4 days from Fez to Marrakech
Overview
The 4-day itinerary from Fez to Marrakech through the Sahara Desert in Merzouga is the best way to experience Morocco in all its splendor. This trip combines mountains, valleys, historic kasbahs, breathtaking gorges, and the unique experience of spending a night under the stars in the desert.
Itinerary
Day 1: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Merzouga
The journey begins early from Fez, one of Morocco’s most fascinating imperial cities.
Ifrane: known as the “Little Switzerland,” it surprises with its clean streets, European-style architecture, and green parks.
Azrou Forest: the perfect place to see Barbary macaques in the wild.
Midelt: famous for its apples, a good stop for rest and lunch.
Ziz Valley: a spectacular palm grove with traditional kasbahs and panoramic views.
Erfoud: land of dates and fossils, gateway to the desert.
In the afternoon we arrive in Merzouga, where camels await us to cross the Erg Chebbi dunes and enjoy the sunset. Overnight in a Berber camp in the desert, with traditional dinner and music around the fire.
Day 2: Merzouga – Khamlia – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
At sunrise, we witness an unforgettable natural spectacle: the sun rising over the dunes. After breakfast, we continue westward.
Khamlia: a small village known for its gnawa music with African roots.
Rissani: a historic town with a lively souk that reflects traditional life.
Todra Gorges: an impressive canyon with rock walls reaching up to 300 meters high, perfect for walking and photography.
Dades Valley: famous for its rock formations called “Monkey Fingers” and its kasbahs surrounded by nature.
Overnight in a riad or typical hotel in the valley.
Day 3: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
This day we follow the famous Road of the Thousand Kasbahs, one of the most beautiful in Morocco.
Valley of Roses: known for its fields of damask roses, which bloom in spring.
Ouarzazate: called the “Gateway to the Desert,” famous for its film studios where movies such as Gladiator and series like Game of Thrones were filmed.
Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou: declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the most impressive and best-preserved kasbahs in Morocco.
Overnight in accommodation near Ait Ben Haddou or in Ouarzazate.
Day 4: Ait Ben Haddou – Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Marrakech
On the last day we cross the High Atlas through the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m).
Enjoy mountain landscapes, Berber villages, and panoramic views.
Photo stops at natural viewpoints.
Arrival in Marrakech, the vibrant red city, where this unforgettable journey comes to an end.
Trip Highlights
Desert experience: camel ride, night in a camp, and sunrise over the dunes.
Diversity of landscapes: from snow-capped mountains to green valleys and golden dunes.
Historical heritage: kasbahs, Berber villages, and historic towns.
Cinematic route: movie and series locations in Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou.
The 4-day itinerary from Fez to Marrakech via the Merzouga desert is a unique opportunity to experience the essence of Morocco on a complete journey. In just a few days, you discover mountains, gorges, fertile valleys, ancient kasbahs, and the vastness of the Sahara. An unforgettable experience for travelers who want to fully embrace Morocco’s culture and nature.