3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga Desert and Erg Chebbi Dunes
Overview
Overview of the 3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga Desert and Erg Chebbi Dunes
Experience the beauty of Morocco’s desert landscapes, ancient villages, and majestic mountains on this unforgettable 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes, passing through Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi Dunes. Starting in Marrakech, the journey winds through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the scenic Tizi N’Tichka pass with views of traditional Berber villages and impressive landscapes. This tour is filled with cultural highlights, including the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the scenic Skoura Oasis, ending the first day at a charming guesthouse surrounded by palm groves.
On day two, explore the Valley of Roses, visit the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges, and travel to Merzouga at the edge of the Sahara. The adventure continues with a camel trek to the Erg Chebbi Dunes for a night in a Berber desert camp, complete with a traditional dinner and local music under the starlit sky.
The final day includes a sunrise in the dunes, a scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, a stop in Ifrane (known as Morocco’s “Little Switzerland”), and finally, arrival in the historic city of Fes.
3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes Tour Highlights:
- High Atlas Mountains: Traverse the Tizi N’Tichka pass with stops to explore Berber villages and admire panoramic views.
- Ait Benhaddou: Discover this iconic UNESCO-listed kasbah, famous for its ancient architecture and as a film location.
- Skoura Oasis: Enjoy the lush oasis with scattered kasbahs amidst palm groves.
- Todra Gorges: Stroll through towering canyon walls in one of Morocco’s most scenic locations.
- Erg Chebbi Dunes: Take a camel ride and spend a magical night in a desert camp under the stars.
- Ifrane and Middle Atlas Forests: Visit Ifrane and the cedar forests to encounter Morocco’s wildlife and picturesque landscapes.
Tour Plan:
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Start your journey early, leaving Marrakech and crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Enjoy panoramic views and stop for photos along the way. Visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its fascinating architecture. Continue to Ouarzazate, where you can optionally visit the Atlas Film Studios or Kasbah Taourirt. Drive through the Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses before arriving at the Dades Valley. Spend the night in a traditional riad or hotel with dinner included.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, head to the Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon with towering cliffs, where you can take a short hike. Continue your journey through Berber villages and the town of Erfoud, known for fossils. Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert, in the afternoon. Experience a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, enjoying a breathtaking sunset. Spend the night in a desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber music around a campfire, and a magical night under the stars.
Day 3: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Fes
Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, camel trek back to Merzouga and begin your drive through the scenic Ziz Valley. Stop in Midelt for lunch and continue through the Cedar Forest, where you might spot Barbary macaque monkeys. Pass through Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” before arriving in Fes in the evening.
What’s Included:
- Private, air-conditioned transportation
- Professional driver and guide
- 1-hour camel trek in the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Overnight stays at traditional guesthouses and a Berber desert camp
- Breakfast and dinner each day
Excluded:
- Lunches
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides and driver
This 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes captures Morocco’s diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and traditional Berber lifestyle. Whether you’re taking in mountain views or marveling at the desert’s vast beauty, this journey offers an enriching Moroccan experience from start to finish.
Included/Exclude
- Private, air-conditioned transportation
- Professional driver and guide
- 1-hour camel trek in the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Overnight stays at traditional guesthouses and a Berber desert camp
- Breakfast and dinner each day
- Lunches
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides and drive