3 Days 2Nights Desert Trip to Fez from Marrakech

A three-day journey through Morocco’s stunning landscapes from Marrakech to Fez offers a unique blend of desert adventure, mountain vistas, and culture. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of an authentic experience filled with highlights for curious travelers.

What we love about this tour is the chance to pass through the Atlas Mountains, enjoy an unforgettable camel ride at Erg Chebbi, and spend a night under the stars in a Berber tent. The inclusion of traditional Moroccan mint tea, visits to UNESCO sites, and stops at iconic film locations like Ait Benhaddou all enrich this journey.

One consideration to keep in mind is the long hours of travel, especially on the first day, which can be tiring but ultimately worthwhile for the sights and experiences you gain.

This tour is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural highlights — especially if you’re eager to experience Morocco’s desert and mountain landscapes in just a few days.

Key Points

• Authentic Moroccan experience combining desert, mountains, and cultural visits
• Luxury transport and accommodations ensure comfort during long drives
• Guides like Moha and Hassan are highly praised for their friendliness and knowledge
• Visiting film-worthy sites such as Ait Benhaddou adds a cinematic touch
• Value for money with included camel rides, nights in Berber tents, and meals
• Travelers with moderate fitness will enjoy the mix of walking, riding, and sightseeing

An Authentic Moroccan Adventure: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a solid package for about $160 per person, which includes transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, two breakfasts and two dinners, a camel ride, and a night in a desert bivouac. It’s designed to give you a taste of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes with ease and comfort, guided by experienced professionals like Moha, who reviews describe as friendly, attentive, and full of insights.

However, it’s important to note that lunches, drinks, entrance fees, and gratuities are not included, so you’ll want to budget for meals and souvenirs. The tour also requires a moderate physical fitness level — expect some walking and camel riding, but nothing too strenuous.

The group size is capped at 15 travelers, making for a more intimate experience where guides can provide personalized attention. Pickup from your hotel in Marrakech is included, and the tour ends in Fez, with drops at your accommodation or nearby.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: From Marrakech to the Atlas and Ait Benhaddou

Your journey starts with a morning pickup in Marrakech, followed by a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka pass. This crossing at 2260 meters offers breathtaking views, small waterfalls, and a chance to stretch your legs over a refreshing mint tea. Reviewers love stopping here for the scenic vistas and photo opportunities.

Next, you’ll visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed kasbah made famous by films like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. The site is a living piece of history and photographically stunning, offering a glimpse into traditional Moroccan architecture. Many reviews highlight how special it is to walk through this ancient fortified village.

After lunch, your route takes you through the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorge—a landscape filled with rugged rock formations and lush greenery. The day ends at a cozy, traditional hotel in Dades Gorge, where you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Dades Gorge to Merzouga and the Sahara

Day 2 is packed with highlights. After breakfast, there’s a chance to explore the Todra Gorges with its towering cliffs, a favorite among reviewers who call it a “breathtaking” stop. From there, you’ll travel the Road of the 1000 Kasbahs, passing through charming villages like Tineghir and the Jewish Kasbah.

A key highlight: arriving in Rissani for lunch and a quick walk through the bustling local market. Many reviewers appreciate the lively atmosphere and authentic vibe here. Following that, the drive continues towards Merzouga, where the desert landscape begins to dominate the horizon.

The real magic happens in the late afternoon: camel riding into Erg Chebbi dunes. This part of the trip earns rave reviews for being “unforgettable” and “magical.” Riders often mention how smooth and well-organized the camels are, with guides like Moha making everyone feel safe and comfortable.

Once in the dunes, you’ll spend the night in a traditional Berber tent in the desert. Many reviews mention the experience of dinner under a starry sky, with some describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” moment.

Day 3: Sunrise, Return, and Fez

The next morning begins early with a sunrise over the dunes — a picture-perfect moment that many reviewers say is well worth waking up for. After breakfast and a quick shower, you’ll leave the desert, heading back towards Fez.

