5 Days Tour: Fes – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert – Todra & Dades Gorges – Ouarzazate – Marrakech

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast at your riad, we begin our journey southeast toward the desert, following the historic caravan routes. Our first stop is Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its European-style architecture. From there, we drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in the Cedar Forest—home to Barbarian macaques—for a chance to stretch and spot the native wildlife.

Continuing on, we pass through Midelt, where you’ll enjoy lunch before descending into the Ziz Gorge. As the landscape transforms, hints of desert begin to emerge. We continue along the Ziz Valley, framed by lush palm groves and traditional Berber villages, eventually reaching Errachidia and the Tafilalet oasis, the birthplace of Morocco’s royal Alaouite dynasty.

We arrive in Merzouga by late afternoon. You’ll be welcomed with a refreshing glass of mint tea and check into your riad at the edge of the desert.

Day 2: Merzouga Exploration – Rissani Market – Camel Trek – Night in Desert Camp
After breakfast, we set out to explore the Merzouga region. Our first visit is to the Gnawa community in Khamlia, originally from Sub-Saharan Africa, where you’ll experience their unique music and culture. We’ll also visit the Lake of Merzouga, a seasonal home to flamingos and other bird species.

Later, we head to Rissani, once a key trading hub and the ancestral home of Morocco’s royal family. Walk through its traditional souk, rich in spices, crafts, and local culture. You’ll witness scenes of daily desert life that remain unchanged for centuries.

By afternoon, return to Merzouga to rest before your camel trek begins. Guided by a local camel handler, ride across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi to your desert camp. Enjoy dinner under the stars and spend the night in a comfortable Berber tent equipped with modern amenities, including western-style bathrooms.

Day 3: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Tinghir Palm Grove – Dades Valley
Rise early to watch the sunrise over the dunes—a truly magical sight. After a hearty breakfast back at the riad, we begin our journey westward toward the mountains.

We stop in Tinghir to explore the spectacular Todra Gorges, Morocco’s highest and narrowest canyons. Take time to walk between the towering 300-meter cliffs carved by the Todra River and enjoy lunch in the heart of this natural wonder.

In the afternoon, we continue to the dramatic Dades Valley, famous for its peculiar rock formations known as the « Monkey Fingers » and its scenic kasbahs perched on hillsides. Overnight in a charming hotel overlooking the valley.

Day 4: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura – Kasbah Amridil – Ouarzazate
After breakfast, we drive through the breathtaking Dades Valley, part of the famous Route of a Thousand Kasbahs. This stretch offers countless photo opportunities with ancient fortresses, lush oases, and scenic cliffs.

We make a stop in Kalaat M’Gouna, known as the Rose Capital of Morocco, where rose products and cosmetics are crafted from locally harvested petals. Continuing to Skoura, we visit the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil, one of the most beautiful kasbahs in the region and a historic example of southern Moroccan architecture.

Our day ends in Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara and a popular filming location for Hollywood productions. Overnight in a local hotel or riad.

Day 5: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Marrakech
After an early breakfast, we head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, a striking ksar (fortified village) made famous by films such as Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones. Wander through the ancient earthen alleys and explore the kasbah that overlooks the desert plains.

We then travel through the High Atlas Mountains, ascending the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters) — the highest road pass in Morocco. Along the way, we stop for panoramic views, photo opportunities, and glimpses of Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides.

We arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon and transfer you to your riad in the historic medina.
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