Explore Sahara Dunes, Gorges, Kasbahs, Atlas Foothills & Journey to Cultural Fes.
Discover Merzouga Dunes, Gorges, Kasbahs, Berber Culture & Atlas Foothills on Your Way to Fes
Embark on an exciting Morocco 3 day desert tour from Ouarzazate to Fes. During these 3 days and 2 nights, you will visit so many fabulous places in a short time, combining the cinematic allure of Ouarzazate with the deep desert experience and the cultural richness of Fes. This tour is ideal for those starting in Ouarzazate and wishing to explore the Sahara before heading north.
The tour starts by exploring the city of Ouarzazate, where you visit the historic Taourirt Kasbah, an ancient mud castle, and also visit the famous film studios where many iconic movies were shot. We then drive to visit the stunning Dades Valley and the dramatic Todra Gorges.
In addition, the heart of your journey is the Sahara Desert of Merzouga (Erg Chebbi). Here, you will experience an iconic camel ride across the golden dunes, witness magical Sahara sunsets and sunrises, and spend an enchanting night in a luxury desert camp located in the middle of the desert. A thrilling 4x4 journey exploring the Sahara desert will introduce you to nomad life, Khamlia Gnawa music, and the unique desert environment.
Furthermore, you will visit the traditional souk of Rissani and Erfoud, the fossils town. As you journey north, you'll visit the charming "Switzerland of Morocco," Ifrane, and the ancient cedars forest, home to Barbary macaques. Finally, the tour concludes with your arrival in Fes.
Your Trip to the Sahara Desert and Fes: Daily Highlights
We pick you up from your accommodation or the airport in Ouarzazate early in the morning. Then, we explore the city of Ouarzazate, visiting the renowned Atlas Film Studios where famous movies were shot, and also the impressive Taourirt Kasbah.
We then drive southeast to visit the beautiful Amridil Kasbah, picturesquely surrounded by palm groves in Skoura. Thereafter, we continue to the Roses Valley, famous for its fragrant roses and the annual Rose Festival held in May, where locals offer their rose products, from perfumes and rose water to oil and cosmetic products.
Next, we drive through the Dades Valley, making a stop at a spot overlooking the valley to enjoy the spectacular landscape of the Dades Gorges. We then continue to the Todra Gorges, where the Todra River has carved out a grand, high red cliff-sided canyon through the mountains. Enjoy free time for lunch. Feel free to wander in the gorges and appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
In the afternoon, we reach the Sahara Desert of Merzouga (Erg Chebbi). Here, you will switch to camels for an unforgettable trek across the sandy desert. A stop will be made for you to enjoy the magical sunset on top of a high dune. Then, continue to your luxury desert camp, where you can enjoy traditional Berber drums music while dancing around a crackling campfire, under a vast open sky filled with stars. Dinner and an overnight stay in the camp.
Waking up early this morning is a must-do to contemplate the beautiful Sahara sunrise from the middle of the desert – a truly breathtaking experience. After free time for breakfast at the camp, you will return by camel (or 4x4 vehicle) to Merzouga village to meet your driver.
We dedicate today to exploring the fascinating Merzouga region. This area boasts many incredible sites, from vast sand dunes and wild lakes to ancient mines, fossil areas, and fabulous oases – ideal for various outdoor activities.
Firstly, we start our journey in Merzouga by driving off-road in a 4x4 vehicle to visit an ancient eyeliner mine. Then, we pay a visit to a local nomad family in their traditional, handmade woven tent, learning about their way of life while sharing a Berber tea. Our next destination is the Khamlia village, also known as the Gnawa village, where you will enjoy authentic Gnaoua music and dance performances. Its inhabitants originate from sub-Saharan countries like Mali, Sudan, and Niger. Enjoy free time for lunch in a local restaurant. After that, we take a relaxing stroll through a lush palm tree grove. Then, drive a few kilometers to see the wild lake of Merzouga, also called the flamingos' lake (seasonal). Dinner and an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel in Merzouga.
In the last day of your "Morocco 3-day desert to Fes tour," you'll wake up early this morning to contemplate another beautiful Sahara sunrise. After free time for breakfast at your hotel, you will meet your driver.
Then, we leave the desert to visit Rissani town, the ancient capital of Tafilalet. Rissani remains a major trading center in the region, with a large, authentic souk (market) that is particularly lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. After a stroll in the Rissani souk, we continue to Erfoud, where we can visit one of the workshops renowned for its fossilized marble.
