Arrival in Fez

Fez - Upon arrival at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed at the gate and transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel or Riad in Fez for some relaxation.

Discovering Fez Medina

Fes el-Bali - A knowledgeable guide will meet you at your charming Hotel/Riad to explore the vibrant life of the medieval era and uncover one of the world’s oldest and most beautiful cities. The first stop is the magnificent Royal Palace, renowned for its seven grand brass gates, each adorned with matching knockers and intricate copper carvings. These gates are surrounded by stunning Moroccan tile work, known as Zellige, and cedar wood carvings, exemplifying authentic Moroccan architecture.

The tour continues to “El Mellah,” the first Moroccan Jewish Quarter, where you can experience the unique streets and delightful shops. El Mellah also features a large square offering a variety of entertainment options. Your personal driver will then take you to the enchanting Jnane Sbil Gardens to enjoy the fresh air and admire the captivating Moroccan-style fountains. You’ll also learn about the impressive defensive towers of Fez, gaining insight into the ancient history of the Moroccan army and their traditional weaponry. A lunch break follows.

Afterward, you’ll stroll through the old Medina, entering through the stunning Royal Blue Gate “Bab Boujloud,” which showcases exquisite mosaic tiles and exotic blue tiles on the opposite side. Your multilingual guide will introduce you to the remarkable Madrasas (Islamic Schools), including “Medersa Bouanania” and “Medersa Al-Attarine,” known for their unique designs, elegant Moroccan fountains, and splendid Arab-Moroccan architecture. The journey continues to The University of Al Quaraouiyine, the world’s oldest functioning university, founded in 859 AD by Fatima Al-Fihri.

The tour proceeds to “Mausoleum Moulay Idriss II,” the sacred shrine of Idriss II, the founder of Fez, offering a glimpse into the spiritual Moroccan culture. The next stop is the “Nejjarine Museum” of wooden arts and crafts, where you’ll be amazed by the beautiful Moroccan tiles and incredible handmade items.

After enjoying a delicious traditional Moroccan meal, your guide will take you to the Tanneries of Fez, where you’ll discover “Chouara Tannery,” Africa’s oldest and largest tannery, known for its beautifully crafted leather goods. The final stop is the Merenid Tombs, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the historic old Medina. At the end of the Fez city tour, your driver will return you to your Hotel/Riad, where you’ll spend the night in a lovely traditional setting.

Azrou, Ifrane, Midelt, Ziz Valley, Errachidia, Merzouga

Ifrane - The day begins with a 7:00 AM pickup from your accommodation. The journey includes a visit to Immouzer Kander, a charming Berber tourist town at the source of Morocco’s largest water sources. The trip continues to Ifrane, a picturesque mountain town often referred to as “Little Switzerland,” known for its enchanting landscapes and flowing rivers. Your personal driver will guide you through this captivating town before heading to Azrou.

Azrou - The next stop is Azrou, an ancient Berber town with Africa’s largest cedar forest. Here, you can enjoy free time to explore the lush forest and capture memorable photos.

Midelt - Upon reaching Midelt, a Berber village in the Middle Atlas Mountains, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

Errachidia - As you travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains and head further south, you’ll notice the landscape transition from green and mountainous to arid and desert-like. However, the Ziz River near Errachidia breathes life into the area, creating an oasis of palm trees amidst the red desert. A stop at a panoramic viewpoint over Ziz Valley offers stunning views.

Merzouga - Upon arrival at your hotel in Merzouga, you’ll be greeted with a welcoming tea. The hotel features a pool, and after a delicious dinner, you can relax in the comfort of your accommodation.

Merzouga: Black Volcanic Rocks, Nomad Family, Khamlia Village, Lake Dayt Sraji, Luxury Desert Camp

Merzouga Desert - On the second day, after breakfast at the Auberge, you’ll embark on a 4×4 tour of the dunes, visiting the black volcanic rocks of marble fossils, a nomad family living in a tent, and Khamlia village, known for its spiritual Gnawa music. You’ll also visit Lake Dayte Sarji, which attracts pink flamingos and wildlife in the spring. After a lunch break in Merzouga or Hassi Labied, you’ll explore the canal irrigation system and take a walk through the oasis at the foot of the dunes. Return to your hotel to relax and prepare for a camel ride to enjoy the sunset over the golden dunes. Overnight accommodation is provided in a tent, with dinner under a starry sky and live local music around the campfire.

