3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley [332 km]

Your 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes begins with an early departure at 08:30 am, heading towards the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, the highest road pass in Morocco. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains, picturesque Berber villages, and stop for a refreshing tea or coffee break.

Our first major stop is the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has served as the backdrop for iconic films such as Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones. This historic fortress was once a vital stronghold on the old Salt Road, where caravans traded gold, ivory, and other treasures from sub-Saharan Africa.

After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, we’ll journey through Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa,” and continue to the Dades Valley. En route, we’ll pass through the Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses, famous for its stunning scenery and Berber villages. We’ll spend the night in the Dades Valley, surrounded by dramatic landscapes.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert [272 km]

On the second day of your 3 days tour from Marrakech to Fes, we’ll leave the Dades Valley and head towards the magnificent Todra Gorges, one of Morocco most breathtaking natural wonders. You’ll have time to walk through the towering canyons and enjoy the serene ambiance of the river flowing through the gorge.

From Todra, we’ll continue our journey through the rugged landscapes, passing by numerous Berber villages and oases. We’ll stop briefly in Erfoud, a town renowned for its fossil workshops, before reaching Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Depending on your arrival time, you may relax or begin your camel trek into the desert right away.

The camel trek, which lasts about an hour, will take you across the golden dunes of the Sahara to a traditional Berber camp. As the sun sets, you’ll be treated to a delicious Moroccan dinner and entertained by local Berber musicians around a campfire (during the colder months). Spend the night under a sky filled with countless stars a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Azrou – Ifrane – Fes [463 km]

Your final day begins with an early wake-up to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over the Sahara (optional). After breakfast and a refreshing shower, you’ll embark on a camel trek back to Merzouga, where your driver/guide will be waiting to start the journey to Fes.

We’ll drive through Errachidia, the largest city in the desert region, and stop for a panoramic view of the lush Ziz Valley. Continuing through the Middle Atlas Mountains, we’ll pause in Midelt or Zaida for lunch, depending on your preference.

As we travel north, we’ll pass through the Cedar Forest of Azrou, home to wild Barbary monkeys. If they’re around, you’ll have the chance to take photos and perhaps feed them. However, please remember that they are wild animals, and their presence is not guaranteed. The journey continues through Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture and cool climate. We’ll arrive in Fes by early evening, concluding your unforgettable 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes.