The Ultimate 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains Adventure
Tour Type
- Private tour for any group size
Languages Support
From
Duration
Overview
In the case you need the ultimate, in-depth adventure of linking the cinematic south of Morocco and the ancient north, then the 6 Days Ouarzazate Fes Desert and Atlas Mountains route is the answer. This itinerary is a professional plan that can turn an ordinary drive into an epic Trip To Morocco, harmoniously combining the bare nature of the Sahara with the richness of the Imperial Cities. There is no need to hurry sightseeing; it is a lavish, professionally guided adventure that is meant to suit the need of the best Morocco Tours.
I created this very trip to spend the maximum of time in such amazing desert scenes as Dunes of Erg Chebbi with the elements of the beautiful majesty of the High Atlas. This one-way trip is six days and one way and the reasonable upgrade to people who feel fed up with the usual tours back and forth to Marrakech and have a one-of-a-kind experience that will make them finish their search of the ideal Morocco Custom Tours.
Overview of the 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains
It is a special six day trip, which is dedicated to the movie scenery of the southern High Atlas and then to the golden desert of the Sahara and the ancient city of Fes. As such, the adventure start point is Ouarzazate, the point of entry to the desert. Then we pass the beautiful Dades and Todra Gorges, with their sheer faces on the rock, and their green oases.
The trip will be centered on the two night stay at a remote camp in the Dunes of Erg Chebbi which offers the ultimate Morocco Desert Tour. Having explored the Saharan desert solitude, we go north, through the cedar-trees and high mountain towns, such as Midelt and Ifrane, and finally to the ancient and winding labyrinth of the medina of Fes. It is a hassle-free tour of the varied landscape of Morocco.
Discover the magic of this kingdom with our best tours:2-days-to-zagora-from-marrakesh , 3-days-desert-tour-from-marrakesh-to-merzouga and 4-days-desert-tour-from-marrakech .
Highlights of the 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains
- Explore the ancient mud-brick ksar Aït Benhaddou.
- Hike through the stunning, massive Todra Gorge.
- Ride camels across the massive, high Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Sleep under a billion stars at a luxury desert camp.
- Feel the silence deep within the Sahara Desert.
- Drive the scenic, beautiful Middle Atlas cedar forest.
- Discover the alpine charm of the town Ifrane.
- Arrive relaxed in the ancient, northern city of Fes.
Day 1: Ouarzazate – Skoura – Dades Valley – Todra Gorges (The 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains)
Our conclusive Morocco Desert Trip begins early in Ouarzazate commonly known as the Hollywood of Africa. The first stop will be the popular Ait Benhaddou an actor ksar place of UNESCO world heritage. You have to pass through the narrow and winding streets of the village, reach the top of the village to see the fantastic panoramic views of the palm grove surrounding it.
The highway goes on to the Skoura palm grove where are beautiful, well-preserved Kasbahs mixed with the green date palms. We are then driven into the valley of the Dades, so called valley of 1000 Kasbahs, and finally, to the stunning Todra Gorges. As I entered the Todra Gorges in the middle of the morning, the massive walls of the canyon, 300 meters tall, made me feel very tiny and emphasize the grandeur of natural beauty of the Trip To Morocco.
Day 2 Todra Gorges -Erfoud- Rissani -Erg Chebbi (The 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains)
The Morocco Desert Tours is indeed a journey that starts and ends in the golden sands of the Sahara as we drive there today. We pass through numerous different towns such as Erfoud with its ancient fossils and Rissani, the historical cradle of the ruling Alaouite dynasty of Morocco. You will observe that the scenery gradually shifts to rocky plains to the beginning of the huge dunes.
The Marrakech desert tour is best at the end of the afternoon, as we reach the foundation of the Dunes of Erg Chebbi. It is then that we get to know our beloved camel guide and begin the memorable camel ride which gradually goes over the sand ridges to our solitary camp. As the sun began to descend behind the dunes, and the sand took on the rich orange and violet hues, I sensed the surges of utter calm, and came to know the magic of the special Luxury Trip To Morocco.
Day 3: Exploring Erg Chebbi & Nomad Life (The 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains)
These Morocco Desert Tours must include the highlight of waking early and climbing a nearby dune to have the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara. Our day of exploration of the area spans the whole day following a big Berber breakfast, which is a more in-depth and fulfilling experience than ordinary Desert Trips Morocco. Also, we navigate through the edges of the dunes using our 4×4 getting to main local locations.
This special Morocco Desert Tour day will entail a visit to the Gnawa village of Khamlia where you can listen to the hypnotic, spiritual music and experience the potent Berber beat. We also take a tea break with a nomadic family that is living in a traditional tent, as we get a personal and real insight into their eternal lifestyle. Moreover, the slowness and exclusivity of these Trips In Morocco is what makes it much more rewarding than a frenzied itinerary.
