This desert journey will take you through a diverse array of natural wonders and historical landmarks. Starting from Marrakech, you’ll pass through the enchanting Ait Benhaddou, with its ancient earthen architecture that feels like stepping back in time. Be awed by the majestic landscapes of the Dades Gorge, experiencing the raw beauty of nature. Explore the Todra Gorge, marvel at its towering rock formations, and savor the unique charm of Erfoud on the edge of the desert. Arrive in the Merzouga Sahara Desert and immerse yourself in its vastness and tranquility. After leaving the desert, travel through the picturesque town of Ifrane, and finally reach Fes, where you can delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of this ancient city.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Marrakech - Ait Ben Haddou - Dades Gorge
Day 2: Dades Gorge – Todra Gorge - Erfoud - Merzouga Sahara Desert
Day 3: Merzouga Sahara Desert - Ifrane - Fes
Itinerary Map
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech - Ait Ben Haddou - Dades Gorge
Depart in the morning to explore the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its stunning architecture. Continue your journey to Dades Gorge, where you'll enjoy dinner at your hotel before settling in for the night.
Distance
Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou: Approx. 185 km, around 4 hours by car;
Ait Ben Haddou to Dades Gorge: Approx. 168 km, around 2.5 hours by car.
Attraction: Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
Ait Ben Haddou is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning earthen architecture and historic kasbahs. This ancient fortified village has served as a key trading post along the caravan route and is renowned for its appearance in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Its unique landscape and well-preserved structures provide a captivating glimpse into traditional Moroccan culture.
Attraction: Dades Gorge
Dades Gorge, located in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco, is a dramatic and scenic valley carved by the Dades River over centuries. The gorge is renowned for its towering rock formations, steep cliffs, and winding roads, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers. The landscape is characterized by vibrant red and orange hues, contrasting with lush green oases that dot the valley floor. Dades Gorge is also home to traditional Berber villages, where visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. The combination of natural beauty and cultural immersion makes Dades Gorge a must-visit destination on any Moroccan itinerary.
Overnight at a hotel in Dades Gorge.
Day 2: Dades Gorge – Todra Gorge - Erfoud - Merzouga Sahara Desert
In the morning, we'll set off for the breathtaking Todra Gorge, where you'll have the chance to explore its dramatic cliffs and stunning landscapes. From there, we'll continue our journey to Merzouga, with a stop in Erfoud—a charming town often called the gateway to the Sahara. Upon arriving in Merzouga, you can choose to ride camels or take a 4x4 vehicle to fully immerse yourself in the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert.
Distance
Dades Gorge to Todra Gorge: Approx. 85 km, around 2 hours by car;
Todra Gorge to Erfoud: Approx. 155 km, around 2.5 hours by car.
Erfoud to Merzouga: Approx. 55 km, around 1 hour by car.
Attraction: Todra Gorge
Todra Gorge is one of Morocco's most spectacular natural sights. This massive fault divides the High Atlas Mountains from the Jebel Sarhro range, with two towering cliffs over 300 meters (958 feet) high separated by a narrow corridor just 20 meters (66 feet) wide.
Attraction: Erfoud
Known for its date palms and fossil-rich terrain, Erfoud offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. While here, you can explore local markets, visit fossil workshops, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Afterward, we'll continue our journey, eventually dropping you off in Fes, where you can begin your self-guided tour of this ancient and vibrant city.
Attraction: The Sahara Desert
We’ll arrive in Merzouga before sunset. You can either ride camels or take a 4x4 vehicle deep into the Sahara Desert to watch the sunset over the towering dunes. These magnificent dunes change colour throughout the day, shifting from pink to gold, and from red to white. In the evening, enjoy an authentic Berber dinner accompanied by a performance from local Berber musicians.
Possible Activities in the Desert (Additional Cost)
① Motor sports in the desert (ATV or 4×4);
② Sandboard;
③ Visiting Berber (Amazigh) village;
④ Whole Roast Lamb Tasting;
⑤ Astronomy night.
Attraction: You'll spend a romantic night in a luxurious tent under a star-studded sky.
Day 3: Merzouga Sahara Desert – Ifrane - Fes
In the morning, we'll begin with a sunrise over the Sahara Desert before heading to the imperial city of Fes. Enjoy scenic views of the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, a stop at Morocco's largest cedar forest to see Barbary macaques, and a glimpse of the charming French-style town of Ifrane before arriving in Fes.
Distance
Merzouga to Ifrane: Approx. 425 km, around 7 hours by car;
Ifrane to Fes: Approx. 65 km, around 1.5 hours by car.
Attraction: Cèdre Gouraud Forest
Cèdre Gouraud Forest is Morocco's largest cedar forest, celebrated for its dense, ancient cedar trees and picturesque landscapes. It also hosts Barbary macaques, one of the few primate species native to Africa outside the rainforest. Observing these playful and curious macaques offers a unique glimpse into the wildlife of the Atlas region. (Please remember not to touch or play with the macaques to ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and yourself.)
Attraction: Ifrane Town
Ifrane is a charming town in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco, often referred to as "Little Switzerland" due to its alpine-style architecture and clean, picturesque streets. Known for its pleasant climate and beautiful surroundings, Ifrane boasts lush gardens, well-maintained parks, and a distinctive blend of European and Moroccan influences. It is also home to a ski field, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The town’s serene atmosphere and outdoor activities, including skiing and hiking, add to its appeal.
Destination: Fes
We will drop you off in Fes, where you can begin your self-guided tour of this ancient city.
Additional Information
Included with Your Excursion
Private transportation in Morocco, including vehicle, driver accommodation, fuel, tolls, and parking fees.
Accommodation in boutique hotels/tents.
Camel trekking.
Breakfast and dinner at luxury desert camps and Dades Gorge hotels.
Excluded with Your Excursion
Drinks, Lunch (approximately €10 per person per meal) and other snacks.
Driver's gratuity (€5 per person per day).
Enhancement Options (Additional Cost)
National guide fluent in English, Mandarin, or Cantonese.;
Local official guide / historian of the cities.
Important Notice
Please note that the itinerary provided is simply a suggestion. If it doesn’t match your preferences, please feel free to contact us. We can create a customized itinerary tailored to your specific needs and the length of your stay. Our services include personalized tours and trips throughout Morocco.
Pricing varies according to the number of participants—the more people who join, the lower the cost per person. Since transportation costs are fixed, they will be divided among the participants. Pricing also depends on the quality of accommodations. Please contact us for an exact quote.
