From Marrakech: 5-Days Tour to Chefchaouen & Merzouga Desert

Traveling through Morocco in just five days might sound ambitious, but with this well-organized tour by Come With Us Tour, it’s entirely doable — and deeply rewarding. This journey offers a perfect mix of dramatic landscapes, cultural treasures, and unforgettable desert adventures. We found the experience both authentic and surprisingly comfortable, with plenty of highlights that make the trip worth every penny.

What really shines are the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking scenery, and the chance to sleep in a luxury desert camp. However, with such a packed itinerary, you might find the days long and the driving extensive. This tour suits travelers who crave a comprehensive snapshot of Morocco’s diverse beauty, without sacrificing comfort or local flavor.

Key Points

• Authentic Morocco in 5 days with a mix of cultural sites, landscapes, and desert experiences
• Comfortable private transport with bilingual drivers who add local insights
• Wide variety of accommodations, from guesthouses to a luxury desert camp
• Stunning scenery like the High Atlas, Dades Gorges, and Sahara dunes
• Expert guides in Fes and Chefchaouen enhance cultural understanding
• Good value for money considering the transportation, accommodation, and activities included

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of What to Expect from This Tour

This 5-day journey from Marrakech covers Morocco’s most iconic sights and hidden gems, offering a balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s a tightly packed itinerary but designed to give you a rich taste of the country’s diversity—all with the support of private transport and local guides.

While the cost of $711 per person may seem high at first glance, it includes accommodations, most meals, the camel trek, and expert guiding, making it a fair deal when considering the extensive travel involved. Plus, reviews highlight the value, especially given the quality of the guides and the memorable experiences.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou and Dades Gorges

You’ll hop into your private, air-conditioned vehicle early in the morning — a big plus for comfort on long drives. The journey through the High Atlas Mountains over the Tizi n’Tichka pass offers jaw-dropping views you’ll want to capture. Many travelers mention stopping for photo opportunities at scenic viewpoints, making the drive part of the adventure.

The visit to Ait Ben Haddou is a highlight — this UNESCO-listed kasbah site is a film lover’s dream, appearing in movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. The fortress feels like stepping back in time, with its mud-brick walls and winding alleyways. A reviewer described it as “absolutely beautiful,” praising the historic atmosphere.

Afterward, you head to the Valley of Roses, famous for its fragrant blooms and the annual Rose Festival. It’s a lovely chance to explore local cooperatives and learn how rose water and oils are produced. The day concludes in the Dades Gorges, where towering rock formations create a dramatic backdrop for your overnight stay in a guesthouse. The gorge’s rugged landscape is perfect for photography and peaceful evenings.

Day 2: From Dades to Merzouga — Through Gorges, Erfoud, and the Desert

Starting early, you’ll visit the Todra Gorges, known for their sheer, towering cliffs—ideal for hiking and snapping photos. Reviewers love the views here, describing the gorges as “spectacular” with “great photo opportunities.” From there, the journey continues through Erfoud, a town renowned for fossils and dates, giving you a glimpse into local industries.

The highlight of the day is arriving in Merzouga, where you’ll saddle up for a camel trek into the Sahara. Expect to ride as the sun begins to set, watching the dunes turn golden — a truly magical moment. A review mentions enjoying the sunset camel ride, with comments about the peacefulness of the desert and the stunning landscapes.

Your night in a desert camp features a traditional dinner, Berber music, and starry skies. Many travelers mention the luxury desert camp as a pleasant surprise, with comfortable beds and warm blankets despite the cool desert night. Waking up at dawn for a sunrise over the dunes is a must-do, and the 4WD transfer back to the meeting point ensures a smooth start to the day.

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Day 3: From Sahara to Fes via Ziz Valley and Ifrane

After a sunrise camel ride, you return to Merzouga for breakfast. The drive north takes you through the Ziz Valley, lush with palm groves and vibrant landscapes that provide a striking contrast to the desert. Travelers cherished this part, noting the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to see local villages.

Passing Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco,” you’ll notice its alpine-style architecture and cooler climate, a refreshing change from the desert heat. This town offers a brief stop for photos and a stretch before arriving in Fes in the late afternoon.

Day 4: Guided Tour of Fes and Travel to Chefchaouen

A guided tour of Fes Medina reveals its labyrinth of streets, bustling souks, and historic sites like the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque. Reviewers rave about the guides’ knowledge, describing them as “attentive” and “helpful,” making the complex medina much more understandable. You’ll see craft workshops, spice markets, and perhaps sample local sweets.

