4-Day Tour: Marrakech to Fes via the Merzouga Desert

4-Day Desert Tour: Marrakech – Merzouga – Marrakech

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Telouet Kasbah – Aït Ben Haddou – Ounila Valley – Ouarzazate
Departure from your accommodation in Marrakech at 8:30 AM in a private 4×4 vehicle. Our journey begins with a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N’Tichka pass, the highest road in Morocco at 2,260 meters. Along the way, we’ll stop at several viewpoints to admire the dramatic landscapes and traditional Berber villages nestled in the hills.

We then take a detour to visit the remote Telouet Kasbah, once a powerful residence of the Glaoui family. After the visit, you’ll have free time to enjoy a traditional lunch in the village.

In the afternoon, we continue along the picturesque Ounila Valley, where isolated Berber communities still live in earthen homes. Our next stop is the iconic Ksar of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and backdrop to films like Gladiator, The Mummy, and The Jewel of the Nile.

After visiting this remarkable site, we head to Ouarzazate, famously known as the « Gateway to the Desert. » Dinner and overnight stay at a local hotel.

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – Nkob – Merzouga – Camel Ride & Desert Camp
Following breakfast, we drive southeast through the beautiful Draa Valley, known for being home to one of Morocco’s longest rivers. Along the route, we stop to take in panoramic views of ancient kasbahs and lush oases scattered among Berber villages.

We stop for lunch in Nkob or Alnif. Afterward, we head toward Merzouga and the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. Upon arrival, we swap our vehicle for camels and embark on a memorable trek into the heart of the desert.

At the camp, you’ll be welcomed with traditional hospitality and settle into your Berber-style tent—made of camel hair, just like those used by nomads. Enjoy dinner under the stars, followed by a night in the tranquil silence of the dunes.

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
Rise early for a magical sunrise over the dunes—an unforgettable moment. After breakfast at the camp, we return to Merzouga by camel and begin our journey toward the north.

Our first stop is Rissani, a traditional town with a vibrant market (open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays). From there, we continue to Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops and marble products.

We then drive through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad before reaching the dramatic Todra Gorges. These towering canyon walls carved by the Todra River are a haven for rock climbers and photographers. You’ll have time to enjoy lunch and take a short walk to appreciate the natural beauty.

In the afternoon, we travel to the Dades Valley—often called the “Valley of Figs”—via Boumalne Dades. We’ll stop at the famous rock formations known as the “Monkey Fingers” before settling in for dinner and an overnight stay in the Dades Gorges.

Day 4: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura – High Atlas – Marrakech
After breakfast, enjoy panoramic views over the Dades Valley from a mountain lookout that offers spectacular vistas of the region’s kasbahs and lush fields.

We then continue along the « Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, » passing through the fragrant Rose Valley and the expansive Skoura Palm Grove. Upon arriving in Ouarzazate, we’ll visit the Taourirt Kasbah—once the palace of the powerful Glaoui family. Optional visits include the Atlas Film Studios and Cinema Museum.

After free time for lunch, we begin the drive back to Marrakech, crossing the Tizi N’Tichka pass once more. As we descend, the rocky desert landscape gradually gives way to fertile valleys and colorful mountain scenery.

We arrive in Marrakech around 6:00 PM. Transfer to your accommodation marks the end of your journey.