3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fez

The 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fez offers an unforgettable journey across Morocco’s scenic landscapes, rich cultural sites, and dramatic desert dunes. Starting from the vibrant streets of Marrakech, this tour takes you through the majestic Atlas Mountains, historical kasbahs, lush valleys, and the breathtaking Sahara Desert. With an overnight stay in a traditional Berber desert camp and a camel trek through Erg Chebbi’s vast sand dunes, this trip encapsulates the heart of Morocco’s desert culture.

Overview of the Marrakech to Fez Desert Tour

This itinerary is designed for those seeking an immersive Moroccan experience within a short timeframe. From exploring ancient fortresses and oases to a camel ride in the desert, the 3-day journey from Marrakech to Fez combines cultural highlights and natural beauty.

Itinerary for the 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fez

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Dades Valley

Departure from Marrakech

The adventure begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, heading towards the High Atlas Mountains. As you traverse the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters above sea level), you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the rugged terrain, Berber villages, and steep valleys characteristic of the Atlas range.

Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah

Your first main stop is at the historic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient ksar (fortified village) is famous for its mud-brick buildings and has served as the set for numerous films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Wander through the narrow alleys and explore the unique architecture of this traditional kasbah.

Ouarzazate and the Skoura Oasis

Next, continue to Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film capital, where you may visit the Taourirt Kasbah and learn about the region’s cinematic history. Passing through the Skoura Oasis, a verdant area with palm groves and scattered kasbahs, offers a picturesque view contrasting the arid surroundings.

Dades Valley Overnight

In the afternoon, you’ll arrive at the Dades Valley, known for its red rock formations and lush landscapes. Enjoy dinner and settle in for the night at a local hotel or guesthouse, where you can relax and prepare for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)

Todra Gorge Exploration

After breakfast, the tour continues to the Todra Gorge, a natural marvel with towering limestone cliffs that reach up to 300 meters in height. Stroll along the Todra River as you take in the stunning scenery, with opportunities to interact with locals and observe the traditional way of life in the valley.

Onward to Merzouga

Following lunch near the gorge, the journey proceeds to Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. As you approach the Sahara, the landscape transforms from rocky mountains to golden sand dunes, signaling the start of your desert experience.

Camel Trek and Sunset Over the Dunes

Upon reaching Merzouga, you’ll mount a camel for a trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes, just in time to catch the sunset over the Sahara. The shifting sands and warm colors create a surreal backdrop as you ride towards your desert camp, offering a tranquil and timeless experience.

Berber Camp Overnight Stay

Arrive at a traditional Berber camp nestled in the dunes, where you’ll be welcomed with Moroccan mint tea. After a hearty dinner, spend the evening under the stars, enjoying Berber music and storytelling around the campfire. Accommodation is provided in comfortable tents, allowing you to fully embrace the desert ambiance.

Day 3: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Cedar Forest – Fez

Sunrise in the Desert and Return Camel Trek

Wake early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, an unforgettable sight as the Sahara glows in the cool morning light. After breakfast, you’ll ride your camel back to Merzouga, where your driver awaits to take you to Fez.

Scenic Drive through the Ziz Valley

En route to Fez, you’ll travel through the lush Ziz Valley, known for its date palm groves and oasis villages. The winding road offers views of traditional Berber settlements and expansive date plantations that flourish along the Ziz River, creating a unique landscape in the otherwise arid region.

Cedar Forest and Monkey Sightings near Azrou

As you approach the Middle Atlas Mountains, you’ll stop at the Cedar Forest near Azrou, famous for its towering cedar trees and population of Barbary macaque monkeys. The forest offers a refreshing break, and you may even spot monkeys as they roam freely among the trees.

Arrival in Fez

In the evening, you’ll arrive in Fez, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual capital, where the tour concludes. Fez’s ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, awaits exploration on your own time.

Highlights of the 3-Day Desert Tour

• High Atlas Mountains: Traverse the majestic Atlas range, with its dramatic landscapes and traditional Berber villages.
• Ait Ben Haddou: Explore Morocco’s most iconic kasbah and its historical architecture.
• Todra Gorge: Marvel at the imposing rock walls of this famous canyon.
• Erg Chebbi Dunes: Embark on a sunset camel trek through the Sahara’s most scenic dunes.
• Berber Camp: Spend a night in the desert with local music, stargazing, and traditional Moroccan hospitality.
• Ziz Valley: Admire the verdant oasis lined with date palms and picturesque kasbahs.
• Cedar Forest: Discover Morocco’s beautiful cedar groves and spot Barbary monkeys.

Why Choose the 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fez?

This 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fez combines culture, adventure, and natural beauty in a compact itinerary that’s perfect for travelers looking to experience the heart of Morocco. From exploring historic kasbahs and scenic gorges to riding camels through the Sahara and spending a night under the stars, this tour is a well-rounded introduction to the wonders of Morocco. By the end of this journey, you’ll have experienced a diverse array of Morocco’s landscapes, learned about its rich culture, and created memories that will last a lifetime.