10-Day Tour of Morocco from Fez, Including the Desert

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10-Day Grand Tour of Morocco from Fez: The Desert and the Imperial Cities

Tour summary:

Duration

10 days - 9 nights

Arrival

Fez

Departure

Marrakech

Type of tour

Private or Shared

This 10-day tour of Morocco starting in Fez is designed for those who want more than just a typical tourist itinerary. The itinerary seamlessly connects the imperial cities, the landscapes of the Atlas Mountains, the golden dunes of the Sahara, and the Atlantic coast of Essaouira, creating a comprehensive journey through some of the country’s most fascinating places. From getting lost in the ancient medina of Fez to experiencing the silence of the desert or walking among ancient mud-brick kasbahs, each stage reveals a new facet of Morocco.

The pace of the trip is balanced and designed to let you enjoy each destination at a leisurely pace. Guided tours are combined with free time to discover local life, relax on a terrace, or simply take in the scenery. A fantastic ten-day tour that brings together history, culture, nature, and adventure in an authentic Moroccan experience.

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Highlights

Pick-up at Fez Airport: first night in the spiritual capital of Morocco.
Guided tour of the medina of Fez: tanneries, madrasas, and the oldest university in the world.
Ifrane and cedar forests of Azrou: alpine-style architecture and Barbary macaques in the wild.
Ziz Valley: endless palm groves on the way to the gates of the desert.
Camel ride at sunset across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Overnight in a Berber camp: traditional dinner and endless stars in the Sahara.
Dades Gorges: rock formations sculpted by nature.
Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah: UNESCO World Heritage site and Hollywood filming location.
Crossing the High Atlas via Tizi n’Tichka: the most spectacular route in Morocco.
Guided tour of Marrakech: Koutoubia, Bahia Palace, and Jemaa el-Fna square.
Essaouira: two days of freedom on the Atlantic coast among Portuguese walls.
Return to Marrakech with airport transfer: worry-free farewell.

Tour categories:

Tour Itinerary: 10 Days from Fez

Day 1: Arrival – Fez

Arrival in Fez and transfer to your accommodation. The rest of the day is free, with no rush, to settle in, rest after the journey or take a leisurely first stroll around the area and begin to soak up the atmosphere of the city. Overnight stay in Fez.

🛣️ Distance	Airport → hotel transfer (approx. 15 km)
⏱️ Time	Approx. 20 – 30 minutes
🏨 Accommodation	Riad or hotel in Fez (board: accommodation only)

Day 2: Exploring the Medina of Fez

A day dedicated to exploring the ancient medina of Fes accompanied by a local guide. Walking through its narrow streets, you will discover how daily life continues just as it did centuries ago: artisans in their workshops, local markets, and traditional bakeries.

Visits include historic madrasas, the University of Al Qaraouiyine, and the famous tanneries, offering a deep understanding of Fes as a living city, not a museum. Accommodation in Fes.

🛣️ Distance	Walking tour
⏱️ Duration	Approx. 4 – 5 hours of guided visit
🏛️ Places to visit	Madrasas, Al Qaraouiyine University, tanneries, souks
🏨 Accommodation	Riad or hotel in Fes (board basis: accommodation only)

Day 3: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Merzouga

We leave Fes behind and the landscape begins to transform as the road ascends the Middle Atlas. A stop in Ifrane reveals a surprising side of Morocco, followed by a stroll through the cedar forests near Azrou, where monkeys are often spotted.

We continue south through Midelt, and the scenery slowly opens up into desert terrain. In the Ziz Valley, palm groves stretch along the river, marking the transition to the Sahara. Arrival in Merzouga in the late afternoon, where the vastness of the desert sets the tone for the evening. Dinner and accommodation.

🛣️ Distance	Approx. 460 km
⏱️ Driving time	Approx. 7 – 8 hours (with stops)
🌅 Main stops	Ifrane, Azrou cedar forest (macaques), Midelt, Ziz Valley, Erfoud
🏨 Accommodation	Hotel or camp near the dunes (dinner and breakfast)

Day 4: Merzouga – Dades Gorges – Dades Valley

After breakfast, the journey continues through wide desert plains and small villages. As we approach the Dades region, the landscape becomes more dramatic, with deep gorges and sculpted rock formations. We take the necessary time to take in the views before reaching the Dades Valley, where green fields and traditional kasbahs line the river. Dinner and accommodation.

🛣️ Distance	Approx. 350 km
⏱️ Driving time	Approx. 5 – 6 hours
🌅 Main stops	Desert plains, villages, Dades Gorges
🏨 Accommodation	Riad or hotel in the Dades Valley (dinner and breakfast)

Day 5: Dades Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

This is one of the most varied days of the journey. The morning takes you through the Skoura Oasis, a vital area for travelers and merchants in the past, known for its palm groves and historic kasbahs. In Ouarzazate, associated with major film productions, the desert environment explains why so many international movies have been filmed here.

A visit to Aït Ben Haddou allows you to explore the ancient millenary village, climb up to its viewpoints, and understand its role in the history of the caravan trade. In the afternoon, the road winds through the High Atlas, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka pass. Mountainous landscapes and small villages accompany the journey before arriving in Marrakech at night. Accommodation.

