Overview: 3 days desert tour from Marrakech
Overview
The 3 days tour from Marrakech to Fes is a popular Sahara adventure, ideal for travelers who wish to explore the desert while continuing their journey north. If you’re planning to visit destinations like the Blue City of Chefchaouen or Tangier afterward, this 3-day experience provides the perfect route and transition between southern and northern Morocco.
Highlights: 3 days desert tour from Marrakech
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
- Discover the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah
- Visit Ouarzazate and the world-renowned Cinema Studios
- Drive through the picturesque Rose Valley
- Pass by traditional Berber villages, nestled in the mountains.
- Enjoy an authentic camel trek and fun activities in the Sahara Desert.
- Spend a magical night under the stars in a desert camp with Berber music.
- Enjoot the landscapes of Middle Atlas on your way to Fes
Itinerary: 3 days desert tour from Marrakech
First Day: Day 1: Marrakech - atlas Mountains - Ouarzazate - Dades valley
On the first day of your 3-day Sahara tour, your driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Marrakech and take you on a scenic drive through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, with picturesque stops along the way. Around midday, you’ll reach the breathtaking Aït Benhaddou ksar for lunch and a guided tour of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterward, you’ll pass through Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” and journey through the Roses Valley before arriving at your hotel in Boumalne Dades by 5 PM, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Dades Valley.
Second Day: Day 2: Dades valley - Todra gorge - Alnif - Rissani - Merzouga
After breakfast, we’ll embark on our journey to the Merzouga Sahara Desert, starting with a visit to the renowned Todra Gorge, famous for its rock climbing opportunities. Our route takes us through the stunning Anti-Atlas Mountains, with a lunch stop in Alnif town. We’ll continue to Rissani, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara Desert,” where you can explore its traditional market, a hub for local nomads. Arriving in Merzouga around 4 PM, you’ll have time to relax in a guest house or hotel before setting off on a camel ride through the dunes to your desert camp. Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset in the vast Sahara, followed by a night under the stars with Berber drumming music around the campfire.
Third Day: Merzouga- Erfoud-Ziz valley-Errachidia-Azrou-Ifrane-Fes
On the final day of your tour, wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the golden dunes of the Sahara. After breakfast and a refreshing shower, we’ll begin our journey to Fes, a drive of approximately 8 hours with scenic stops along the way. Our first stop is the lush Ziz Valley, known for its expansive palm groves. We’ll continue through Rich and Errachidia, reaching Midelt for lunch in this “City of Apples.” From there, we’ll visit the Cedar Forest in Azrou to see the playful Barbary macaques. Our next highlight is Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture and cool climate. We’ll arrive in Fes by early evening, where your driver will drop you off at your riad or hotel, marking the end of your memorable 3-day, 2-night desert adventure from Marrakech to Fes.
Inclusion: 3 Days tour from Marrakech to Fes
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver
- Pick up from your hotel in Marrakech
- Visit all interesting places along the way
- 1 Night in a hotel in Dades Valley
- 1 Night in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga
- Private well-equipped tent
- Optional sandboarding
- Breakfast and dinner
- Music around campfire
- Drop Off at your Riad or Hotel in Fes
Exclusion: Desert tour from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga Erg Chebbi
- Lunch
- Entance fee to monuments
- Extra activities such as Quad, Buggy...
Booking Details: 3 days Morocco sahara tour from Marrakech ending in Fes
- Starting Location: Marrakech
- Ending Location: Fes
- Deparature: 8:30 Am
- Availability: Daily
- Confirmation: Will be received at booking time
Information about the sights you will see during your 3-day trip from Marrakech to Fes:
Tizi N tichka Pass in the High atlas mountains
To begin your journey, you will cross the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest mountain pass in Morocco. As you ascend through the towering peaks of the High Atlas Mountains, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. Along the way, you’ll also glimpse traditional Berber villages nestled in the valleys. This changing landscape—from lush greenery to rugged rocky terrain—perfectly sets the stage for your upcoming desert adventure.