On the way, you’ll pass through Rissani again, with a short visit to learn about its history as the first capital of the Alaouite dynasty. As you drive through the Ziz Valley and cedar forests, you’ll catch panoramic views that make for lovely photo stops, many reviewers enjoying the blend of mountain scenery and lush greenery.

Lunch is in the apple village, providing a taste of local produce. The trip concludes in Fez in the afternoon, with optional hotel drop-offs or assistance in finding accommodations.

The Value of the Experience

This tour’s pricing at $160 is quite accessible given the rich itinerary and included experiences. The camel ride, overnight desert stay, and guided visits make it an excellent value, especially considering the reviews praising knowledgeable guides like Moha and Hassan who make the journey more enriching through their stories and local insights.

Many travelers highlight how this trip balances adventure with comfort. The air-conditioned minibus ensures a pleasant ride, even during the long hours of travel, and the accommodation in Dades Gorge and the desert tents offer a taste of Moroccan hospitality without sacrificing comfort.

The guide’s role cannot be overstated—reviewers repeatedly mention how guides like Moha go above and beyond to ensure everyone’s safety, share interesting stories, and help take memorable photos. Their local knowledge turns what could be just a scenic drive into a window into Morocco’s diverse world.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

From visiting filming locations like Ait Benhaddou to tasting traditional Moroccan mint tea and enjoying dinner under the desert stars, this tour offers genuine cultural moments. Reviewers love how guides often stop at the best viewpoints, ensuring everyone gets a chance to take photos or simply soak in the scenery.

The Berber night in the desert remains a highlight for many, with some reviewers describing it as “magical,” especially after a camel trek. Staying in a tent amid the dunes with a sky full of stars creates memories that last a lifetime.

Another often appreciated detail: guides like Moha are praised for their attention to detail—whether it’s recommending budget-friendly restaurants, sharing local history, or simply making sure everyone’s comfortable and happy.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Long travel hours mean packing snacks and staying hydrated is advisable.
• The camel ride is generally smooth, but if you have mobility issues or fear heights, it’s worth considering.
• While meals are included, you might want to bring some extra snacks or water for the journey.
• Photographers will love the stop at sunset in the dunes—bring your camera!
• Reviewers suggest booking ahead due to high demand, especially in peak seasons.
• Moderate fitness is recommended; walking in Gorges and camel riding require some stamina but are manageable.

The Sum Up

This 3-day desert trip from Marrakech to Fez offers an authentic, well-rounded experience for those eager to explore Morocco’s iconic landscapes and culture. From stunning mountain passes and film-famous kasbahs to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi and a night under the stars, it’s packed with memorable moments.

The inclusion of camel rides, cozy desert nights, and guided visits makes it a fantastic value, especially with the praise for guides like Moha, whose knowledge and friendliness elevate the experience. While long travel days can be tiring, the scenic vistas and culture make it well worth the effort.

Ideal for travelers seeking a balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural insight, this tour appeals especially to those with moderate fitness levels and a love for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. If Morocco’s diverse scenery and warm hospitality call to you, this trip promises an unforgettable journey.

FAQ

How long is the total travel time on this tour?
The tour involves several hours of driving each day, passing through mountain passes, valleys, and desert landscapes. Expect long travel times but with plenty of scenic stops.

Are meals provided?
Yes, the tour includes 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners. Lunches and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Is the camel ride suitable for everyone?
Most guests find the camel ride comfortable and enjoyable. It is generally smooth, but those with mobility issues or discomfort with heights should consider this before booking.

Will I see desert stars at night?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight the dinner under the stars as a major highlight, with clear desert skies providing spectacular views.

Can I join this tour if I am traveling alone?
Yes, the tour is designed for groups, but the cap at 15 travelers makes it intimate and great for solo travelers looking for companionship and shared experiences.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay overnight in a traditional hotel in Dades Gorge and in a Berber tent in the desert. Both are comfortable and add to the authentic experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, provided they are accompanied by an adult and are comfortable with moderate physical activities like camel riding and walking.