Experience Merzouga Dunes, Atlas Mountains, Ancient Kasbahs & Stunning Gorges.
Discover Merzouga Dunes, Atlas Mountains, Ancient Kasbahs & Dramatic Gorges
Embark on an incredible 3-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech, a perfectly paced journey of 3 days and 2 nights designed to showcase a multitude of Morocco's most captivating attractions in a short period. This popular tour offers a seamless way to travel between two imperial cities while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara Desert.
Your adventure begins in Fes. Firstly, we will visit the charming "Switzerland of Morocco," Ifrane, and also the ancient cedars forest, home to playful Barbary macaques. After a stop in Midelt for lunch, we drive along the stunning Ziz River and its verdant valley.
Soon after, we reach the majestic Sahara Desert of Merzouga (Erg Chebbi). Here, you will experience an unforgettable camel ride across the golden dunes, spend an enchanting night in a desert camp nestled in the heart of the desert, and witness magical Sahara sunsets and sunrises.
Furthermore, your journey includes visits to the historic Rissani traditional market and the fossil-rich town of Erfoud. You will then explore the dramatic Todra Gorges and the picturesque Dades Gorges, before discovering the iconic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Finally, we cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi-n-Tichka pass. The tour concludes with your arrival in Marrakech.
Your Day-by-Day Sahara Adventure from Fes to Marrakech
Your 3-day desert tour to Marrakech begins with an early pick-up from your Fes accommodation or the airport. We set off southwards, driving through Imouzzer to visit Ifrane, often called the "Switzerland of Morocco" due to its alpine-style houses, cool climate, and occasional snow.
Next, we continue to the ancient cedars forest near Azrou, a natural habitat for Barbary macaques, where you can observe and even feed these friendly creatures. Afterwards, we proceed to Midelt, a town nestled in the Atlas Mountains, where lunch will be served (at your leisure). Our journey then takes us towards the Sahara Desert, navigating the Tizi-n-Tilghmt pass and following the picturesque Ziz River.
In the afternoon, we arrive at the edge of the magnificent Merzouga Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi dunes). Here, you will switch to camels for an unforgettable trek across the golden sand dunes. A memorable stop will be made atop a high dune for you to witness and photograph the magical desert sunset. Finally, we continue to your desert camp, where you can enjoy traditional Berber drums music while dancing around a crackling campfire under a vast, star-filled sky. Dinner and an overnight stay in the camp.
Wake up early this morning to contemplate the beautiful Sahara sunrise from the heart of the desert – an truly inspiring 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 then leave the desert to visit Rissani town, the ancient capital of the Tafilalet region. Rissani remains a significant trading hub, with a large, authentic souk (market) that is particularly lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. After a stroll through the Rissani Souk, we continue to Erfoud, renowned for its rich fossil deposits, where we can visit a workshop specializing in fossilized marble.
Our journey then takes us through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad towards the spectacular Todra Gorges. Here, the Todra River has carved a magnificent canyon through the mountains, creating high, red cliff-sided walls – an ideal spot for rock climbers and nature lovers alike. Feel free to wander through the gorges and appreciate the stunning natural beauty. Enjoy free time for lunch in a local restaurant. Afterwards, we continue our drive to the Dades Valley, via Boumalne Dades, making inevitable stops to admire the unique "monkey fingers" rock formation and a panoramic viewpoint atop a mountain overlooking the Dades Valley. Finally, dinner and an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel in the Dades Valley.
After breakfast, we continue our trip towards Kalaa M'gouna to visit the Roses Valley, famous for its fragrant Damascus roses. An annual Rose Festival is held here in May, where locals showcase their rose-based products, from perfumes and rose water to oils and cosmetics. We then drive through the verdant palm groves of Skoura, an oasis dotted with ancient kasbahs.
Later, we reach Ouarzazate, also known as the "Gateway to the Desert." Here, we will visit the renowned film studios where many famous movies were shot (optional visit, entrance fee not included).
Thereafter, we depart to visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah. This fortified village is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has served as a backdrop for numerous epic films (Gladiator, Alexander, The Mummy) and popular TV series like Game of Thrones. After exploring this historic ksar, we continue our journey towards Marrakech.
Our route takes us through the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, crossing the scenic Tizi-N-Tichka pass (2260m). Stops will be made for lunch (at leisure) and to take pictures at interesting spots along this breathtaking mountain road. Finally, we reach Marrakech in the late afternoon/early evening, where we will drop you off at your accommodation or the airport. This marks the end of your memorable 3-day Fes to Marrakech desert tour.
End of the tour.
This is an exclusive private one-way tour, commencing in Fes and concluding in Marrakech, providing a seamless and enriching way to travel between these two imperial cities while experiencing the Sahara. Your luggage will be safely transported with you.
Tour Customization: While this 3-day itinerary is designed for an optimal desert experience, we are open to discussing minor adjustments to suit your preferences. Please contact Africa Excursion if you have specific requests.
Pricing Details: The cost of your 3-day Fes to Marrakech tour is determined by factors such as the number of travelers in your private group, the season of your visit, and your choice of accommodation standard (e.g., standard vs. luxury desert camp, hotel category). For a precise and personalized quotation, please get in touch.
Travel Times & Pace: Please note that all listed driving times are estimates. This tour involves significant driving to cover the distance and key sights between Fes and Marrakech via the desert within 3 days. It's an action-packed itinerary designed to maximize your experience.
Visualize Your Journey from Imperial Fes, through the Sahara, to Vibrant Marrakech
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The camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to reach the desert camp typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows enough time to enjoy the journey across the dunes and witness the spectacular sunset. A shorter ride or 4x4 transfer to the camp can often be arranged if preferred.
This tour is a one-way journey, starting in Fes and ending in Marrakech. This allows you to conveniently travel between these two major cities while experiencing the Sahara. A Fes round-trip tour would return you to Fes. This Fes to Marrakech route also includes additional highlights on Day 3, such as the Roses Valley, Skoura, Ouarzazate, and Ait Ben Haddou, which are typically not part of a Fes-to-Fes desert loop.
Yes, absolutely. We can cater to most dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please inform us of any specific dietary needs at the time of booking so we can make the necessary arrangements with the accommodations and for any included meals.
At the desert camp, you can enjoy the serene desert atmosphere, witness the sunset and sunrise, enjoy traditional Berber drum music around a campfire, and stargaze in the clear desert sky. Sandboarding on the dunes is often available as well. It's a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Sahara.
"Excellent"
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."
