Highlights
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains with panoramic views
- Step inside Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO desert fortress
- Walk through the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge
- Ride a camel into the Sahara at sunset & sunrise in Merzouga
- Drive via Ziz Valley and visit cedar forests with wild monkeys en route to Fes
Description
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Tinghir
Your journey begins with pickup in Marrakech between 7:00 and 7:30 AM from your accommodation or the nearest accessible meeting point. Travel through the High Atlas Mountains via the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), with a scenic stop to admire the winding roads and traditional Berber villages set in the valleys. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, where you can explore its historic earthen kasbahs, known for their unique architecture and appearances in films such as Gladiator, either with a local guide or at your own pace. A short stop follows in Kelaat M’Gouna in the Rose Valley, where you can access facilities such as an ATM, snacks, or restrooms before continuing to Tinghir. Arrive in the late afternoon, check in to your hotel, relax after the day’s journey, and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner before your overnight stay.
Day 2: Tinghir – Todra Gorge – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast in Tinghir, depart for the day and head to the impressive Todra Gorge, where you will enjoy a guided walk beneath towering canyon walls reaching up to 300 meters, alongside a lush river oasis. Continue to Touroug for a lunch break at a local restaurant, where you can relax and enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine before traveling onward to Erfoud and Merzouga. Upon arrival, embark on a camel ride across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi at sunset, with the opportunity to try sandboarding and take in the vast desert scenery before reaching your camp. Settle into your desert camp, in either a standard or luxury tent depending on the option booked, and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, followed by Berber music around the campfire and a peaceful night in the heart of the Sahara.
Day 3: Merzouga Desert – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes
Wake early at the desert camp and enjoy breakfast before taking a camel ride to witness the sunrise over the dunes. Afterward, begin your journey toward Fes, with a lunch in Midelt before continuing through the landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in the Azrou cedar forest for a short walk among the trees and the chance to observe wild Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. Continue to Ifrane, often referred to as the “Little Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture, where you can take a short walk, see the famous Lion statue, and enjoy a relaxing break. Arrive in Fes in the evening, where you will be dropped off at your hotel, riad, or the nearest accessible point, marking the end of your 3-day desert tour.
Includes
Pickup from your accommodation in Marrakech or nearest point
Drop-off in Fes at your hotel or nearest accessible location
Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
Professional driver/guide (English, French, or Spanish)
Onboard Wi-Fi (subject to network coverage)
1 night in a hotel in Tinghir (private or shared room with bathroom)
1 night in a desert camp in Merzouga (standard or luxury tent, depending on option)
2 dinners and 2 breakfasts (dietary needs accommodated, please tell us in advance)
Camel ride in Erg Chebbi (sunset and sunrise, 1 camel per person)
Sandboarding on the dunes
Guided walk in Todra Gorge and oasis
Scenic stops and visits along the route
Traditional dinner with Berber music at the desert camp
Opportunity to wear traditional Berber clothing
Henna tattoo experience
ATV ride through the golden dunes (depends on selected option)
Scenic stops at Tizi n'Tichka Pass, the Ziz Valley, Midelt and the Ifrane cedar forest
Excludes
Lunches and drinks
Local guide in Ait Ben Haddou (2 euros per person)
4x4 transfer in the desert instead of camel ride (10 euros per transfer per person)
Important Information
- This tour involves long driving distances between destinations
Departure from Marrakech is early in the morning (around 7:00 AM)
Temperatures vary; hot during the day and cooler at night
Wear comfortable clothing and suitable walking shoes
Bring cash (MAD) for lunches and personal expenses
The camel ride is included but a 4x4 transfer may be available (10 euros per person)
Luggage is transported by vehicle; bring a small overnight bag
Wi-Fi is limited in remote desert areas
Vegetarian and special dietary options are available on request
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
