3 Days tour from marrakesh to fes via merzouga desert
Overview
The 3-day Sahara desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is one of the most popular desert tours from Marrakech that connects the two imperial cities. The 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes lets you discover a big part of the south of Morocco, departing from the ocher city of Marrakech towards the Atlas mountains and crossing beautiful scenery on the curvy roads and perched Berber villages blending with the mountains, to the infamous kasbahs of Ait Benhaddou fortified village and Ouarzazate with its cinematic attractions, spending the first night in the heart of the Dades gorges in a traditional but comfy hotel. The second day lets you enjoy a short walk in the todgha immense gorges before heading towards Merzouga in a more arid plains announcing the beginning of the deserts, once in Merzouga, you will ride the camels and go deep in the desert to spend a night in a nomad bivouac to enjoy a starry night under a clear and peaceful sky. The third day takes you through a different route heading towards Fez and crossing many villages and sceneries along with the beautiful cedar forest with its playful monkeys before reaching the Cultural capital of the country: Fes where your driver will drop you off in your hotel.
- Duration : 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Start From : Marrakech
- Departs : All Year Round
- Hotels : 4 & 3 Stars
- Arrival : Airport (Marrakech)
- Availability : Everyday
Highlights
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains & Tizi Ntichka pass.
- Visit the UNESCO world heritage Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou.
- Meet the Barbary macaques in the Cedar Forest.
- Ride your camel over Merzouga desert and watch the sunset.
- Overnight in a Berber desert camp in Merzouga desert.
- Visit Ifrane, the "Switzerland of Morocco."
Included / Exclude
- Pick Up: From Your Accommodation Or Airport
- Drop Off: At Your Accommodation Or Airport
- Air-conditioned minivan or 4WD Fuel included
- Professional driver/Driver (Multilingual)
- Bottled water
- You can stop everywhere to take photos
- 1 Night in a Hotel (Dinner & Breakfast)
- Camel ride in the dunes
- Sand boarding in the dunes (Optional)
- Overnight camping in Erg Chebbi Merzouga Desert (Dinner & Breakfast)
- Soft drinks
- Lunches
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities.
- Personal expenses on the itinerary
Itinerary
Depart from Marrakech and journey across the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), enjoying breathtaking panoramic views along the way.
Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Ben Haddou, where you will enjoy a one-hour guided walking tour through this remarkable fortified village (ksar). Discover its rich history, unique Berber culture, and stunning landscapes. Located on the southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains in the Ouarzazate Province, Aït Ben Haddou is the most famous ksar in the Ounila Valley and one of Morocco’s finest examples of traditional southern architecture.
Surrounded by defensive walls reinforced with corner towers and an impressive entrance gate, the ksar is home to a fascinating collection of traditional earthen houses, fortified residences, narrow alleys, and communal spaces. Its exceptional preservation and historical significance earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Aït Ben Haddou.
In the afternoon, continue through Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” before driving along the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs to reach the beautiful Dades Valley. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and spend a relaxing night surrounded by the valley’s spectacular rock formations and lush oasis landscapes.
After a restful night’s sleep, enjoy a delicious breakfast while breathing in the fresh mountain air of the beautiful Dades Valley.
Begin the day with a visit to the spectacular Dades Gorges, then continue your journey through the town of Boumalne Dades toward Todra Gorge, located near the town of Tinghir. Rising up to 300 meters high, Todra Gorge is one of the world’s most impressive canyons. Nestled on the eastern side of the High Atlas Mountains, its towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear river make it one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural attractions.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant along the way before continuing your journey toward the Sahara Desert.
Before arriving in Merzouga, stop at a traditional Berber shop where you can try on authentic desert clothing for memorable photos. Wearing the traditional outfit is completely optional, and photos taken in the clothing are free of charge. Headscarves are also available to wear during your camel trekking experience.
Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes. Meet your camel caravan and ride across the golden sand dunes as the sun begins to set, creating unforgettable views of the Sahara.
Spend the night in a comfortable desert camp, where you will enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner followed by Berber music, drumming around the campfire, dancing under the stars, and an unforgettable night in the heart of the desert.
Important Note: If you would like to enjoy wine during your stay at the desert camp, please purchase it before arriving in Merzouga, as alcoholic beverages are not available in the desert camp.
After breakfast, begin your final day of the tour with a scenic drive toward Fes.
Travel through the spectacular Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s largest palm groves, where you will stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the oasis. This is a great opportunity to take photos, enjoy a coffee, and use the restroom facilities.
Continue your journey through the Zaabel Tunnel and the town of Midelt, often referred to as the “Apple Capital of Morocco.” Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing north.
In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Cedar Forest near Azrou, home to the famous Barbary macaques. Here, you will have the chance to observe these playful monkeys in their natural habitat.
Before arriving in Fes, make one final stop in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its clean streets, alpine-style architecture, and pleasant climate. Visit the city’s iconic Stone Lion, a historic sculpture believed to have been carved by a German prisoner during the French Protectorate.
After the visit, continue to Fes, where your driver will drop you off as close as possible to your riad or hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable journey.
We sincerely hope you have enjoyed your tour with us and that you leave Morocco with wonderful memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Thank you for choosing our services. We wish you a pleasant stay in Morocco, safe travels, and hope to welcome you again in the future. If you need any assistance or have any questions during your stay, please feel free to contact us—we are always happy to help.