Merzouga, Rissani, Tinjdad, Todgha Gorges, Dades Valley

Merzouga - Early in the morning, you’ll witness the sunrise in the Merzouga desert before returning to the hotel for a delicious breakfast and shower.

Rissani - The journey continues through Rissani, where you’ll explore the town’s culture and visit Zawiya Moulay Ali Ash-Sharif, established to honor the founder of the Alawite dynasty.

Todgha Gorge - You’ll be captivated by the towering orange cliffs of Todra Gorges, which rise up to 980 feet (300 meters) above the Todra River. Although the river has dried up, the landscape still tells the story of the powerful natural forces that shaped it. A lunch break at a local restaurant follows.

Dades Gorges - The Dades Valley is dotted with oases, palm groves, and elaborate kasbahs. The valley is lush and green, thanks to the Dades River, which originates in the High Atlas Mountains and flows into Morocco’s largest river, the Draa. The valley floor is home to almond, fig, walnut, and birch trees, creating a stunning contrast with the earthen-colored rocky formations. You’ll spend the night in a charming guesthouse along the Dades River.

Dades Gorges, Kelaa Mgouna, Ouarzazate

Dades Gorges - The following morning, enjoy a delightful breakfast before heading to Kelaa M’gouna.

El Kelaa M’gouna - Known as Morocco’s most romantic town, Kelaa M’gouna is an economic and social hub for the region, famous for its “Roses Festival” held annually in May.

Ouarzazate - The journey continues through the Berber village of Skoura, arriving in Ouarzazate in the late evening. You’ll spend the third night in a lovely guesthouse with breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains.

Ouarzazate, Film Studio, Kasbah Taourirt, Ait Ben Haddou, Tizi n’Tichka, Marrakech

Ouarzazate - After a delicious local breakfast, you’ll explore the high walls of Ouarzazate, visiting its vibrant souks and authentic buildings before heading to the impressive Film Studio, where Hollywood masterpieces like Game of Thrones, Gladiator, Babel, and The Jewel of the Nile were filmed. You’ll also visit Kasbah Taourirt, one of Morocco’s most remarkable kasbahs, once a strategic location controlled by the Glaoui for the Saharan Caravan Route to West Africa.

Ait Ben Haddou - Departing Ouarzazate, you’ll head to Ait Ben Haddou, the largest kasbah in Africa. This fortified Ksar (Royal Palace) features impressive buildings and spectacular mud houses, showcasing ancient Arab architecture. You’ll have the opportunity to meet locals and enjoy a delicious Berber meal for lunch.

Tizi n’Tichka - The journey continues through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the winding passes of Tizi n’Tichka, where you’ll admire the stunning mountain views and refreshing breeze.

Marrakech - The final stop is the vibrant city of Marrakech, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel to spend the night.

Departure from Marrakech Airport

Marrakech - In the morning, after breakfast, you’ll be driven to the airport, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel to explore the rich culture and ancient traditions of the Red City.

• Professional Multilingual Driver
• Camel guide
• Private tour in an air-conditioned car
• Dinner
• Tour by 4x4 in desert
• Camel trekking
• Breakfast
• All Accommodation / Hotel/Riad/ Luxury Camp 7 nights
• Private airport transfers in an air-conditioned car
• Hotel pick up and drop-off

Recommended Moroccan Tours presents an 8-day luxury journey to explore the Moroccan Desert, allowing travelers to fully experience the majestic Sahara. Participants will be accompanied by a driver-guide proficient in English, French, or Spanish, traveling in a well-air-conditioned vehicle. The itinerary includes multiple stops to appreciate the charming villages and stunning landscapes. As this is a private tour, there is flexibility with the schedule, allowing stops at any desired location along the route.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.