6-Day Merzouga Desert & Imperial Cities Tour

MARRAKESH ⤍ TIZI N'TICHKA ⤍ AÏT BENHADDOU KASBAH ⤍ ROSES VALLEY ⤍ DADES VALLEY

This tour will begin with a pick-up from your accommodation in Marrakech, followed by a drive along the southern route to the Dades Valley. Our first destination will be the High Atlas Mountains, where we’ll enjoy panoramic views of Tizi n’Tichka, a high mountain pass in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, reaching an altitude of 2,260 m. We’ll have time for a short stop to take some great photos and relax. Then we will drive to visit Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been recognized since 1987 and is one of Morocco’s well-known historic places. When we get there it will be time for lunch before starting the visit, to the Kasbah.

Aït Benhaddou is a fortified historic ksar and was a major stopping point on the ancient caravan route between Marrakech and the Sahara. Many movies have been filmed at this historic site, including Gladiator, Black Hawk Down, The Message, and, most recently, the critically acclaimed series Game of Thrones.

The last stop of the day will be Kalaat M’Gouna, known as the “City of Roses,” a resort town in southeastern Morocco. It’s a small Berber town famous for its annual Rose Festival, which is held in May. Next, we’ll head to the Dades Gorges, a stunning series of canyons in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains. Renowned for their dramatic rock formations and narrow, winding valleys, the gorges are famously known as the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” due to the many ancient fortified villages scattered throughout the region.

One of the parts is the Monkey Fingers rock formation. The Monkey Fingers rock formation really looks like fingers reaching. We are also going to visit Tissdrine. Tissdrine gives you a view of the rough ground and the green Dades River Valley, down below.

Overnight at your riad/hotel in Dades Valley.

DADES VALLEY ⤍ TODRA GORGES ⤍ ERFOUD ⤍ MERZOUGA DESERT

Today, we’ll pick you up from your riad and drive in the direction of Merzouga. Along the way, we’ll stop at the Todra Gorges, a stunning natural wonder in Morocco’s Anti-Atlas Mountains, known for their towering cliffs and deep, narrow canyons. The area is also popular with climbers and hikers.

Our next stop is Tinejdad, where we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Merzouga. Once we arrive, you’ll end your day with a camel ride to the desert camp, which takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, including a stop to relax and enjoy the sunset over the dunes. You’ll spend the night in a fully equipped Berber desert camp, accompanied by traditional local folk songs.

Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars and spend the night in the desert camp.

MERZOUGA DESERT ⤍ NOMAD FAMILY ⤍ KHAMLIA ⤍ HASSI LABIED OASIS

Today, we’ll head out to explore the Merzouga Desert by 4×4, combining adventure, local culture, and beautiful desert scenery. Our first stop will be with a local nomadic family, where you’ll have the chance to learn about their traditional way of life in the Sahara. We’ll then continue with an exciting off-road drive through the dunes, enjoying the vast landscapes and peaceful atmosphere of the desert.

Next, we’ll visit Khamlia Village, home to the Gnawa people. Here, you’ll meet local musicians and discover their rich West African heritage through traditional music and dance. Around lunchtime, we’ll stop at a local restaurant in Merzouga to enjoy a meal before continuing our exploration.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit Hassi El Bid Oasis, a peaceful place surrounded by palm trees and desert scenery. Take some time to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and experience a quieter side of the Sahara.

Overnight at your riad in Merzouga.

MERZOUGA DESERT ⤍ RISSANI ⤍ ZIZ VALLEY ⤍ MIDELT ⤍ CEDAR FOREST ⤍ IFRANE ⤍ FEZ

Start the morning with a memorable climb up the dunes to watch the sunrise over the Sahara. Afterward, return to the camp for a traditional breakfast before setting off towards Fez. Our first stop will be Rissani, a historic desert town known for its traditional souk and lively local atmosphere. Take some time to explore the town and get a feel for everyday life in the region. We’ll then continue through the beautiful Ziz Valley, stopping at a panoramic viewpoint where you can enjoy the views and have a coffee.

Next, we’ll reach Midelt, Morocco’s famous apple-growing town, where we’ll stop for lunch. From there, we’ll continue through the Cedar Forest near Ifrane, home to impressive cedar trees and Barbary macaques. Finally, we’ll arrive in Ifrane, often known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Take some time to walk around and discover this charming mountain town before continuing to Fez.

Overnight at your riad/hotel in Fez.

FEZ GUIDED TOUR WITH A LICENSED LOCAL GUIDE

This day tour provides an in-depth look at the historical and cultural richness of Fez. After breakfast, you’ll begin your tour with a licensed local guide. You’ll visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Morocco when he is in the city, known for its impressive architecture and elaborate gates.

Continue to the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter, featuring narrow streets, traditional Moroccan homes, and a historic synagogue. It offers insight into the rich history of the Jewish community in the city. Next, we’ll head to a panoramic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Medina, allowing you to appreciate its sprawling layout and historic charm. Explore the traditional pottery workshops, where you can see local artisans at work.

Your guide will then lead you on a comprehensive walking tour of the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981. Founded in the 9th century, this labyrinthine quarter is famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture and is home to Al-Qarawiyyin University, the world’s oldest continually operating university. You’ll also visit Bou Inania Madrasa and the Dar Batha Museum. As you navigate the winding streets, you’ll encounter historical monuments, traditional souks, and centuries-old buildings that tell the story of Fez’s illustrious past.

Overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with historical discovery and cultural immersion.

FEZ ⤍ CASABLANCA

Today, you’ll start your tour from Fez to Casablanca via the highway, a journey that takes approximately four hours. Upon arrival, we’ll explore some of the city’s key sights, including the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Next, we’ll visit the Royal Palace, the Corniche waterfront, and Mohamed V Square, a major public square and one of the focal points of the city. The square is surrounded by impressive French colonial architecture.

After a day of sightseeing, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Casablanca.