8-Day Desert Tour From Fes

Overview

Enjoy this enriching 8-day journey starting from Fes, traversing through the Sahara Desert, the bustling city of Marrakech, and the coastal charm of Essaouira. Discover the historical depth of Casablanca, Rabat, and the iconic blue alleys of Chefchaouen. This tour encapsulates the essence of Morocco’s cultural and natural beauty, ending back in the ancient city of Fes.

Highlights

  • Witness the stunning sunrise and sunset in the Sahara Desert
  • Explore the dramatic Todgha Gorges and the picturesque Dades Valley
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ait Ben Haddou and Volubilis
  • Immerse in the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech and the coastal beauty of Essaouira
  • Discover the historical and cultural landmarks of Casablanca and Rabat
  • Wander through the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen
  • Marvel at the imperial history of Meknes and the rich heritage of Fes

Included/Excluded

  • Accommodation in a riad and desert camp
  • Breakfasts and dinners as per the itinerary
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunches and drinks

Tour Plan

Day 1 Fes – Azrou – Midelt – Merzouga

Your adventure begins with an early departure from Fes, heading towards the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop will be in Azrou, a quaint Berber town known for its cedar forests and home to Barbary macaques. Enjoy a walk through the cedar forest, where you can see these playful monkeys in their natural habitat. Continue your journey through the beautiful mountain scenery, passing through Berber villages and apple orchards.

Arrive in Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, known for its stunning views and apple production. Here, you will have a lunch break before continuing your drive through the dramatic Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves and fortified villages. As you approach Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert, the towering sand dunes of Erg Chebbi will come into view. Upon arrival, switch to camels for a trek into the heart of the desert, where you will spend the night in a luxury desert camp. Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under the stars, with local music and dancing around the campfire.

Day 2 Merzouga – Rissani – Todgha Gorges – Dades Valley

Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise over the sand dunes, a truly magical experience. After breakfast, ride your camel back to Merzouga, where your driver will be waiting to continue the journey. Head towards Rissani, a historic town and former trading post. Visit the lively souk, where you can find a variety of goods, from spices to handicrafts.

Continue your journey to the Todgha Gorges, a series of limestone river canyons in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains. The gorges, with their towering cliffs reaching heights of 300 meters, offer an awe-inspiring natural spectacle. Take a walk along the river and marvel at the sheer rock walls that change color throughout the day. From Todgha Gorges, travel to the Dades Valley, often referred to as the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs" due to the numerous fortified structures scattered throughout the region. The valley is famous for its dramatic landscapes, including the striking rock formations known as "Monkey Fingers." Drive through this breathtaking scenery, making stops for panoramic views and photo opportunities. Arrive at your accommodation in the Dades Valley for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3 Dades Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou

We continue our trip from the Dades Valley and drive towards Skoura, known for its palm groves and the well-preserved Amridil Kasbah. Visit this historic kasbah and learn about its history and significance in the region. Continue your journey to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the "Hollywood of Morocco" for its film studios and the famous Kasbah of Taourirt. Explore the Atlas Film Studios, where many famous movies and TV series have been filmed, including "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones."

Next, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified village that has been used as a backdrop for numerous films. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the well-preserved kasbahs, which offer a glimpse into Morocco's rich history and architectural heritage. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Ait Ben Haddou or nearby Ouarzazate.

Day 4 Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

Depart from Ait Ben Haddou and drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, you will make several stops for panoramic views and to visit small Berber villages. Arrive in Marrakech in the early afternoon and check into your accommodation.

Spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech. Start with a visit to the stunning Bahia Palace, an intricately decorated 19th-century palace with beautiful gardens and courtyards. Continue to the Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of members of the Saadian dynasty, and the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a historic Islamic college known for its beautiful courtyard and detailed stuccowork. Wander through the bustling souks, where you can shop for traditional Moroccan goods such as spices, textiles, and ceramics. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Marrakech.

Day 5 Marrakech – Essaouira

After breakfast, depart for Essaouira, a charming coastal city known for its historic medina and relaxed atmosphere. On the way, you will pass through the scenic landscapes of the argan tree region, where you might see goats climbing the trees to eat the fruit. Upon arrival in Essaouira, explore the city's fishing port, where you can watch fishermen bring in their catch of the day.

Visit the ancient ramparts with cannons overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and stroll through the narrow streets of the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The medina is known for its arts and crafts, particularly its thuya woodwork and silver jewelry. Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon, relax on the beach or explore more of the city's sights, such as the Skala de la Ville and the Moulay Hassan Square. Overnight stay in Essaouira.

Day 6 Essaouira – Casablanca

On this day and after breakfast, depart from Essaouira and drive towards Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic hub. Upon arrival, visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, with its stunning oceanfront location and intricate architectural details. The mosque's minaret is the tallest in Morocco, and its beautiful interior features exquisite tilework, marble floors, and a retractable roof.

Explore the city's main attractions, including the Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade, and the Royal Palace. Take a walk through the bustling central market and visit the Habous Quarter, known for its traditional Moroccan architecture and artisan shops. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Casablanca.

Day 7 Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen

After breakfast, depart from Casablanca and drive towards Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. Explore Rabat's rich history and cultural landmarks, starting with the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Morocco, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a beautiful white marble building that houses the tombs of the late King Mohammed V and his sons. Next, visit the Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret of a grand mosque that was intended to be the largest in the world.

Following exploring Rabat, continue your journey to Chefchaouen, the famous "Blue City" of Morocco nestled in the Rif Mountains. Known for its striking blue-painted buildings and narrow winding streets, Chefchaouen is a photographer's paradise. Spend the rest of the day exploring this charming town, visiting the Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the central square surrounded by cafes and restaurants, and the Kasbah Museum, which offers insights into the region's history and culture. Overnight stay in Chefchaouen.

Day 8 Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

On your final day, leave Chefchaouen and drive towards Volubilis, the ancient Roman ruins that are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including intricate mosaics, grand archways, and towering columns, offering a glimpse into Morocco's Roman past. After exploring Volubilis, continue to Meknes, one of Morocco's imperial cities, where you will visit the grand Bab Mansour gate, the Royal Stables, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.

After a leisurely lunch in Meknes, drive back to Fes, where your tour concludes. Spend your final evening in Fes, reflecting on the incredible journey through Morocco's diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

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