10-Day Morocco Desert Tour from Fes

Day 1: Arrival into Ancient Fes

Welcome to Morocco! Your journey begins as you are greeted at the airport and transferred to your traditional Riad. Later, meet your guide to unlock the mysteries of this imperial city. Your exploration delves into the sprawling, UNESCO-listed medina, entering through the famed Blue Gate. Discover architectural treasures including the Medrasa Bouanania, the historic Najjarine Fountain, and the vibrant tanneries. The day culminates with a visit to a hilltop fortress, offering spectacular panoramic views over the entire city.

Day 2: Fes – Alpine Towns & Camel Trek to the Dunes

After breakfast, we venture south towards the Sahara Desert. Our scenic route winds through Ifrane, a charming alpine-inspired town, and into the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains, where you can encounter playful Barbary macaques. We continue through the breathtaking Ziz Valley, a vast ribbon of palm groves, before reaching the edge of the golden dunes. Here, you will trade the vehicle for a camel and embark on a peaceful trek across the sands to witness a magnificent desert sunset. You’ll arrive at your luxury desert camp for a night under the stars.

Day 3: Sahara Sunrise & Nomadic Encounters

Awake early for a breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara. Following breakfast, embark on a 4×4 exploration of the region. Today’s adventure is a journey into desert culture: share mint tea with a nomadic family in their traditional tent, visit the village of Khamlia for a powerful performance of Gnaoua music, and see the seasonal Lake of Merzouga, a haven for migratory birds. You will spend the night in a comfortable local hotel.

Day 4: Desert – Gorges & Rock Formations of Dades

Leaving the desert behind, our first stop is the historic town of Rissani to experience its lively traditional market. We then continue to Erfoud, renowned for its fossil workshops. The journey leads us to the spectacular Todra Gorge, where you can walk between its towering 300-meter-high canyon walls. From there, we proceed to the Dades Valley, marveling at the unique “monkey fingers” rock formations before checking into your hotel for the evening.

Day 5: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

Today’s journey travels through the fragrant Valley of Roses. We continue to Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert, and on to the day’s highlight: the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Ben Haddou. After exploring this iconic fortified village, we embark on the dramatic drive over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-N-Tichka pass, arriving in the vibrant “Red City” of Marrakech in the evening.

Day 6: Discovering the Red City of Marrakech

Immerse yourself in Marrakech with a full-day guided tour. Discover the opulent Bahia Palace, the historic Saadian Tombs, and the labyrinthine alleys of the city’s largest souk. After time for lunch near the bustling Jemaa El-Fna square, you’ll visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque and the serene Majorelle Garden. Your evening is free to experience the magic of Jemaa El-Fna as it transforms with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls.

Day 7: Marrakech – Argan Trees – Coastal Essaouira

A morning drive takes you west to the charming coastal city of Essaouira. En route, we’ll stop to see the famous Argan trees, often with goats perched in their branches. Upon arrival, explore the historic sea ramparts, the bustling fishing port, and the art-filled alleys of the UNESCO-listed medina. Soak in the fresh sea breeze and relaxed atmosphere of this beautiful port town.

Day 8: Essaouira – Casablanca – Capital Rabat

After breakfast, we travel north along the scenic Atlantic coast to Casablanca, Morocco’s economic hub. Here, you will visit the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque, a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. After a stop at the city’s vibrant seaside corniche, the journey continues to Rabat, the nation’s capital, where you will check in for the night.

Day 9: Rabat – Rif Mountains – Blue Pearl Chefchaouen

Your day begins with a tour of Rabat’s key landmarks, including the historic Hassan Tower, the elegant Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas. Afterwards, we travel north into the Rif Mountains to reach Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl of Morocco.” Spend the afternoon wandering its enchanting, blue-washed streets and alleys.

Day 10: Chefchaouen – Departure from Tangier

Enjoy a final morning in Chefchaouen, perhaps for some last-minute photos or souvenir shopping. Later, a scenic drive through the Rif Mountains will take you to Tangier for your transfer to the airport, marking the end of your unforgettable Moroccan adventure.