10-Day Desert Tour from Fes

Included/Excluded

Accommodation in charming hotels, traditional riads, and a desert camp
Airport transfers and hotel pickups/drop-offs
Camel trek in Merzouga
Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
Professional English-speaking guide

Lunches and additional dinners
Drinks and personal expenses
Entrance fees to monuments and attractions not specified in the itinerary
Travel insurance
Tips and gratuities

Tour Plan

Day 1 Arrival and Exploration of Fes

Your Moroccan adventure begins with your arrival in Fes. After being picked up from the airport, you'll be transferred to your accommodation in the heart of the city. Spend the day exploring Fes, starting with the ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest continuously operating university in the world.

Wander through the vibrant souks, filled with a variety of goods from spices to leather goods. Don't miss the famous tanneries where leather is processed in traditional methods. Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, an architectural gem. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal at a local restaurant. Overnight in Fes.

Day 2 Fes to Meknes, Volubilis, and Chefchaouen

After breakfast, depart Fes and head towards Meknes, one of Morocco's imperial cities. Visit the grand Bab Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the royal granaries. Next, drive to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the ruins, taking in the impressive mosaics and ancient structures. Continue your journey through the scenic Rif Mountains, arriving in the picturesque blue city of Chefchaouen. Overnight in Chefchaouen.

Day 3 Explore Chefchaouen

Dedicate the day to exploring Chefchaouen. Begin with a visit to the Ras El Maa waterfall, then hike up to the Spanish Mosque for breathtaking views of the blue city and surrounding mountains.

Wander through the medina, admiring the unique blue-painted buildings and vibrant markets. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the main square, Plaza Uta el-Hammam, where you can have a leisurely meal at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore more of the town’s hidden gems, including the Kasbah Museum and its beautiful gardens. Overnight in Chefchaouen.

Day 4 Chefchaouen to Rabat and Casablanca

After breakfast, depart Chefchaouen and drive to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. Explore the city's key attractions, including the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Take a stroll through the picturesque Oudayas Kasbah with its beautiful Andalusian gardens. Continue your journey to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city.

Visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Walk along the Corniche and explore the bustling streets of the city center. Overnight in Casablanca.

Day 5 Casablanca to Marrakech

After breakfast, head to Marrakech. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and start exploring the city. Visit the Jardin Majorelle, a beautifully designed garden created by the French artist Jacques Majorelle. Next, explore the vibrant souks, where you can find everything from spices to traditional crafts. In the evening, experience the lively atmosphere of Djemaa el-Fna square, with its food stalls, street performers, and musicians. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 6 Explore Marrakech

Spend a full day discovering the many attractions of Marrakech. Visit the stunning Bahia Palace with its intricate architecture and beautiful gardens. Explore the Saadian Tombs, dating back to the 16th century. Discover the Ben Youssef Madrasa, an Islamic college known for its exquisite Moroccan architecture. Wander through the medina, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and colorful markets. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech, and relax in the tranquil Majorelle Garden. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 7 Marrakech to Ouarzazate via High Atlas Mountains

Depart Marrakech and journey through the High Atlas Mountains, passing through the stunning Tizi n'Tichka pass. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Stop at the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular filming location for many movies. Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara." Visit the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studios. Overnight in Ouarzazate.

Day 8 Ouarzazate to Dades Valley and Todra Gorges to Merzouga

After breakfast, drive through the scenic Dades Valley, known for its impressive rock formations and lush oases. Visit the Todra Gorges, a series of limestone river canyons with towering cliffs. Take a walk through the gorges, enjoying the stunning natural scenery. Continue your journey to Merzouga, where the Sahara Desert begins. Upon arrival, switch to camels for a trek into the desert. Watch the sunset over the dunes and enjoy a traditional Berber dinner at a desert camp. Overnight in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga.

Day 9 Full Day Exploration in Merzouga

Begin your day in Merzouga with an early breakfast at your desert camp, soaking in the serene morning atmosphere of the Sahara. Start the day by visiting the nearby village of Khamlia, home to a community of Gnaoua musicians. Experience their unique music and dance, rooted in the traditions of sub-Saharan Africa, and learn about their culture and history. Enjoy a traditional cup of mint tea as you engage with the local community. Afterward, set out for a visit to the ancient and mysterious fossil sites near Merzouga. This region is renowned for its rich fossil deposits, dating back millions of years. You'll have the opportunity to explore the fossil beds and perhaps even find a fossil or two to take home as a unique souvenir. Next, head to the nearby nomadic camps to experience the traditional Berber lifestyle. Meet with a nomadic family and gain insight into their daily lives and customs. Enjoy a traditional Berber lunch with them, consisting of dishes such as tagine, couscous, and freshly baked bread. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about their way of life and share in their hospitality.

In the afternoon, visit the seasonal Lake Dayet Srji, a stunning sight when filled with water and often attracting a variety of birdlife, including flamingos. The sight of pink flamingos against the backdrop of the golden dunes is truly a magical experience. Continue your exploration with a thrilling off-road drive through the Erg Chebbi dunes. The vast expanse of towering sand dunes, some reaching heights of over 150 meters, provides an exhilarating adventure. As the day draws to a close, return to your desert camp. Embark on a camel trek to experience the desert in its most serene state. Ride through the dunes, and pause to watch the sunset over the Sahara, painting the landscape in a palette of warm hues. Back at the camp, enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under the stars, with Berber music and storytelling around the campfire, before retiring for the night in your comfortable tent.

Day 10 Return to Fes

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, ride camels back to Merzouga and start your journey back to Fes. Along the way, visit the town of Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops, and the beautiful Ziz Valley. Continue through the scenic landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing by Berber villages and lush cedar forests. Arrive in Fes in the evening, where your tour concludes. Overnight in Fes or transfer to the airport for your departure.