Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour 3 Days

The most popular private Fes to Marrakech tour

Recommended by 96% of travelers visiting Morocco

Fes to Marrakech 3 days Desert tour Itinerary

Overview

3 days desert tour from Fes to Marrakech. This adventure is organized in two nights and lasts for three days, so that while moving quickly through places, one can see many of those places. Fes is the starting point for this trip. First on our journey are Ifrane, often called “Switzerland of Morocco,” and then the wooded area of the cedars.

We would have lunch in Midelt, followed by a drive along the winding and beautiful course of the Ziz River. Eventually, we get to the Sahara Desert Merzouga region. Enjoy your camel ride and spend the night in a desert camp deep within the dunes, with some gorgeous sunset and sunrise desert views.

Hence, we get to visit the traditional souk in Rissani and Erfoud, better known as the town of fossils. Then, we proceed toward the magnificent Todra Gorges, dramatic Dades Gorge, and the historical Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou.

Finally, we will cross the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi-n-Tichka pass. That’s how this wonderful two-day trip rounds off in Merzouga as one arrives in Marrakech.

Highlights

Itinerary

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Cedars forest- Midelt – Ziz valley – Merzouga Sahara

After an early pick-up from your accommodation in Fes, your 3-day desert trip will depart. Our drive then goes to the south, taking in Imouzzer on the way to Ifrane. It is cold here, with snow and built in the style of an alpine village, so it is no wonder that this place is nicknamed “Switzerland of Morocco.” After this, we drive on to the Cedar Forests, where you can see the Barbary Apes; you will be able to feed them and walk in the woods. Lunch will be in Midelt. We then continue to the Sahara Desert, passing the Tizi-n-Tilghmt pass and following the path of the Ziz River.

We then enter the last town before the Sahara: Merzouga. There, you will change to camels and begin your ride into the sand. We will stop so you can watch the sunset glimmering over the sands from the top of a big dune. Dinner and an overnight stay at the desert camp will bring an end to the day’s activities. Once in camp, dance around a roaring fire to the sounds of Berber drums under a blanket of stars.

Day 2: Merzouga Sahara – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Awake before sunrise to cherish the magnificent sunrise in the desert. After breakfast, we cross on camels to Merzouga onward transport will be waiting. We later exit the desert and explore the town of Rissani, once the prime city of Tafilalet. Rissani remains, to this day, an important commercial center for the region, with a local market that comes to life every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.

From here, the journey continues to Erfoud, where we visit a site of fossilized marble production. We then cross through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad to the Todra Gorges. Where the Todra River has created a beautiful canyon in the mountain range, steep walls of red rock soar high above. These gorges are considered a paradise for climbers. Time to stroll around the gorges and enjoy the views. Lunch at a local restaurant. Next, we head toward the Dades Valley via Boumalne Dades, with a stop to see the geological shape called monkey fingers. From there, we will stop for an overlook with great views of the Dades Valley before we finish the day with dinner and the night in a drive-in.

Day 3: Dades Valley – Roses Valley – Palm Groves of Skoura – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah- High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

After breakfast in the morning, we set out for Kalaa Magouna to get to know the Rose Valley better. The Rose Valley initiates the Rose Festival every May, where locally made rose products like perfumes, rose water, essential oils, and beauty products are displayed. We then continue to the Skoura palm oases. Continuing, our next stop is Ouarzazate, which is popularly dubbed the gateway to the Sahara. Here, we will visit the moviemaking studios where dozens of famous films were shot.

We then travel towards the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou. This Kasbah is a fortified settlement of ancient heritage protected under the auspices of UNESCO World Heritage. Furthermore, this Kasbah has been a backdrop for many films as *Gladiator*, *Alexander*, and *The Mummy*, as well as series like *Game Of Thrones*. We then carry on further towards Marrakesh. This part involves passing over the Tizi-N-Tichka pass and through the great vistas of the High Atlas Mountains. We will stop for midday meals and picture opportunities at beautiful places. Ultimately, upon arrival in Marrakesh, we will transfer you to the airport or your lodging. This ends the three-day excursion, which commenced from Fes.

If your preference is to finalize the tour with a return to Fes instead of Marrakech, then please check the Option: 3 Days From Fes to Merzouga.

Standard Tour

Great value for travelers prioritizing experience over amenities.

From €249 PER GUEST

Luxury Tour

Ideal for honeymooners or anyone wanting more space/comfort.

From €349 PER GUEST

Mixed Tour

A smart balance of comfort and cost.

From €197 PER GUEST

Included

Excluded

FAQ Hub

About 45 – 90 minutes each way, depending on camp location and sunset/sunrise timing. A 4×4 transfer is available if you’d prefer not to ride.

Absolutely. We can arrange a 4×4 transfer directly to the camp for sunset/sunrise.

The 3 day tour is a private experience, ensuring that only the travelers making the inquiry will be participating. No additional individuals will join the tour. Our primary focus is on providing high-quality, personalized experiences, which is why we mainly offer private tours.

 

Nighttime calls for warm layers, while daytime requires light layers, closed shoes, and optional layers for a cool breeze-a good cap or scarf. Sun glasses, sunblock, and a headlight or torch, plus power bank!

Standard camps typically include communal amenities.

Private ensuite tents are feature of luxury campgrounds.

We supply warm blankets, but pack layers because winter (November to February) nights can drop to about 5 °C (41 °F) or below.

Absolutely. Select our Marrakech → Merzouga → Fes itinerary when booking.

The International Rose Festival normally takes place in early May (dates change each year), and blooms usually occur from April to May.

Livestock trading takes place early on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.

Moments Captured

Discover the spirit of our journeys through a vibrant collection of photos capturing stunning landscapes, cultural moments, and unforgettable experiences. Explore the beauty, adventure, and authentic charm that await you on every tour.

Reserve Your Spot