Day 4: Erg Chebbi -Ziz Valley- Midatel- Atlas Mountain (The 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains)
We are leaving the Sahara to-day with new impressions of the great dunes, and are moving north to the mountains. We pass along the fantastic Ziz Valley, an immense green avenue of date palms that appear inconceivably alive on the desert terrain. Moreover, thence we pass through the Tizi nTalghemt pass into the Middle Atlas.
Our lunch break is in the small town of Midelt which boasts of apple orchards and powerful mountain air. As we ascend further up the mountains on our Atlas Mountains Tour the temperature drops and feels much cleaner. Also, the rugged and serene sceneries of the Middle Atlas are a wonderful, silent contrast of the expansive and open silence of the sand dunes we had left earlier on this wonderful 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains adventure.
Day 5: Middle Atlas – Cedar Forest – Ifrane – Fes (The 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains)
On our way we pass the Middle Atlas, and arrive at the ancient cedar forest in the neighborhood of Azrou. Also, here are the giant, sweet-smelling cedar trees and you frequently see the gay Barbary monkeys floating carelessly back and forth amongst the high trees. Moreover, the fresh scent of cedar and pine, when I stood in association with those big trees, was something refreshing, and did cleanse out the desert dust fully and made me feel alive.
Then we can see the unusual and beautiful town of Ifrane that has been called Little Switzerland due to its specific alpine style and clean streets. Also, ifrane is one of the unexpected sights you see in the 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains route by contrast with the old Moroccan towns that you have been exploring. Moreover, a last drive transports us out of the mountains and straight into the old and busy Imperial City of Fes, so to speak setting us in the mood of a drastic shift in mood.
Day 6: Exploration and Departure of Fes Medina (The 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains)
Five days of breathtaking sceneries and open roads are followed by the last day when we visit the legendary Fes medina. Your professional local guide takes you on a tour of the mazing streets and unveils the secrets of the mazes. Also, the cultural center of Morocco is Fes, which boasts of leather tanneries, zellige tile work and ancient architecture.
The 6 Days Ouarzazate to Fes via Desert and Atlas Mountains tour ends with a tasty final lunch, and the reflection of this expansive gorgeous nation you have experienced, the high Atlas mountains to the wide Sahara sands. Then, your personal transportation to Morocco Desert Trips then transports you to Fes airport or your next destination, and the amazing world is completed. This is a successful Marrakech Desert Tours that completes an amazing trip.
Included
- Private 4×4 transport
- Expert local driver
- Gourmet daily breakfast
- Dinner in desert
- Camel trek included
- Luxury camp stay
- Guided city tour
- All accommodations
Excluded
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees
- Tips for guides
- Personal spending
Tour Plan
Day 1: Pick up from Airport / Casablanca
Your 10 days tour from Casablanca will start as you arrive at Casablanca Airport, our driver/guide will meet you and picks you up from Airport to the hotel to start enjoying Moroccan tour detecting the energy of Casablanca. If your arrival is in the morning, the tour starts with a visit of the Hassan II Mosque, which is a piece of art of Moroccan architecture and stands on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.
In the later part of the afternoon, a walk through the Ain Diab Beach is very relaxing, allowing the visitor to be embracing the seaside perspective of Casablanca. As for the visitors who are going to arrive in the afternoon, the visit of the mosque and the beach are set for the next day for you not to lose on those sightseeing before continuing the trip to Rabat. Spend some of your time in Casablanca for a comfortable night’s stay before proceeding to the next part of the Moroccan tour.
Day 2: Casablanca → Rabat → Chefchaouen
For the second day of your Morocco itinerary 10 days, After taking the breakfast, organize for a road trip from Rabat to Chefchaouen passing through different terrains and other places of interest. Start with a brief tour of Rabat; tour starts from the royal palace which gives a sneak view of the Moroccan Palace Arrest and the importance of the Moroccan King. Precede with your discovery to the wonderful Kasbah des Oudayas, which majestically overlooks the Atlantic Ocean giving you a view of the ocean and a taste of Morocco historical and cultural past. Next is a stop at the Hassan Tower –a minaret with the uncompleted towering glory of the 12th century. Starting from Rabat travel through the farming land of Knitra and El Ghareb with beautiful mountainaneous views of cedar, oak and almond trees. Take a break in Ouazzane to wonder the numerous and significant features of the country’s countryside before getting to Chefchaouen, a city visitors know as the “Blue City“.
