Journey from Marrakech to Fez on a spectacular 3-day desert tour, showcasing Morocco’s diverse beauty. Traverse the High Atlas Mountains, uncover ancient kasbahs like Ait Ben Haddou, and witness the Sahara’s golden dunes. Explore the breathtaking Todra Gorges, then spend an enchanting night in a luxury camp beneath the stars. Along the way, visit traditional Berber villages, discover verdant oases, and wander through peaceful cedar forests. This trip perfectly combines adventure, cultural immersion, and stunning nature for an unforgettable experience, whether you seek relaxation or discovery.
Your 3-day desert adventure from Marrakech to Fes kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel or riad. We journey south, ascending the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2260m), pausing for breathtaking views along the way.
Our first major stop is the magnificent Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Kasbah renowned for its stunning earthen clay architecture. Explore this iconic fortified village, a famed backdrop for epic films like ‘Gladiator’ and ‘The Mummy’.
Following lunch in the Ouarzazate area, our route winds through the lush Skoura Oasis and onward via the fragrant Valley of Roses (celebrated for its damask blooms in spring) towards the dramatic Dades Gorge, often dubbed the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Here, settle into your hotel/riad for dinner and a restful overnight stay, concluding the first day of your Marrakech to Fes desert tour.
After breakfast, depart the Dades Valley for another day of incredible Moroccan scenery. Our journey leads us towards Tinghir, a town rich in Berber heritage, and onto the impressive Todra Gorge. Marvel at the towering limestone cliffs, carved by the Todra River, creating a dramatic canyon perfect for a short, scenic walk to admire its natural beauty.
After lunch at a local café, we journey towards Erfoud, known as the “capital of fossils.” Here, you’ll have an opportunity to visit a local workshop and see how ancient marine fossils are expertly processed. From Erfoud, the landscape transforms as we drive across stony desert plains towards the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi sand dunes near Merzouga.
Your camels await for a memorable trek into the heart of the golden dunes. Pause to witness a spectacular desert sunset, capturing its breathtaking beauty. Your camel guide will lead you to your traditional Berber desert camp nestled amongst the dunes. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious dinner served under a vast canopy of stars, accompanied by Berber music and drumming around a campfire, before retiring to your comfortable nomad-style tent. This concludes your second incredible day on the 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour.
Wake early to witness the magical desert sunrise painting the Erg Chebbi dunes with vibrant colours – a truly unforgettable spectacle. After breakfast at the camp, ride your camel back to the dunes’ edge to meet your driver and commence the final leg of your journey towards Fes.
We drive north, traversing the vast Tafilalt palm grove and following the scenic Ziz Valley, characterized by its deep gorge and sprawling palm oasis. We’ll pause for panoramic views near Errachidia. Our journey continues to Midelt, nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains and famed for its apple orchards and mineral mining, where we’ll stop for lunch.
After lunch, cross the Middle Atlas, travelling through fragrant cedar forests near Azrou. Here, we’ll stop to observe playful Barbary macaque monkeys in their natural habitat. Next, visit Ifrane, often dubbed “Morocco’s Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture, cleanliness, and cool climate. Built by the French in the 1930s, this popular mountain resort offers a brief stop, perhaps to see its iconic stone lion statue.
Leaving Ifrane, continue through rolling hills and fertile agricultural plains before arriving in the historic city of Fes by late afternoon or early evening. Your driver will ensure a comfortable drop-off at your designated hotel or riad, marking the end of your memorable 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes.
✔ Private transport (4×4 or minivan) with A/C
✔ English/French-speaking driver/guide
✔ 1 night in a Dades Valley hotel & 1 night in a desert camp
✔ Camel trek in Merzouga (1 per person)
✔ Breakfast & dinner during the trip
✖ Lunches & drinks
✖ Entrance fees (Ait Ben Haddou, film studios, etc.)
✖ Tips for guides/drivers
