7 days from Marrakech to Fes

Your adventure begins in Marrakech, the vibrant heart of Morocco. After arriving at your riad or hotel, take some time to unwind and explore the city at your own pace. Stroll through the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where the energy is palpable—snake charmers, street performers, and food stalls create a lively atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner on a rooftop terrace, soaking in the views of the bustling medina and the distant Atlas Mountains. Overnight in Marrakech.

After an early breakfast, depart Marrakech and head toward the High Atlas Mountains. The panoramic drive takes you through the Tizi n’Tichka pass, the highest mountain pass in North Africa, offering stunning views of valleys and Berber villages. Stop at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a famous filming location for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Continue through Ouarzazate,  Skoura oasis and into the Valley of the Roses, famous for its rosewater production. End your day in the dramatic Dades Gorge, where towering rock formations and lush oases create a breathtaking landscape. Overnight in a hotel overlooking the gorge.

After breakfast, explore the Dades Valley further, stopping to admire the “Monkey Fingers” rock formations. Then, drive to the Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon with cliffs rising up to 300 meters. The Todra River winds through the gorge, creating a serene and picturesque setting. Take a short hike to fully appreciate the scale of this natural wonder. In the afternoon, continue your journey toward the Sahara Desert, passing through palm groves and traditional Berber villages. Overnight in a hotel near Todra Gorge or Erfoud, the gateway to the desert.

Today, you’ll reach the highlight of your trip—the Sahara Desert. Arrive in Merzouga, where the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi stretch as far as the eye can see. Switch from your vehicle to camels for a trek into the heart of the desert. As you ride across the dunes, the silence and vastness of the Sahara will leave you in awe. Arrive at a luxury desert camp, where you’ll spend the night in a traditional Berber tent. Enjoy a hearty dinner under the stars, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Berber music. Overnight in the desert camp.

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes—a magical moment as the sand shifts from deep orange to golden yellow. After breakfast, bid farewell to the desert and begin the long drive to Fes. The route takes you through the Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves and dramatic gorges, and the Middle Atlas Mountains, where cedar forests and Berber villages dot the landscape. Stop in Midelt for lunch and keep an eye out for wild monkeys near Azrou. Arrive in Fes in the evening and check into your riad. Overnight in Fes.

Today, explore Fes, one of Morocco’s most historic and culturally rich cities. With a local guide, dive into the labyrinthine Fes el-Bali medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest existing university in the world, and the Bou Inania Madrasa, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Don’t miss the tanneries, where leather is dyed using traditional methods that have remained unchanged for centuries. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the incredible experiences of your journey. Overnight in Fes.

On your final day, you will back to Marrakech. The drive takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, with opportunities to stop at panoramic viewpoints and small towns along the way. Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon, where you can spend your final evening exploring any sights you may have missed or simply relaxing at your riad. Overnight in Marrakech.