This 5-day journey from Fes to Marrakech and Casablanca traverses the full spectrum of Morocco’s landscapes. Cross the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, sleep among the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, and walk through the dramatic Todra Gorges. Explore the Valley of Roses, discover ancient Kasbahs, and cross the High Atlas Mountains before concluding in Morocco’s largest metropolis. This is Morocco in all its diversity.
Today involves a full travel day through the diverse landscapes that make Morocco so unique. Departure from Fes takes us through the cedar and pine forests of the Middle Atlas. Keep an eye out for Barbary apes playing among the trees.
The route crosses over the Middle Atlas Mountains and descends into pre-desert countryside. Deep gorges filled with splendid oases of green palm groves line our path. The landscape gradually transforms as we approach the desert.
By late afternoon, we arrive at the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert near Merzouga. The night is spent in a desert auberge (hotel), located right on the edge of the dunes. Dinner is served local-style. All rooms feature private bathrooms, showers, and air conditioning. Approximate travel time from Fes to Merzouga, including stops, is 9 to 10 hours. Overnight in Merzouga.
The morning is free until our late afternoon camel safari. Consider spending the cool hours exploring the undulating golden sands of the dunes. Alternatively, relax by the pool or read a book in the cool communal couch area.
An optional 4×4 safari into the sand dunes is available. Ask your guide for more details and current pricing for this exciting adventure.
Taking only our day packs with essentials for the evening, we set off on an hour-long camel ride to our desert camp deep in the dunes. Local guides teach you how to mount and dismount, along with handy camel-related safety tips. Ask them to demonstrate the trick of tying your turban to keep the desert sun off your face—it adds a little flair to your photos as well.
A warm welcome awaits with your first cup of mint tea at the desert camp. A traditional dinner is served under the stars, prepared by your camel guide. The evening offers time to hear stories about life in this region. If we are lucky, we might be treated to some traditional music on the drums.
Facilities are very basic. Each Bedouin tent sleeps approximately four people, though most prefer to relax and enjoy the sounds of silence during a night under the starry desert skies. Mattresses with a sheet and blanket are provided. For winter travel (November to April), we highly recommend bringing a sleeping bag for additional warmth. Bathroom facilities are back-to-nature style. Breakfast will be served upon our return to the Merzouga auberge. Approximate travel time by camel from Merzouga to camp is 1 hour 30 minutes. Overnight in the Sahara Desert camp.
Early in the morning, your camel guide will wake you to watch what may well be the best sunrise of your life. The light transforms the dunes into a sea of gold and orange. Afterwards, you peacefully camel-trek back to the village of Merzouga. En route, you cannot fail to appreciate the unique beauty of the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes, changing with the light as the day progresses.
After breakfast at the riad, we depart for Rissani, Tinghir, and the Todra Gorges—the highest and narrowest gorges in Morocco. An option exists to hike for an hour within the valley. This walk offers opportunities to meet locals and learn about the culture and geography of the region.
Lunch is taken in the heart of the gorge. The journey continues to the Dades Valley, where majestic sand castles and amazing rock formations known as “monkey toes” await. Overnight accommodation is at a hotel in the Dades Gorge.
Today’s drive is the shortest and most active of the trip. It begins with a glimpse of the stunning rock formations of the Dades Valley. We then leave the main road to venture into the heart of the Atlas Mountains.
Exploration takes us to small Berber villages where residents make their living from agricultural activities. These mountain communities offer authentic glimpses into traditional rural life. We cross the famous Valley of Roses, where the scent of blossoms fills the air during season.
A stop in Skoura village allows a visit to the top example of Berber architectural Kasbahs in Morocco: Kasbah Amridil. This beautifully preserved structure stands as a testament to the region’s rich heritage. Afterwards, we head to our hotel in Ouarzazate, the Hollywood of Africa. Overnight in Ouarzazate.
The last journey of the trip begins with exploration of a famous old building in Morocco. Ait Benhaddou Kasbah has served as the setting for many international films, including Gladiator, Alexander, and Game of Thrones. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a masterpiece of southern Moroccan architecture.
After our visit, we cross over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. The winding roads offer spectacular viewpoints and photo opportunities. Lunch is taken along the way.
We drop you off at your accommodation in the red city of Marrakech before continuing to Casablanca. This marks the end of your 5-day journey from Fes through the Sahara to Morocco’s largest metropolis.