🛣️ Distance	Approx. 335 km
⏱️ Driving time	Approx. 5 – 6 hours (with stops)
🌅 Main stops	Skoura Oasis, Ouarzazate, Kasbah Aït Ben Haddou, Tizi n’Tichka pass
🏨 Accommodation	Riad or hotel in Marrakech (breakfast included)

Day 6: Exploring Marrakech

A guided tour presents the many faces of Marrakech. Historic landmarks like the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs reveal the city’s past, while the souks showcase its energy and creativity. The tour ends at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where musicians, storytellers, food stalls, and locals create an atmosphere that changes throughout the day and extends well into the night. Accommodation.

🛣️ Distance	Walking tour
⏱️ Duration	Approx. 4 – 5 hours of guided tour
🏛️ Places to visit	Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, souks, Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
🏨 Accommodation	Riad or hotel in Marrakech (breakfast included)

Day 7: Marrakech – Essaouira

🛣️ Distance	Approx. 175 km
⏱️ Driving time	Approx. 2.5 – 3 hours
🌅 Main stops	Coastal landscapes, arrival in Essaouira
🏨 Accommodation	Riad or hotel in Essaouira (breakfast)

Day 8: Essaouira

A relaxed day in Essaouira, known for its artistic spirit and coastal lifestyle. You can explore the ancient city walls, watch the fishermen bring in their catch, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply stroll along the beach. The day is unstructured, allowing you to experience the city at your own pace. Accommodation.

🛣️ Distance	No travel
⏱️ Activities	Free day
🏨 Accommodation	Riad or hotel in Essaouira (breakfast)

Day 9: Essaouira – Marrakech

Return to Marrakech. Upon arrival, the afternoon is free for personal activities: shopping, relaxing, or revisiting your favorite spots in the city. Accommodations.

🛣️ Distance	Approx. 175 km
⏱️ Driving time	Approx. 2.5–3 hours
🏨 Accommodation	Riad or hotel in Marrakech (breakfast)

Day 10: Marrakech – Transfer to the Airport

After breakfast, and depending on your departure time, you’ll be transferred from your riad or hotel to Marrakech Menara Airport, bringing this 10-day trip through Morocco to a close.

🛣️ Distance	Transfer hotel → airport (approx. 10 km)
⏱️ Time	Approx. 20–30 minutes
✈️ Recommendation	Depart 3 hours before your flight

100% Customizable Itinerary

This itinerary can be fully tailored to your preferences and travel style. The price varies depending on the accommodation category, the number of travelers, and the duration of the trip.
Contact us and we’ll send you a personalized proposal with no obligation.
If this itinerary doesn’t quite match what you’re looking for, our team will design a tailor-made trip through Morocco for you, taking care of every detail so you can enjoy a unique experience.

What's included:

2 nights in Fez (breakfast)
1 night in Merzouga (dinner and breakfast)
1 night in the Dades Valley (dinner and breakfast)
2 nights in Marrakech (breakfast)
2 nights in Essaouira (breakfast)

Does not include:

Gallery

Tour Route:

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour start in Fez and end in Marrakech?

Yes, the tour begins in Fez on Day 1 (with airport pickup) and ends in Marrakech on Day 10 with a transfer to the airport. It includes an overnight stay in Fez so you can arrive without rushing, and ends in Marrakech after traveling through the country in a large loop: Fez → Desert → Marrakech → Essaouira → Marrakech.

Where do we sleep every night?

Night 1: Riad in Fez (breakfast)
Night 2: Riad in Fez (breakfast)
Night 3: Camp in Merzouga (dinner and breakfast)
Night 4: Hotel in the Dades Valley (dinner and breakfast)
Nights 5-6: Riad in Marrakech (breakfast)
Nights 7-8: Riad in Essaouira (breakfast)
Night 9: Riad in Marrakech (breakfast)
Day 10: Transfer to Marrakech Airport

Why is this 10-day tour worth it?

Because it offers the perfect balance of culture, desert, and coast, at a leisurely pace:

2 nights in Fez with an in-depth guided tour
1 night in a desert camp (authentic experience)
1 night in the Dades Valley (spectacular scenery)
2 nights in Marrakech with a guided tour
2 nights in Essaouira with a FULL day free on the coast
Airport transfers included at the beginning and end

This tour tells a story: imperial, desert, mountainous, and coastal.

What's the desert experience like? Just one night?

Yes, just one night at the Merzouga camp, but it was a full experience:

Arrival in the afternoon at the foot of the dunes
Camel ride at sunset through Erg Chebbi
Traditional dinner and Berber music around the campfire
Night in comfortable tents with shared bathrooms and showers
The next morning, breakfast and continuation of the trip

This is the “essential” Sahara experience, perfect for this well-balanced itinerary.

What does the day trip to Essaouira include? Is it worth it?

