7 Days Imperial Cities and Desert from Fes

Day 1: Fez – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

The Adventure Begins: Departure from Fes city

Your journey begins in Fes city, one of Morocco’s oldest and culturally significant cities. Known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed medieval medina and as a center of Islamic learning, Fez is a city rich in history. After a brief exploration of the city, we head south, crossing the Middle Atlas mountains.

Ifrane: The Switzerland of Morocco

The first stop is Ifrane, a town surprisingly different from the traditional Moroccan aesthetic, famous for its European-style buildings and cool climate. Often called the “Switzerland of Morocco,” Ifrane is known for its well-maintained gardens and peaceful atmosphere.

Cedar Forest and the Barbary Monkeys

From Ifrane, we continue to the Cedar Forest, a perfect spot to admire the majestic cedar trees and spot Barbary macaques, an indigenous species of monkey that inhabits these forests. It’s an excellent opportunity for a short walk in nature and to capture beautiful photos of the landscape.

Ziz Valley: A Journey Towards the Desert

After enjoying the forest, we move on to Ziz Valley, known for its stunning date palms and arid landscapes, which mark the transition between the mountains and the desert. Famous for its oases and abundant palm trees, Ziz Valley is a fascinating place for a brief stop to enjoy the views.

Arrival in Merzouga: The Gateway to the Desert

In the afternoon, we reach Merzouga, a small town on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Here, we embark on a camel ride through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, Morocco’s most famous desert destination. We will spend the night in a camp in the dunes, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner and have the chance to stargaze in the Sahara sky.

Day 2: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Sunrise in the Desert

We start the day early to witness one of the most breathtaking moments of the trip: the sunrise over the Sahara dunes. The interplay of shadows and shifting colors on the dunes is an unforgettable sight.

Rissani: Market and Culture

After breakfast in the camp, we head to Rissani, a historic town known for its vibrant market, where you can find spices, crafts, and local products. Rissani is also the birthplace of the Alawite dynasty, the royal family currently ruling Morocco.

Todra Gorges: Stunning Landscapes

Following Rissani, we travel to Todra Gorges, a stunning canyon with 300-meter-high rock walls. This is an ideal spot for a hike or simply to enjoy the natural beauty of the rock formations.

Dades Valley: An Oasis of Peace

The day ends in Dades Valley, known for its spectacular rock formations, palm groves, and tranquil atmosphere. You’ll have time to explore the valley and enjoy nature at its purest. We will spend the night at a cozy local accommodation.

Day 3: Dades Valley – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate

Ait Benhaddou: A Living Heritage

In the morning, we head to Ait Benhaddou, a fortified ksar and one of Morocco’s most iconic sites. This adobe village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been the backdrop for numerous international films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Walking through the narrow streets of Ait Benhaddou feels like stepping back in time.

Ouarzazate: The Gateway to the Desert

From Ait Benhaddou, we travel to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Ouarzazate is famous for its film studios, where some of Hollywood’s most famous movies have been filmed. Here, you can visit the Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world.

Night in Ouarzazate

In the afternoon, we arrive in Ouarzazate and spend the night in the city, enjoying the local hospitality and delicious Moroccan cuisine.

Day 4: Ouarzazate – Marrakech via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

The Tizi n’Tichka Pass: An Incredible Mountain Landscape

On the fourth day, we head towards Marrakech through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, a mountain pass that crosses the high peaks of the High Atlas. This section offers spectacular views of the mountains and valleys that stretch across Morocco. The landscape constantly changes, with mountain villages and agricultural terraces adding life to the region.

Arrival in Marrakech city

In the afternoon, we arrive in Marrakech, the famous “Red City.” Marrakech is known for its labyrinthine medina, lively souks, and vibrant Jemaa el-Fna Square, a bustling area full of performers, storytellers, and street vendors.

Day 5: Exploring Marrakech

The fifth day is dedicated to exploring Marrakech in depth. We visit iconic landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque, the famous mosque of Marrakech, the Majorelle Gardens, an oasis of color and tranquility, and the Bahia Palace, a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture. Don’t miss a stroll through Jemaa el-Fna Square, the heart of the city.

Day 6 and 7: Discovering More of Marrakech

During the last two days of your trip, you’ll have time to explore more of the city, enjoy its vibrant markets, try delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in Marrakech’s culture. If you love markets, don’t miss the Spice Souk and the Weaver’s Souk, where you can buy local crafts, spices, and Moroccan textiles.

Conclusion

This 7-day tour from Fes city offers the best of Morocco’s imperial cities and the Sahara Desert. From the impressive medina of Fez to the golden dunes of Merzouga and the vibrant Marrakech, this journey takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes and authentic cultural experiences Morocco has to offer. If you’re seeking a unique adventure that combines history, culture, and nature, this itinerary is perfect for you.