
8 Days Desert & Imperial Cities Tour from Fes
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day Morocco desert and imperial cities adventure from Fes. Experience the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains, Ziz Valley, golden Erg Chebbi dunes, Draa Valley palm oases, and the vibrant imperial cities of Marrakech.
Itinerary
Day 1: Fes → Ifrane → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Merzouga
Depart Fes in an air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan and drive through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, often called the "Switzerland of Morocco," and the charming Berber town of Midelt. Pass through the palm-lined Ziz Valley, with dramatic landscapes and traditional Berber villages. Arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon and witness the magic of the Sahara Desert at sunset. Optional activity: Evening stargazing and traditional Berber music around the campfire.
Day 2: Erg Chebbi Desert – Camel Trek & Sunset
Wake up to the mesmerizing dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy a sunrise camel trek across the golden sands, perfect for desert photography. Spend the day exploring the dunes and surrounding desert landscapes. In the evening, take a sunset camel ride, capturing the Sahara's breathtaking colors. Optional activities: Sandboarding on the dunes, trekking to a desert oasis, or learning to make Berber pizza in the sand.
Day 3-4: Full Sahara Desert Exploration
Spend two full days immersing yourself in the Sahara Desert experience: Sunrise and sunset camel rides in Erg Chebbi dunes, sandboarding, photography, and desert exploration, visit nomadic Berber families, enjoy traditional tea, and learn about desert culture. Optional 4x4 excursions through remote desert trails and panoramic viewpoints.
Day 5: Merzouga → Rissani → Erfoud → Todra Gorge / Dades Gorges
Depart Merzouga and stop in Rissani, exploring its vibrant souks filled with spices, dates, and handmade crafts. Continue through Erfoud, known for its fossil quarries and desert landscapes, and then drive to Tinghir at the entrance of Todra Gorge. Explore the dramatic Todra Gorge cliffs, ideal for photography and short walks at the end of the day arrival at the Dades Valley where you will spend the night.
Day 6: Todra Gorge → High Atlas Mountains → Marrakech
Travel through the scenic High Atlas Mountains, passing traditional Berber villages and dramatic gorges. Stop for photos and optional visits to local kasbahs, including Kasbah Taourirt. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening for overnight stay.
Day 7: Marrakech City Tour
Explore the vibrant Marrakech Medina, bustling souks, colorful Moroccan markets, and historical landmarks. Optional activities include a traditional Moroccan cooking class or a relaxing hammam spa experience.
Day 8: Departure / Optional Extension
Enjoy your last morning in Marrakech before a convenient airport transfer or continue your journey with an optional excursion to Essaouira (coastal Medina, UNESCO-listed port, and seafood markets) or Casablanca (Hassan II Mosque, Corniche, and other Moroccan highlights).
What's Included
- Air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan for all 8 days
- 7 nights accommodation
- 5 Dinner meals
- Breakfast daily
- Camel rides at sunrise and sunset in Erg Chebbi
- Sandboarding on the desert dunes
- Experienced, knowledgeable driver and local guide
- Optional desert activities: trekking to oasis, Berber pizza, 4x4 excursions
Not Included
- Lunches during the tour
- Beverages (tea, soft drinks, bottled water, alcohol)
- Tips for driver/guide
- Entrance fees to attractions
- Personal expenses