3 Nights & 4 Days Desert Trip Marrakech To Fes
Medina, Marrakech, Marrakech
Journey through Morocco's stunning landscapes, from the High Atlas mountains to the Sahara dunes, and immerse yourself in its rich culture and ancient Kasbahs.
This is a 4-day guided tour from Marrakech to Fes, suitable for travelers interested in mountain landscapes, desert culture, and historic sites.
Highlights
- Drive through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass and the Middle Atlas Mountains
- Overnight in a desert camp with traditional music and dinner
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou and nearby film studios
- Explore lush valleys and the Valley of Roses
- Experience traditional Gnawa music in Khamlia village
Description
This daily tour runs in both directions; select your route (Marrakech to Fes or Fes to Marrakech) when booking. The following itinerary describes the Marrakech to Fes route.
Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley via Ait Ben Haddou
After pickup from your Marrakech hotel or meeting point, drive over the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) with photo stops. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou for a tour and lunch. Continue through the Valley of Roses to reach Dades Valley by sunset for dinner and overnight at your hotel. Total drive time is approximately 6 hours.
Day 2: Dades Gorge to Merzouga Desert Camp
Walk among the 300-meter cliffs of Todra Gorges in the morning, then travel the 'Road of 1,000 Kasbahs' to Rissani for a market tour and lunch. Arrive in Merzouga, securely leave main luggage in the vehicle, then take a 15–20 minute camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset. Spend the night at a traditional desert camp with dinner and live Berber drum music. Total driving time is about 4 hours.
Day 3: Saharan Culture and Dune-Side Hotel
Watch the desert sunrise before breakfast. Visit El Khamlia village for a live Gnawa music performance, explore a desert oasis, and visit Rissani markets to sample 'Medfouna' (stuffed Berber pizza). In the afternoon, check into a hotel on the dunes for swimming, relaxation, and dinner overlooking the sand. Driving time is approximately 1 hour.
Day 4: Merzouga Desert to Fes via Cedar Forest
Drive north through the Ziz Valley oasis to Midelt for lunch. Continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains to the Azrou cedar forests to see wild Barbary macaques. Pass through Ifrane before arriving in Fes between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Total drive time is around 7.5 hours.
Includes
- Air-conditioned minivan or minibus transport (group size dependent)
- Professional drivers
- One night at the Erg Chebbi desert camp
- One night at a Dades hotel (Marrakech to Fes option)
- One night at a Merzouga hotel
- Three dinners (vegetarian options available)
- Three breakfasts (vegetarian options available)
- Camel ride over the sand dunes
- Sandboarding (upon request)
- Live Berber Sahraoui music around the campfire
- All taxes and fees
Excludes
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees to monuments
- Guide fees in Ait Ben Haddou (€3)
- Tips and any extra fees
Important Information
- This is a shared group tour; vehicle and companions may change during the journey.
- You may switch vehicles and drivers between Marrakech and Fes to ensure smooth operations.
- Local restaurants and markets often do not accept credit cards; carry cash in Moroccan Dirham (MAD). We recommend 150 to 250 MAD per person per day for optional expenses.
- Pack a small daypack or overnight bag for the desert camp; your main luggage remains secured in the vehicle.
- Bring water for the camel ride; notify in advance if you wish to skip it.
- Recommended essentials: sunscreen, sunglasses, scarf for sand protection, and comfortable walking shoes.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For best experience, book early to secure your preferred dates. The camel ride is best at sunset; bring appropriate clothing for temperature changes between day and night.
