From Fes:3Days 2Nights Desert Trip to Marrakech via Merzouga

Discover the magic of Morocco on this 3-day, 2-night desert trip from Fes to Marrakech. Traveling through dramatic mountain passes, ancient kasbahs, and golden dunes, this tour promises an authentic taste of Moroccan life and landscape. With highlights like camel treks at sunset, visits to film-famous studios, and exploring UNESCO-listed sites, it’s a well-rounded adventure for those craving culture and stunning scenery.

What really stands out is the variety of stops, from cedar forests teeming with monkeys to the dramatic Todra Gorge. The inclusion of a night in a desert camp adds a genuine Sahara experience that many travelers cherish. The only caveat? The journey is long, but that’s part of the charm — it’s a full-on road trip packed with memorable sights. Perfect for independent travelers, culture lovers, or adventure seekers eager to see Morocco beyond the cities.

Key Points:

• Authentic Sahara experience with camel rides and a night in a desert camp
• Diverse scenery including cedar forests, valleys, and mountain passes
• Visit iconic filming locations like Atlas Studios and Ait Ben Haddou
• Scenic mountain drive over Tizi nTichka Pass
• Opt for value with included meals, transportation, and guided visits
• Moderate physical activity involved—good for active travelers

An authentic Moroccan adventure in just 3 days

This tour offers a robust introduction to Morocco’s diverse landscapes, culture, and history. It’s especially appealing to those who want a deep dive into the country’s less-urbanized sights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The experience strikes a good balance between guided visits and free moments, ensuring you get both insight and space to absorb the surroundings.

The journey begins early in Fes, with a pickup around 7:45 AM. From there, the pace is lively but manageable, with enough time at each stop to explore and relax. The tour operates with a professional driver, and transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a bonus considering Morocco’s often hot climate.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The detailed itinerary: what to expect each day

Day 1: From Fes to Merzouga, via Ifrane and cedar forests

Starting in Fes, the first notable stop is Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” thanks to its clean streets and chalet-style architecture. Here, you’ll get a chance to stroll around and snap photos, especially of the famous stone lion statue. It’s a brief but charming introduction to Morocco’s mountain town vibe.

Next, the group heads to Azrou’s cedar forest, home to wild Barbary macaques. Expect to see playful monkeys and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Reviewers mention that interacting with the monkeys is a highlight, but caution is advised — stay respectful and avoid feeding them.

Moving through Berber villages and stunning mountain landscapes, you’ll stop in Midelt for lunch (not included, but plenty of local restaurants are suggested). The next stop is Ziz Valley, famous for its lush palm groves and ancient fortified villages, offering a scenic glimpse into traditional Berber life.

Arriving late afternoon at Merzouga, on the edge of the Sahara, your first impression will be of endless dunes and golden sands. Many enjoy relaxing at a local Kasbah before starting the camel trek — a must-do for Sahara lovers. As the sun begins to set, you’ll ride camels into the dunes for that perfect photo op and sunset experience. The evening is spent at a desert camp, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner and Saharan music under the stars.

(According to reviews, the camel ride, approximately 20 minutes, is a highlight. Guests appreciate the chance to see the dunes light up at sunset, creating a truly magical atmosphere.)

Day 2: From Merzouga to Ouarzazate via Rissani and Todra Gorge

Waking up early for sunrise over the dunes is a highlight — many describe it as peaceful and unforgettable. After breakfast, you’ll leave the desert behind and head to Rissani, known as the birthplace of Morocco’s ruling dynasty. Depending on timing, a visit to its mausoleum or bustling market offers insight into local Berber traditions.

Next, the drive takes you to Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs and a narrow riverbed create a breathtaking natural corridor. Expect to walk around, take photos of the dramatic cliffs, and appreciate the geological marvel.

The journey continues through the Dades Valley, with its striking rock formations and traditional Berber villages. Reviewers mention that the winding roads and vivid landscapes make this segment particularly scenic.

By evening, you arrive in Ouarzazate, the “film capital” of Morocco. Here, a visit to Atlas Studios reveals where blockbusters like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed. Many guests appreciated the guides’ insights into Moroccan film history.

Dinner and overnight stay are in a local hotel, offering a comfortable base after two days of exploration.

Day 3: From Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Ait Ben Haddou and the Atlas Mountains

After breakfast, you’ll explore Ouarzazate a bit more, including a visit to the filming studio. Following this, the focus shifts to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its mudbrick kasbahs. Walking through the narrow paths, you’ll see the traditional architecture and get spectacular panoramic views.

Lunch (not included) at a local restaurant provides an opportunity to sample Berber cuisine or simple Moroccan dishes.

