Explore Fes and Atlas Desert Journey with Cultural Experiences

The trip starts in Marrakech and goes north toward the magnificent High Atlas Mountains, crossing the famous Tizi N'Tichka Mountains, which are located at almost 2,260 meters of elevation and offer beautiful panoramic views, spectacular scenic views and mountain scenery along with opportunities to take scenic photos. You will also see that Berber villagers live in their traditional ways just as their ancestors did centuries ago, which will help provide you a small glimpse into the way of life in the Old World.

After that, continue on towards the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, which is known for its spectacular kasbah and fortifications that have been featured in many movies including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. You will have time to explore the ancient earthen architectural style of the village, the narrow alleyways throughout the village, and the breathtaking views of the desert from the top.

After lunch at a local restaurant, you will continue your trip to Ouarzazate, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara". Upon arrival in Ouarzazate, you can either stop by the famous Atlas Film Studios or relax at your hotel before embarking on your next day's adventure.

In the morning after breakfast, visit Ouarzazate to see the historic Taourirt Kasbah, an incredibly well-preserved fortress that highlights traditional Moroccan design and provides insight into the area's powerful history. After Taourirt, head to the lush Skoura Oasis, home to extensive palm groves and many hidden kasbahs. A walk through the oasis reveals lots of quiet paths, local farms, and ageless desert landscapes.

Continue driving to the Valley of Roses, which bursts into life when thousands of Damask roses bloom in the springtime. The valley is also known for its artisan rosewater, perfumes, and beauty products made with locally grown roses. Next, drive into the Dades Valley, which is known for its dramatic rock formations and winding mountain passes often referred to as the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs." At the famous switchbacks, stop for photo ops before arriving at your accommodations and spend the night in a peaceful environment with beautiful scenery and cool mountain breezes.

Travel toward the magnificent Todra Gorge where ceiling-high cati are a wonderful celebration of nature providing an extraordinary environment for trekkers, climbers and photographers alike. Stroll leisurely along the riverbed and take pleasure in the spectacular cliffs while escaping the heat of the day.

After your hike, continue your travels through palm tree oases, sandy deserts and many small Berber villages to experience the traditions and tenacity of the southern region of Morocco. When you arrive in Merzouga, you will notice an immediate change in the landscape as you see large expanses of yellow sand. At Merzouga switch to camels for an incredibly memorable trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes and experience the beauty of the ever-changing colors of the desert as the sun sets; it creates a very magical atmosphere suitable for capturing the beauty of the desert on film. Spend your evening at an upscale desert camp where you will dine on traditional Moroccan dishes, listen to live music, and enjoy the unforgettable ambience of the stars shining brightly above your head.

Awaken early to observe the sunrise cast an enchanting colour over the golden dunes of Merzouga and the surrounding realities of the desert, displaying dozens of radiant hues across this remote region.

After breakfast at your camp, you will make your way north from the Sahara toward Ziz Valley one of Morocco's largest oasis and covered in thousands of palm trees, the majority of which were planted many years ago in previous generations—and will have the opportunity to take scenic pictures from several locations where you can view the contrast between the lush landscape of Ziz Valley and the surrounding arid desert that the Ziz River has created by erosion over time.

Next on your itinerary will be to drive to Midelt (located between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains) known for its apple orchards, cool climate and relaxed pace of life, where along the way you will also enjoy driving through many Berber towns as well as beautiful mountain terrain that showcases the tremendous geographic diversity of Morocco. Once you have arrived in Midelt, check-in to your hotel for rest after spending your day exploring this beautiful mountain region!

After having breakfast in Midelt, continue your journey through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains, where you will see cedar forests, rolling hills, and curvy roads - all of which will give you something refreshing to look at. Stop in the charming Berber town of Azrou, which is surrounded by ancient cedar trees and home to a well-known cedar forest where friendly Barbary macaque monkeys can be found - an experience many visitors to this area will enjoy.

Continue your journey to the town of Ifrane, which has also been nicknamed “Little Switzerland” because of its European-style architecture, clean streets, and peaceful parks. Take a nice walk around town before heading on to Fes, which will be your final destination. The ride to Fes will allow you to enjoy some picturesque rural farmland, graze for sheep, and experience the slower pace of life in many of the surrounding villages. You will arrive in Fes in the afternoon and your driver will transfer you to your accommodation, thereby concluding a wonderful desert and mountain adventure full of culture, scenery, and adventure.