Merzouga desert , Fez and Ouzoud waterfalls 6 days 5 nights

Introduction

This 6-day tour through Morocco promises a compelling blend of desert adventure, ancient cities, and scenic landscapes. While we haven’t taken this journey ourselves, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded option for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Morocco’s diverse attractions.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to ride camels across the iconic Erg-Chebbi dunes and spend a night in traditional Berber tents, offering a genuine desert experience. Second, the opportunity to explore UNESCO world heritage sites like Ait Ben-Haddou and the medieval medinas of Fez and Meknes. Lastly, the scenic drives through the Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley provide incredible vistas and photo opportunities.

A potential consideration is the long travel days—sometimes up to 8 or 10 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with extended road trips. Overall, if you’re after an itinerary packed with iconic sights and a mix of cultural, natural, and adventure experiences, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors wanting a guided, all-inclusive Moroccan adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic Desert Experience: Camel rides, overnight stays in Berber tents, and sunset views in Erg-Chebbi dunes.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to historic kasbahs, ancient medinas, and UNESCO sites like Ait Ben-Haddou and Volubilis.
• Scenic Drives: Through the Atlas Mountains, Ziz Valley, and Cedar Forests, with plenty of photo stops.
• Guided Insights: Knowledgeable guides and local guides enhance understanding of Morocco’s rich history and culture.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private A/C transport, accommodations in hotels and desert camps, and included breakfast.
• Value for Money: At $1,315.51 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with many inclusions.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Marrakech to Dades Gorge via Ouarzazate and Ait Ben-Haddou

Our journey kicks off early with a pickup from Marrakech at 7:00 am. The drive through the Atlas Mountains is one of the trip’s highlights—the Tizi ‘n Tichka pass provides breathtaking mountain scenery and a sense of adventure. Stop here for photos and to stretch your legs, capturing the rugged beauty of Morocco’s highlands.

Next, a visit to Telouet Kasbah offers a glimpse into Morocco’s feudal past, with its 17th-century architecture and stories of once-powerful local rulers. Then, we head to Ait Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO-listed fortified village that looks like a set straight out of a movie. This site is a favorite for film lovers, having appeared in productions like “Game of Thrones” and “Gladiator.”

Lunchtime here allows you to soak in the ancient atmosphere before touring the Atlas Film Studios nearby—an interesting addition for movie buffs. The drive continues to Skoura, a lush oasis dotted with kasbahs, and finally culminates in the picturesque Dades Valley, where a cozy hotel awaits.

Day 2: Dades Gorges to Merzouga and Sahara Camping

After breakfast, we explore Todra Gorge, a rock fortress carved by water over millions of years, creating towering canyon walls that are perfect for photos. The path then takes us to the quaint village of Tinjdad for lunch, with scenic views along the way.

The afternoon leads us through Rissani and Arfoud, towns known for their date palms and fossil crafts, before reaching the gateway to the Sahara—Merzouga. Here, the atmosphere shifts with the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi. Once at the hotel, we relax poolside and sip on traditional Berber tea.

The evening’s highlight is a camel trek—about an hour and a half—through the dunes to the desert camp. Watching the sunset over the endless sand is a moment to savor, and the night is spent in authentic Berber tents, with music and storytelling around the campfire.

Day 3: Sunrise in the Sahara and Journey to Fez

Early risers will wake to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a spectacle that’s worth the early morning. After breakfast and a shower, we bid farewell to the desert, heading north toward Fez.

The route passes through Arfoud, Errachidia, and the scenic Ziz Valley, renowned for its fertile landscape. The journey continues through Cedar Forests of Azrou, where you might catch a glimpse of the monkeys that inhabit the woods. The drive is long, but the landscapes make it worthwhile.

Arriving in Fez in the late afternoon, you’ll have some free time to soak in the atmosphere of Morocco’s spiritual capital.

Day 4: Discovering Fez Medina

A full day in Fez reveals the city’s legendary medina, an UNESCO World Heritage site. With a local guide, we visit Bou Inania Medersa, the Chahrij fountains, and Karaouine Mosque, the oldest university in the world.

The tanneries are a must-see—here, you’ll witness traditional leather-making processes, with vivid dye pits that have been used for centuries. Artisan workshops and souks showcase the craftsmanship and vibrant commerce that define Fez’s character.