Later, a scenic drive takes you to Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City. The town’s vibrant, blue-washed streets create perfect photo moments, especially from viewpoints overlooking the Rif Mountains. Staying overnight in a charming riad ensures an authentic experience, and many guests mention the peaceful atmosphere and delicious local cuisine.

Day 5: Exploring Chefchaouen and Return to Marrakech via Rabat

Your morning starts with a guided walk through Chefchaouen’s blue alleys, vibrant markets, and panoramic viewpoints. The relaxed pace here allows for plenty of wandering and photo stops. Many visitors describe the town as “enchanting” and “a photographer’s paradise.” Afterward, a drive to Rabat offers a chance for a relaxed lunch and some sightseeing before heading back to Marrakech.

The return journey ties the trip together, giving you a final taste of Morocco’s diverse scenery — from mountains to coast to desert.

What Makes This Tour a Great Choice

Comfort and Convenience: The private vehicle, professional bilingual driver, and well-chosen accommodations offer a stress-free experience, even with such a full schedule. Travelers consistently mention the comfort of the transport and the flexibility of pickups and drop-offs, whether outside your riad or at nearby meeting points.

Authentic Experiences: From visiting film-famous kasbahs to walking through bustling medinas and sleeping under the stars in the Sahara, you get a taste of Morocco’s varied culture and landscapes. The inclusion of local guides in Fes and Chefchaouen enriches the experience — many reviews highlight their knowledge and friendly approach.

Scenic Highlights: The tour hits all the major sights — the High Atlas, Dades Gorges, Sahara dunes, and the blue streets of Chefchaouen. Several reviewers praised the “breathtaking landscapes” and “spectacular views,” confirming that the scenery alone is worth the trip.

Value for Money: Given the accommodation, meals, activities like camel trekking, and transportation, the price of $711 per person is reasonable. Reviewers note that the accommodations in Dades, Fes, and Chefchaouen are comfortable and centrally located, and the desert camp offers a “luxurious” yet authentic experience.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Pack warm clothes for the Sahara overnight, as desert temperatures can drop to 0°C, especially in winter.
• Bring comfortable shoes for walking through medinas and gorges.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat are essential for daytime sightseeing.
• Luggage can be stored securely in the vehicle during desert camping.
• Vegetarian and vegan options are available, so communicate dietary preferences in advance if needed.
• The tour is not suitable for people with back problems or those over 95, due to long drives and possibly uneven terrain.
• Expect the tour to be flexible with pickup times confirmed the day before, ensuring a smooth start.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, you will have your own private chauffeur, guide, and accommodations, making the experience tailored to your needs.

How long are the drives between destinations? The itinerary involves a good amount of driving, with some days including several hours on the road — part of the adventure, but worth noting for comfort.

Are meals included? Four breakfasts and four dinners are included, offering traditional Moroccan cuisine. Lunches are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries.

Can I bring luggage? Yes, your luggage will be securely stored in the vehicle during desert camping, so pack comfortably for the trip’s varied environments.

Is the desert camp comfortable? Yes, many reviews describe the camp as luxurious with good amenities, warm blankets, and clean facilities.

What is the best time of year for this tour? While not explicitly stated, winter months are mentioned as cooler, especially in Chefchaouen, so pack warm clothes accordingly.

Will I see authentic Moroccan culture? Definitely, especially in the medinas, local markets, and during visits to cooperatives and traditional villages.

Is the tour suitable for photography? Absolutely. Many stops offer stunning vistas perfect for capturing Morocco’s diverse landscapes.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour from Marrakech provides a balanced and immersive introduction to Morocco’s most iconic sights. It’s perfect for travelers who want a carefully curated experience that combines cultural exploration, scenic drives, and desert adventure — all while enjoying the comforts of private transport and quality accommodations.

The guides’ local knowledge, the breathtaking landscapes, and the authentic overnight stays make this a memorable trip for those seeking a genuine Moroccan adventure. While long days of travel are involved, the variety of experiences ensures you return home with a deep appreciation for this vibrant country.

If you’re after an efficient, well-organized tour that hits the highlights and offers unique moments like camel rides at sunset and wandering in blue alleys, this package is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, cultural insights, and stunning scenery in equal measure.

Ready to explore Morocco’s diverse beauty in just five days? This tour balances scenic wonders, cultural depth, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for a memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: