This 3-day journey takes you from the historic city of Fes to the golden sands of the Sahara Desert and finally to the vibrant streets of Marrakech. Experience the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes, the serene Todra and Dades Gorges, and the architectural marvels of Skoura and Ait Ben Haddou, all while exploring Morocco’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.
Erg Chebbi & Beyond
Overview
Included
Excluded
Highlights
Itinerary
Start your adventure early, departing Fes and heading toward the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. Begin with a stop in Ifrane, often called the "Switzerland of Morocco," for its charming alpine-style architecture. Proceed to the cedar forests near Azrou, where you may encounter playful Barbary macaques in their natural habitat.
Travel through the picturesque Middle Atlas Mountains, passing quaint Berber villages, and stop for lunch in Midelt, a town renowned for its apple orchards. Continue through the spectacular Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves and ksars (fortified villages).
Arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon, where you’ll switch to camels for a trek into the dunes. Enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the desert before settling into your luxury desert camp. Savor a traditional Moroccan dinner under the starry sky, followed by an evening of Berber music and storytelling around a campfire.
Accommodation: Luxury desert camp with private bathrooms and spacious tents.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Guided Tours: Scenic stops in Ifrane, Azrou cedar forest, and Ziz Valley. Camel trekking and sunset experience in the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Wake early to witness the stunning sunrise over the dunes, a magical moment in the desert. After breakfast, return by camel or 4x4 to your driver and set off westward.
Pass through Rissani, a traditional market town, and continue to the Todra Gorges, known for their dramatic 300-meter-high cliffs. Take a short trek along the river, marveling at the sheer rock walls that attract climbers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Travel through the Dades Valley, with its vibrant landscapes and lush Berber villages, before arriving at Skoura, an oasis dotted with palm groves and traditional kasbahs. Visit the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil, a stunning example of Moroccan mudbrick architecture, and enjoy the tranquility of the oasis.
Accommodation: Riad or hotel in Skoura.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Guided Tours: Todra Gorges, Dades Valley, and Kasbah Amridil in Skoura.
After breakfast, begin your journey toward Marrakech. Drive through the scenic High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of dramatic landscapes and traditional Berber villages.
Stop at the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic ksar that has served as a backdrop for many famous films. Explore its narrow alleyways and learn about its historical and cultural significance.
Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa," to visit the Kasbah Taourirt and, optionally, the Atlas Studios, where films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones were shot.
Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon, concluding your desert adventure.
Accommodation: Not included (tour ends in Marrakech).
Meals: Breakfast and lunch.
Guided Tours: Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, Kasbah Taourirt, and Tizi n’Tichka Pass.