3 Day Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech
If you want to enjoy some of Morocco’s best things, you can do so in just one day. However, if you want to have an unforgettable experience, you should book a 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes. This amazing trip takes you to the heart of Morocco as you visit old cities along the way.
On this 3-day Marrakech to Fes private desert tour, you will get to see the ancient Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate, lush valleys, and traditional Berber villages. You will also get to go camel trekking in the beautiful dunes of the Merzouga desert. This tour also includes a stop at the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a drive through the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass, a night in a luxury desert camp under the stars, and the chance to see the stunning landscapes of the Dades Valley, Todra Gorges, and more.
So, without further ado, let’s show you what you can expect on our 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes.
Info Of 3 Days Desert Tour From Marrakech
- Duration: 3 days and 2 nights
- Departure: 8:00 am
- Starting location: Marrakech
- Ending location: Fes
- Type of tour: Private
Marrakech To Fes 3 Days Desert Tour Highlights
- See the towering Tizi n'Tichka Pass and the Atlas Mountains in all their glory.
- Explore the fortified Ait Ben Haddou village.
- Visit Ouarzazate and the Taourirt Kasbah.
- Take a tour of Atlas Studio.
- Drive to Dades Valley and spend the night at a guest house.
- Walk through Todra Gorges and the oasis.
- Experience the Erg Chebbi dunes up close and on a camel ride.
- Spend the night in the desert camp under the stars.
- Admire the view of the Ziz Valley and the palm trees that surround it.
- Drive to Fes via the Middle Atlas Mountains.
3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech - Ouarzazate - Ait ben haddou – Boumalne Dades
Starting the Marrakech to Fes desert tour with a lovely morning on our shoulders and after a delicious breakfast, we will pick you up from your hotel in Marrakech at 8:00 am and drive to the Dades Valley. Along the route, we will stop at some of the best sights or places, with our first stop being the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, a stunning landscape hidden in the midst of the High Atlas Mountains. Here, you’ll see authentic Berber communities tucked against the mountainsides. These communities have lived here for generations, and their welcoming nature is going to surprise you.
Later, we’ll visit Ait Ben Haddou, a walled village that has long been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among its many beautiful features is the Kasbah, which is situated 30 kilometers west of Ouarzazate. Walking is the best way to explore this Kasbah because you may wander among the olive groves and date palm trees that line the approach to it. Once inside, browse the narrow lanes lined with little stores and make sure to ascend the steep stairway to the summit. Be aware of the heat if you visit in the spring or summer, as there is little shade within the walls, but if you visit in the winter, the mid-day warmth will be ideal. Furthermore, from the top of the hill behind the Kasbah, you can enjoy views of the new hamlet on one side and the snow-capped Atlas Mountains on the other.
Upon reaching Ouarzazate, a breathtaking city brimming with culture, beauty, and adventure, the first thing that will catch your eye is a gigantic glowing light. However, Ouarzazate is home to one of the top attractions in Morocco, if not worldwide, and that’s Atlas Studio. Atlas Studios, located a few kilometers outside the city gates, has produced over a hundred films, ranging from portrayals of biblical settings to tales from ancient Egypt, and is responsible for Hollywood classics such as Gladiator, The Mummy, and many others. It should be noted that taking a tour of this studio will cost you €7.61, which is around 80DH in Moroccan currency, but believe us when we say that the price is well worth the visit.
After lunch, we’ll head to Skoura’s palm grove to observe an infinite sea of palm trees watered by an age-old underground irrigation system. If you enjoy nature, you’ll love this site. In addition to its spectacular oasis, this area is home to over 100 bird species and a diverse range of vegetation. We will get to Dades Valley in the evening, and after dinner, we’ll let you relax for the night.
Day 2: Boumalne Dades - Todra Gorges - Erfoud - Merzouga Desert Camp
Following a great breakfast, we will continue our 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes by visiting Boumalne Dades. Our first stop will be the Dades Gorge, a man-made canyon that has been sculpted by the Dades River in Morocco over millions of years, producing towering, multicoloured cliffs that reach a height of 1,600 feet (500 meters). An aerial view of the Gorges’ mountain pass, a winding road among the terrain with a nice view and great photo opportunities, is available to visitors to this stunning landscape. The Monkey Fingers Rock Formation, which looks like a pair of fingers sticking up from the valley, is another thing to see here.