Aït Benhaddou Kasbah
After crossing the mountains, your next stop is the iconic Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll explore the striking earthen architecture and narrow alleys of this ancient fortified village. Moreover, this ksar has served as the backdrop for many famous films and TV shows. With a guided tour, you’ll learn about its rich history and the traditional lifestyle of local communities.
Ouarzazate and Cinema Studios: (Fee resquired )
Continuing your journey, you’ll arrive in Ouarzazate, famously known as the “Hollywood of Morocco.” Here, you have the opportunity to visit the renowned Cinema Studios, where major films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were shot. This visit will give you fascinating insights into Morocco’s thriving film industry and its role in bringing desert landscapes to the global screen.
Rose Valley
As you drive further, you’ll pass through the fragrant Rose Valley, renowned for its vast fields of blooming roses each spring. Not only is this area visually stunning, but it also plays a key role in producing rose water and essential oils that are integral to Moroccan culture. This scenic detour offers a refreshing contrast to your desert-bound journey.
Dades Valley
Next, you’ll arrive at the breathtaking Dades Valley, often called the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and winding riverbeds, this region showcases the natural beauty and traditional Berber architecture of Morocco. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere after a day of travel.
Todra Gorge
On the following day, you will visit the impressive Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon carved by the Todra River. Famous for its towering red cliffs that reach up to 300 meters high, the gorge attracts hikers and rock climbers alike. As you explore narrow pathways between sheer rock walls, you’ll be immersed in one of Morocco’s most stunning natural wonders.
Rissani Market
Continuing your journey, you’ll reach Rissani, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Here, you can experience the vibrant traditional market (souk), where locals and nomads trade spices, carpets, and livestock. This bustling market provides an authentic glimpse into desert life and culture.
Merzouga and Erg Chebbi Dunes
Soon after, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, located on the edge of the vast Erg Chebbi dunes—some of Morocco’s tallest sand dunes. This is where your true desert adventure begins with a memorable camel trek across the golden sands. Watching the sun set and rise over the dunes is truly unforgettable and marks a highlight of your trip.
Ziz Valley
As you begin your return north, you’ll pass through the lush Ziz Valley, known for its expansive palm groves and fertile oasis. This green landscape provides a striking contrast to the arid desert regions you’ve crossed earlier, illustrating Morocco’s diverse geography.
Azrou Cedar Forest and Barbary Macaques
Following lunch, your route continues to the Cedar Forest near Azrou, where you can encounter the playful Barbary macaques. These wild monkeys are native to the region, and observing them in their natural environment adds a unique wildlife experience to your journey.
Ifrane – The Switzerland of Morocco
Finally, before arriving in Fes, you’ll pass through Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Thanks to its alpine-style architecture, clean streets, and cooler climate, this mountain town offers a refreshing and unexpected change of scenery.
Usefull Map for the 3 days tour from Marrakch to Fes:
Top Questions Travelers Ask About the 3-Day Sahara Tour from Marrakech, Morocco
Morocco is generally a safe and welcoming destination for solo travelers, especially when booking a private desert tour with a trusted local company. Private tours offer a more personalized and secure experience, with professional drivers and knowledgeable guides who ensure your comfort and safety throughout the journey.
The price of a private desert tour in Morocco can vary based on several factors. One of the main factors is the season — prices are usually higher during peak travel periods like spring, autumn, and holidays. The number of travelers also affects the cost, as solo travelers may pay more than those sharing the tour in a group.
Each traveler or group is provided with their own private tent to ensure comfort and privacy. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, you will have a dedicated tent just for you. The tents are arranged to suit your needs, and there’s no sharing with strangers unless you specifically request it. This allows you to fully enjoy the desert experience in a peaceful and personal setting.
Yes, if you prefer not to ride a camel, we can arrange a 4×4 vehicle to take you directly to the desert camp. This option is ideal for those who may have physical limitations or simply prefer a different way to travel across the dunes.
You will need a scarf for the camel riding experience, especially during the summer. It’s important to have one handy in case it gets windy, so you can protect your face from blowing sand or a sandstorm.