On the second day of our desert tour from Fes, we will begin our journey at the edge of the captivating desert of Merzouga, we venture towards Rissani, the site of the ancient desert capital of Sijilmassa. Here, between the 14th and 18th centuries, immense fortunes in gold and slaves were exchanged as caravans traversed the Sahel. Upon arrival at Zawiya Moulay Ali ash-Sharif, we may explore the bustling Marketplace and Fondouks, where the donkeys gather. We then continue our travels, following the winding Dades Valley, to the grandiose canyons of Morocco’s Todgha Gorges, located past the Central High Atlas Mountains. As one gazes upon these awe-inspiring landscapes, the grandeur and beauty of the Colorado Plateau come to mind. Following an exciting day, we’ll be led to the scenic Tssidrine road, to witness a mesmerizing sunset, before retiring to our luxurious hotel/riad for the night.

We will begin the final day of our 3-day desert tour from Fes to Ouarzazate, lovingly known as the ‘Holywood of Africa’, by savoring a hearty breakfast and refreshing shower at the hotel in Dades. Our journey will take us through the Skoura Oasis, and we will pause for a panoramic view of the Taourirt Kasbah. Our next stop will be near the Atlas Film Studio in Ouarzazate, where many movie classics have been filmed. We will then make our way to the majestic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbahs for a delicious lunch. This ancient Ksar (Palace) lies along the former Berber and Bedouin caravan route between the Sahara and the north of Morocco. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, the Kasbah has been the setting of many films, including The Mummy and Gladiator. After our lunch, our adventure will continue as we drive through the stunning Atlas Mountains, passing through the Tizi N’Tichka pass (2260m in altitude) and a few Berber Villages along the way. As the sun dips below the horizon, we will arrive in the captivating city of Marrakech, having experienced a wondrous journey.