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the 11 Day Morocco Journey Through the Sahara Deser
Overview
11 days Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert from Fes. This 11 day and 10 night journey highlights the varied scenery and cultural heritage of Morocco. Beginning in Fes, you will discover the old Medina, the Royal Palace, and traditional neighborhoods. Then continue toward the Sahara Desert, where you will enjoy a camel ride across the dunes and spend a memorable night in a desert camp. The route includes the dramatic Todra Gorges, the UNESCO preserved village of Ait Benhaddou, and the lively cities of Marrakech and Essaouira. The tour ends with visits to Casablanca, Meknes, and the ancient Roman site of Volubilis, before returning to Fes for your departure.
- Duration: 11 days/10 nights
- Start: Fes
- End: Fes
- Tour Style: Private & Small group
- Price: Check it below
Highlights of the 11 days Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert from Fes tour:
- Explore the historic Medina of Fes with a certified local guide
- Visit the Royal Palace, Jewish Quarter, and the ancient Al Karaouine University
- Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains and cedar forests of Ifrane
- Experience the Sahara Desert and spend a night in a traditional desert camp
- Camel trekking across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Visit the Gnaoua musicians in Khamlia and meet nomadic families
- Walk through the dramatic Todra Gorges and Dades Valley rock formations
- Discover the cinematic sites of Ouarzazate and the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou
- Guided city tour of Marrakech including its palaces, souks, and gardens
- Relax in the coastal town of Essaouira and visit Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque
Itinerary of the the 11 Day Morocco Journey Through the Sahara Deser tours:
Day 1: Arrival in Fes
Arrival at Fes Airport, where your driver will meet you and transfer you to your Hotel or Riad. Time to relax and settle in for the night. Overnight in Fes.
Day 2: Fes (Full Day Guided City Tour)
Full day guided tour of Fes, one of Morocco’s Imperial Cities. Start at the Royal Palace Gate, then visit the ceramics cooperative to see traditional Moroccan crafts. Walk through the narrow streets of the Medina, exploring the Jewish Quarter and the famous Tanneries. The tour highlights cultural and historical sites including the Al Karaouine University. In the afternoon, enjoy a panoramic view over the Medina and explore the New City (Ville Nouvelle). Overnight in Fes.
Day 3: Fes ⇢ Ifrane ⇢ Midelt ⇢ Erfoud ⇢ Merzouga Desert
Depart Fes and drive through Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Continue through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you may see wild monkeys. Pass through Midelt and the Ziz Valley before reaching Erfoud and the dunes of Merzouga Desert. Overnight in a desert hotel.
Day 4: Merzouga ⇢ Khamlia ⇢ Nomad Families ⇢ Erg Chebbi Camel Trek
Spend a full day exploring the Sahara Desert. Visit local Nomad families and the Gnaoua village of Khamlia, where you will be entertained with authentic traditional instruments. Enjoy a traditional Berber Pizza for lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a camel trekking adventure across the golden Erg Chebbi sand dunes, watching the desert landscape change with the light. Spend the night in a desert camp, with the sound of Berber drumming around the bonfire under a star-filled sky.
Day 5: Merzouga ⇢ Rissani ⇢ Todra Gorges ⇢ Dades Valley
Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast, depart for Rissani, the gateway to the desert, famous for its bustling souk and a park of donkeys near the market. Continue to Tinghir and the dramatic Todra Gorges, renowned for being the highest and narrowest gorges in Morocco. Enjoy lunch in the gorge, then drive through the Dades Valley, marveling at the stunning rock formations, including the unique “monkey toes.” Overnight in a hotel or riad overlooking the picturesque Dades Valley.
Day 6: Dades Valley ⇢ Ouarzazate ⇢ Ait Benhaddou ⇢ Marrakech
After breakfast, depart the Dades Valley and head towards Marrakech, stopping in Ouarzazate to enjoy a panoramic view of the Taourirt Kasbah and a visit to the Atlas Film Studios. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a historic site that has served as a backdrop for numerous films since the 1960s. Stop for lunch in a local restaurant in the village. In the afternoon, drive over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N’Tichka Pass (2260 m altitude), arriving in Marrakech for drop-off and overnight.
Day 7: Marrakech (Full Day Guided City Tour)
Today, enjoy a private guided tour of Marrakech with an official local guide. Explore the iconic Mosque of Koutoubia, the Medina, and its bustling souks, as well as hidden gems like the Ali Ben Youssef Koranic School, the Saadian and Bahia Palaces, and the colorful Majorelle Gardens. Spend the night at a riad in the Medina, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Red City.
