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8-Day tour from Fes to Marrakech via Chefchaouen & Sahara

Duration

8 Days

Tour Type

Private Tour

Free Cancellation

Up to 1 day

Languages

English, Multilingual

Tour overview

Your Moroccan adventure begins in Fes, where you’ll explore its ancient medina, historic universities, and lively tanneries. Then, travel to the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen before visiting Roman ruins at Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes.

Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing cedar forests and wild monkeys, before reaching the golden dunes of the Sahara. Spend a magical night in a desert camp under the stars, then ride camels at sunrise.

Continue through dramatic gorges and valleys filled with ancient kasbahs, stopping in Ouarzazate—Morocco’s “Hollywood.” Cross the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech, where bustling souks, palaces, and vibrant gardens await.

End your trip wandering Marrakech’s lively streets, sipping mint tea, and soaking in the city’s energy before heading home with unforgettable memories.

Brief itinerary of the 8-day tour from Fes

Day Departure Arrival Distance
#1 Airport Fes 15 km
#2 Fes Chefchaouen 200 km
#3 Chefchaouen Meknes  215 km
#4 Meknes Merzouga Desert 470 km
#5 Merzouga Ouarzazate 360 km
#6 Ouarzazate Marrakech 200 km
#7 Marrakech
#8 Marrakech Airport 7 km

What you should know about the 8-day trip from Fes?

  1. Morocco is a conservative country, especially in cities and religious sites. To respect local customs, wear lightweight, modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Loose, breathable fabrics are ideal for the warm climate.
  2. When it comes to food, Moroccan cuisine is delicious—think aromatic tagines, fluffy couscous, and sweet mint tea. However, to avoid stomach troubles, stick to bottled water and be cautious with raw salads from street stalls, particularly if you have a sensitive stomach. Freshly cooked, hot meals are usually a safer bet.
  3. This tour involves a mix of activities, including exploring the winding alleys of historic medinas, taking short hikes in places like Chefchaouen, Todra Gorges, and even camel riding in the desert. A moderate level of fitness will make these experiences more enjoyable.
  4. In Moroccan markets, bargaining is part of the culture, so feel free to negotiate politely for souvenirs and handicrafts. However, haggling over very small amounts—like a bottle of water or a snack—is considered unnecessary and even rude.
  5. While most hotels offer Wi-Fi, the signal can be weak or unavailable in remote areas like the desert. If staying connected is important, purchasing a local SIM card (from providers like Maroc Telecom, Orange, or Inwi) is a reliable solution for mobile data.

Tour highlights

  • Exploring Fes Medina
  • Chefchaouen’s Blue Streets
  • Roman Ruins of Volubilis
  • Ride a camel over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi
  • The night in a desert camp
  • Dades Valley
  • Ait Ben Haddou’s old Kasbahs
  • The views of the High Atlas Mountains
  • The medina of Marrakech

Tour itinerary

Day 1: Arrive to Fes

Your trip starts in Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest and most important cities. After you arrive, you will check into your hotel or a traditional Moroccan guesthouse called a riad. You can rest or take a short walk around the area. In the evening, try some delicious Moroccan food like tagine or couscous.

 

Accommodation:
Standard: Hotel Riad Fes Yamanda or similar
Superior: Hotel Riad Palais Houyam or similar

Day 2: Visit Fes & Transfer to Chefchaouen

Wake up to a guided tour of Fes Medina, a maze of narrow alleys filled with bustling souks, historic madrasas, and hidden gems. You’ll visit Al Quaraouiyine University, the world’s oldest continuously operating university, and the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa. Don’t miss the famous tanneries, where leather is dyed using traditional methods.

After lunch, you’ll leave Fes and travel northwest to Chefchaouen, the enchanting "Blue City" nestled in the Rif Mountains. As you wander its cobbled streets—painted in every shade of blue—you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a dream. The evening is yours to explore, take photos, and enjoy the relaxed mountain vibe.

 

Accommodation:
Standard: Hotel Casa Hassan or similar
Superior: Hotel Dar Echaouen or similar

Day 3: Visit Chefchaouen - Volubilis - Meknes

Spend your morning soaking in Chefchaouen’s charm—shop for handicrafts, sip mint tea in a rooftop café, or hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views. Later, you’ll travel to Volubilis, Morocco’s best-preserved Roman ruins, where ancient mosaics and columns tell stories of a bygone era.

From there, you’ll continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s lesser-known imperial cities. Here, you’ll explore the grand Bab Mansour gate, the lavish Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the lively medina before settling in for the night.

 

Accommodation:
Standard: Hotel Riad D'or or similar
Superior: Hotel Riad Yacout or similar

Day 4: Meknes - Azrou - Midelt - Ziz Valley - Merzouga Desert

Today’s adventure takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane (often called "Little Switzerland" for its alpine-style buildings) and the Cedar Forests, where wild monkeys roam. After a lunch stop in Midelt, you’ll descend into the Ziz Valley, a breathtaking oasis of palm groves.

