Marrakech to Fes: Private Adventure with Erg Chebbi

Do you have limited time in Morocco? Fear not! You can still embark on a captivating journey from Marrakech to Fes, encompassing the two most prominent imperial cities, and even spend a night in the Sahara desert. This itinerary is perfectly tailored for travelers arriving in Marrakech and departing from Fes (or vice versa). While it’s possible to complete the journey in two nights and three days, we highly recommend extending your adventure to at least three nights and four days. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the rich experiences and breathtaking sights along the way.

Day 1: Marrakech – Telouet – Ait Benhaddou – Skoura (5-hour drive)

Your remarkable journey from Marrakech to Fes commences with a scenic drive through the High Atlas mountains, ascending to heights of 2200 meters. After cresting the mountain pass, the adventure takes an off-road turn, leading you to the ruins of the Pasha’s palace in Telouet and the intriguing salt mines nearby. As you continue, a dramatic canyon, the Ounila River, accompanies your path, revealing troglodyte grottos in the distance.

A highlight of your day is a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, an ancient citadel renowned for its captivating architecture. Continuing your journey, you’ll skirt through Ouarzazate before reaching the enchanting palm groves of Skoura. As the day draws to a close, you’ll savor dinner and find comfortable accommodation in a charming lodge nestled within the palm groves.

Day 2: Skoura – Dades – Tinerir – Todra – Rissani – Erg Chebbi (5-hour drive)

Begin your day with a guided tour of Skoura’s palm grove, led by a knowledgeable local guide. Gain insights into the architectural wonders of the kasbahs, discover marriage customs, and delve into the vibrant community life. Next, embark on a journey to the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges, with their towering 300-meter-high cliffs.

Along the way, explore a traditional ksar (fortified village) and its captivating “wells of light” in Tinejdad. Continue your adventure to Rissani, where you can stroll through the Jewish district or explore the intriguing ruins of Sijilmassa. Finally, arrive in Merzouga, located at the base of the imposing 300-meter-high Erg Chebbi dunes.

Here, you’ll transition from your 4×4 vehicle to camelback as you journey into the Sahara desert. Your destination is a desert camp, where you’ll arrive just in time to witness a mesmerizing desert sunset. Your evening will be filled with a delicious dinner, and you’ll retire to a comfortable tent complete with ensuite toilets and showers.

Day 3: Erg Chebbi – Sahara Delights Await

Today marks the pinnacle of your captivating 4-day journey from Marrakech to Fes. Rise early to witness the mesmerizing Sahara sunrise, casting a golden glow across the Erg Chebbi dunes. Following this enchanting spectacle, return to your lodge by the dunes for a delightful breakfast.

Your day unfolds with a visit to the Black people’s village, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the nomadic inhabitants of the desert. Share a cup of traditional Moroccan tea with them and take time to explore the ancient rock engravings that tell stories of this timeless land. Later, you can embark on a quest for fossils or pay a visit to the intriguing pre-Islamic tombs scattered throughout the desert.

As the day progresses, return to the enchanting Erg Chebbi for yet another enchanting camel ride across the dunes, leading to a breathtaking desert sunset. Your evening will be adorned with a sumptuous dinner, and you’ll retire to the comfortable accommodations, just like the previous night.

Day 4: Erg Chebbi – Errachidia – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes (7-hour drive)

Awaken to the soft hues of the Sahara sunrise on your final morning in the desert. Today’s journey will be a bit longer as you make your way to the enchanting city of Fes. Along the way, you’ll witness a dramatic shift in landscapes, transitioning from the mesmerizing desert dunes of Erg Chebbi to the lush orchards of Midelt.

Continuing your voyage, you’ll venture into the captivating cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, where mansard roofs and tranquil lakes evoke a sense of European charm. Your route will lead you to Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland,” before reaching the enchanting city of Fes in the early evening.

With the conclusion of this remarkable 4-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes, your journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich culture comes to an end.

P.S.: If you’re interested in experiencing this incredible journey in reverse, be sure to explore our four-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech.