break for lunch in Midelt, nestled between the Middle and High Atlas ranges. In the afternoon, enter the cedar forests near Azrou, where you may spot the native Barbary macaques. Continue to Ifrane, often dubbed the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture and crisp air, before arriving in Fes.
Day 5: Guided City Tour of Fes
Today is dedicated to the imperial city of Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual heart. Begin with a visit to the Royal Palace gates, then enter the ancient Medina of Fes el-Bali, one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. With a licensed local guide, explore the Bou Inania Madrasa, Al-Qarawiyyin University (the world’s oldest), Nejjarine Fountain, and the world-famous Tanneries. After lunch, visit the Mellah (Jewish quarter) and ascend to the fortress for panoramic views of the medina. Return to your riad in the evening.
Day 6: Farewell & Transfer
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Fes with time for any final shopping or sightseeing, depending on your flight schedule. Then, we’ll transfer you to the airport — closing your Moroccan adventure with the comfort and care you’ve experienced throughout the journey.
What’s Included
Pick-up in Marrakesh & drop-off in Fes
Private air-conditioned 4×4 or minibus transport
English or Spanish-speaking driver-guide
4 nights in carefully selected riads/hotels
1 night in a luxury desert camp
Camel ride in the Sahara (one per person)
3 dinners & daily breakfasts
Guided city tour in Fes
All fuel and road taxes
What’s Not Included
Lunches & beverages
Entrance fees to monuments
Personal expenses & tips
Good to Know
This itinerary can be fully customized based on your interests, travel dates, and accommodation preferences. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a group of friends, we can tailor the experience to suit your style.
Pricing varies depending on group size and accommodation category. Contact us for a detailed quote and let’s build your perfect Moroccan escape.