The guide’s insights help make sense of the maze-like streets, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Morocco’s intellectual and cultural history.

Day 5: From Fez to Ouzoud Waterfalls via Meknes and Volubilis

Our morning begins with a drive toward Meknes, where we explore Imperial city sights. Then, a visit to Volubilis offers sweeping views of Roman ruins—mosaics, arches, and the well-preserved basilica highlight Morocco’s ancient roots.

Next, we continue to Moulay Idriss, a sacred town known for its religious significance. The day concludes with a drive through the Middle Atlas, leading us to the Ouzoud waterfalls. The lush surroundings and cascading water make it one of Morocco’s most scenic natural spots.

Overnight near the falls, where you can enjoy dinner with views of the water and possibly spot some wild monkeys.

Day 6: The Magnificence of Ouzoud and Return to Marrakech

The final day starts with a visit to the Ouzoud waterfalls, famed for their impressive height and dramatic drops. You can stroll along the paths, stand close to the falling water, and have lunch nearby, listening to the roar of the falls.

On the way back to Marrakech, a stop at Imi’n Ifri allows for some last-minute exploration or photos of traditional Moroccan architecture. Arrival in Marrakech is expected late afternoon, bringing your adventure to a close.

What Travelers Say

From authentic guides like Abdelhadi ElMoustahl—whose detailed knowledge earned high praise—to the stunning desert vistas, reviews highlight the tour’s strengths. One traveler mentioned, “Rachid and Abdellatif made the entire experience special,” emphasizing the importance of good guides.

Others pointed out the long travel hours but appreciated the value of seeing so many iconic sights in one trip. A solo traveler felt a bit uneasy in crowded areas after dark, which is worth considering if you’re traveling alone or prefer daytime activities. Still, the overall consensus leans toward a positive, well-organized experience with knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.

Why This Tour Works

This tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive Moroccan experience without the hassle of planning every detail. The mix of cultural sights, natural wonders, and desert adventures makes it versatile and engaging.

The inclusion of private transport and accommodations ensures comfort, while the focus on authentic experiences—like camel rides and visits to ancient kasbahs—adds genuine value. The cost is balanced by the number of sites visited and the quality of guides involved.

It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a curated taste of Morocco’s highlights in a relatively short time. The flexibility of pickup, group discounts, and mobile tickets add convenience and affordability, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed tour that balances sightseeing, culture, and adventure, this 6-day journey from Marrakech ticks many boxes. It’s particularly suitable for travelers eager to see Morocco’s best-known sites without the stress of self-navigation or booking every component individually.

The standout features—like camel rides in the Sahara, visits to UNESCO sites, and scenic mountain drives—offer memorable moments and photo opportunities. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations ensure you’re well looked after, making this a hassle-free way to experience Morocco’s diverse landscape.

While the long travel days require patience, the payoff is a rich, varied experience that covers desert, mountains, ancient cities, and waterfalls. It’s a solid choice for first-timers and those who want a comprehensive taste of Morocco’s magic in just a week.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private A/C transportation, 5 nights in hotels and camp, camel rides in Merzouga, local guides, and breakfast plus dinner on two nights.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included every morning, and dinner is provided on two nights. Lunches in local cafes and restaurants are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those.

How long are the travel days?
Travel days can be lengthy, often around 8 hours or more, depending on stops and traffic. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with long drives.

Is pickup provided?
Yes, pickup from Marrakech is offered, making logistics easy for travelers arriving in the city.

What kind of accommodations are used?
The tour features a mix of hotels in scenic locations and authentic desert tents for the Sahara night, enhancing the experience.

Can solo travelers join?
Yes, solo travelers can participate. However, some reviews mention feeling uneasy in crowded areas after dark, so consider your comfort level with nighttime wandering.

What should I bring for the desert camp?
Pack lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Comfortable shoes for walking near the dunes are also recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on scenic drives, cultural sites, and camel rides suggests it could suit families, provided children are comfortable with the long travel hours and outdoor activities.

This detailed review highlights how this Moroccan tour blends iconic sights with authentic experiences, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to see as much as possible in a week while enjoying genuine local culture.