7 days tour from Fes to Marrakech via the Merzouga and Zagora Deserts is an incredible journey that takes you through Morocco’s most iconic landscapes, cultural gems, and natural wonders. This itinerary combines the historic charm of Fes, the magic of the Sahara Desert, and the vibrant energy of Marrakech, with plenty of breathtaking stops along the way.
Your hotel
8:00 AM
Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains.
Exploration of Ifrane, Azrou, and the Ziz Valley.
Camel trek and overnight stay in the Merzouga and Zagora Deserts.
Sunrise and sunset over the Erg Chebbi and Zagora dunes.
Visit to Todra Gorges and Dades Gorges.
Exploration of Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate.
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a pick-up from your hotel or riad in Fes. You’ll head south, crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains, a region known for its cedar forests, rolling hills, and traditional Berber villages. Along the way, you’ll stop in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture and clean streets. Don’t miss the chance to take a photo with the famous Stone Lion, a symbol of the town.
Next, you’ll continue to Azrou, a small town surrounded by cedar forests. Here, you might spot Barbary macaques (wild monkeys) in the trees. After a short stop, you’ll drive through the Ziz Valley, a lush oasis filled with palm groves and traditional mud-brick villages. You’ll arrive in Midelt, a town known as the “Apple City” for its abundant apple orchards, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel or riad.
After breakfast, you’ll continue your journey toward the Sahara Desert. The drive takes you through Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil workshops and date plantations. You can stop here to visit a fossil workshop and learn about the region’s geological history.
Next, you’ll pass through Rissani, a historic town known as the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty (the current ruling family of Morocco). Rissani is also famous for its bustling souk (market), where you can experience the lively atmosphere and shop for traditional goods like spices, pottery, and handicrafts.
As you approach Merzouga, the landscape will transform into golden sand dunes, marking the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. In Merzouga, you’ll meet your camels for a sunset camel trek into the desert. The camel ride is a peaceful and unforgettable experience, as you make your way through the rolling dunes to your desert camp. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with mint tea and shown to your comfortable tent, equipped with traditional Berber decor and modern amenities. After a delicious Moroccan dinner, gather around the campfire to enjoy Berber music and stargazing under the vast desert sky.
Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a magical moment as the sunlight paints the sand in shades of gold and orange. After breakfast, you’ll have the option to explore the Merzouga area further. You can visit a nomadic family to learn about their traditional way of life, take a 4×4 tour of the desert, or try sandboarding on the dunes.
In the afternoon, you’ll return to your desert camp for another night under the stars. Alternatively, you can choose to spend the night in a hotel in Merzouga if you prefer more comfort. Either way, you’ll enjoy another evening of Berber hospitality, delicious food, and mesmerizing desert views.
After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to the Merzouga Desert and begin the journey to Zagora. The drive takes you through Rissani, where you can explore the bustling souk if you missed it earlier. You’ll then continue through the Draa Valley, a lush oasis filled with palm groves, traditional mud-brick villages, and stunning landscapes.
As you approach Zagora, the landscape will transform into smaller, but equally beautiful, sand dunes. In Zagora, you’ll meet your camels for a sunset camel trek into the desert. The camel ride is a peaceful and unforgettable experience, as you make your way through the rolling dunes to your desert camp. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with mint tea and shown to your comfortable tent, equipped with traditional Berber decor and modern amenities. After a delicious Moroccan dinner, gather around the campfire to enjoy Berber music and stargazing under the vast desert sky.
After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to the Zagora Desert and begin the journey to Ouarzazate. The drive takes you through the Draa Valley, a lush oasis filled with palm groves, traditional mud-brick villages, and stunning landscapes. Along the way, you’ll stop for photos and enjoy the changing scenery.
You’ll arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” where you can visit the Atlas Film Studios or enjoy lunch in the town. You’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel or riad in Ouarzazate, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner.
After breakfast, you’ll visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic ksars (fortified villages). This ancient mud-brick village has been featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. You’ll have time to explore its narrow alleys and climb to the top for panoramic views.
From Ait Ben Haddou, you’ll begin the journey to Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of Berber villages, terraced fields, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Along the way, you’ll stop for photos and perhaps visit a local argan oil cooperative to see how this precious oil is made.
You’ll arrive in Marrakech in the evening, where your tour concludes. You’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, filled with memories of the desert, mountains, and the unique culture of Morocco.
Your final day is all about wrapping up your journey and preparing for your departure. Depending on your flight or travel schedule, you may have some free time to explore Marrakech further or simply relax before heading to the airport.
