Two travellers watching the sunset from a Sahara dune

7 days · from Fez

Grand Desert Expedition

From Fez to Marrakech

Length
7 days
Nights
6
Starts in
Fez
Style
Private

Embark on a 7-day journey through Morocco’s most captivating landscapes, from the Middle Atlas Mountains to the vast Sahara Desert and the iconic High Atlas Mountains. This extended adventure offers ample time to immerse yourself in Morocco’s rich culture, explore ancient kasbahs, and enjoy unique experiences like camel trekking and meeting local Berber communities.

  • Desert
  • Mountains
  • Luxury

A starting point, not a fixed package. Dates, pace, stops and experiences are adjusted with you. Prices, accommodation and inclusions are agreed in your tailored proposal.

Day by day

7 days · 6 nights

  1. 1

    Day 1Fez to Ifrane and Midelt

    About 185 km · about 3 h 30 min driving

    Start your journey with a drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Visit Ifrane, known as "Little Switzerland," and the cedar forests of Azrou, where you may encounter Barbary macaques. Stop for lunch in Midelt, a tranquil town surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Spend the night in a cozy hotel in Midelt.

  2. 2

    Day 2Midelt to Erfoud and Merzouga

    About 270 km · about 4 h driving

    Continue your journey south through the dramatic Ziz Valley, famous for its lush palm groves. Arrive in Erfoud, renowned for its fossil workshops, and continue to Merzouga. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner and stay in a comfortable riad near the desert.

  3. 3

    Day 3Merzouga and Erg Chebbi Dunes

    Spend the day exploring the desert landscapes around Merzouga. Visit the Khamlia village, home to Gnaoua musicians, and learn about their rich traditions. Later, embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, arriving at a luxury desert camp for a magical night under the stars with traditional music and delicious Moroccan cuisine.

  4. 4

    Day 4Merzouga to Todra Gorge

    About 215 km · about 3 h 30 min driving

    Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes before returning to Merzouga by camel. After breakfast, travel to the Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon with towering cliffs. Enjoy a guided walk along the river and take in the natural beauty of this serene area. Spend the night in a charming riad near the gorge.

  5. 5

    Day 5Todra Gorge to Dades Valley and Skoura

    About 170 km · about 3 h driving

    Journey through the Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations and ancient kasbahs. Stop at the "Monkey Fingers" rock formation and take a short hike to explore the surrounding landscapes. Continue to Skoura, a picturesque oasis dotted with palm groves and historic kasbahs. Spend the night in a traditional riad in Skoura.

  6. 6

    Day 6Skoura to Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou

    About 70 km · about 1 h 30 min driving

    Visit the iconic Amridil Kasbah in Skoura before heading to Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Morocco." Explore the Taourirt Kasbah and visit the Atlas Film Studios. Later, discover the UNESCO-listed Aït Benhaddou, a fortified village and filming location for many famous movies. Spend the night in a riad near Aït Benhaddou.

  7. 7

    Day 7Aït Benhaddou to Marrakech via High Atlas Mountains

    About 185 km · about 3 h 30 min driving

    Conclude your journey with a drive through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. Enjoy stunning views, scenic stops, and traditional Berber villages along the way. Arrive in Marrakech by evening, where your adventure ends with drop-off at your accommodation.

Good to know

  • This day-by-day plan is a starting template and can be adjusted to your dates, interests and pace.
  • Some days involve long drives. We talk through the pacing with you before you decide.
  • Desert nights can be cold in winter and very hot in summer. We advise on timing when we plan your dates.
  • Prices, accommodation and inclusions are agreed in your tailored proposal.

Questions

Is this itinerary fixed?

No. It's a starting point. We adjust the route, length, pace and experiences to suit your dates and interests before anything is proposed.

Does sending an enquiry confirm a booking?

No. An enquiry starts a conversation. Nothing is reserved or charged until you've reviewed a tailored proposal and chosen to confirm.

What do prices and inclusions look like?

They depend on your dates, group size and choices, so they're set out in your proposal rather than listed here.

Similar journeys

Make this journey yours

Share your dates and ideas. We’ll shape the route around them.