From Fes: 3 Days and 2 Nights Desert Trip to Marrakech

Travelers looking to experience Morocco beyond the bustling medinas and markets often dream of the vast Sahara, scenic mountain passes, and iconic film locations. This 3-day, 2-night desert trip from Fes to Marrakech offers just that—an authentic journey through diverse landscapes, cultural encounters, and unforgettable sights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to drive through cedar forests, where you’ll catch glimpses of playful monkeys—yes, real wild monkeys! Second, the camel ride at sunset that paints the dunes with fiery hues, perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots. Third, spending a night in a Berber tent under the stars, which promises a uniquely peaceful desert experience.

One potential consideration is the amount of long-distance driving involved—this trip is a journey, not just a sightseeing tour. If you’re someone who loves a good road trip, you’ll find it part of the adventure. If you prefer more time at each stop, be prepared for some early mornings and long hours on the road.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and cinematic history, especially those eager for a genuine desert experience combined with visits to film studios and mountain gorges.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic Moroccan landscapes from cedar forests to desert dunes
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights
Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned vehicles for long drives
Authentic cultural stops in Berber villages and historic towns
Stunning sunset camel rides across the dunes
Luxury and standard desert camps with options to upgrade
Efficient itinerary with balanced sightseeing and travel time
Excellent value considering the number of highlights and inclusions

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Looking for more options in Fes? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: From Fes into the Sahara

The trip kicks off with a scenic drive from Fes, taking you through the dramatic landscapes of Morocco. A highlight here is the drive through a cedar forest, where the canopy provides welcome shade and the chance to spot resident monkeys playing among the trees. This is a real treat for animal lovers and photographers alike.

After ascending into the mountains, you’ll descend toward the dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into a traditional Kasbah, the starting point for your desert adventure. The evening features a camel ride at sunset, a moment that many reviewers describe as magical—and truly one of the highlights of the trip. Watching the sun dip behind the dunes while riding camels is a surreal experience that’s worth every minute of the journey.

In the evening, you’ll stay in a Berber tent at a desert camp that blends comfort with authenticity. Expect cozy bedding, traditional music, and the chance to gaze at a blanket of stars in the clear desert sky—an experience highly praised by past travelers. Some reviews note the tents are surprisingly luxurious, with options like AC and private toilets, making it far from the basic “camping” you might imagine.

Day 2: Exploring the Heart of Morocco’s Scenic & Film Heritage

The second day is packed with diverse stops that showcase Morocco’s natural beauty and cinematic allure. You’ll visit Merzouga, a small but vibrant desert town, then continue to Tinghir and the famed Todgha Gorges. The gorge is a striking canyon with towering cliffs, perfect for a walk and some breathtaking photos. Reviewers mention the guides are knowledgeable about the area, adding context to the stunning scenery.

Next, the journey takes you along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, an iconic route lined with ancient fortress-like homes that date back centuries. This rugged path was historically a caravan route, and today it’s a favorite for those wanting to see Morocco’s traditional architecture and landscapes. Many travelers highlight the scenic drive as a major highlight and appreciate the stops for photos and leisurely walks.

In the afternoon, you’ll pass through the Dadès Valley, known for its dramatic escarpments and colorful rock formations. The stops in these valleys are perfect for stretching your legs while soaking in views that look straight out of a movie set.

For lunch, you’ll stop in a local town, with some reviews noting the guide’s recommendations helped find tasty Moroccan dishes. Dinner and overnight are at a comfortable hotel either in the Gorges or in Ouarzazate, the film capital of Morocco.

Day 3: Hollywood and Cultural Marvels in Ouarzazate

The final day focuses on Ouarzazate, often dubbed the “Hollywood of Africa.” Your visit includes the impressive Kasbah of Taourirt, a UNESCO-listed fortress that tells stories of Morocco’s history. Then, you’ll tour Atlas Studios, the largest film studio complex in Africa, where iconic movies like The Last Temptation of Christ and Jewel of the Nile were shot. Many reviewers rave about how fascinating it is to see the sets and learn about Morocco’s role in global cinema.

