3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Connect two imperial cities with an unforgettable desert journey, featuring camel treks, stargazing, and visits to natural wonders like Todra Gorges and the Ziz Valley.
Explore the charm of Morocco’s hidden gems, from the alpine town of Ifrane to the cedar forests of Azrou.

Overview:

A captivating 3 days journey from Marrakech to Fes that offers a deep dive into Morocco’s unique landscapes, history, and culture. Traverse the stunning High Atlas Mountains, explore the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou, the Todra Gorges, and the Ziz Valley, before experiencing the Sahara Desert’s serene beauty. The tour culminates with a drive through the cedar forests of Azrou and a visit to the alpine-style town of Ifrane, making this an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Aït Ben Haddou → Dades Valley (6-7 Hours, 340 km)
Depart from Marrakech early in the morning and head towards the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m) with breathtaking views. Along the way, stop to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Ben Haddou, famous for its earthen architecture and Hollywood fame. After exploring Aït Ben Haddou, continue to Ouarzazate for lunch. Optionally visit the Kasbah Taourirt or Atlas Film Studios. Then, continue on the Route of 1,000 Kasbahs through the Rose Valley, famous for its fragrant roses and beauty products. By late afternoon, you’ll reach the stunning Dades Valley, known for its dramatic red rock formations and winding gorges. Check into a riad or hotel in the valley and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner.

Day 2: Dades Valley → Todra Gorges → Merzouga → Camel Trek into Erg Chebbi Dunes (5-6 Hours, 300 km)
From Dades Valley, head to the Todra Gorges, where towering cliffs form an awe-inspiring canyon. After a visit to the gorges, continue your journey to Merzouga, passing through desert towns like Erfoud. Upon arrival in Merzouga, embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy a scenic ride as you experience the golden sands of the Sahara at sunset. Arrive at the Berber desert camp, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy local music, a traditional dinner, and a peaceful night under the stars.

Day 3: Sunrise over the Dunes → Merzouga → Fes via Ziz Valley, Midelt, and Azrou (8-9 Hours, 430 km)
Wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast, return to Merzouga by camel and begin the drive towards Fes. Travel through the Ziz Valley, known for its vast palm groves and picturesque landscapes. Continue your journey through Midelt, a town famous for its apple orchards, before reaching the cedar forests of Azrou, where you might spot wild monkeys. Make a stop in Ifrane, an alpine-style town known as the “Switzerland of Morocco”. Continue on to Fes, where the tour concludes.

Highlights of the 3 Days Desert Tour:

Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains and Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah.
Exploration of the Todra Gorges and dramatic rock formations.
Camel trek at sunset and an overnight stay at a Berber desert camp under the stars in Erg Chebbi.
Sunrise over the dunes in Merzouga.
Stunning Ziz Valley and drive through Midelt and the cedar forests of Azrou.
Visit to the alpine-style town of Ifrane.

Includes:

Pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in Marrakech.
Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation with an English-speaking driver/guide.
1 night in a riad or hotel in the Dades Valley (half-board: dinner and breakfast).
1 night in a Berber desert camp in Merzouga (half-board: dinner and breakfast).
Camel trek in the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Opportunities for sightseeing and photo stops along the route.

Excludes:

Lunches and drinks.
Entrance fees to historical sites (e.g., Aït Ben Haddou, Kasbah Taourirt, Atlas Film Studios).
Tips for the driver/guide.
Personal expenses or extras.
Travel insurance.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“An unforgettable experience connecting Marrakech and Fes through the desert! From the stunning drive through the Atlas Mountains to the magical sunset camel trek in the dunes, everything was perfectly planned. The desert camp was an absolute highlight, with delicious food and music under the stars. Highly recommended!”
– Julia, Rome

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“One of the best experiences of my life! The landscapes were breathtaking, especially the Todra Gorge and Ziz Valley. The camel trek at sunset was like a dream, and the Berber camp exceeded all my expectations. A perfect way to explore Morocco’s beauty!”
– Ahmed, Cairo

Pack snacks and water for the long drives.
Take breaks to explore the local culture and shops along the route.
Plan your onward journey in Fes for a seamless experience.

Shared Tour Price: €130 per person.
Private Tour Price: Starting from €280 per person.