3 Days 2 Nights Desert Trip to Marrakech from Fes

Introducing the 3 Days 2 Nights Desert Trip from Fes to Marrakech

If you’re dreaming of Morocco’s mystical sands and vibrant culture, this 3-day desert tour offers a well-rounded taste of the country’s contrasting landscapes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, detailed reviews and itineraries suggest it’s a well-crafted journey blending adventure and comfort.

We particularly like the opportunity to visit iconic sites like the cedar forest, Ziz gorges, and Ait Ben Haddou—plus the chance to experience a night in a traditional Berber tent. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transport, and authentic accommodations underscores its value.

However, keep in mind that the tour covers a lot of ground in just a few days, which means some long driving stretches. This trip is best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule eager to see Morocco’s highlights without sacrificing comfort. If you’re after a balanced mix of scenic stops, culture, and relaxing moments, this journey should fit the bill.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transport & Experienced Guides: Expect smooth rides in a professional vehicle, with knowledgeable guides who enhance your understanding of Morocco.
• Authentic Desert Experience: Camel rides, Berber tents, and sunset views make for memorable moments.
• Diverse Landscapes: From cedar forests and monkey sightings to gorges and palm oases, each stop offers picture-perfect scenery.
• Effortless Planning: Inclusive of accommodations, meals, and taxes, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
• Value for Money: At $196 per person, the tour balances affordability with a comprehensive itinerary.
• Potential Long Drives: Some travel days are quite extensive, so prepare for a fair bit of road time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Fes to Merzouga – Nature and Scenic Marvels

The journey kicks off with a pick-up from your accommodation in Fes or Meknes, heading toward the Middle Atlas. The first major highlight is the cedar forest, famous for its playful monkeys, which is a rare opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat. Expect a scenic ride through lush forests, mountain springs, and rugged rock formations, with insights from your guide about the Berber villages dotting the landscape.

Lunchtime is at Midelt, where you can stretch your legs and refuel. The next leg takes you along the Ziz Gorges—a dramatic canyon carved over millennia—which offers postcard-worthy views of the valley’s palm oases and terraced fields. The scenery here is breathtaking, and you’ll want to have your camera ready.

As you arrive in Merzouga, many travelers report relaxing with a traditional Mint Tea at a local Kasbah, which offers a taste of Moroccan hospitality. The highlight of the day is the camel trek into the dunes—your chance to experience a classic desert activity. After an hour of riding, you’ll arrive at your Berber tent where dinner awaits under the stars.

Day 2: Desert to Ouarzazate – Sunrise and Scenic Drive

Early mornings are the best time to catch the desert’s magic. The tour includes a sunrise viewing, which many reviewers describe as unforgettable, with the golden sands transforming as the sun rises. After the camel ride back to your accommodation, you’ll enjoy breakfast before setting off toward Ouarzazate, passing through Rissani, Erfoud, and the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.

One of the day’s highlights is the Todra Gorge, a striking canyon with towering cliffs—perfect for a walk and taking photos. Then, you’ll continue through the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic cliffs and rugged beauty, before arriving in Ouarzazate for dinner and overnight stay. The town’s kasbahs and film studios have earned it the nickname “Moroccan Hollywood,” adding a touch of glamour to your trip.

Day 3: Ouarzazate to Marrakech – Historic Sites and Mountain Passes

Your final day begins with a visit to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a star of many films. The kasbah’s ancient walls and winding alleys tell stories of Morocco’s past and offer excellent photo opportunities. After lunch here, the journey continues through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi-n-Tichka pass.

This mountain pass is renowned for its stunning vistas, small villages, waterfalls, and changing scenery. Traveling through this terrain is an adventure in itself, with many travelers noting how the landscape shifts from arid sands to lush mountain scenery. By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, bringing your desert adventure to a close.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic Diversity in a Short Frame

Travelers love how this itinerary packs in so many sights—cedar forests, gorges, oasis, and mountain passes—within just three days. The route offers a comprehensive taste of Morocco’s varied landscapes, making it a practical choice for those with limited time.

Authentic Cultural Encounters

The inclusion of a Berber tent night and a traditional Kasbah visit means you’re not just ticking landmarks but experiencing local culture firsthand. The guides, like Mohammed in the recent review, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding depth to the trip.

Comfortable and Inclusive

The price of $196 covers transportation, accommodations, meals, and taxes, which is quite reasonable considering the distances traveled and sights visited. The accommodations, including the desert bivouac, are designed to provide a genuine experience without sacrificing comfort.

Authentic Moments with Guides

A traveler noted that Mohammed was “the greatest driver, guide and also friend,” highlighting the importance of having a personable guide who can enhance the trip with stories and local insights. The guides seem to make a real difference, turning a standard tour into a memorable journey.

Practicalities and Tips

• Transport & Group Size: You’ll be traveling in a comfortable vehicle with a professional driver, ensuring smooth transitions between sites. The group size isn’t specified but is likely small to medium, enhancing the experience.
• Meals & Accommodation: Breakfast and dinner are included, which means you’ll enjoy local cuisine and save time on planning. The night in a Berber tent is a highlight for many, offering a cozy yet adventurous night under the stars.
• Timing & Flexibility: The early morning sunrise in the desert is a key moment—try to wake early for the best views. Flexible booking policies include the option to reserve now and pay later, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Additional Costs: Lunches, drinks, and monument entry fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you want additional snacks or souvenirs.

Authenticity and Value

At $196, this tour offers a reasonable price for such a comprehensive experience. The inclusion of a night in the desert, scenic drives, and culturally rich stops adds value beyond just transport and accommodation. Many travelers have described the experience as “memorable” and “an absolute dream,” emphasizing the quality of guides and views.

The Sum Up

This 3-day desert trip from Fes to Marrakech combines Morocco’s natural beauty, cultural gems, and adventure into a well-rounded package. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of the desert, incredible scenery, and authentic local life without long, exhausting travel days.

If you’re after an itinerary that balances comfort, adventure, and culture, this tour delivers. The guides seem to genuinely enhance the experience, making it both educational and fun. It’s a great choice for those who want to see Morocco’s highlights in a short time frame, especially if you value scenic views and authentic moments.

For travelers seeking a smooth, well-organized introduction to Morocco’s desert and mountains, this tour offers a compelling combination of value and memorable experiences. Be prepared for some long drives, but rest assured, the stops and scenery make every mile worthwhile.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely yes, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with some long days of travel and outdoor activities like camel riding.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included, but lunches and drinks are not, so plan to carry some cash or snacks.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak English, French, Spanish, and Arabic, ensuring clear communication for diverse travelers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable vehicle driven by a professional driver, making long stretches easier.

Are overnight accommodations in the desert traditional?
Yes, you’ll stay overnight in a Berber tent, which offers an authentic desert experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Will I get time to explore sites like Ait Ben Haddou?
Yes, there’s designated time to walk around and explore these UNESCO-listed sites.

Is the desert experience suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Camel riding and walking on uneven terrain may be challenging for some, so check with the provider for specific needs.

What is the overall value of this tour?
Given the inclusions, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences, many consider it excellent value for the price.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this desert adventure aligns with your travel style. From scenic drives to cultural immersions, it’s a well-balanced way to see Morocco’s highlights in just three days.

You can check availability for your dates here: