4 Days Family Tour from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert

Your family adventure begins with a morning pickup from your Fes accommodation. We board our private, air-conditioned vehicle and set off towards the Sahara. Our first stop is a surprising one: the charming town of Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Its unique alpine architecture and well-kept parks provide a fantastic and unexpected photo opportunity for the kids.

We then continue through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, passing cedar forests where you might spot Barbary macaque monkeys. After lunch in Midelt, famous for its fossils and minerals, we descend through the dramatic Ziz Valley, a breathtaking gorge lined with a massive palm grove. The landscape slowly transforms, and the first glimpses of the golden Erg Chebbi dunes signal our arrival in Merzouga.

Here, the magic begins. We transfer to a comfortable desert auberge where you can leave your main luggage. As the afternoon sun softens, you’ll meet your gentle camels for a sunset trek into the heart of the dunes. Each child will have their own camel, led by an experienced guide. For families with very young children, a 4×4 can be arranged. You’ll arrive at your private luxury desert camp as the stars appear. The evening features a delicious dinner, Berber music around a campfire, and the unforgettable experience of a million stars in the Saharan sky. Overnight in your private en-suite tent.

Day 2: Merzouga Exploration – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

Early risers are rewarded with a breathtaking Saharan sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast at the camp, we journey back to our auberge via camel or 4×4. The morning is yours to explore Merzouga. We recommend a fun, bumpy 4×4 desert safari to visit a nomadic family for a insightful cultural experience and a fossil workshop where kids can learn that the desert was once an ocean floor.

After these adventures, we bid farewell to the desert and drive towards the Todra Gorge. This stunning canyon, with its towering 300-meter cliffs and a river running through it, is a natural playground. Families can take a gentle, flat walk along the water—perfect for skipping stones and letting kids safely explore.

We then continue our journey into the Dades Valley, famous for its unique rock formations known as “Monkey Fingers.” We’ll check into a family-friendly hotel with a swimming pool—a non-negotiable amenity for a refreshing splash and play session after a day of exploration. Dinner and overnight in the Dades Valley.

Day 3: Dades Valley – Valley of the Roses – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

After breakfast, we drive through the picturesque Valley of the Roses (blooming spectacularly in April-May). We then continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa.” Here, families can opt to visit the Atlas Film Studios to see props from famous movies, a surefire hit with kids.

Our next stop is the highlight of the day: the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou. This ancient fortified village is one of Morocco’s most iconic kasbahs and has served as a backdrop for films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Exploring its winding streets feels like stepping into a real-life castle or movie set, captivating the imagination of both children and adults.

After lunch, we begin our ascent, crossing the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass over the High Atlas Mountains. The journey offers stunning, ever-changing views, and we will make several stops for photos and to let the kids stretch their legs. We descend into the Haouz Plain, arriving in the vibrant city of Marrakech in the early evening. You will be dropped off at your accommodation, tired but filled with incredible memories.

Day 4: Explore Marrakech & Departure

This day is dedicated to exploring the magic of Marrakech at your own pace. Depending on your family’s interests and flight schedule, you can discover the city’s main highlights. We recommend a guided tour to navigate the bustling souks efficiently. Key family-friendly attractions include:

• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: A mesmerizing spectacle of storytellers, snake charmers, and juice stalls (best experienced from a rooftop café for a less overwhelming view).
• The Majorelle Garden: A peaceful and beautifully vibrant botanical oasis kids will love.
• The Medina Souks: A fascinating labyrinth for older kids (hold tight to little ones!).

Note: This tour concludes after breakfast on Day 4. Airport transfers can be arranged.

Every family is unique. If this itinerary doesn’t perfectly fit your dreams, dates, or your children’s ages and interests, please just contact us.

We specialize in crafting 100% customized journeys. Whether you want to add more days, include a cooking class, stay in a specific type of accommodation, or adjust the pace, we will work with you to create the perfect Moroccan adventure for your family.

Let’s build your dream trip together!