Then, we’ll head to the Sahara Desert, stopping along the way at the Todra Gorges, a natural oasis formed by the River Todra, which has been carving its way through limestone for centuries. The gorge looks like it could be from a long time ago, with canyon walls that are more than 400 meters high. The Tinghir Oasis is another interesting place to visit. It is close to the entrance to the gorge and is a quiet place with palm trees and lots of green plants in the dry desert. It provides a peaceful backdrop to the gorge’s rugged terrain, allowing for leisurely walks and relaxation. While in the region (optional), you can sample delicious cuisines, such as traditional Moroccan tea and tagines.
On our journey to Merzouga, we will pass through the charming village of Erfoud. On the way, you will have the opportunity to ride a camel to the apex of the Erg Chebbi dunes for a breathtaking sunset view and to explore other local attractions. The duration of the camel ride is solely your decision; it could last as little as ten minutes or as long as an hour. While you are on the trail, your tour guide will take photographs for you to maintain as a reminder of the experience and to treasure as a souvenir.
When you arrive at the desert camp, you will be greeted with wonderful Moroccan tea and then taken to your own private tent. Once you are all settled, you’ll be served with a delicious dinner and the opportunity to relax around the campfire while listening to Berber music.
Day 3: Desert Camp - Midelt - Ifrane - Fes
Today, we will continue on our 3-day desert trip from Marrakech to Fes with a camel ride back to Merzouga. From there, we’ll head to the Ziz Valley, a beautiful area in eastern Morocco with rich history and breathtaking views. The Ziz River winds its way through this valley, which eventually meets the Sahara Desert after having passed through the Atlas Mountains. The contrast between lush green oases and towering cliffs will leave you breathless. Midelt, a lovely village in Morocco’s Middle Atlas Mountains, is located next to this valley. Known for its pleasant weather and breathtaking scenery, Midelt serves as a portal to a highland paradise with verdant valleys, verdant peaks, and fertile plains.
As we get closer to Fes, we’ll take a quick break in Ifrane to see one of the city’s top attractions, the Cedar Forest, which is only a few kilometers away. According to report, this cedar tree, one of the largest in Morocco, is 800 years old. Although there may be larger cedars in the Middle Atlas, you must admit that this one is massive, but the Barbary macaques are the most interesting aspect of this forest. They are plentiful at the base of the cedar tree and are not shy because they are fed by tourists (which we do not recommend). With their beautiful fur, these monkeys are not afraid of the cold in snowy weather and are fascinating to watch but be warned that these animals can be highly unpredictable.
We’ll drop you off at your hotel in Fes late in the afternoon, ending your amazing 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes.
Tour Price
Our Marrakech to Fes desert tour 3 days price varies depending on the number of travelers, the time of year, the type of accommodation, and any additional services requested. Nonetheless, our prices are reasonable (starting at €225), and there are no hidden costs.
Accommodation
During your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes, consider staying at one of these excellent hotels/riads:
Riad Gabsi Du Dades
There is a garden, patio, and outdoor pool at the Riad Gabsi Dades Hotel in Boumalne. In addition, each room features a toilet, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private parking.
Dar Ahlam Dades hotel
Hotel Dar Ahlam Dades rooms all have air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, and a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The decor and design are all based on the traditional Berber style. There are different types of rooms, from Deluxe rooms with double beds to family suites. Some of the suites have special features like a pool with a view, garden views, and a dining area outside.
Sahara Stars Camp
Enjoy the peace and warmth of the Berber people in this one-of-a-kind setting. The luxurious tents at this camp are a perfect fusion of modern comforts with authentic Moroccan design. Soft Berber rugs, hand-carved furniture, and luxurious bedding are all part of the tent’s design. With roomy interiors, private en suite bathrooms, hot showers, and premium linens, these tents will give you the epitome of comfort.
Dihya Desert Camp
Situated in the middle of Merzouga’s golden dunes, this camp provides an exquisite synthesis of natural beauty and luxurious amenities. While you dine under the twinkling stars and soak up the luxurious comfort of this hotel, you may marvel at the Sahara’s beauty. Nice rooms, gardens, shared lounges, terraces, BBQ areas, private bathrooms with showers and complimentary toiletries, and much more are the basic amenities here.