Day 8: Marrakech ⇢ Essaouira
Today, depart Marrakech for the coastal town of Essaouira, approximately a 3-hour drive. En route, you may optionally visit a cooperative of Argan Oil to learn about its traditional production. Upon arrival in Essaouira, enjoy a walking tour of the traditional port, then stroll through 18th-century arches and ramparts. Stop at the Dutch cannons overlooking the sea and explore the local market, featuring oak products as its main artisanal craft. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then check into your hotel. Afternoon at leisure to explore Essaouira independently. Overnight in Essaouira.
Day 9: Essaouira ⇢ Casablanca
After breakfast, depart Essaouira and return to Casablanca. En route, explore the city highlights, including the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, and the scenic Coastal Corniche. Check into your hotel in Casablanca for an overnight stay.
Day 10: Casablanca ⇢ Rabat ⇢ Meknes ⇢ Volubilis ⇢ Fes
After breakfast, depart Casablanca for Fes, passing through Rabat to visit the Old Kasbah of Udayas and Hassan Tower. Continue to the imperial city of Meknes and explore landmarks including the Bab Mansour Gate, Medersa Bou Inania, and Heri es-Souani, the historic royal stables and granaries, with a rooftop café offering panoramic views of the city. Continue to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, an ancient UNESCO World Heritage site. Finally, arrive in Fes and check into your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Fes ⇢ Airport Departure
Transfer to Fes airport according to your flight schedule. End of tour.
Gallery
Inclusive and Exclusive of the tour
Price Includes:
- Private transportation by air-conditioned 4×4, minibus, or bus (11 days)
- Multilingual driver/guide
- Local guides in Fes and Marrakech
- Fuel for the vehicle
- 9 nights in selected hotels or riads (dinner and breakfast included)
- 1 night in a desert camp (dinner and breakfast included)
- Camel trekking experience in the desert
- Sandboarding activity
Price Excludes:
- Drinks
- Lunches
- Entrance fees to monuments
Map of the tour
tour price:
The pricing for This tour starts at €160 per person. Please note that the cost can vary based on factors such as the number of travelers, your choice of accommodations, and the time of year. Larger groups benefit from lower per-person rates.
The €160 per person rate applies to groups of 17 or more.
For smaller groups, such as 2 travelers, the price starts at €269 per person.
For personalized pricing tailored to your group, please contact us using the form below. Our team will provide the rates that best match your needs.
Booking
Please use the form below to email us at compassmoroccotours@gmail.com, and we will respond as fast as possible. You can also send a WhatsApp message or call us at +212 676-594706. We look forward to hearing from you!
REVIEWS
Reviews
★★★★★
Our 7-day Morocco tour with Compass Morocco Tours was simply incredible! From Marrakech to the Sahara, everything was perfectly organized. Our driver Youssef was knowledgeable and friendly, and the desert camp in Merzouga was beyond amazing. Highly recommend this company for anyone visiting Morocco!
★★★★★
We had such a wonderful experience with Compass Morocco Tours! The team was professional, our guide was patient and informative, and the landscapes were breathtaking. The camel ride and night under the stars in the Sahara were unforgettable moments for my family.
★★★★★
Compass Morocco Tours made our trip seamless and stress-free. The itinerary covered so much — from the bustling souks of Fes to the peaceful dunes of Erg Chebbi. The vehicle was super comfortable, and we felt safe and well cared for the entire journey.
★★★★★
Traveling through Morocco with Compass Morocco Tours was a dream come true. Every detail was thought out — beautiful riads, delicious food, and amazing hospitality. Our driver Hassan shared so much about Moroccan culture and history. A truly authentic experience!
★★★★★
I can’t say enough good things about Compass Morocco Tours! The desert night was magical — luxury tents, great music, and friendly Berber hosts. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and I’d absolutely do it again.
★★★★★
What a fantastic journey! Compass Morocco Tours made sure everything ran smoothly from start to finish. The views through the Atlas Mountains and the sunset over the dunes were simply breathtaking. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!
★★★★★
Amazing experience with Compass Morocco Tours! The driver was very kind and flexible, always making sure we were comfortable. The tour was well-balanced between cultural visits and time to relax. Morocco completely stole my heart!