Throughout the trip, the driver and guides are praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and local knowledge. Multiple reviews mention how guides like Said, Yassine, and Mohamed go above and beyond to make sure guests are comfortable and informed. They share stories, answer questions, and make the long drives enjoyable instead of tedious.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transportation and Comfort

The entire tour runs with air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during the long drives across mountains, valleys, and desert. Some travelers mention that the journey involves extensive driving, but this is part of the experience—giving you the chance to enjoy Morocco’s ever-changing scenery. The group sizes tend to be small to medium, which fosters a friendly atmosphere and makes logistical arrangements easier.

There's plenty more to explore in Fes

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodation options range from standard to luxury desert camps, with many reviewers emphasizing the value for money. The desert camp stays are often highlighted as a true highlight, with clean, comfortable tents, private bathrooms, and delicious Moroccan dinners. Breakfasts and dinners are included, allowing you to enjoy traditional cuisine and local flavors without extra planning.

Lunches and drinks aren’t included in the package, so you’ll want to budget for some meals on your own. Many travelers also remark that the guides help navigate local eateries, which adds to the authentic experience.

Cost and Value

Considering the inclusions—transport, guides, accommodation, camel rides, and some meals—the price is seen as competitive and worthwhile. The extensive itinerary packs in diverse landscapes, cultural sites, and cinematic history, making it a solid value. Those praising the tour repeatedly mention how they felt they saw a lot for their money, with some calling it “great value” for such a comprehensive experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for adventurous travelers seeking variety—from mountains and canyons to the vast Sahara. It works particularly well for those who enjoy long road trips with frequent stops for photos and exploration. If you’re interested in Moroccan culture, film history, or simply want a once-in-a-lifetime desert experience, this tour ticks all boxes.

Travelers who appreciate authentic camps and local guides will find this especially rewarding. It’s also a good pick for solo travelers who end up making friends along the way, as many reviews mention forming a “family” during the journey.

However, if you dislike long drives or are only looking for quick sightseeing, this might not be the best fit. Be prepared for some early mornings and a busy schedule—but know that many find this part of the charm.

FAQs

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes. The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, and many reviewers note the drives are smooth and comfortable despite the long distances.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts and dinners are included in the package. Lunches are not, so plan to buy them on your own or rely on guides’ recommendations.

What is the desert camp like?
Guests describe the tents as clean, often with private bathrooms, and surprisingly comfortable—some even mention AC options. It’s a cozy environment to relax, enjoy dinner, and stargaze.

Can I upgrade my stay?
Yes, options for luxury desert camps are available, which include more premium amenities and a higher level of comfort.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Said, Yassine, Mohamed, and Hamza as friendly, informative, and attentive, making the experience richer.

How long do drives last?
The trip involves significant driving over three days, but this is balanced with plenty of interesting stops and scenic views.

Is this suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. Many solo travelers join and find themselves part of a friendly group, making new friends along the way.

What’s the best time to go?
While specific dates aren’t given, travelers mention that the desert camp experience is especially memorable when the weather is clear and warm enough for a starry night.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for extra meals or souvenirs. A hat and sunglasses are recommended for daytime drives.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day desert trip from Fes to Marrakech offers a fantastic balance of Morocco’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and cinematic history. The expert guides, comfortable transportation, and thoughtfully chosen stops ensure you’ll see some of the most iconic sights while feeling well cared for.

The experience is ideal for those eager to combine adventure, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights into a manageable itinerary. The desert camp stay, sunset camel ride, and visits to film studios make it a well-rounded trip that captures the essence of Morocco.

While the long drives might be a challenge for some, many reviewers agree they are part of the journey’s charm—allowing you to soak in the changing scenery and stories from the guides. Given the positive reviews and high ratings, this tour delivers impressive value for money and authentic experiences.

This trip is perfect for travelers craving a memorable Moroccan adventure—whether solo, with a partner, or a group of friends—who don’t mind a bit of road time to reach all the highlights.