About this 3 Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Experience an unforgettable 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes through the High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, dramatic valleys and the golden dunes of Merzouga. This private Sahara journey connects two of Morocco’s most iconic imperial cities while allowing you to discover some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes along the way.
Travel across the Tizi n’Tichka Pass and visit the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou before continuing through Ouarzazate and the beautiful Dades Valley. The journey then leads to Todra Gorge, Erfoud and Merzouga, where the impressive Erg Chebbi dunes create the perfect setting for a camel ride at sunset and an unforgettable overnight stay in a luxury desert camp.
On the final day, the route continues north through the Ziz Valley, Midelt, the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas and Ifrane before arriving in Fes. This carefully designed 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is ideal for travelers who want to combine cultural discoveries, mountain scenery, desert adventure and comfortable private transportation in one complete itinerary.
Highlights of This 3 Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes
* Private journey from Marrakech to Fes via the Sahara
* Cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains and Tizi n’Tichka Pass
* Visit the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou
* Discover Ouarzazate and the Dades Valley
* Walk through the impressive Todra Gorge
* Travel through Erfoud to the Merzouga Sahara
* Camel ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset
* Overnight stay in a luxury desert camp
* Admire the sunrise over the Sahara
* Drive through the Ziz Valley and its panoramic viewpoints
* Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains
* Stop in the cedar forest and see Barbary macaques
* Visit Ifrane before arriving in Fes
Learn more about Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover more travel information on the official Visit Morocco website.
💰 Price
From 260 $
🚗 Departure
Marrakech
👥 Guests
6
🗣️ Language
English
What is included in your tour :
What is not included :
Full Tour Itinerary :
Follow the complete itinerary of this 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes, traveling through the High Atlas Mountains, Aït Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Dades Valley, Todra Gorge and the Merzouga Sahara before continuing through the Ziz Valley, Midelt and Ifrane to Fes. Each day combines scenic landscapes, cultural discoveries and authentic Moroccan experiences.
Before your journey, explore our Merzouga Sahara Desert Travel Guide, Todra Gorge Travel Guide, Valley of Rose Travel Guide, Dades Valley Travel Guide, Ouarzazate Travel Guide, Ait Ben Haddou Travel Guide and Marrakech Travel Guide, for detailed destination information and practical tips.
For practical advice before departure, read our Morocco Travel Tips.
DAY 1: MARRAKECH / AÏT BEN HADDOU / OUARZAZATE / DADES VALLEY
- Breakfast and departure toward Dades, crossing the High Atlas Mountains to the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. At 2,260 meters above sea level, it is the highest road pass in the country.
- After lunch, you will set off for a captivating visit of the Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This complex of earthen buildings surrounded by walls is a typical example of traditional pre-Saharan habitat; some dwellings resemble small castles with their high towers. The oldest constructions date back to the 12th century.
- The journey continues with a panoramic tour of Ouarzazate, including a photo stop in front of the Taourirt Kasbah. You will then take the road toward the town of Dades for an exploration of the valley of the same name. There, you will discover surprising rock formations such as the “monkey fingers,” as well as remarkable variations of colors and natural landscapes. A stop is planned to admire the panoramic view over part of the Dades Gorges (Tissadrine). Dinner and accommodation in Dades.
DAY 2: DADES / TODRA GORGES / TINJDAD / ERFOUD / MERZOUGA / LUXURY CAMP
- Breakfast and departure toward the Todra Gorges via the town of Tinghir. You will enjoy a walk to discover these magnificent gorges and their high limestone cliffs. Carved by the Todra River over millennia, they can reach up to 300 meters in height and represent a true natural jewel of southern Morocco.
- Lunch in Tinjdad and continuation toward Erfoud, the gateway to the desert. You will cross immense golden dunes until your arrival in Merzouga.
- From there, you will set off on a camel ride through the dunes to admire a magnificent sunset. After a contemplative break, return by camel to your luxury camp. Dinner awaits you under a luxury bivouac, followed by an evening of entertainment in the magical atmosphere of the desert. An extraordinary and memorable moment. Overnight stay in a luxury camp.