★★★★★
Our 5-day desert tour was outstanding. The Compass Morocco Tours team handled everything perfectly — great communication before the trip, comfortable hotels, and a driver who became like a friend. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to see the real Morocco.
★★★★★
This was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. Compass Morocco Tours exceeded all expectations. The camp in Merzouga was so peaceful, and waking up to the sunrise over the dunes was just magical. Merci for such wonderful memories!
★★★★★
Compass Morocco Tours provided excellent service throughout our journey. The tour was well-paced, full of local insights, and every stop felt meaningful. Morocco is beautiful, and this company made it even more special.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to pay for the tour?
Our payment process is simple and flexible. To confirm your booking, we ask for a small deposit, which can be paid through PayPal, bank transfer, or Wise. The remaining balance can be settled in cash on the first day of your tour directly with your driver or guide. We accept euros, US dollars, or the equivalent in Moroccan dirhams.
What is the best desert tour from Marrakech?
The best desert tour from Marrakech depends on how much time you have. The 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour is the most popular, as it allows you to experience the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi, ride camels, and sleep in a luxury desert camp under the stars. If you have more time, the 4-day or 5-day desert tours offer a deeper and more relaxed exploration of Morocco’s desert landscapes and kasbahs.
Can I skip the camel ride to the camp?
Yes, absolutely. If you prefer not to ride a camel, we can take you to the camp in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle instead
How far is the desert from Fes?
The desert is around 500 km (about 311 miles) from Fes, which takes roughly 7 and a half hours to drive.
What type of vehicles are used for this trip?
Your comfort is our top priority. At Compass Morocco Tours , we provide modern and comfortable vehicles suited to every group size. Depending on your needs, you’ll travel in vehicles such as a Toyota Prado Land Cruiser TX, Ford Tourneo Custom, or a Mercedes Benz Sprinter minibus for larger groups. We believe that a smooth and comfortable journey makes your entire travel experience more enjoyable.
Does the camp have private bathrooms?
Certainly. All the camps we offer are luxury desert camps, designed to provide maximum comfort and equipped with private en-suite bathrooms for your convenience.
Can you do a day trip to the desert from Marrakech?
Technically, you cannot reach the real Sahara Desert on a day trip from Marrakech because it is too far away. However, you can take a day trip to the Agafay Desert, located just 40 minutes from Marrakech. Agafay offers a desert-like experience with rocky landscapes, camel rides, quad biking, and stunning views of the Atlas Mountains.
Is it worth going to the Sahara Desert in Morocco?
Absolutely! A visit to the Sahara Desert is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Morocco. Watching the sunset and sunrise over the vast dunes, riding camels across the golden sands, and spending a night in a luxury desert camp under the starry sky create truly magical memories that stay with you forever.
What is the closest desert to Marrakech?
The Agafay Desert is the nearest desert to Marrakech, located about 30 to 40 km southwest of the city. Unlike the Sahara, it’s a rocky desert with rolling hills and arid landscapes, but it provides a perfect short getaway for travelers looking to experience a desert atmosphere without the long journey.
Is the Sahara Desert close to Marrakech?
Not exactly. The Sahara Desert lies about 560 km from Marrakech. Traveling to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga takes approximately 8 to 10 hours by road. Most tours break up the journey over two days, with an overnight stay in either the Dades Valley or Ouarzazate to make the trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
How far in advance should we book this tour?
It’s always a good idea to book your tour as early as possible to guarantee your preferred dates and ensure availability — after all, the early bird gets the best experience!
How long does it take to get to the desert from Marrakech?
The journey to Merzouga, home of the famous Sahara dunes, takes around 8 to 10 hours by road. Most desert tours divide the trip into several days to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore breathtaking sites such as the High Atlas Mountains, the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, and the stunning Dades Gorges.
How do I get from Marrakech to the desert?
The easiest and most comfortable way to reach the desert is by joining a private or small-group tour from Marrakech. Your driver-guide will take you on a scenic journey across the Atlas Mountains, passing through picturesque valleys and historic kasbahs before arriving in the Sahara Desert. While renting a car is also an option, a guided tour provides local insight, stress-free travel, and a richer overall experience.
Where is the best desert in Morocco?
The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are widely regarded as the best desert experience in Morocco, known for their breathtaking golden sand dunes and genuine desert ambiance. Another excellent choice is Erg Chigaga, located near M’Hamid, offering a more remote and untouched landscape—ideal for travelers in search of adventure, peace, and an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience.