After breakfast, we begin our 5-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech via the Sahara. We drive south through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, making our first stop in Ifrane—often called “Moroccan Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture and pristine streets. Ranked among Africa’s cleanest cities, Ifrane is also home to Al Akhawayn University, which attracts international students for English-language studies. We’ll visit a small public garden and the iconic stone lion statue before continuing to the cedar forests of Azrou. Here, wild Barbary macaques roam freely, offering a perfect photo opportunity. Lunch follows in Midelt, Morocco’s “apple capital,” where agriculture dominates the local economy. In the afternoon, we descend through the dramatic Ziz Valley—lined with palm groves and fortified kasbahs—passing through Errachidia and arriving in Erfoud, the gateway to the desert. From there, we proceed to Merzouga, where camels await for a sunset ride across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. After watching the sun dip below the horizon, we arrive at a comfortable desert camp for dinner, Berber music around a fire, and an unforgettable night under a sky full of stars.

After breakfast in the desert, we leave the dunes behind and head toward the Dades Valley. En route, we pass through small Berber villages and arrive in Tinghir—a charming oasis town nestled at the foot of the High Atlas. Known for its lush palm groves and the nearby Todra Gorges (often mistakenly referred to as “caves”), Tinghir offers stunning views of red limestone cliffs and traditional mud-brick architecture, including remnants of Glaoui-era structures. We’ll explore the Todra Gorge area and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we continue through the dramatic Dades Valley, famous for its “monkey fingers” rock formations, and check into our hotel or riad in Boumalne Dades for dinner and overnight stay.

We depart Boumalne Dades in the morning and drive through the fragrant Valley of the Roses, arriving in Kalaat M’Gouna—the heart of Morocco’s rose industry. We then continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Here, you’ll have the option to visit the famous Atlas Film Studios, where blockbusters like *Gladiator* and *The Mummy* were filmed. After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll have free time to stroll through the town and explore its markets. Overnight in a hotel or riad in Ouarzazate.

After breakfast, we drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou—a stunning fortified ksar built from clay and stone, and one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks. This historic kasbah has appeared in numerous films and series, thanks to its dramatic setting and authentic architecture. Following a guided visit and lunch in the village, we begin our journey across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), with scenic stops for photos. We arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon, check into your hotel or riad, and enjoy a relaxed evening.

Spend your final day discovering Marrakech with a knowledgeable local guide. Visit key landmarks such as the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Koutoubia Mosque, and the vibrant souks of the medina. Your guide will share insights into the city’s history, culture, and daily life. After the tour, enjoy lunch at a traditional Moroccan restaurant before returning to your accommodation. This marks the end of our 5-day desert adventure from Fes to Marrakech.