DAY 3: MERZOUGA / ERFOUD / ZIZ VALLEY / MIDELT / IFRANE / FES
- In the morning, after enjoying the sunrise in the Sahara, breakfast. You will then take the road toward Fes, the oldest city in Morocco.
- The journey passes through Errachidia and Erfoud, following the Ziz Valley and its gorges, where several stops are planned to admire the panoramic views. Continuation toward Midelt, crossing the Tizi N'talghamt Pass for a lunch break. You will then head toward Fes through the cedar forest, with a stop to observe the Barbary monkeys.
- A final stop is planned in Ifrane, nicknamed the “Little Switzerland of Morocco,” before reaching Fes. Drop-off at your accommodation and end of our services.
3 Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes Route Map
Follow the route of our 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes, traveling through Dades Valley, Merzouga, Midelt and Ifrane before arriving in Fes. This itinerary crosses some of Morocco’s most spectacular mountain, valley and Sahara landscapes.
Route map of our 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes via Dades Valley, Merzouga, Midelt and Ifrane.
3 Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is included in this 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes?
This private tour includes transportation in a comfortable vehicle, an English-speaking driver, selected accommodation, one night in Dades, one night in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga, breakfast and dinner as specified in the itinerary, and the main sightseeing stops along the route.
2. Is this tour private?
Yes. This 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes can be operated privately for your party, offering greater comfort and flexibility throughout the journey.
3. Does the tour visit the Sahara Desert?
Yes. The tour reaches Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes, one of the most famous Sahara desert areas in Morocco.
4. Is a camel ride included in Merzouga?
Yes. A camel ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset is included as part of the desert experience. An alternative activity can usually be arranged for travelers who prefer not to ride a camel.
5. Where do we stay during the tour?
The first night is spent in a selected hotel or riad in the Dades Valley. The second night is spent in a luxury desert camp in the Merzouga Sahara.
6. Does the tour visit Aït Ben Haddou?
Yes. The itinerary includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most iconic fortified villages.
7. Do we stop at Todra Gorge?
Yes. The tour includes time to walk through Todra Gorge and admire its dramatic limestone cliffs before continuing toward Merzouga.
8. What route does the tour follow from Marrakech to Fes?
The route travels from Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains, Aït Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Dades Valley, Todra Gorge, Erfoud and Merzouga, then continues through the Ziz Valley, Midelt, the cedar forests and Ifrane before arriving in Fes.
9. How long are the driving days?
This itinerary covers a significant distance between Marrakech, the Sahara and Fes, so some driving days are long. Scenic stops and cultural visits are included along the way to make the journey more enjoyable.
10. Is the tour suitable for families and children?
Yes. The tour can be suitable for families, couples and small groups. Activities can be adapted according to the age and comfort level of travelers.
11. What should I bring for the desert camp?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and a warm layer for the evening are recommended. Desert temperatures can change significantly between daytime and nighttime.
12. What is the best time to take this tour?
Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable periods. Winter can also be pleasant, although nights in the desert can be cold. Summer temperatures can be very high.
13. Will we see Barbary monkeys on the way to Fes?
The itinerary includes a stop in the cedar forest of the Middle Atlas, where Barbary macaques can often be seen. Wildlife sightings are natural and cannot be guaranteed.
14. Does the tour include a stop in Ifrane?
Yes. A stop is planned in Ifrane before continuing to Fes.
15. Can this 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes be customized?
Yes. The itinerary, accommodation category, activities and pickup or drop-off arrangements can be customized depending on your travel preferences and availability.
16. Where does the tour end in Fes?
The tour ends with drop-off at your hotel, riad or another agreed location in Fes.
17. Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees depend on the selected package and final quotation. Any included entrance fees should be clearly stated in your booking confirmation.
18. Are lunches included?
Lunches are generally not included unless specifically stated in the final offer. Your driver can recommend suitable restaurants along the route.
19. Is the luxury desert camp equipped with private bathrooms?
The exact facilities depend on the selected camp category. Luxury camp options with private en-suite bathrooms can be arranged and should be confirmed at booking.
20. Is this tour one-way from Marrakech to Fes?
Yes. This itinerary starts in Marrakech and finishes in Fes, making it an excellent option for travelers who want to continue their Morocco journey without returning to Marrakech.