In the afternoon, drive over the Tizi nTichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains, reaching over 2,260 meters. The winding mountain roads are as scenic as they are exhilarating, with plenty of stops for photos and village visits. Reviewers describe this as one of the most beautiful mountain crossings in Africa.

Arriving in Marrakech around 6 PM, the tour concludes with drop-off at Jamma El Fna Square or your Riad, depending on your accommodation.

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The real value: what the tour includes and what to consider

What’s included?

The package offers a lot for its $196 per person price. You get transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, an experienced driver, meals (breakfasts and dinners), overnight in a desert camp, and guided visits to important sites like Ait Ben Haddou and Atlas Studios. The camel ride into the dunes is also included, often a highlight for travelers.

Most reviews highlight the good value this tour provides, considering the range of places visited and the comfortable accommodations, including a night in a desert camp that many describe as “really nice” with hot water and power outlets (depending on the chosen tent type).

What’s not included?

Entrance fees, lunches, drinks, and optional activities like quad rides are extras. This means you should budget for additional costs if you want to explore further or partake in optional activities like sandboarding.

Transport, pace, and group size

The journey is about 3 days long, with significant driving. While the scenery and stops break up the long hours, expect a fair amount of time on the road. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and the driver is noted for being reliable and friendly, making the long hours more comfortable.

Group size isn’t explicitly mentioned, but reviews suggest it’s a typical group tour, making it suitable for those who enjoy shared travel experiences but still want a sense of adventure and discovery.

What travelers loved (and what to keep in mind)

Authentic experiences and stunning views

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially for their insights into local culture and history. One reviewer mentioned their driver, Abdul, was super friendly and reliable, which added to the overall enjoyment.

The scenic drives through mountain passes and valleys are unforgettable, with many appreciating the chance to see Morocco’s diverse landscapes up close. The camel trek at sunset is described as a “golden” moment, offering a peaceful and photogenic experience.

Comfortable accommodations and meals

Staying overnight in a desert camp is a unique highlight. Reviewers mention options for luxury tents with hot water and power outlets, making the experience both rustic and comfortable. Dinner around the campfire, with traditional Moroccan music, creates lasting memories.

Cultural and cinematic highlights

Visits to Atlas Studios and Ait Ben Haddou are particularly valued. Seeing where famous movies were filmed and exploring a UNESCO-listed ksar add layers of cultural richness to the journey.

Considerations

The main drawback for some is the long travel time, which can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to extensive road trips. The physical activity involves some walking and camel riding, so a reasonable level of mobility is recommended. Plus, as it’s a group tour, travelers should be comfortable sharing space and experiences with others.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This trip works well for adventurous travelers eager to see Morocco’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural sites, and unique desert experiences. It’s also a good choice for families or groups looking for a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

However, if you’re seeking a purely luxury experience or want to avoid long travel hours, you might prefer a more tailored or private tour.

Final thoughts

This 3-day desert trip from Fes to Marrakech offers a comprehensive Moroccan experience, blending natural beauty, cultural sights, and authentic Sahara adventures. With professional guides, good value, and memorable stops, it’s an excellent way to cover much of eastern Morocco in a short time.

While the journey is long, the landscapes and experiences make it worthwhile. The inclusion of a night in the desert camp, visits to film-famous locations, and scenic mountain crossings will leave you with stories to tell long after you return home.

If you thrive on exploration, enjoy learning about local culture, and don’t mind a bit of road time, this tour could be your perfect Moroccan adventure.

FAQ

How long is the overall trip?
The tour spans 3 days with travel time on each day. Expect long drives, but plenty of interesting stops along the way.

Is the desert camp comfortable?
Yes, depending on the option booked, you can stay in a standard, deluxe, or luxury tent, many of which include hot water and power outlets.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts and dinners are included across the tour. Lunches are not, but local restaurants are suggested at key stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. Also, carry your passport or ID card, as some sites require it for entry.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable with long road trips and moderate physical activity, including camel riding, will enjoy it. Keep in mind that some stops involve walking and climbing.

Can I join if I have mobility challenges?
The tour involves walking and camel riding, so a reasonable level of physical mobility is necessary.

How is the guide/driver?
Guests report that guides and drivers, like Abdul, are friendly, knowledgeable, and reliable, adding to the overall positive experience.

Is there flexibility with the itinerary?
Booking is flexible — you can reserve now and pay later, with cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are the main highlights?
Expect camel rides, sunset views, visits to Todra Gorge, Ait Ben Haddou, Atlas Studios, and scenic mountain passes — a well-rounded Moroccan adventure.

This tour is a fantastic choice for those seeking an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich Moroccan experience in just a few days. With reliable guides, memorable sights, and good value, it suits travelers who want to explore beyond the typical city tour. Just be ready for some long drives and physical activity, and you’ll come away with a treasure trove of Moroccan memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: