Day 1: Fez – Ifrane – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert

Your adventure begins with an early departure from the historic city of Fez, heading south through the scenic landscapes of Morocco’s Middle Atlas Mountains. The first stop is Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture and clean, orderly streets. Continue your journey through cedar forests, where you may encounter playful Barbary macaques near Azrou. The route then leads to Midelt, a charming town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas ranges, perfect for a lunch break. As you drive toward the Ziz Valley, you’ll be amazed by the contrast between the lush palm groves and the surrounding desert terrain. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Merzouga, the gateway to the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, you’ll ride camels across the golden sands to your desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under a star-filled sky.

Day 2: Merzouga Desert – Berber Nomads – Khamlia – Merzouga

Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes—a truly magical sight. After breakfast, begin your day exploring the surrounding desert. You’ll visit Berber nomad families, learning about their traditional lifestyle and the challenges of living in the Sahara. Continue to the village of Khamlia, home to people of Sudanese origin known for their captivating Gnawa music. Enjoy a warm welcome, mint tea, and a live performance of this spiritual and rhythmic art form. In the afternoon, explore the nearby desert landscapes, oases, and seasonal lakes that sometimes attract flamingos. As evening falls, return to your camp or riad in Merzouga for dinner and relaxation, surrounded by the tranquility of the desert.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

After breakfast, leave the dunes behind and head toward the Tinghir region, where the dramatic Todra Gorges await. Carved by the Todra River, these towering limestone cliffs—some reaching over 300 meters—create a spectacular natural corridor. You’ll have time to walk through the gorge, admire the stunning scenery, and perhaps watch climbers scale the rock faces. Continue your journey through the fertile Dades Valley, known for its ancient kasbahs, colorful rock formations, and winding roads. In the evening, arrive at your charming hotel or riad nestled in the valley, where you’ll enjoy dinner with a view of the surrounding mountains and river oasis.

Day 4: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Marrakech

After breakfast, set out along the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing traditional Berber villages and oases. The next stop is Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa,” where many famous movies have been filmed. You may visit the Atlas Film Studios or the impressive Taourirt Kasbah. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified village (ksar) that has appeared in films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Explore its narrow alleys and mud-brick architecture before crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass. By evening, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, where your unforgettable desert journey comes to an end.