Tour on the Map
Includes and Excludes:
Included
- Pick up & drop off at the hotel/riad
- Private transport vehicle with A/C
- 1 night in Dades gorge
- 2 dinners
- 2 breakfasts
- Camel trekking (per person)
- 1 night in a desert camp
- Sandboarding (which is only available in the camp)
Excluded
- Lunches
- Entrance fees to monuments
- Tips
- Personal purchases
What To Know
- Vegan and non-vegan foods are available.
- Camel rides are not recommended for pregnant women, anyone with back issues, or those who suffer from anxiety.
- Pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and other necessities for desert adventures.
- The journey is private, and the itinerary can be customized to your exact needs.
- During peak season, we may make stops at tourist attractions with fresh food, but you can choose where you want to eat and have the driver take you there.
Places to see in your 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes
Marrakech
Marrakesh needs no introduction. It is undoubtedly Morocco’s most well-known city (at least globally). It is home to a vibrant, UNESCO-protected medina with colourful souks, red brickwork, arched doorways, elaborate doors, and magnificent tile mosaics.
Aït Ben Haddou
This magnificent, fortified town (or ksar) is perched high on a hilltop. It displays old-world beauty with its tiny lanes and homes made of mud/straw bricks. During the Marrakech to Fes desert tour, you can explore the town, wander through the small streets, and see the spectacular views from the top.
Ouarzazate
Famous as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” Ouarzazate is a must-visit spot for every desert adventurer or movie lover. It is home to Atlas Film Studios, which produced classic films, including Game of Thrones and Gladiator. With a guide, you may tour the studios and see film sets, learning about Morocco’s cinematic history. Beyond the studios, Ouarzazate offers access to breathtaking desert scenery, the palm oasis of Skoura, and the famous Taourirt Kasbah.
Dades Valley
Nestled within the Atlas Mountains, Dades Valley provides a magnificent journey through stunning gorges such as the Dades Gorge and Todra Gorge, which have towering cliffs and meandering roadways. You may explore traditional Berber villages, interact with locals, and gain a better understanding of Berber culture.
Todra Gorge/Tinghir
This is definitely one of the country’s most popular hiking sites, with tight gorges separated by local rivers and beautiful palm trees. While most visitors walk along the concrete road beside the river (near the gorge’s entrance), you can go off the main route and explore some of the paths that lead through one of Morocco’s most breathtaking views. Rock climbing is also available in this valley, and some of the more difficult walks will lead you to lonely portions of the canyon with panoramic views of the area. Just make sure to stop in little Berber towns along the road and see the breathtaking Tinghir oasis.
Rose Valley
If you’re seeking something different to do during your 3-day Marrakech desert tour in Morocco, you must visit the Rose Valley. As the name implies, the area is brimming with lovely pink roses that bloom from April to mid-May, so you may spend the day enjoying the area’s beautiful natural scenery.
Merzouga desert
You can’t visit Morocco and not see the Sahara Desert. Here, you can go on camel treks, see the fascinating dunes, and spend a romantic night in a desert camp under the stars, all of which provide remarkable experiences unique to this region.
Ifrane
Ifrane, also known as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” is a city that resembles Switzerland. It is filled with these adorable small chalets and gets a decent bit of snow each year due to its location in the Middle Atlas Mountains. Aside from skiing activities, Ifrane National Park is worth exploring since you can take in mountain views, walk through cedar forests, and meet the macaque monkeys that live there.
Fes
The medieval imperial city of Fes, located in the Middle Atlas Mountains, served as the country’s capital until 1925 and is today famed for its cultural and historical charms, making it one of Morocco’s must-see destinations. Fes is also home to the world-renowned Medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO-listed landmark with intricate alleyways lined with merchants selling fragrant spices, colourful shoes, and traditional rugs. You may enjoy the colourful views and olfactory delights of this wonderful city while also visiting the various mosques, bright souqs, and religious schools covered with ornate carvings and tiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the tour is offered all year, but the best time to go is between the spring and fall seasons when the weather is suitable for a variety of activities.
Depending on the number of passengers, we will make use of Minibus, Subaru Forester, Gas Ford Tourneo Custom, or Toyota Land Cruiser for the entire three-day Marrakech to Fes desert excursion, as all of these vehicles have comfortable seats, plenty of storage space, safety features, and a decent multimedia system.
Yes, sandboarding is available, but you can also enjoy other activities, such as camel trekking.
No, you do not have to. You will be provided with blankets and other items to help you sleep comfortably.
Yes. This is a great option suitable for solo travelers, and you can tailor it to your specific likes or preferences.
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