This 7-day journey from Fes to Marrakech traces a magnificent arc through Morocco’s imperial cities, Roman ruins, and Saharan landscapes. Explore the spiritual capital of Fes, walk among the ancient stones of Volubilis, and discover the imperial city of Meknes. Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains to sleep among the dunes of Erg Chebbi, then traverse the dramatic Todra Gorges and Valley of Roses before arriving in the red city of Marrakech. This is Morocco’s heartland.
Upon reaching Fes, your guide will greet you at the airport. Transfer arrangements bring you to your Riad, located in the central area of the medina. The evening includes supper at the accommodation, offering a first taste of Moroccan hospitality. Overnight in Fes.
Around 8:00 AM, exploration of Morocco’s spiritual capital begins. The morning visits include the old Fes Medina, the Royal Palace (viewed from its ornate gates), the Mellah (Jewish quarter), and the iconic Bab Boujloud entrance.
We then explore el-Bali, the greater medina. This sprawling ancient city draws people from all over Morocco. Visits include a 17th-century madrasa (Koranic school) and other historic treasures woven into the medina’s fabric.
Lunch is taken in a traditional Moroccan restaurant, where you can taste typical dishes of the region. The afternoon continues with further exploration of Fes’s rich heritage. Overnight in Fes.
Morning departure takes us to the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, the founder of Fes in the eighth century. This holy town occupies a strategic position overlooking the countryside.
En route, we visit the magnificent Roman ruins of Volubilis. These remarkably preserved structures feature stunning mosaics and offer a window into Morocco’s ancient past as a Roman outpost.
The journey continues to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Once there, we visit the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, ancestor of the current King Mohammed VI. Other sights include the royal palace, the enormous El Hedim Square, and the monumental city gate Bab Mansour. Dinner precedes overnight accommodation in Meknes.
Departure at 8:00 AM takes us toward the Sahara Desert. We cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping at Azrou to see the Barbary apes well known for their playful hospitality. Time is allotted for photographs of the beautiful mountain landscapes.
Lunch is taken at a restaurant in Errachidia. The afternoon journey continues through the Ziz Valley, with its vast palm groves stretching along the river. By late afternoon, we reach the foot of the Erg Chebbi dunes.
From here, a camel ride carries you into the desert until reaching the camp located in the heart of the dunes. Upon arrival, enjoy mint tea as the sunset paints the sand in golden hues. Evening brings Berber music around the fire. Later, take a walk and enjoy the stillness and silence of the desert before sleeping in a traditional Berber tent.
An early wake-up call around 5:00 AM allows time to climb the dunes and admire the majestic sunrise. The first light transforms the sand into waves of gold and orange. Afterwards, a sandboard is at your disposal to test sand-boarding on the dune slopes—an exhilarating desert sport.
After breakfast at the camp, you are transferred to an inn where showers await. We then make our way toward Erfoud, where a visit to a fossil site reveals the ancient marine life preserved in this region’s stone.
The route continues west to the dramatic Todra Gorges. Towering canyon walls rise on either side as we pause to absorb the scenery. We then visit the Valley of Roses before arriving in Ouarzazate. Dinner and the night are spent in a traditional Kasbah.
After breakfast, we visit the Atlas Film Studios, known worldwide as a hub of cinematic production. Nearby stands Kasbah Taourirt, which once served as the residence of the powerful Glaoui family. Its intricate architecture offers a glimpse into the lives of Morocco’s former rulers.
The journey continues toward Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains. Several stops allow for photographs of the splendid panoramas unfolding at every turn. The route includes a visit to the famous Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has appeared in countless films. Depending on the route, we may also pass through Telouet and its atmospheric Kasbah.
Arrival in Marrakech comes in the evening. Overnight in the red city.
The final day is dedicated to exploring Marrakech, the “pearl of the south.” Discover the intricate Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Visit the restored Saadian Tombs, where kings of the past lie in ornate splendor.
After lunch, admire the magnificent Koutoubia Mosque, whose minaret dominates the city’s skyline. The visit concludes with a wander through the winding streets of the Marrakech souk. Here, vibrant textiles, spices, and crafts fill the alleyways, offering a final immersion in Moroccan culture.
The evening is free for last-minute exploration or relaxation before your departure. End of services.
