5.0

Desert Majesty: Morocco Sahara Adventure

Morocco | 4 days

Embark on an enchanting 5-day journey from the vibrant imperial cities to the serene golden dunes of the Sahara.

This tour immerses you in the heart of Moroccan culture, from ancient Kasbahs and dramatic gorges to the captivating vastness of the Erg Chebbi desert. Experience traditional Berber hospitality, camel treks at sunset, and starlit nights under the desert sky.

Read more
From
$2500
See dates & prices

Itinerary

DAY 1

Marrakech to Dades Gorges – Crossing the High Atlas
Your Moroccan adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your accommodation in Marrakech. We journey over the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) in the High Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views and picturesque Berber villages clinging to the hillsides. We’ll stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, a fortified ksar (village) that has served as a backdrop for many famous films. After exploring this ancient kasbah, we continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” before heading through the Valley of Roses and the Dades Valley, famed for its stunning rock formations and traditional kasbahs.
Accommodation: Charming Guest House in Dades Gorges.
Meals: Dinner.

DAY 2

Dades Gorges to Merzouga – Gateway to the Sahara
After a delicious breakfast, we explore the incredible Todra Gorges, a magnificent canyon carved by the Todra River, perfect for a leisurely walk through its towering cliffs. Our journey then continues towards the Sahara Desert, passing through a series of traditional Berber villages and palm oases like Touroug and Erfoud, known for its fossils. By late afternoon, we arrive at Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, you’ll meet your camels for an unforgettable trek into the golden sands of the Sahara. Witness a spectacular sunset over the dunes before arriving at your desert camp for a magical night under the stars.
Accommodation: Luxury Desert Camp in Erg Chebbi (private tent with ensuite bathroom).
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

DAY 3

Merzouga Desert Exploration – Nomads & Dunes
Wake up early to experience the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara dunes, a truly mesmerizing spectacle. After breakfast at the camp, we’ll return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4. Today is dedicated to exploring the desert surroundings. We’ll visit a local Gnawa village (Khamlia) to enjoy their unique spiritual music, explore ancient eyeliner mines, and meet with nomadic Berber families living in traditional tents, learning about their way of life. There will be opportunities for sandboarding on the dunes. The afternoon is free to relax at your desert-edge hotel or explore more of Merzouga.
Accommodation: Desert-Edge Hotel in Merzouga.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

DAY 4

Merzouga to Midelt – Through the Ziz Valley
After breakfast, we begin our journey north from the desert. We drive through the vast Ziz Valley, an incredible oasis of palm trees stretching for kilometers, offering stunning panoramic views. Our route takes us through Errachidia and over the Middle Atlas Mountains. We’ll pass through picturesque landscapes, including the cedar forests where Barbary apes reside, and make a stop in Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” due to its alpine-style architecture. We arrive in Midelt, a mountain town, for our overnight stay.
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Midelt.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

DAY 5

Midelt to Fes – Imperial City Finale
After breakfast, our final leg of the journey takes us to the ancient city of Fes. Along the way, we’ll pass through diverse landscapes. Upon arrival in Fes, you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation or the airport. A local guide will then lead you on a captivating tour of Fes’s UNESCO-listed Medina, one of the world’s largest and oldest walled cities. Explore the labyrinthine alleys, visit the famous Chouara Tannery, historic madrasas, and vibrant souks, immersing yourself in the rich history and artisan culture of this Imperial City. Your tour concludes after the Fes Medina visit.
Accommodation: Not included on final day (post-tour).
Meals: Breakfast.

When will you travel?

Document

What's included

Included

Transportation: Private, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle or minivan with an experienced English-speaking driver throughout the tour.
Accommodation: 4 nights of accommodation as per itinerary (1 night Dades Gorges, 1 night Luxury Desert Camp, 1 night Desert-Edge Hotel Merzouga, 1 night Midelt).
Meals: 4 breakfasts and 4 dinners as specified in the itinerary.
Desert Experience: Camel trek into/out of the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Guided Tours: Local licensed city guide for Fes Medina tour on Day 5.
Activities: Visits to Ait Benhaddou, Todra Gorges, Dades Valley, Ziz Valley, Gnawa village.
Water: Bottled water available in the vehicle.

Not included

International Flights: Airfare to Marrakech and from Fes.
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended.
Lunches & Drinks: Lunches are not included, allowing for flexibility and local exploration. Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are not included with dinners.
Entrance Fees: Admission fees to monuments, museums, kasbahs (e.g., Ait Benhaddou entry fee).
Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, etc.
Accommodation on Final Day: Accommodation in Fes on Day 5 is not included.

Reviews

Why embark on this Moroccan adventure?

Imagine transcending the ordinary on a 5-day journey from Morocco’s vibrant imperial cities to the serene golden dunes of the Sahara.
This tour is an immersive cultural odyssey, seamlessly blending dynamic exploration with awe-inspiring natural beauty. You’ll delve into the heart of Moroccan culture, exploring ancient Kasbahs and dramatic gorges. Experience the warmth of Berber hospitality, enjoy magical camel treks at sunset, and sleep under a blanket of starlit skies in the vast desert.
More than just a trip, it’s an unforgettable adventure for your senses, inviting you to discover ‘Why Morocco?’.

Some cool facts about our tours to Morocco

150+

Happy clients

We really have the best reviews to our Morocco tours – you can see it above

1,200+

Years of History

Immerse yourself in over 1,200 years of Moroccan heritage as you explore ancient imperial cities like Fes.

17.4

Million Visitors

Join the millions of travelers (Morocco welcomed approx. 17.4 million tourists in 2024 alone!) who choose Morocco

9 Mln

Sq Km Desert Wonderland

Venture into a captivating part of the Sahara

FAQs

What is the best time of year for this tour?

This tour is excellent year-round. However, the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) offer the most pleasant temperatures. December-February can be chilly in the mountains and desert nights, while June-August is very hot in the desert. We recommend dressing in layers regardless of the season.

What should I pack for this trip?

Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots, sandals, a hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a small daypack. For the desert, lightweight long pants and long-sleeved shirts are recommended for sun protection. A warm jacket or fleece is essential for desert nights.

Is it safe for solo female travelers?

Morocco is generally a very safe country for tourists, including solo female travelers. Our tours use experienced local drivers and guides who prioritize your safety. Modest dress is recommended out of respect for local customs, especially in religious sites.

Are there private bathrooms in the desert camp?

Yes, our selected luxury desert camps provide private tents with en-suite bathrooms, including a flush toilet and hot shower.

Do I need a visa for Morocco?

Visa requirements vary by nationality. Please check the latest visa regulations for Morocco based on your country of passport well in advance of your travel dates.

How much walking/physical activity is involved?

This tour involves moderate walking at historical sites and optional short walks in gorges. The camel trek is a unique experience but does not require special fitness. It is suitable for most travelers with a reasonable level of mobility.

What is the currency in Morocco?

The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it’s good to have some Dirhams for smaller purchases.