Fes to eastern oasis of Figuig and Merzouga

Day 1: Fez to Oujda

• Morning: Depart from Fez for Oujda (4–5 hours).

• Afternoon: Explore Oujda’s highlights:

• Medina and Bab Sidi Abdel Wahab: Visit the historic gates and bustling streets.

• Lalla Aicha Park: A peaceful retreat in the city.

• Sidi Yahya Oasis: A serene, historically significant site.

• Evening: Overnight in a hotel or riad in Oujda.

Day 2: Oujda to Figuig

• Morning: Drive to Figuig (6–7 hours), passing through stunning arid landscapes and small villages.

• Afternoon: Arrive in Figuig, a hidden oasis town near the Algerian border.

• Explore the palm groves and traditional ksour (fortified villages).

• Take a relaxing walk or short hike to nearby springs.

• Evening: Overnight in a guesthouse in Figuig.

Day 3: Full Day in Figuig

• Activities:

• Wander through the oasis’s date palm plantations and learn about traditional irrigation systems.

• Visit historical landmarks like the ancient mosques and ksour (including Ksar Zenaga).

• Optional: Guided hikes in the surrounding hills or meet locals to learn about their way of life.

• Evening: Enjoy a second night in Figuig, taking in the tranquil desert ambiance.

Day 4: Figuig to Merzouga

• Morning: Depart early for Merzouga (7–8 hours).

• Afternoon: Arrive in Merzouga, at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes.

• Take a camel trek into the dunes to watch the sunset.

• Evening: Enjoy dinner and overnight in a luxury or standard desert camp under the stars.

Day 5: Merzouga Desert Exploration

• Morning: Watch the sunrise over the dunes and enjoy breakfast at camp.

• Activities:

• Visit Khamlia village to experience traditional Gnawa music.

• Explore nearby oases, fossil sites, or the seasonal Dayet Sriji salt lake (if in season).

• Optional: Quad biking or sandboarding on the dunes.

• Evening: Overnight in a desert riad or another desert camp.

Day 6: Merzouga to Dades Gorges

• Morning: Depart for Dades Gorges (5–6 hours), with scenic stops along the way:

• Todra Gorges: Take a short hike in this dramatic canyon with sheer rock walls.

• Berber villages like Tinghir and Skoura offer insight into rural Moroccan life.

• Evening: Arrive in Dades Gorges and stay in a guesthouse overlooking the valley.

Day 7: Dades Gorges to Marrakech

• Morning: Drive to Marrakech (6–7 hours), passing through:

• Ouarzazate: Visit the famous Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Enjoy breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains.

• Afternoon/Evening: Drop-off in Marrakech.