Desert Tour: Marrakech to Fes

Leave Marrakech and begin the climb into the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. The road winds through small mountain villages, terraced fields, and dramatic viewpoints. By afternoon, arrive at the ancient earthen village of Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most iconic ksars. Walk through its narrow alleys as the clay walls glow in the late afternoon light. Overnight in Ait Ben Haddou

Travel east along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. Pass through the palm groves of Skoura and stop in small villages along the way. Continue into the Valley of Roses, where fragrant rose fields and small cooperatives produce rose water and oils using traditional methods. By late afternoon, reach the red cliffs and winding roads of Dades Gorge. Overnight in Dades Gorge.

Spend a slow day exploring the landscapes and culture of the gorge. Take a guided hike through the striking rock formations known as the Monkey Fingers, where narrow paths wind between sculpted cliffs. Stop for tea with a nomadic family and learn about life in this rugged region. In the evening, share a traditional dinner with a local Amazigh family. Overnight in Dades Gorge.

Travel through desert landscapes toward the dramatic cliffs of Todgha Gorge. Walk beneath the towering rock walls that rise above the riverbed, then continue south through palm-filled oases and traditional villages. By late afternoon, the dunes of Erg Chebbi appear on the horizon as you arrive in Merzouga. Overnight in Merzouga.

Spend the morning exploring the desert region around Merzouga. Visit a Gnawa family to experience traditional music and stop at a nomadic settlement for tea. In the late afternoon, ride camels or travel by 4x4 into the dunes as the light softens. Arrive at a comfortable desert camp, enjoy a home-cooked meal, and listen to live desert music around the fire beneath the stars. Overnight in desert camp.

Wake early for sunrise over the dunes, then return to Merzouga for breakfast. Travel north through the Ziz Valley, where thousands of date palms line the river below. Continue through high desert plateaus and mountain scenery as you make your way to the quiet town of Midelt. Overnight in Midelt.

Drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing cedar forests and small Amazigh villages. Stop in Ifrane, known for its alpine-style architecture and cool mountain air. Continue through the forests where Barbary macaques often gather, then descend toward the historic city of Fes.