6-Day Tour to Merzouga desert and fez
Tour plan
Detailed Itinerary
Marrakesh – Tizi n’Tichka – Aït Benhaddou Kasbah – Roses Valley – Dades Gorges
This tour will begin with a pick-up from your Marrakesh accommodation and a drive the southern route to Dades Valley. Our first destination will be High Atlas Mountains, where we will see the panoramic view of Tizi n’Tichka, is a high mountain pass in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, reaching 2,260 m. Time for a short stop for some great photos and rest. Then we’ll drive to visit Ait Benhaddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and one of Morocco’s most famous sites. Once we arrive, it will be time for lunch before embarking on a visit the Kasbah. Ait Benhaddou is a fortified historic kasbah and was a major stop point on the ancient caravan route between Marrakech and the Sahara. Many various movies were filmed at this historic site such as Gladiator, Black Hawk Down, The Message, and most recent critically acclaimed series Game of Thrones. The last stop of the day is to Kalaat M’Gounai, known as the “city of roses”, a resort town in South-East Morocco. It’s a small Berber town and famous for the annual festival of roses that 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. Among the highlights is the Money Fingers rock formation, which resembles outstretched fingers. We’ll also visit the Tissdrine, offering panoramic views of the rugged terrain and the lush Dades River valley below. Overnight in your riad at Dades Gorges
Dades Gorges – Todra Gorges – Ksar El Khorbat – Merzouga
Today we’ll pick you up from your riad and drive in the direction of Merzouga. On the route we will stop at Todra Gorges, are a stunning natural wonder in Morocco’s Anti-Atlas Mountains, known for their towering, dramatic cliffs and deep, narrow canyons. Popular with climbers and hikers. Our next stop will be Ksar El khorbat. Once we arrive, it will be time for a lunch before empraking to explore the ksar. El Khorbat is an ancient fortified village in southern Morocco. The ksar showcases the classic mud-brick construction and defensive walls typical of the region, providing a fascinating insight into Berber culture and history. Next, we’ll head to the Merzouga Desert, where you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the towering sand dunes. Spend the night in a riad in Merzouga and enjoying the serene desert landscape.
Merzouga – Khamlia – Nomad Family – Tour of the Dunes
After breakfast, we’ll begin our adventure on a 4×4 through the Merzouga Desert. Our journey begins in Khamlia village, where you’ll meet the Gnawa people, known for their West African roots and distinctive music, dance, and spiritual practices. Next, we’ll visit local nomadic families, offering a chance to learn about their traditional lifestyle. Enjoy an exhilarating off-road drive through the desert dunes. Lunch will be at a local restaurant in Merzouga. In the evening, you will end your day with a camel ride to the desert camp, where takes between 1:5 – 2 hours to reach, including a stop to relax and enjoy the sunset view over the dunes. You’ll spend the night in an equipped Berber camp with a locals traditional folk songs. Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars and night in the desert camp.
Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Cedar Forest – Ifrane – Fez
In the morning, enjoy a memorable experience by climbing the dunes to witness a breathtaking sunrise. Afterward, return to the camp for a warm, traditional breakfast. We’ll then head north to Fez, one of Morocco’s renowned imperial cities. Along the way, we’ll drive through the picturesque Ziz Valley Mountains and stop for coffee at a viewpoint with stunning panoramic views of the valley. Next, we’ll reach Midelt, known as Morocco’s apple capital, where we’ll have lunch before continuing to cedar forest of Ifrane is a scenic woodland in Morocco known for its majestic cedar trees and diverse wildlife. It offers a serene escape with beautiful hiking trails and the chance to spot Barbary macaques among the towering trees. Then we head to Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” You’ll have plenty of time to explore this charming town. Overnight at your riad in Fez.
This day tour provides an in-depth look at the historical and cultural richness of Fez. After breakfast, you will begin tour tour with a local guide, where 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 is the historic Jewish quarter, featuring narrow streets, traditional Moroccan homes, and a historic synagogue. It offers insight into the Jewish community’s rich history in the city. Next, we move to the panorama view for breathtaking views of the Medina, capturing 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 as the location of Al-Qarawiyyin University, the world’s oldest continually operating university. Visit Bou Inania Madrasa and 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. Return to your riad or hotel for a relaxing overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with historical discovery and cultural immersion.
Fez – Casablanca
Today, you will start your tour from Fez to Casablanca via the highway, which takes approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival, we’ll explore key sights such as the Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques with stunning ocean views. Next, we’ll also visit the Royal Palace, the Corniche waterfront and Mohamed V Square in Casablanca is a major public square and a focal point of the city. It features French colonial architecture. After a day of sightseeing, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Casablanca.
Included
- Private Vehicle with A/C
- Experienced English-speaking Driver/Guide
- Pick-up & drop-off at/from your Hotel/Riad
- Local Guide in Fez
- 4 Nights Accommodation Riad / Hotel / Desert Camp
- Meals: Breakfasts and Dinners Except in Fez are with bed and breakfast only BB
- Camel Trek In & Out Desert Camp
- Sandboarding (optional)
- Bottled water all the way of tour
Not Included
- Tipping & other personal expenses
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Paid visits
Note:
This is a private tour with a flexible itinerary that can be modified to fit your travel needs. We offer standard to luxury hotels, riads and camps to suit your ideal experience.
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