Furthermore, take a fascinating stroll in the medina where out of Hammam square local craftsmen offer souvenirs, woven mats, and some piquant sweets. Savour the goat’s cheese that is produced by shepherds from the surrounding area and is famous all over Chefchaouen. The Kasbah is a cultural institution which contains an ethnographic display, and is also possible seating for a tasty dinner viewing the picturesque district of this peaceful city. The night stay in Chefchaouen is guaranteed to be peaceful due to the warm reception by the people and stunning views.
Day 3: Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Meknes → Fes
After breakfast, Descend from the hills and travel south through the centre of the peninsula towards
the World Heritage site of Volubilis. The remains of this Roman city make an undeniably impressive
sight as they come into view on the edge of a long, high plateau. Take a tour around the arches,
basilicas, and superb mosaics along the Documents Maximums, many of which remain intact The
reward for walking in the sun lies .your next stop at Meknes city visit the massive ramparts and king
mouly ismael mosque and stables built to accommodate 12 000 horses and bab mansour (very old gate
) , continue to fes for overnight .
Note : Meknes is not sure you will visit it because all attractions are close at the moment for
constrictions ,but it depend on the date you take the tour if its open again or not yet.
Day 4: Guided Tour of Fes
With our professional guide you’ll have a wonderful day , he will take you to the most tourist places in
Fes city , there is many historical sites to explore ; such as “Karaouine university” (the acient one in
the wolrd) and “Medrassa bouanania”, souk , panoramic view on “ Idriss 2 corner” , bab boujloud ; the
UNESCO site of world culture , acient Fes fences ,Attarin school , Norte tower ,Annajarin, dar bathaa,
leather tanners , and ceramic factory, in addition to visit the royal palace ,and the Jewish quarter (el
mellah) , during the visit of the city you’ll have a lunch time in local restaurant , with our guide you’ll
never forget this tour , then after you finish your tour, return to the hotel /riad.
Day 5: Fes → Ifrane → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Erfoud → Merzouga
This day we will meet different colors of the kingdom by leaving the old Moroccan city of Fes. We
will pass through the most modern and clean city in the country Ifran. This Berber name of Ifran
means caves and it is nicknamed in Morocco as a little Switzerland since it is a very green town and is
a ski resort in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco because of its high altitude at 1665 meters. Ifran is
very known as well by The Brotherhood private university, established in 1997 by the king of
Morocco Hassan II and the king of Saudi Arabia Fahd. Where all classes are taught in English, it is an
international university. Lunch will be scheduled in a Berber village called Zaida ,then to Midelt
which is situated on the foothills of the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains. From vast plateau
we start crossing up those tough mountains which are still settled by a big Berber community. The
landscapes here includes palm tree oases at Jbel Ayachi (at 3747 m) before driving down the curves
and join the pre-Saharan zone passing first by Errachidia and Erfoud, which is famous for its pottery
and the interesting fossil quarries. Fossils are a major industry in Erfoud, some 350 million years ago
the region around Erfoud was a part of the huge ocean. Heading up to the red colored sand sea dunes
of Erg Chebbi , From a vast plateau you will get impressed by the huge sand dune of Merzouga
appearing from the horizon. Camel ride enjoy a special dinner and a lifetime Night in a very nice
Desert Camp
Day 6: Sahara Desert → Rissani → Todra Valley → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley → Skoura Palm Oasis
Our first Visit today is Errisani town; where the Mausoleum of the founder of the Alaouite Dynasty of
Morocco, Moulay Ali Chrif in the 17th century. This silent town was the ancient capital of Tafilalet
and its location as a crossroads between north and south brought the city to an important status of a
former major caravan centre. Up to now Rissani remains a major commercial centre in the region, 127
km from Errisani the great canyons of Morocco Todgha Gorges are situated beyond the central high
Atlas Mountains. Here, the contrasting landscapes remind visitors of the Colorado, with its high
plateau, its gorges and great canyons, and its peaks sometimes splintered by erosion. Several peaks in
this area exceed 4000 m, with Jbel Saghro 2500 m and Jbel Mgoun at 4068 m being the highest peak
in this part of the High Atlas. The area is populated by Berbers. Here you can enjoy a hike or a walk
among those fabulous canyons,then From the great canyons of Todgha we go to reach Dades Valley
with the green colours of its Alfalfa plants, olive trees, fig trees and grapes. Continue to Skoura Palm
Oasis for avernight .
Day 7: Skoura Palm Oasis → Ouarzazate → Ait Benhaddou → High Atlas Mountains → Marrakech
We leave Skoura in the morning Getting to Ouarzazate (Hollywood of Africa, Noiselessly town, The
door of the desert), is a city situated in the middle of a bare plateau, south of the High Atlas
Mountains. It is mainly inhabited by Berbers, who constructed many of the prominent kasbahs and
building for which the area is known. One of those building is Taourirt Kasbah diverted in 17th
century (stop for pictures from outside the Kasbah ) .