After that, we drive along the scenic Ziz River, stopping for a panoramic view of the expansive Ziz Valley with its lush palm groves. Enjoy free time for lunch in Midelt. We then continue our journey northwards, passing through the Cedar Forest near Azrou, home to Barbary macaques (feel free to feed them while wandering in the forest), and the charming town of Ifrane, famous for its alpine-style architecture and often called the "Switzerland of Morocco." Finally, we will drop you off at your Fes accommodation or the airport, marking the end of your memorable tour.
End of the tour.
This is an exclusive private one-way tour, commencing in Ouarzazate and concluding in Fes. This itinerary is ideal for travelers starting from Ouarzazate, wanting an immersive Sahara Desert experience, and then continuing their journey to the cultural city of Fes. Your luggage will be safely transported with you.
Tour Customization: This 3-day itinerary is focused on providing a rich desert experience and a scenic transfer to Fes. If you have specific interests or wish to adjust the pace, please contact Africa Excursion to discuss possibilities.
Pricing Details: The cost of your 3-day Ouarzazate to Fes tour is determined by factors such as the number of travelers in your private group and the season of your visit. The desert camp included is a luxury standard. For a precise and personalized quotation, please get in touch with us.
Travel Times & Pace: Please note that Day 1 involves a significant drive from Ouarzazate through various gorges to reach Merzouga, and Day 3 involves a long drive from Merzouga to Fes with sightseeing stops. The pace is designed to maximize your experience within the 3-day timeframe.
Visualize Your Journey from Ouarzazate via Merzouga Sahara to Fes
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Starting from Ouarzazate allows you to immediately immerse yourself in the "Gateway to the Desert" atmosphere, explore its film studios and kasbahs, and then journey through scenic routes like Skoura, Roses Valley, Dades, and Todra Gorges on your way to Merzouga. It's a logical route if you are already in Southern Morocco and wish to experience the desert before heading north to Fes.
Day 1 is indeed a full day of travel and sightseeing. It includes exploring Ouarzazate in the morning, then driving through Skoura, Roses Valley, Dades Gorges, and Todra Gorges before reaching Merzouga for the sunset camel trek and camp. While it's a day packed with highlights, the drives between these locations are scenic, and stops are well-paced to make it enjoyable rather than overly rushed.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. You'll be walking through kasbahs, gorges, and desert terrain. Closed-toe shoes are generally better for protection. For the desert and camel ride, sandals or easily removable shoes can be convenient, but also have sturdy shoes for walking around the camp or dunes if you wish.
Yes, absolutely. On Day 3, we can drop you off directly at Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ) if that is more convenient for your travel plans. Please inform us of your flight details when booking so we can coordinate the timing for your airport transfer after the day's sightseeing.
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A private tour is an itinerary run exclusively for you. On a private trip, you choose. Private tours allow you to travel with people you know, are more flexible when it comes to your group size, travel dates and what your trip includes. In addition, you will have your own tour guide and driver at your disposal.
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Hear from travelers who experienced the magic of Morocco with us.
"Exploring the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The local guides were knowledgeable and friendly, making our trip smooth and memorable."
"The bustling souks in Marrakech were enchanting. Shopping for spices, rugs, and crafts felt authentic, and the food stalls were delicious and budget-friendly."
"Staying overnight in a Berber tent under the stars was magical. The desert silence and the clear sky full of stars made it a peaceful and unique experience."
"The food in Fez was incredible. From traditional tagines to sweet mint tea, every meal was a delightful introduction to Moroccan flavors."
"I loved wandering through the blue streets of Chefchaouen. The town’s peaceful vibe and beautiful colors made it a perfect day trip from Fes."
"Casablanca surprised me with its modernity blended with rich history. The Hassan II Mosque was breathtaking, definitely a must-see."
"The hospitality of the Moroccan people truly made our stay special. Every host went above and beyond to share their culture and stories."
"The coastal town of Essaouira offered a relaxing break from busy cities. The fresh seafood and vibrant medina were highlights."
"Our camel trek across the dunes was both thrilling and peaceful. The sunsets in the desert are something I will never forget."
"Visiting the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis gave me a deeper appreciation of Morocco’s rich history. It was peaceful and well preserved."
