4 Days Tour From Fes To Marrakech Via Merzouga Desert
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5h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a 4-day desert excursion to appreciate the spirit of the desert, with an indescribable starry sky in the heart of the dunes of the Sahara desert. Experience a camel trek to discover the desert dunes and the Berber lifestyle. This desert tour is also ideal for those of you who fly to Fez and leave Marrakech (or vice versa). The trip can be done for 2 nights and 3 days, but we recommend taking at least 3 nights and 4 days.
Available options
4 Days Tour From Fes To Marrakech Via Merzouga Desert
Pickup included
What's included
Breakfast
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Our private tour begins with a drive towards the Atlas Mountains stopping to visit the villages of Ifrane, where we’ll get a chance to explore the famous cedar forest, home of the Berber apes.
We’ll have the chance to have lunch before continuing through the Atlas Mountains, enjoying the breathtaking views of the landscapes of Midelt along the way before arriving at the Ziz Valley. Then we continue to Merzouga, where we’ll spend the night at a local Riad.
2
Today we will explore the desert region around the Erg Chebbi desert dunes. You’ll have the opportunity to see the nomad’s way of life and the marvelous contrast of the desert. We will visit the black village of Khamlia; where we’ll indulge in the music of the Gnawa. For lunch, we’ll delight in a traditional Berber Pizza in the ancient capital of Rissani. In the late afternoon, we’ll ride on camelback to watch the sunset over the dunes and spend the night in the desert camp. We will have a traditional Tagine dinner, drink delicious local mint tea, and listen to traditional Berber music around a campfire while watching the stars and the rising moon in the amazing Sahara desert.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
We’ll fetch an early start to catch the sunrise before heading to a hotel for breakfast and a chance to freshen up before continuing our journey to Ouarzazate. On the way, well visit the Berber villages and the Todra & Dades Gorge. We’ll spend the night in a local hotel in the Dades Valley
4
After breakfast, we’ll continue our tour towards Ouarzazate through the path of a thousand Kasbahs (fortress) stopping at Kalaat Mgouna, the center of the Valley of Roses, famous for its annual Rose Festival.
We’ll continue to the Unesco World Heritage site, the Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, famous for being used as a filming location for Hollywood movies such as Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and for the famous HBO series Game of Thrones.
We’ll then take the Tizi-n-Tichka mountain pass to Marrakesh, where our tour ends.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Fez
Fez is the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, known for its ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the oldest university in the world, the University of al-Qarawiyyin. It offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and traditional crafts.
Top Attractions
Fez Medina
The Fez Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval old cities in the world. It's a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic sites.
Historical/Cultural
Full day
Free to explore, fees for specific sites
Al-Qarawiyyin University
Founded in 859 AD, Al-Qarawiyyin is the oldest continuously operating university in the world. It's a significant cultural and historical site.
Historical/Educational
1-2 hours
Free
Bou Inania Madrasa
A beautiful example of Marinid architecture, this madrasa (Islamic school) is one of the few religious sites in Fez open to non-Muslims.
Historical/Architectural
30-60 minutes
Moderate
Chouara Tanneries
One of the last remaining traditional tanneries in the world, the Chouara Tanneries offer a glimpse into an ancient craft that has changed little over centuries.
Cultural/Industrial
30-60 minutes
Free (donations appreciated)
Bab Bou Jeloud
The main gate to the Fez Medina, Bab Bou Jeloud is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and a great photo opportunity.
Architectural
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tagine
A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, served in a conical clay pot.
Dinner
Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.
Couscous
Steamed semolina grains served with vegetables and meat, often with a rich sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.
Pastilla
A savory-sweet pie made with layers of thin pastry, filled with spiced pigeon meat, almonds, and sugar.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and nuts.
Harira
A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices, often served during Ramadan.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Rif Mountains
Horseback riding in the countryside
Spa and hammam treatments
Strolling through the gardens of the Royal Palace
Exploring the Fez Medina
Visiting historic sites and museums
Attending traditional music and dance performances
Experiencing a traditional hammam
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. This is the best time for sightseeing and exploring the city.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic, Berber
- Widely spoken: French, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Time Zone
GMT+1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Fez is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- Fes-Saïss Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Fez Railway Station
By bus
Fez CTM Bus Station, Fez Supratours Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Fez. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely used
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fez Medina
Fes el Jdid
Ville Nouvelle
Day trips
Meknes
60 km • Full day
Meknes is a historic city with a rich past, known for its imperial palaces, mosques, and the famous Bab Mansour gate. It offers a mix of history, architecture, and local culture.
Volubilis
80 km • Full day
Volubilis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the remains of a Roman city. It's one of the most important archaeological sites in Morocco, offering a glimpse into the country's Roman past.
Chefchaouen
120 km • Overnight
Chefchaouen is a picturesque mountain town known for its blue-washed buildings, narrow streets, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains.
Festivals
Fez Festival of World Sacred Music • June
Fez Festival of Sufi Culture • April
Ramadan • Date varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide to navigate the medina and learn about its history and culture
- Visit the Chouara Tanneries early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Try a traditional hammam experience for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals
- Bargain politely in markets and souks, but be prepared to walk away if the price is not agreeable
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
