3 Days Merzouga Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Morocco’s vast landscapes, ancient kasbahs, and the mesmerizing Sahara await on this 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour. While it offers a wonderful blend of cultural sites, scenic views, and adventure, some travelers have noted that certain moments could be more organized. This tour is ideal for those craving a mix of history, natural beauty, and a taste of desert life, particularly if you’re comfortable with group travel and a fast-paced itinerary.

What we love about this experience:

• The chance to visit iconic sites like Ait Ben Haddou and the Dades Gorges
• The unforgettable camel trek and night camping under the stars in the Sahara
• The included meals and accommodations, making it a hassle-free adventure
• The comfortable transportation with an English or French-speaking driver

A potential downside? Some reviews have pointed out issues with guides, especially at Ait Ben Haddou, where expectations about optional guides were not always clear. Still, the overall experience offers solid value for those eager to see Morocco’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. This tour suits travelers looking for a guided, all-inclusive journey that balances sightseeing with authentic desert experiences.

Key Points

• All transportation and logistics are handled for a smooth trip from Marrakech to Fes
• Accommodation in both hotels and desert tents offers diverse experiences
• Includes meals and entertainment at several stops, adding value and convenience
• Highlights include the High Atlas, Ait Ben Haddou, Dades Gorges, and Erg Chebbi dunes
• Camel ride and desert camping provide an authentic Sahara adventure
• Group size is limited to 15 travelers for a more personal experience

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

Starting Point: Marrakech and the Journey Begins

The tour kicks off early at 7:30 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing. The first stop is the Tizi n Tichka pass—a high mountain road at over 2,260 meters elevation. Here, the winding roads offer stunning panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains. We loved how this spot instantly immerses you in Morocco’s mountainous beauty, with the air crisp and the scenery dramatic.

While the stop is only about five minutes, it’s a perfect intro, setting the tone for the scenery ahead. The drive from here takes you through regions that transition from lush mountain landscapes into the arid, desert-adjacent realms of southern Morocco.

Ait Ben Haddou: The Architectural Marvel

Next, you arrive at Ait Ben Haddou, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient fortified village features mud-brick kasbahs and winding alleyways that have served as film sets for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. You’ll have approximately two hours to wander the site, absorbing its historical charm.

A notable point from reviews is the optional guide fee—just 3 euros—which many visitors choose to pay for a more enriching experience. However, some travelers mentioned that their local guide was less engaging and that the fee was often misunderstood, with one noting that the guide initially claimed the fee was an entrance charge rather than a guide fee. If you’re interested in learning more about the architecture and history, paying for a guide could be worthwhile.

Taourirt Kasbah and the Dades Valley

The next stop is Taourirt Kasbah, a scenic fortress with a storied past controlling caravan routes to West Africa. Although only 15 minutes are allocated, it’s worth noting that this spot offers excellent photo opportunities and a glimpse into Morocco’s strategic history. Some reviews mention that the fee for entry isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

The journey then continues into the Dades Gorges, where the rugged canyon walls, sometimes called the “Monkey Fingers,” create a striking landscape. We loved the way these cliffs and rock formations showcased Morocco’s geological diversity. It’s a brief stop, but one that’s visually memorable.

Day 2: The Sahara and the Dunes

The second day begins with a visit to the Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon carved by the Todra River. The towering limestone cliffs create a dramatic backdrop and are perfect for photos or a quick walk. The gorge is free to visit and offers a sense of Morocco’s mountainous grandeur.

The highlight, however, is Erg Chebbi—the expansive sea of dunes that make up the Sahara’s iconic landscape. You’ll spend the night here, staying in a desert camp. The tour provides a camel trek lasting about an hour to reach the camp, an experience many travelers find memorable, especially as the sun sets over the shifting sands. One reviewer remarked that the sunrise in the desert was “sick,” emphasizing how breathtaking this moment can be.

Day 3: Scenic Stops on the Way to Fes

On the final leg, you’ll stop at Midelt for a quick lunch and then visit Azrou, known for its cedar forests and Barbary macaques. If you’re lucky, you might get a chance to feed these playful monkeys—an unexpected delight many found charming.

The journey concludes with a drop-off in Fes, where the trip officially ends. The overall drive is complemented by a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with a driver who speaks English or French and can answer questions, though he’s not a guide.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

The Desert Night and Camping

Camping in a Berber tent under the starry sky is a standout feature of this tour. The experience includes dinner and breakfast, with a focus on Moroccan cuisine. While some reviews mention that the meals are generally well-cooked, others note that the feeling of being “underprepared” can happen if travelers aren’t clear about what’s included or if they have special dietary needs.

The camel trek is a highlight—lasting about an hour—and offers an authentic way to reach the desert camp. Many guests describe the ride as peaceful and scenic, with some quoting the sunset as “sick,” a perfect moment to reflect and take photos.

Accommodations and Meals

Your nights are split between a hotel in the Dades Valley and a desert camp. The hotel was praised in reviews for its amazing views, providing a relaxing base after busy days of sightseeing. The meals included—two dinners and two breakfasts—are convenient, especially since lunch is not included in the price.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour is designed for small groups—up to 15 travelers—which helps foster a friendly atmosphere and more personalized attention. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during long drives, which are inevitable given Morocco’s vast landscapes.

The driver, while not a guide, is knowledgeable about the route and can answer questions. That said, some reviewers have expressed dissatisfaction with certain guides, especially at Ait Ben Haddou, where the optional guide was sometimes confusing or not as engaging as hoped.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At roughly $129.20 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value and experience. It includes transport, accommodation, meals, and activities like camel riding—all of which would cost more if booked separately.

While some reviews mention feeling hurried or underinformed at times, the overall package delivers a comprehensive taste of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the dunes. For travelers eager to tick off key sights without the hassle of planning logistics, this tour provides a practical, guided solution.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want an all-inclusive, guided adventure that combines history, natural beauty, and a night in the Sahara. If you’re comfortable with group tours and are looking for a budget-friendly option that covers major highlights, this tour fits the bill.

People who value authentic desert camping and scenic drives will particularly enjoy the experience. However, if you prioritize comprehensive guides and detailed historical insights, be prepared for some variability in guide quality.

The Sum Up: Is It the Right Tour for You?

This 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour offers a solid introduction to Morocco’s diverse landscape and culture. The included transport, accommodation, meals, and activities make it a convenient choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience. The highlight moments, like camel trekking and camping under the stars, create memories that last.

While there are minor issues with guide clarity and timing, the overall package is authentic and value-packed. It’s an excellent option for those who want to see Morocco’s famed sights with the comfort of a guided, all-inclusive journey.

If you’re looking for a balance of adventure and convenience, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making it easy to start your adventure without extra logistics.

What’s the best way to prepare for the desert camping experience?
Bring warm clothing for the night, as desert temperatures can drop, and a sense of adventure for the camping under the stars.

Are meals included in the tour?
Most meals—specifically two dinners and two breakfasts—are covered, but lunches are not, so plan accordingly.

How long is the camel ride?
The camel trek to the desert camp lasts around one hour, providing ample time for photos and enjoying the landscape.

Can I join without a guide at Ait Ben Haddou?
The tour advises that a guide is optional but often mandatory; some travelers felt the guide was less engaging, so consider paying for a guide if you want more context.

What’s the group size?
The tour limits groups to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Most reviewers say their dietary needs were remembered and catered for, but it’s always best to specify your restrictions in advance.

Embark on this Moroccan adventure if you’re eager to see stunning landscapes, explore historic sites, and experience the magic of the Sahara—all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of an organized tour.