This 4-day desert expedition offers a comprehensive journey from Marrakech to Fes, traversing the High Atlas Mountains, exploring ancient kasbahs and valleys, and providing a deep immersion into the Sahara Desert. It features cultural encounters, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse experiences, culminating in the historic city of Fes.
Your journey begins with a 7:00 AM departure from Marrakech. First, we embark on a scenic drive through the stunning High Atlas Mountains. We will navigate the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass, ascending to an impressive 2,260m. Consequently, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. Additionally, we will stop at an authentic argan oil cooperative for a fascinating glimpse into how Berber women craft this “liquid gold.”
Exploring Cinematic History
In the afternoon, we reach the iconic Ait Ben Haddou. This UNESCO-listed fortified village is a dramatic backdrop for films like “Gladiator.” After exploring its ancient paths, we will enjoy lunch in town. Then, we continue through Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.”
Arrival in the Dades Valley
As evening approaches, we arrive in the captivating Dades Valley. Here, you’ll see unique wind-sculpted rock formations known as “Monkey Fingers.” Finally, the day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in a cozy guesthouse with superb valley views.
After a hearty breakfast, we journey towards the magnificent Todgha Gorge. This natural wonder is a 300m-deep canyon with sheer cliffs, perfect for photography and short hikes. Next, we enjoy a special cultural immersion with a visit to a local Berber family. You’ll be welcomed with traditional mint tea and learn about their enduring way of life.
A Sunset Camel Trek
In the afternoon, we travel to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. Upon arrival, we swap our vehicle for a caravan of camels. This authentic trek is timed perfectly to witness a breathtaking Sahara sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes.
An Evening Under the Stars
As darkness falls, we reach our luxurious desert camp. Subsequently, an unforgettable evening unfolds with a sumptuous traditional dinner. Afterwards, we gather around a campfire for Berber drum music and unparalleled stargazing.
Your day begins with a breathtaking desert sunrise. After breakfast, you’ll embark on an exhilarating 4×4 expedition to explore the diverse landscapes around Merzouga.
Desert Encounters and History
This immersive journey includes a unique opportunity to meet a nomadic Berber family. Furthermore, we will uncover the deserted Mefis mines and feel the rhythms of Gnawa music in Khamlia village. We also visit the serene, seasonal Lake of Birds.
An Afternoon of Relaxation
Following lunch, you check into a comfortable Riad for a well-deserved break. You can relax by the pool or enjoy a quiet stroll on the nearby dunes. For your overnight stay, you can choose the Riad or return to the desert camp for another magical night.
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the desert and journey north towards Fes. Our scenic route leads us through the spectacular Ziz Valley. Therefore, we will pause at a panoramic viewpoint to see its vast “sea of palm groves,” a striking contrast to the desert.
Journey Through the Atlas Mountains
Next, we ascend into the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping for lunch in Midelt. As we continue through ancient cedar forests, keep an eye out for playful Barbary apes. Our final stop is Ifrane, a pristine town known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.”
Finally, we arrive in the historic city of Fes, where your tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation.
At Ibra Travel Tours, we take pride in crafting unforgettable Moroccan experiences. However, if our standard tours don’t perfectly match your dreams—we’ll create one that does!
✉ Simply contact us, share your vision, and we’ll design a custom itinerary tailored to your interests, pace, and budget. Your satisfaction is our priority, and Morocco’s magic should be explored your way.
Reach out anytime—we’re here to make your perfect adventure a reality!
The best time to visit Morocco generally depends on the region you plan to explore. For most of the country, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing in cities like Marrakech and Fes, as well as hiking in the Atlas Mountains. Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot, especially in the desert and inland cities, while winter (November to March) can be cool, with snow in the mountains and occasional rain.
The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). You cannot legally import or export Dirhams, so you’ll need to exchange money upon arrival. ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns, and credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, though cash is preferred for smaller purchases and in souks (markets). It’s a good idea to carry small denominations of Dirhams for tips and street vendors.
Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. For women, this typically means covering shoulders and knees, and avoiding overly revealing clothing. Loose-fitting trousers, long skirts, and tops with sleeves are good choices. Men should also opt for modest attire. In more touristy areas and hotels, dress codes can be more relaxed, but it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
It is generally not recommended to drink tap water in Morocco. While many locals drink it, visitors may be more susceptible to stomach upsets due to different bacteria. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive, and it’s best to use it for drinking, brushing teeth, and even rinsing fruit.
While many Moroccans involved in tourism speak English, knowing a few basic phrases in Moroccan Arabic (Darija) or French can greatly enhance your experience:
My trip to Morocco with Ibra Travel Tours was absolutely incredible from start to finish. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert, every detail was meticulously planned. Our guide, Youssef, was not only incredibly knowledgeable about Moroccan history and culture but also had a fantastic sense of humor, making every moment enjoyable. The accommodations were excellent, and the experiences – like riding camels at sunset and stargazing in the desert – were truly once-in-a-lifetime. If you’re looking for an authentic and seamless Moroccan experience, Ibra Travel Tours is the agency to choose!”
I cannot recommend Ibra Travel Tours enough! As a solo female traveler, safety and reliable organization were my top priorities, and Ibra Travel exceeded all expectations. They customized an itinerary that perfectly matched my interests, including visits to ancient Fes, the blue city of Chefchaouen, and a breathtaking journey through the Atlas Mountains. The drivers were professional and punctual, and the local insights provided by their team were invaluable. It felt like I was traveling with friends rather than just an agency. Thank you, Ibra Travel, for an amazing Moroccan adventure!”
Our family vacation with Ibra Travel Tours was simply spectacular. We had a diverse group, including young children and grandparents, and Ibra Travel managed to create an itinerary that kept everyone engaged and happy. The desert camp was luxurious, the cooking class in Marrakech was a highlight, and the flexibility they offered for spontaneous stops was much appreciated. Their deep understanding of Morocco, combined with their commitment to guest satisfaction, made our trip stress-free and full of wonderful memories. We’re already dreaming of our next trip back with Ibra Travel Tours!