Day 8 is completely free in Essaouira, and it’s one of the highlights of the tour:

You can sleep in, have a leisurely breakfast
Stroll through the coastal medina (white and blue, very different)
Climb the Skala walls with views of the Atlantic
Eat fresh fish at the port
Relax on the beach or go surfing/windsurfing
Buy local crafts (cypress wood, argan)

It’s a day just for you, with no schedules or guides.

Are guided tours in Fez and Marrakech included?

Yes, both are included with official local guides:

Fez (Day 2): Medina, madrasas, tanneries, Al Qaraouiyine University, Jewish quarter, and artisan workshops.

Marrakech (Day 6): Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, Koutoubia, souks, and Jemaa el-Fna Square.

Will we make it in time to catch a flight on the 10th in Marrakech?

Yes, because on the 10th, it’s just a transfer to the airport—no long trips. You can take a flight at any time. If your flight is in the afternoon, you can even spend the morning exploring Marrakech. Please let us know your schedule when you book.

How do I handle my luggage during the camel ride?

On Day 3, when you arrive in Merzouga, you’ll leave your large suitcase in the vehicle. You’ll only carry a small backpack with the essentials for the night at the camp. The vehicle will be waiting for you the next day with all your luggage intact.

How can I book the tour?

You can book directly through our website or by sending us a message on WhatsApp.
💬 Contact us on WhatsApp and we’ll send you all the information about availability, prices, and personalized options.

Request a Reservation

+212 658 860892

Would you prefer a quick response? Contact us directly on WhatsApp and we'll help you right away

What our customers say

excellent

We just got back from our trip, and we couldn't be happier with the experience. Everything was perfectly organized, which allowed us to enjoy ourselves to the fullest without worrying about a thing.

The dromedary excursions in the desert and the quad rides were among the most exciting and fun activities of the trip. In addition, the accommodations exceeded all our expectations: comfortable, clean, charming and located in spectacular locations.
The value for money was excellent. We felt we got much more than we expected.
But what really made this trip special was our guide, Hassan. From the very beginning, he was approachable, friendly, and very professional. He was always looking out for us, making sure we were comfortable, safe, and having a good time at all times. It was a real treat to have someone like him with us!

We recommend this experience 100%. Morocco is an incredible country, and living it with such a careful organization and with a guide like Hassan really makes the difference. Thank you for everything!

We had an unforgettable trip in Morocco with Hassan as our driver and guide. We were a group of five friends touring Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fez, Casablanca, Essaouira and Marrakech, and the whole experience was perfectly organized thanks to him. Hassan was much more than just a driver. He took us to excellent local restaurants, always negotiating fair prices on our behalf and making sure we enjoyed authentic Moroccan cuisine without worrying about overpaying. His knowledge of each city, its culture and history greatly enriched the trip, and he was always willing to explain details and answer all our questions. What we valued most was her flexibility and constant attention. She adapted the itinerary to our needs, to our rhythm and to the group dynamics, always with a professional and close attitude. At all times we felt safe, comfortable and very well cared for. If you are planning to travel Morocco and are looking for a reliable driver, an excellent guide and a person who really cares about making your trip a special experience, we can't recommend Hassan enough.

Hassan and his team are excellent. They were recommended to us by friends and were fantastic. Like all operators, they took a little while to resolve the problem, but Hassan was very flexible with his range of services. He accommodated my needs rather than insisting on doing everything on a high budget. This was very different from others and optimized my budget. The car and driver (Hamid) were first class and the accommodation in the riad and camp was very comfortable. 5 stars.

We have just returned from an incredible trip organized by Haya Viajes and we could not be more grateful for the unique experience we had in Morocco. From the very first moment, the organization was impeccable: every detail was carefully planned, which allowed us to enjoy ourselves to the fullest without worrying about anything. We traveled as a family—two couples with four children—and Hassan made sure that each of us felt comfortable and enjoyed every moment. We discovered the most authentic side of Morocco, exploring traditional villages, bustling markets, and spectacular landscapes. However, the most magical part was undoubtedly our experience in the desert dunes. Spending the night under a starry sky, riding a dromedary, and feeling the immensity of the Sahara was something we will never forget. The children were fascinated, and we were amazed by the beauty and tranquility of the place.

Hassan is not only an excellent organizer, but also a charming person, always willing to share his culture and make us feel at home. If you are looking for an authentic adventure in Morocco, we highly recommend trusting him, a trip that will remain forever in our hearts!

It was the first time my friend and I had traveled to Morocco, and we didn’t know where to start. We got Hassan’s contact information, and from the very beginning he helped us with everything. He picked us up at the airport and took us to our first riad, where we received a very warm and welcoming reception. The next morning we left for the desert with Hassan, who accompanied us throughout the tour, explaining each place and making us feel very comfortable at all times. We visited the kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, continued to the Dades Gorges, and ended the day in the desert of Merzouga with a camel ride and a magical night in a Berber camp under the stars. At dawn on the third day, we went on a quad bike excursion in the desert—an experience we highly recommend—and then continued on to Ouarzazate and finally Marrakech. With many meals included and others left to us to enjoy at the places where we stopped, it was one of the trips where I felt most relaxed, enjoying every moment without a care in the world. Undoubtedly, an unforgettable experience.