Private Morocco Tour
5 Days Fes to Marrakech Through the Sahara Desert
From cedar forests to golden dunes — discover the Erg Chebbi, Todra Gorges, and ancient kasbahs on this iconic private journey across Morocco.
Duration
5 Days / 4 Nights
Departure
Fes
Destination
Merzouga, Dades Valley, Ait Ben Haddou, Marrakech
Tour Type
Private MoroccoTour
Accommodation
Desert Camp, Hotel & Riad
Tour Gallery
Overview
This private 5-day desert tour from Fes is Morocco’s most rewarding overland journey. Travel through the Middle Atlas, descend into the Ziz Valley, and arrive at the legendary Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga — where two days of desert immersion await, including a camel trek and a night under the Saharan stars.
The return route traces the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs through Todra Gorges and the Dades Valley before reaching Ouarzazate. The final day brings you to the UNESCO Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou and across the dramatic High Atlas Mountains into Marrakech.
Tour Highlights
- Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas cedar forests and Ziz Valley
- Immersive desert day — nomad visits, dune walks, and local Saharan culture
- Sunset camel trek across the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes
- Overnight in a traditional Sahara desert camp with live Gnawa musict
- Journey through the spectacular Todra Gorges and Dades Valley
- Explore Kasbah Amridil and the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs
- Visit UNESCO Ait Ben Haddou and cross Tizi n'Tichka Pass
Itinerary
Day 1 —From Fes to Merzouga Across the Middle Atlas
Depart your Fes hotel in the morning and head south into the heart of Morocco. Pass through the hill town of Ifrane, wind through the cedar forests of Azrou, and cross the Middle Atlas plateau before descending into the golden Ziz Valley. A brief stop in Erfoud marks the gateway to the Sahara. Arrive in Merzouga as the desert light softens. Overnight at a hotel near the dunes.
Day 2 — Desert Life in Merzouga
A full day to experience the Sahara beyond the dunes. In the morning, visit a nomadic family in their traditional tent and gain a rare glimpse into desert life. Explore the vast Erg Chebbi landscape and enjoy free time near the sand sea at your own pace. As afternoon fades to gold, mount your camel and ride across the dunes to your desert camp. Dinner and Gnawa music under the stars.
Day 3 — Merzouga to Dades Valley Canyons and Valley Roads
After a desert sunrise and breakfast at camp, head north through dramatic desert scenery. Stop briefly in Rissani or Erfoud before the landscape shifts into the towering rock walls of the Todra Gorges — one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural sights. Walk the canyon floor between 300-metre cliffs before continuing into the lush Dades Valley for an overnight stay.
Day 4 — Dades to Ouarzazte explore The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs
Travel west along one of Morocco’s most scenic drives, passing a succession of ancient earthen kasbahs rising from the valley floor. Stop to explore Kasbah Amridil in Skoura, one of the finest preserved fortresses in the south. Continue through the palm-lined landscapes of the Draa and Skoura region before arriving in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s cinematic capital. Overnight in a hotel or riad.
Day 5 — From Ouarzazte to Marrakech Ancient Walls and Mountain Passes
Scenic return to Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains
Begin with a visit to Atlas Film Studios before heading to the legendary Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most photographed landmarks. Then climb the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass through the High Atlas, with sweeping views over Berber villages and mountain ridges. Descend into Marrakech and drop off at your accommodation.
Included
Private transport in comfortable vehicle- English-speaking driver/guide
- 4 nights accommodation
- Camel trek in Merzouga
- Daily breakfast
- Dinners in selected locations
Private transport in comfortable vehicle
Suggested Accommodations
Night 1 — Merzouga Auberge du Sud or Similar — A welcoming desert retreat at the foot of the Erg Chebbi dunes, with comfortable rooms, traditional Berber décor, and warm local hospitality. Ideally positioned for golden-hour views over the sand sea.
Night 2 — Merzouga Desert Camp Sahara Sky Camp or Similar — An elegant camp nestled among the Erg Chebbi dunes, offering private furnished tents, a traditional Berber dinner, and live Gnawa music around the fire. Luxury en-suite upgrades available on request.
Night 3 — Dades Valley Dar Bluse or Similar — A charming kasbah-style guesthouse set in the heart of the Dades Valley, with panoramic terrace views over the gorge, warm home-style cooking, and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for an overnight rest.
Night 4 — Ouarzazate Riad Dar Daif or Similar — A refined riad-style retreat in Ouarzazate, blending traditional southern Moroccan architecture with modern comfort. Well located for easy access to Ait Ben Haddou and the film studios the following morning.
Meals
- Breakfasts included — served each morning at your accommodation throughout the tour
- Dinners included — provided each evening at your hotel, kasbah, or desert camp
- Lunches not included — your guide will recommend the best local restaurants and roadside stops along the route
Excluded
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
Lunches and drinksFrequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all travellers?
Yes. This is a private, relaxed tour suitable for couples, families, and solo travellers of all fitness levels.
Can the itinerary be customised?
Absolutely. As a private tour, stops, pacing, and accommodation can be adjusted to suit your needs.
How long is the camel trek?
The sunset ride takes around 45 to 60 minutes each way — gentle and accessible for all experience levels.
What should I bring for the desert?
Bring comfortable clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a small bag for the overnight desert stay.
What is the best time of year for this tour?
March to May and September to November offer the most comfortable temperatures across all destinations.
Is Wi-Fi available at the desert camp?
Most camps offer limited or no connectivity — a perfect opportunity to fully disconnect and enjoy the silence of the Sahara.
Begin Your Desert Journey
Private tour, flexible dates, expert local guides — your Morocco adventure is one step away.