8 Days Tour from Fes to Marrakech
Morocco is a land of mesmerizing landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. An 8-day tour from Fes to Marrakech offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the best of this fascinating country. From ancient medinas to the breathtaking Sahara Desert, this tour combines adventure, history, and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival in Fes – Exploring the Cultural Capital
Upon arriving in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart, our team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your riad. Fes is home to one of the world’s best-preserved medieval cities, the Fes el-Bali Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This labyrinth of over 9,000 alleyways is alive with bustling souks, historic mosques, and stunning madrasas.
Highlights of the day include:
Visiting Al Quaraouiyine University, the world’s oldest existing university.
Exploring the Bou Inania Madrasa, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture.
Walking through the vibrant tanneries of Fes, where leather is dyed using centuries-old techniques.
Day 2: Fes to Ifrane and Midelt – The Switzerland of Morocco
After breakfast, we leave Fes and head to Ifrane, a charming town known for its European-style architecture and pristine streets, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Along the way, we pass through the Cedar Forests of Azrou, where you can spot playful Barbary macaques.
Our journey continues to Midelt, a peaceful town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. Known for its scenic landscapes and fresh mountain air, Midelt is the perfect stop to rest before venturing further toward the Sahara.
Day 3: Midelt to Merzouga – Gateway to the Sahara
Our journey continues through the dramatic Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves and stunning rock formations. Arriving in Merzouga, we prepare for an unforgettable experience: a camel trek into the Sahara Desert.
As the sun sets over the dunes of Erg Chebbi, you’ll ride your camel to a desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under a sky full of stars. The night is spent in a comfortable desert tent, with the sounds of the desert creating a serene atmosphere.
Day 4: Exploring the Sahara – Nomadic Life and Gnawa Culture
Waking up early, you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes before enjoying breakfast. Today, we explore the Sahara region, visiting a Nomadic Berber family to learn about their ancient way of life.
Next, we visit Khamlia, a village known for its Gnawa music, a mesmerizing blend of African and Berber rhythms. After a relaxing afternoon, we return to Merzouga, where you can opt for activities like quad biking or sandboarding on the dunes.
Day 5: Merzouga to Todra Gorge and Dades Valley
Leaving the Sahara behind, we drive through the Rissani Market, a bustling traditional market where locals trade everything from spices to livestock. Continuing towards Todra Gorge, we find ourselves surrounded by towering 300-meter cliffs, a paradise for rock climbers and nature lovers.
By late afternoon, we arrive in the Dades Valley, also known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” The night is spent in a charming guesthouse overlooking the valley.
Day 6: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate via the Rose Valley
Our journey continues through the scenic Rose Valley, famous for its annual Rose Festival and its fragrant damask roses. We then head towards Skoura, home to the beautiful Kasbah Amridil.
Arriving in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” we visit the Atlas Film Studios, where movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed. The day ends with a visit to the stunning Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed kasbah that has stood for centuries.
Day 7: Ouarzazate to Marrakech via the High Atlas Mountains
Crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), we marvel at the breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we stop at a traditional Berber village to learn about the local lifestyle.
By late afternoon, we reach Marrakech, the “Red City.” Here, we explore the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, a lively hub filled with street performers, snake charmers, and food vendors.
Day 8: Exploring Marrakech – The Jewel of Morocco
Our final day is dedicated to discovering Marrakech’s highlights:
- Bahia Palace – A stunning 19th-century palace with intricate tilework.
- Koutoubia Mosque – The city’s iconic mosque, visible from miles away.
- Majorelle Garden – A peaceful oasis created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle.
- Souks of Marrakech – A labyrinth of stalls selling handicrafts, spices, and textiles.
In the evening, we conclude our unforgettable 8-day tour from Fes to Marrakech, taking with us memories of a lifetime.