3 Days Desert Tour From Fes To Marrakech

After breakfast at your riad or hotel in Fes, begin your journey south toward the Sahara. Your first stop is in Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture and clean mountain air—perfect for a few scenic photos. Continuing through the Middle Atlas Mountains, you’ll pause in Azrou to visit the cedar forest, home to the curious Barbary macaque monkeys.

The journey then leads to Midelt for a relaxed lunch, before descending into the southern valleys, passing through Errachidia and the lush Ziz Valley, with its towering palms and ancient ksour. After a short stop in Erfoud, known for its fossils and Saharan gateway charm, you’ll reach Merzouga, where your desert adventure begins. Mount your camel for a trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, arriving just in time for a breathtaking sunset over the sand. Spend the night in a traditional desert camp, enjoying dinner, music, and the surreal beauty of the Sahara Desert under a sky full of stars—a magical finale to your first day.

Wake early at your desert camp for the chance to climb the sand dunes and witness a breathtaking Sahara sunrise, a peaceful and awe-inspiring moment. After breakfast, ride camels back across the dunes to reunite with your driver and begin the journey west toward the mountains. Along the way, stop at a fascinating ancient irrigation system, where you'll learn how Berber communities once harnessed underground water—and enjoy a refreshing glass of traditional Berber tea.

Continue toward the spectacular Todgha Gorges, where towering canyon walls rise up to 300 meters, creating one of Morocco’s most dramatic natural wonders. Here, take time to explore the gorge and enjoy a scenic lunch at a local café along the river. After lunch, drive deeper into the Dades Valley, known as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, and take in the rugged beauty of the surrounding cliffs and rock formations. Your day ends with a comfortable overnight stay at a charming hotel in the Dades Gorges.

Wake up to the crisp mountain air of the Dades Valley and enjoy a delicious local breakfast before continuing your journey west. Travel through Kelaa M’Gouna, the famous City of Roses, known for its fragrant rose products and annual flower festival. The road then leads you toward Ouarzazate, nicknamed “The Hollywood of Africa”, due to its film studios and cinematic desert backdrops.

Your next stop is the legendary Ksar Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of southern Moroccan earthen architecture. Spend an hour exploring its ancient alleyways, clay towers, and panoramic terraces while learning about its cultural importance and cinematic fame. After lunch near the kasbah, the journey continues across the majestic High Atlas Mountains, passing through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters.

Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon or early evening, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation and have time to relax and enjoy your first evening in the vibrant Red City—the perfect conclusion to your unforgettable 3 Days Desert Tour From Fes To Marrakech.