Embark on the Epic Fes Sahara Circuit 10 Days and experience the best of Morocco. From the bustling medina of Fes to the golden dunes of Merzouga, majestic Atlas Mountains, and historic kasbahs, this journey offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and remarkable landscapes. Every day brings new sights, local experiences, and moments that will stay with you forever.
Day 1: Fes → Ifrane → Azrou Cedar Forest → Midelt
Good morning, friends! Our journey begins in Fes, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. As we leave the ancient medina behind, you’ll notice the contrast between the bustling souks and the peaceful open landscapes ahead. Our first stop is Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” a town full of tidy streets, elegant houses, and peaceful gardens. Here, you can stroll around, take photographs at the famous lion statue, and breathe in the crisp mountain air.
We then head to the Azrou Cedar Forest, a serene expanse of towering cedar trees. Keep an eye out for the Barbary macaque monkeys, who often approach visitors playfully. This forest is more than a scenic stop , it’s a glimpse into Morocco’s rich natural heritage. Later, we continue to Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. Here we stop for lunch and enjoy panoramic mountain views. In the evening, we stay in a comfortable hotel, resting for our adventure into the Sahara Desert.
🗓 Day 2: Midelt → Ziz Valley → Errachidia → Merzouga
Today we leave the mountains behind and descend into Ziz Valley, famous for its vast palm groves and centuries-old kasbahs. The valley is alive with history, as the fortified villages tell stories of local life and ancient trade routes. We take a short break in Errachidia, wandering local markets and tasting Moroccan delicacies.
By late afternoon, we arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. The golden dunes stretch endlessly before us, shimmering in the late afternoon light. Riding camels across the dunes to witness the sunset is an unforgettable experience. Afterward, we spend the night in traditional desert tents, sharing a Berber-style dinner and listening to music under a sky full of stars, feeling the tranquility of the desert.
🗓 Day 3: Merzouga → Todra Gorge → Dades Valley
We wake up early to watch the sunrise over Merzouga’s golden dunes, a serene and magical moment. After breakfast, we depart for Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon with towering cliffs that rise hundreds of meters. Walking through this natural wonder, you can feel both the power and calm of nature.
Next, we drive to Dades Valley, known for its dramatic rock formations called the “Monkey Fingers” and winding roads that offer breathtaking photographic opportunities. This valley is not just a passage , it’s a living museum of geology and local Berber culture. We spend the night in a local guesthouse, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the village.
🗓 Day 4: Dades Valley → Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou
After breakfast, we head to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Morocco.” Here, many international films were shot against the backdrop of the desert and mountains. Our visit includes Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its narrow alleys and mud-brick houses, you can imagine the caravans and traders who passed through centuries ago. Overnight stay in Ouarzazate, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this desert city.
🗓 Day 5: Ouarzazate → Tizi n’Tichka → Marrakech
Today we journey over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains. The winding road reveals ever-changing scenery: dramatic mountain peaks, terraced fields, and small Berber villages perched on the slopes. We pause at scenic viewpoints for photography and short walks. By late afternoon, we arrive in Marrakech, the vibrant Red City, filled with bustling markets, colorful streets, and rich cultural experiences.
🗓 Day 6: Marrakech → Ourika Valley → Marrakech
Today is dedicated to exploring the Ourika Valley, located just an hour from Marrakech. Here, the river winds through the valley with small Berber villages dotting the hillsides. We visit local markets, walk to nearby waterfalls, and experience the serene side of the Atlas Mountains. By evening, we return to Marrakech, enjoying the contrast between the quiet valley and the city’s lively energy.
🗓 Day 7: Marrakech → Tamenmasset → Ouarzazate
We leave Marrakech heading east through Tamenmasset, visiting traditional Berber villages along the way. This route gives insight into local life, crafts, and culture. We stop for scenic views and lunch before reaching Ouarzazate again, where we stay overnight, preparing for another day toward the Sahara.
🗓 Day 8: Ouarzazate → Dades Valley → Merzouga
We revisit the route to Merzouga, passing through Dades Valley once more. This day is dedicated to exploring the desert further and immersing ourselves in Saharan landscapes. Evening arrival in Merzouga allows another camel ride into the dunes and a night in traditional desert tents, sharing stories and music under the stars.
Day 9: Merzouga → Errachidia → Midelt
We leave the desert behind, traveling back through Errachidia and Ziz Valley, enjoying the changing scenery as we ascend toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. This day is filled with stops for photos, short walks, and appreciation of Morocco’s diverse landscapes. Overnight stay in Midelt to rest before the final leg of our journey.
Day 10: Midelt → Azrou → Ifrane → Fes
Our final day takes us back to Fes, passing once again through Azrou Cedar Forest and Ifrane. Along the way, we pause for photos, short walks, and to savor the fresh mountain air. Arrival in Fes marks the end of our ten-day adventure .