3 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert [465 km]

Our 3 days desert tour from Fes to Marrakech begins by driving across the Middle Atlas Mountains through Ifrane, known as the Switzerland of Morocco. Ifrane is one of the most beautiful and cleanest cities in Morocco, ranked the second cleanest city in the world in 2013. The name Ifrane comes from the Berber word for caves, but the real charm lies in its outdoor attractions, including the expansive cedar forest where Barbary macaques roam freely. Continuing our journey, we head to the cedar forest to observe these monkeys in their natural habitat. Afterward, we travel to Midelt, the last city in the Middle Atlas Mountains, famous for its apples and cool weather year-round. Midelt serves as a commercial center for a large agricultural area and is famous for mining various minerals. Here, we will stop for lunch.

In the afternoon, we continue our 3 days desert tour from Fes to Marrakech towards the desert, passing through the vast Ziz Valley and numerous small towns. We will pause for a panoramic view of the Ziz Valley beautiful scenery. Then, we head directly to the golden sands of the desert, where camels await to take you on a ride. Upon arriving, a camel guide will lead you to the heart of the desert to witness a breathtaking sunset. After this memorable experience, the camel guide will take you to the luxury camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Merzouga Desert – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley [302 km]

On the second day of our 3 days desert tour from Fes to Marrakech, start with a sunrise breakfast in the desert. Your camel guide will then take you back to the meeting point where your driver awaits. We head to Erfoud, a town known for its fossils and marble stones, and visit a large marble stone association. From there, we travel through small villages to Tinghir, a charming Berber village famous for its palm groves and Todra Caves. Located in the Todgha Valley, Tinghir offers stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.

Next, we drive to Boumalne Dades. The name Boumalne is believed to mean a place of business and trade, particularly for cattle, while Dades is linked to a story about a nomad. We explore the impressive Boumalne Dades gorge before heading to our hotel in Boumalne Dades for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3: Dades Valley – Ouarzazte – Ait Benhaddou – Marrakech [330 km]

In the morning, after a delicious breakfast at your riad/hotel, we bid farewell to Boumalne Dades and set off to explore new places and cities. We drive through the Rose Valley to visit the “Rose City,” known for its beautiful roses and the annual flower festival held in April.

Next, we head to Ouarzazate, also known as the City Without Noise due to its serene atmosphere. Here, we visit famous landmarks such as the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987 and the location for several renowned films like Gladiator (2000), Lawrence of Arabia (1962), Sahara (2005), and The Mummy (1999). We also explore the film studios that attract many global superstars. Most of the city’s inhabitants live in the new town across the river, but some families still reside within the ksar. After stopping for lunch and a rest, we continue our journey through the High Atlas Mountains, pausing for photos and to enjoy the stunning views. Finally, we arrive in Marrakech, where we will drop you off at your hotel/riad, concluding the 3-day Fes to Marrakech desert tour.