5 Days Fes to Marrakech Tour with Essaouira Day Trip

Depart from Fes early in the morning and head south through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop is Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its tidy streets, European-style architecture, and tranquil gardens. Take a short stroll to admire the alpine-style houses and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Continue to Azrou, famous for its ancient cedar forests and the playful Barbary apes. Walk among the towering trees, observe the monkeys, and enjoy the peaceful forest atmosphere. The journey continues through scenic villages and terraced fields, where traditional Berber life continues unchanged.

Stop in Midelt, a town known for its apples and mountain views, for refreshments and a short break. As the landscape gradually shifts from lush mountains to arid desert plains, pass through Erfoud and Rissani, towns with rich history and palm groves. By late afternoon, arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. Here, camels await for a sunset trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes, where golden sands glow under the setting sun. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and Berber music at your desert camp, spending the night under the star-filled desert sky.

Wake early to witness the magical sunrise over the dunes, a moment when the Sahara’s soft pink and golden hues create a mesmerizing landscape. After breakfast at the camp, depart the desert and begin the journey west toward the Todra Gorges, a spectacular canyon with vertical cliffs over 300 meters high. Walk along the gorge floor and marvel at the dramatic scenery, taking time to meet local villagers and observe traditional oasis life.

Continue along the winding roads to the Dades Gorges, also known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” where cliffs rise dramatically above palm groves and ancient mud-brick forts dot the landscape. The twisting roads provide stunning photo opportunities of this rugged, picturesque region. Overnight stay in a hotel or riad in the Dades Valley, enjoying panoramic views, a traditional Moroccan dinner, and the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

After breakfast, leave the Dades Valley and drive west toward Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Visit the historic Taourirt Kasbah, once home to the Glaoui family, or stop at the famous Atlas Film Studios to see the sets of international movies. Continue to the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its striking mud-brick architecture and cinematic history.

Explore its narrow alleys, fortified walls, and scenic viewpoints, imagining life on the old caravan routes. From here, cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains, with breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and scattered Berber villages. Descend into the plains and arrive in Marrakech in the evening, checking into your riad or hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart for a full-day excursion to the Atlantic coastal city of Essaouira. Enjoy the scenic drive through plains, argan forests, and Atlantic landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the UNESCO-listed medina with its narrow alleys, colorful markets, and historic ramparts. Visit the old Portuguese fortifications, the vibrant port with fishing boats, and the lively fish market. Stroll along the seaside promenade or relax on the beach, taking in the cool Atlantic breeze. You can also taste fresh seafood at local restaurants or shop for argan oil products and handicrafts. In the late afternoon, return to Marrakech for your final overnight stay.

After breakfast at your riad or hotel, enjoy any last-minute sightseeing or a stroll through Marrakech’s streets and souks, capturing the city’s vibrant colors and scents.

Depending on your departure schedule, you may have a short break for shopping or relaxing. Then, you will be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your flight, concluding your 5-day adventure from Fes to Marrakech with memories of mountains, desert, gorges, historic kasbahs, and the Atlantic coast.