A 3-day journey from Fez to Marrakech with a desert crossing along the way.
- Duration: 2 days
- From: Fez
- Arrival: Marrakech
This 3-day journey from Fez to Marrakech offers an ideal way to travel between two of Morocco’s Imperial Cities while also experiencing the magic of the Sahara Desert—specifically the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi dunes. It’s a great choice for travelers short on time who still want to venture into the Moroccan south and take in its unique landscapes and culture.
Services included
- Pick-up in Marrakech, at your hotel or at the agreed location
- 4x4 route, with a Spanish-speaking driver/guide
- Assistance and accompaniment throughout the excursion
- Camel ride to the tent camp
- Dinner at the tent camp
- Accommodation in a Berber tent
- Assistance at destination
Services not included
- Arrival and return flights
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Tickets to monuments
- Tips
- Schedule
Day 1
This 3-day journey from Fez to Marrakech kicks off at a meeting point of your choice—whether it’s your hotel in Fez or directly from the airport upon arrival. No matter where you begin, a private, comfortable vehicle and an English-speaking driver will be at your service throughout the tour.
On the first day, we head south toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. Our first notable stop is the charming town of Ifrane, perched at over 1,700 meters above sea level. Known for its alpine-style homes and frequent winter snowfall, it’s often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco.”
Next, we venture into Ifrane National Park, also called the Cedar Forest or Monkey Forest. This ecological gem is one of the last natural refuges for the Barbary macaque, a native primate species adapted to cold climates and known to seek shelter in the towering cedar trees.
Continuing south, we cross the Middle Atlas and descend into a dramatically different landscape: the desert begins to show itself, with dry, stony terrain replacing the green forests. Following the course of the Ziz Valley, we arrive at Erfoud—famous for its fossils—and then reach Merzouga, the gateway to the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes.
In Merzouga, we trade our vehicle for camels (or opt for a 4×4, if preferred) to journey into the heart of the Sahara. The trek takes us across towering golden dunes until we reach our desert camp, where a warm Berber welcome awaits.
As night falls, prepare for a truly magical experience: a sky filled with stars, brilliantly visible thanks to the clear air and lack of light pollution. Dinner will be served at the camp, followed by a peaceful night in traditional yet well-equipped nomadic tents.
Summary of the day
- Pick-up in Fez: at the airport or any other agreed location
- Road route by:
- Ifrane
- Cedars National Park or Monkey Forest
- Middle Atlas Pass
- Ziz Valley
- Erfoud
- Arrival in Merzouga. Camel (or 4×4) excursion through the Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Dinner and overnight stay in a tent camp in the middle of the desert
Day 2
If last night’s starry sky and the unforgettable desert sunset weren’t enough, this morning brings yet another magical moment: sunrise over the Sahara dunes. Rising early to witness the first light of day is truly rewarding. After enjoying breakfast at the tent camp, we’ll return to Merzouga by camel (or 4×4, depending on your package). There will also be time to freshen up with a shower either at the camp or at a hotel.
With our journey resumed, day two of this 3-day Fez-to-Marrakech tour continues with more highlights. Our first stop is Rissani, a town known for its authentic charm. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of daily life in the south, explore its historic medina, lively souk, and even pass by its unique donkey parking area.
From there, we travel through changing desert landscapes toward the Dades Valley. The route takes us past hamadas, scattered palm groves, and small Berber villages, gradually bringing us to the striking Todra Gorge. This dramatic canyon is famous for its towering cliffs up to 200 meters high and is a popular destination for rock climbers and nature lovers alike.
We’ll then continue through the picturesque Dades Valley and the fragrant Valley of Roses, where rose cultivation is a key part of the local economy. Along the way, you’ll see remnants of ancient kasbahs dotting the landscape hallmarks of the iconic Route of a Thousand Kasbahs. As the day winds down, we’ll settle into a cozy riad in one of the area’s villages for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.
Summary of the day
- Sunrise in the dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Breakfast in a tent camp in the middle of the desert
- Camel ride (substitutable for an all-terrain vehicle) back to Merzouga
- Road route by:
- Rissani
- Todra Gorges
- Dades Valley – Valley of the Roses – Route of the Thousand Kasbahs
- Night in a charming riad in the Dades Valley
Day 3
After enjoying a generous breakfast at the riad, we’ll set off on the final leg of this 3-day journey from Fez to Marrakech. Leaving behind the Dades Valley, the day offers visits to two significant Berber landmarks. The first is the Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate—once the residence of the powerful El Glaoui family and the Sultan of the Atlas. A tour through its intricately adorned rooms reveals its former grandeur.
Next, we’ll explore the impressive ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village once pivotal to caravan routes linking Marrakech and Timbuktu. Its striking silhouette and panoramic surroundings have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, as well as a spot in pop culture through its appearance in Game of Thrones.
From there, we’ll ascend toward the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road crossing in the High Atlas Mountains, sitting at around 2,200 meters. As we descend, you’ll take in scenic views dotted with traditional Berber villages and, depending on the season, snow-capped peaks.
Upon arriving in Marrakech, your driver will drop you off at your preferred location either a spot in the city or the international airport if you’re flying out that day. With that, our 3-day desert adventure from Fez to Marrakech comes to an end. We thank you for joining us and look forward to welcoming you on another Moroccan journey in the future.
Summary of the day
- Breakfast in a riad in the Dades Valley
- Visit of the Kasbah of Taourirt in Ouarzazate
- Visit of the ksar of Ait Ben Haddou
- Crossing the High Atlas through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Arrival in Marrakech and end of our services
- Photos
- Map
- FAQ
Morocco Turism offers an extensive selection of tours, from explorations of the imperial cities to thrilling journeys through the Sahara Desert. For more information, check out our tours page.
Tour durations vary, ranging from quick weekend escapes to extended trips of over a week. You can select the option that best fits your schedule and interests.
The cities you’ll visit depend on the tour you select, but options often include Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca, Chefchaouen, and more. Each tour features a detailed itinerary available on our website.
Definitely. Your safety is our highest priority. We partner with professional guides and skilled drivers to provide you with a secure and unforgettable travel experience.
Our tours feature a variety of accommodations, including boutique hotels and traditional riads. Each option is thoughtfully chosen to provide both comfort and an authentic Moroccan experience.
Yes, at Morocco Turism, we recognize that every traveler is different. Reach out to us to tailor your tour according to your preferences and specific interests.
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