6-Day Fes, Chefchaouen & Sahara Desert Tour

Overview

Discover the diverse beauty of northern and southern Morocco on this unique 6-day journey. Begin in the ancient imperial city of Fes with its historic medina and scholarly heritage, venture to the enchanting blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen nestled in the Rif Mountains, then venture south to the golden dunes of the Sahara. This tour perfectly combines cultural immersion, mountain beauty, and desert adventure in one unforgettable experience.

Highlights

• Fes Medina - Ancient winding streets, historic leather tanneries, and ancient mosques
• Volubilis Roman Ruins - UNESCO site with preserved mosaics and classical structures
• Meknes Imperial City - Grand gates and royal palace grounds of Morocco's fourth imperial city
• Rif Mountains - Scenic mountain passes with terraced farms and mountain villages
• Chefchaouen Blue City - Iconic blue-washed medina with narrow streets and stunning photography
• Mountain Market - Local crafts and traditional Moroccan goods
• Middle Atlas Forests - Cedar-filled mountain passes
• Todra Gorges - Dramatic canyon landscapes with towering walls
• Erg Chebbi Sahara Dunes - Golden sand dunes with sunrise and sunset camel treks
• Berber Camp - Authentic desert experience under the stars
• Desert Stargazing - Clear night skies with countless stars

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Fes to Chefchaouen

• Morning: Depart Fes and travel northward
• Stop at Volubilis Roman ruins (UNESCO World Heritage site)
• Explore preserved mosaics and classical structures
• Lunch break in Meknes, the imperial city
• Afternoon: Drive through the scenic Rif Mountains
• Arrive in Chefchaouen, the famous blue city
• Evening: Explore the charming blue-washed medina
• Overnight in a traditional riad in Chefchaouen
• Distance: 230 km | Drive time: 5-6 hours

Day 2: Chefchaouen Exploration

• Morning: Guided walking tour of the blue medina
• Visit the Kasbah and Plaza Uta el-Hammam
• Explore local artisan workshops and markets
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Afternoon: Hike to nearby viewpoints for panoramic vistas
• Photography opportunity at sunset
• Visit the famous blue-washing center
• Overnight in Chefchaouen
• Distance: Local exploration

Day 3: Chefchaouen to Merzouga

• Early morning: Depart Chefchaouen heading south
• Drive through the Rif Mountains and Middle Atlas
• Lunch break in a mountain village
• Afternoon: Continue through scenic passes toward Merzouga
• Arrive at Merzouga desert camp
• Late afternoon: Sunset camel trek into Erg Chebbi dunes
• Dinner and overnight in the Berber camp
• Distance: 400 km | Drive time: 8-9 hours

Day 4: Merzouga - Full Desert Day

• Early morning: Sunrise camel trek in the dunes
• Breakfast at the camp
• Mid-morning: Rest and explore the camp
• Afternoon: Visit a nomadic family encampment
• Explore the Ziz Oasis and desert landscape
• Optional sandboarding or 4x4 dune exploration
• Late afternoon: Sunset activities
• Overnight in the desert camp
• Distance: Local exploration

Day 5: Merzouga Desert Exploration

• Early morning: Optional sunrise trek or rest
• Breakfast at the camp
• Day spent exploring different perspectives of the dunes
• Visit local Merzouga village market
• Photography and relaxation
• Overnight in the desert camp
• Distance: Local exploration

Day 6: Merzouga to Fes

• Early morning: Final camel trek or rest
• Breakfast at the camp
• Begin return journey to Fes
• Stop for lunch along the scenic route
• Afternoon: Arrive back in Fes
• Distance: 465 km | Drive time: 9-10 hours

What's Included

• All accommodations in traditional riads and desert camps
• Professional English-speaking guide
• All transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
• Breakfast and dinner as specified in the itinerary
• Camel treks in the Sahara
• All entrance fees to monuments and attractions
• Local taxes and service charges

What's Not Included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses and tips
• Drinks and additional meals not mentioned
• Optional activities and experiences
• Any items not specifically mentioned as included

Why Choose This Tour?

• Comprehensive Experience - Combine the best of northern and southern Morocco
• Expert Guidance - Knowledgeable local guides
• Authentic Stays - Carefully selected traditional accommodations
• Small Groups - Personalized attention and flexibility
• Responsible Tourism - Supporting local communities and sustainable practices
• Cultural Immersion - Genuine interactions with local people
• Photography Focus - Ample time at key locations for the perfect shot
• Flexible Itinerary - Customizable to your interests and pace

FAQ

Q: Is Chefchaouen worth visiting? A: Absolutely! It's one of Morocco's most beautiful and photogenic towns with unique blue architecture and mountain charm.

Q: What's the best time for photos in Chefchaouen? A: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

Q: How much walking is there? A: Moderate walking in Chefchaouen medina and on sand in the desert. The pace is leisurely and accessible.

Q: Can I skip either location (Chefchaouen or Sahara)? A: Yes, the tour can be customized. We offer Fes-Chefchaouen variations or desert-only options.

Q: What should I pack? A: Lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket for mountain evenings.

Q: Are meals included? A: Yes, all meals are included throughout the tour. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Q: Best time to visit? A: October to April for comfortable temperatures. Spring (March-May) is especially beautiful with blooming flowers.

Q: Is this tour physically demanding? A: Moderate fitness is needed. Walking in medinas and camel riding are involved but manageable for most people.

Q: Can I do camel alternatives in the desert? A: Yes, 4x4 desert drives and walking tours are available. Inform your guide in advance.

Q: What if I want to stay longer in either location? A: The tour can be customized. Contact us about extending your stay in Chefchaouen or the desert.

Q: How many people typically go on this tour? A: Groups range from 2-15 people. Private tours for families and small groups are available.

Q: Is the desert camp comfortable? A: Yes, camps provide comfortable basic accommodations with blankets, mattresses, and Moroccan hospitality.