Why this town is nicknamed as Hollywood of Africa? Simply because it has been noted as a film-
making location, with Morocco’s biggest studios inviting many international film companies to shoot
their movies like: Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Living Daylights (1987), The Last Temptation of
Christ (1988), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Martin Scorsese’s
Kundun (1997) and Babel (2005) ,after Ouarzazate City we will drive about 30 km to reach the
fortified city of Aït Benhaddou, built in the 11th century. Once up on a time this Kasbah was the
former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh. It is situated on a hill along the Ounila River
and has some beautiful examples of Kasbahs, which unfortunately sustain damage during each
rainstorm and windstorms. Most of the town’s inhabitants now live in a more modern village at the
other side of the river; however, around five families are still living within this Kasbah.
Aït Benhaddou Kasbah has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and several films have
been shot there, including Lawrence of Arabia (1962), Time Bandits (1981), The Jewel of the Nile
(1985), Kundun (1997), Gladiator (2000) and Alexander (2004). From this beautiful fortified house we
head west to the city of Marrakech. It is called the “Homeland of God in Berber». Some stops at Atlas
Mountains before you arrive to Marrakesh if still time and you are not tired you go for a little walk at
Jama el Fnaa squire before you arrive to your accommodation, or you check in first then go out. Night
Day 8: Marrakech City Tour
At 10 am in your Hotel/Riad the local guide set off on a morning tour of the old medina, through the
bustling souks that are the lifeblood flowing through the city. Explore tranquil courtyards filled with
the scent of orange blossom, and the many salons and chambers that make up Bahia Palace; This
splendid mansion was built in 1866 for a former slave who rose to power within the government.
Continue to the Marrakech Museum, itself a former palace, which houses a fine collection of
Moroccan art and sculpture. Stop by the Koutoubia Mosque; its famous minaret is the prototype for
others of its kind around the world, including La Giralda in Seville. Also visit Majorel garden or
secret garden and Dar Bacha Misaim Then walk back through the streets of the old medina to the
Jemaa el Fna. Have a break for one hour ,then you start the street food tour .
Day 9: Marrakech → Essaouira → Marrakech
After breakfast at 8:30 am you start the drive from Marrakech to Essaouira ,Essaouira It is a
small seaside town with fortified walls about two and a half hours from Marrakech with a
stop of 30 min for a break and to visit a local Berber ladies cooperative of Argan Oil ,to see
how they make it and have an idea about this magical tree ,and what they can make from it It,
Essaouira is a fascinating town lying on the crossroads between 2 tribes, absolutely
Moroccan, but adding its own cultural mix from further into the south of Africa, as well as
hosting a large Jewish population. is a favourite among visitors and locals alike. There are
constant sea breezes that cool it in summer and keep it temperate it in the winter. It also offers
some of the best kite-surfing in the world.
It’s beautiful beaches, fishing harbour, sea views and amazing mix of architecture, as well as a special
quality of light have given it a flourishing art scene. Any time, a stroll through the exciting medina
and souks to explore See especially the skilful wood-workers dedicated to Argan and juniper
sculpture. You can also enjoy a local specialty of delicious fresh seafood for lunch. then drive back to
Marrakech (overnight in Marrakech
Day 10: Transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca Airport
This marks the end of the 10 days Morocco itinerary where you will be transferred from Marrakech back to Casablanca Airport. This last stage is designed to help you have a trouble-free start, after saying goodbye to the beautiful scenery, active, and culturally diverse Morocco.
Check our extended Morocco Desert tour: 12 Days in Morocco Tour or this 6 Days Tour from Marrakesh to Merzouga Desert
Included
- All kind of transfers and transports according to the given itinerary, airport transfers (arrival and departure). In a modern and private vehicle.
- Accommodation for 9 Nights (standard type of hotels, very nice traditional Riad and conventional Berber tent at the camp in the desert) but we always have option to upgrade to the very luxury accommodation.
- Residential taxes for 9 Nights
- Breakfast x 9
- Dinner x 3 (1 in Fes and others in the south and desert region)
- Camel riding through one of the most magnificent deserts of Africa, the Sahara, and non- cruciform tents accommodation at the Bedouin settlements.
- Official Local guides (fluent in your luggage) for city tours in Fes and Marrakech ,also volibilis .
- Local guides for a walk and Kasbahs and attractions (desrt treeking ,Ait Benhadou Kasba ,Amridel Kasbah.
- Sightseeing by car through breathtaking terrains of mountainous regions, valleys and desert.
Excluded
- Lunches and some dinners in the cities.
- Additional leisure activities, the services and products beyond the package, and personal costs.
- Drinks accept welcoming tea everywhere and water on dinner time
- Tips for the driver and other staff
- Any other services that are not in the above-said itinerary.