The journey continues through Erfoud, famous for its fossil workshops, and Rissani, the last major town before the desert. Finally, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, where a camel ride will take you into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. Spend the night in a desert camp, enjoying Berber music, a star-filled sky, and the magic of the Sahara.

 

Accommodation:
Standard: Mouhou Standard Camp or similar
Superior: Mouhou Luxury Camp or similar

Day 5: Merzouga - Todra Gorges - Dades Valley - Ouarzazate

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes before returning to Merzouga by camel or 4x4. After breakfast, you’ll drive to Todra Gorges, a dramatic canyon with towering cliffs—perfect for a short hike. Next, you’ll wind through the Dades Valley, known as the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs," where ancient mud-brick fortresses dot the landscape.

Your final stop is Ouarzazate, often called the "Hollywood of Morocco" for its famous film studios. Spend the night here, resting before another exciting day.

 

Accommodation:
Standard: Hotel Riad Dar Barbara or similar
Superior: Hotel Riad Dar Chamaa or similar

Day 6: Ouarzazate - Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou - High Atlas - Marrakech

Start your day with a visit to Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studios, where movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed. Then, explore Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar (fortified village) that looks like something from a fairy tale.

The journey to Marrakech takes you over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, offering stunning views along the way. Arrive in Marrakech by evening, ready to dive into its vibrant energy.

 

Accommodation:
Standard: Hotel Riad Marana or similar
Superior: Hotel Riad Bahia Palace or similar

Day 7: A day to visit Marrakech

Today is all about discovering Marrakech. Start at Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s lively main square, where snake charmers, street performers, and food stalls create an unforgettable scene. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the elegant Bahia Palace, and the colorful Majorelle Garden.

For relaxation, treat yourself to a traditional hammam (spa) or shop for spices, leather, and lanterns in the souks. As the sun sets, enjoy a rooftop dinner with views over the bustling city.

 

Accommodation:
Standard: Hotel Riad Marana or similar
Superior: Hotel Riad Bahia Palace or similar

Day 8: Marrakech - Airport

Today, the trip ends. Our driver will pick you up from your accommodation to the airport.

Inclusions/Exclusions

  • Private air conditioned modern vehicle
  • All car expenses (Fuel, Tolls, Parking...etc)
  • Local experienced driver
  • Hotel/riad in Fes, Chefhcoauen, Meknes, Ouarzazate, Marrakech
  • Local guide to visit Fes and Marrakech
  • Camel excursion in Erg Chebbi dunes (Merzouga)
  • One night in a desert camp
  • Option to try sandboarding
  • All dinners and breakfasts
  • Flight tickets
  • Entrance fee
  • Lunches and drinks

Map of the "8-Day tour from Fes to Marrakech via Chefchaouen & Sahara"

FAQs about 8-Day tour from Fes to Marrakech via Chefchaouen & Sahara

Are the driving days very long?

Yes, there are a couple of extended travel days, but the stunning landscapes help make the journey enjoyable. The longest stretch is from Meknes to Merzouga, taking roughly 7 to 8 hours, followed by Merzouga to Ouarzazate, which takes about 6 to 7 hours.


These routes include breathtaking scenery, and we schedule strategic stops at interesting points along the way to stretch your legs, take photos, and experience local culture—so it never feels like just a long drive.

The 8 day tour from Fes is a private or shared tour?

This itinerary is designed as a private tour, meaning you’ll have a dedicated guide and vehicle just for your party, allowing for a more personalized experience. However, if you’re interested in joining a group tour to reduce costs, we may have alternative options available—just reach out to us, and we’ll gladly check availability for you.

Will I be met at the airport when I arrive?

Absolutely! As soon as you land, a friendly, professional driver will be waiting to welcome you at the airport with a clear sign. They’ll assist with your luggage and take you directly to your riad or hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. At the end of your trip, they’ll also ensure you get back to the airport smoothly for your departure.

How long is the drive from Fes to Chefchaouen?

The journey from Fes to Chefchaouen takes about 4 hours, winding through the lush green hills of the Rif Mountains. The route is incredibly scenic, passing by small villages and olive groves, so the time tends to fly by. Many travelers find this one of the most visually rewarding drives in northern Morocco!

Is the desert camp in Merzouga comfortable?

Yes! While camping in the Sahara might sound rugged, our Merzouga desert camps are designed for comfort. You’ll sleep in a well-equipped tent with a proper bed, warm blankets, and even private bathrooms in luxury upgrades.


We offer both standard and luxury camp options, so you can choose the level of comfort that suits you best. After a night under the stars, you’ll wake up to a stunning sunrise over the dunes—an unforgettable experience.

Do you have another similar tour?

We suggest two similar tour options. You can choose to begin your journey in either an 8-day tour from Casablanca or a 10-day tour from Marrakech - both starting points provide equally wonderful experiences.

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