8 days tour from Fes to desert and Chefchaouen

Your tour begins with a scenic drive from Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters. Along the way, you’ll pass Berber villages nestled into the mountainsides. Stop at the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the backdrop for many films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After exploring its maze of clay buildings, continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” where you can visit the Taourirt Kasbah or Atlas Film Studios. Drive through the picturesque Valley of Roses before reaching the dramatic landscapes of Dades Valley, where you’ll spend the night in a cozy guesthouse overlooking the gorge.

After breakfast, travel deeper into the south through the winding Dades Gorge, with its striking rock formations and traditional kasbahs. Continue toward the towering Todra Gorge, a paradise for climbers and hikers, where you can take a short walk through its narrow, steep-sided canyon. After lunch, head to the edge of the Sahara Desert, passing palm-filled valleys and oases. Arrive in Merzouga, where a camel caravan awaits to take you across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi just before sunset. Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner and music under a sky full of stars at your desert camp.

Wake early to watch the sunrise over the dunes—a magical experience. After breakfast, set off on a 4×4 desert tour. Visit Khamlia village, home to Gnawa musicians, and listen to their soulful rhythms. Continue to meet nomadic families living in the desert, and explore fossil sites or the black volcanic desert. If the season allows, you might also visit Dayet Srij Lake, a peaceful spot that attracts migratory birds, including flamingos. Return to Merzouga for a relaxing evening at a local guesthouse or hotel, with time to enjoy the peaceful silence of the desert.

Leave the Sahara behind and begin the journey north through the Ziz Valley, famous for its vast palm groves and ancient irrigation systems. Pass through the town of Errachidia and then climb into the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Midelt for lunch—a town nestled between two mountain ranges. Continue through cedar forests near Azrou, where you might spot wild Barbary macaques. Later, pass through the alpine town of Ifrane, known for its Swiss-like architecture and clean streets. Arrive in Fes by evening, where you’ll check into your riad inside or near the old medina.

Spend the day discovering the rich history and culture of Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city. Begin in Fes el-Bali, a maze-like medina filled with narrow lanes, artisan workshops, and ancient madrassas. Visit the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University (the oldest university in the world), the Chouara Tanneries, and beautiful Medersa Bou Inania. Take in the sounds and scents of the souks, with spices, leather, and metalwork all around. In the afternoon, head to Fes el-Jdid to see the Royal Palace gates and the Jewish Quarter (Mellah). End the day with a panoramic view of the city from Borj Nord or a rooftop café.

After breakfast, depart Fes and make your way to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, home to well-preserved mosaics and crumbling columns surrounded by olive groves. Continue to Meknes, a quieter imperial city where you can visit Bab Mansour, Heri es-Souani, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. From Meknes, enjoy a scenic drive through the Rif Mountains, passing farms, forests, and terraced hillsides. Arrive in Chefchaouen, the charming blue-painted mountain town, in the late afternoon. Settle into your riad and begin soaking in the peaceful vibe of this artistic little haven.

Spend a relaxed day exploring the tranquil medina of Chefchaouen, famous for its vibrant blue walls, doors, and stairways. Visit the Kasbah Museum in the main square, stroll through artisan shops selling woven textiles, soaps, and jewelry, or simply enjoy the slow pace of life. Hike up to the Spanish Mosque, which sits on a hill overlooking the town, perfect for panoramic views during sunrise or sunset. Have lunch at a terrace café and enjoy your final full day of sightseeing in one of Morocco’s most photogenic and peaceful cities.

On your final day, begin the long but scenic drive back to Marrakech, approximately 7–8 hours. You’ll retrace your way through the Rif Mountains and the Moroccan countryside, with stops along the way for coffee or lunch. As you approach Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening, you can reflect on your incredible journey—from ancient cities and Roman ruins to sweeping desert dunes and mountain medinas. Upon arrival, your driver will drop you off at your hotel or directly at the Marrakech airport (RAK), depending on your departure plans.