From Fès: Merzouga (1 Night), Ouarzazat (1 Night), Marrakech

Discover the Magic of Morocco in Just 3 Days

Traveling through Morocco’s diverse landscapes offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences. This 3-day tour from Fès to Marrakech, with stops in Merzouga and Ouarzazate, promises a journey full of scenic views, authentic moments, and a taste of desert luxury.

What makes this trip special? We love the opportunity to watch a desert sunset atop a camel, the chance to stay in a luxury tent under the stars, and the chance to explore Moroccan film history in Ouarzazate. Plus, the scenic drive over the Tizi n Tichka mountain pass is truly breathtaking.

That said, one thing to consider is the travel pace — with multiple stops and long drives, it’s ideal for those comfortable with some time on the road. This adventure suits travelers craving a balance of natural sights, cultural insights, and a touch of luxury in the desert.

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience with camel rides and tent stays
• Scenic drives through Morocco’s mountains and gorges
• Cultural highlights including Ouarzazate and Ait-Ben-Haddou
• Comfortable accommodations with opportunities to enjoy local hospitality
• Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation policies
• Ideal for those seeking a compact yet immersive Moroccan adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Fès to Merzouga – A Journey Through Scenic Landscapes

The tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup in Fès, quickly setting the tone for scenic splendor. Your driver takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, with a first stop in Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture and lush surroundings. It’s a charming spot perfect for stretching your legs and snapping photos.

Next, you’ll visit the Cedre Gouraud Forest, famous for its friendly magot monkeys — a hit with visitors who enjoy close encounters with wildlife. The forest also offers a fresh, cool environment contrasting with the desert ahead. The drive continues through the mountains and valleys, with a lunch break in Zaida, giving you a taste of local Moroccan cuisine.

The highlight of the day? Reaching Merzouga, where the vast Sahara stretches endlessly. Here, you’ll enjoy a camel ride at sunset, a moment many travelers describe as genuinely magical. Riding over the dunes as the sky shifts color is a highlight — “the sunset in the desert was breathtaking,” one reviewer shared.

That evening, you’ll stay in a luxury desert tent, equipped with comforts yet offering an authentic feel. Dinner under the stars, accompanied by traditional music and campfire tunes, creates a memorable night in the sands.

Day 2: From Merzouga to Ouarzazate – Gorges, Films, and Rose Water

The morning begins with a sunrise over the dunes, a sight that many travelers say is worth waking up early for. After breakfast, the journey continues towards Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa” due to its film studios. The stops along the way make this day particularly scenic.

You’ll visit the Todgha Gorges, known for their dramatic cliffs and striking rock formations. One reviewer notes, “The views in the Gorges are incredible, and the hike along the river was surprisingly peaceful.” It’s a highlight for nature lovers and those craving impressive landscapes.

Next, the tour takes you to Kelaa M’gouna, famous for its rose extraction cooperative. Visiting the cooperative offers insights into local traditions of producing rose water and other products — a sensory experience that’s both fragrant and insightful.

In the afternoon, explore Taourirt Kasbah, a historic fortress that whispers stories of Morocco’s past, and then visit the Film Studio in Ouarzazate, where movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed. As one guest noted, “Walking the sets felt like being on a movie set myself.”

The night is spent at a comfortable hotel with amenities like a pool and air conditioning, allowing for rest after a full day of sightseeing.

Day 3: From Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Iconic Filming Locations

The final day begins with a visit to Ait-Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient fortified village offers classic Moroccan architecture and panoramic views, making it one of the most photographed sites in the country. Many visitors appreciate the chance to walk through its narrow alleys, imagining life centuries ago.

Driving over Tizi n Tichka, one of the highest mountain passes in North Africa, offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The winding road provides plenty of photo opportunities, and the elevation offers a refreshing change from the desert heat.

A lunch break allows you to sample more Moroccan cuisine, and you might find the Argan Oil Cooperative visit interesting — a chance to see how this valuable product is produced and perhaps buy some for souvenirs.

The journey concludes with a drop-off in Marrakech, giving you enough time to explore or rest after an action-packed trip.

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What the Tour Includes and Excludes

Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, a driver, dinners, and breakfasts. Travelers consistently mention that the transportation is comfortable and well-organized, making long drives less tiring. The driver’s knowledge about the sites adds to the experience, providing context and local insights.

Excluded are lunches and drinks, so you’ll want to budget extra for meals, snacks, and beverages. Many reviews suggest carrying cash for tips or minor purchases during stops.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes for walking around sites like Ait-Ben-Haddou and the Gorges. Sunglasses and sunscreen are must-haves for desert and mountain exposure. A camera is essential for capturing the stunning landscapes, and a sun hat will keep you comfortable during outdoor activities.

Since the tour involves some long drives, packing a water bottle and snacks can help sustain energy levels. The tour is conducted in multiple languages including English, French, Spanish, and Arabic, ensuring good communication for diverse groups.

Price and Value Evaluation

At $284 per person, this tour offers considerable value for an immersive 3-day experience. It combines scenic drives, cultural exploration, and unique stays — especially the desert tent overnight — in what many would consider a fair price for the quality and scope. The inclusion of key highlights like camel rides and visits to film sites makes it appealing for first-time visitors seeking a rundown.

Additional Insights from Reviews

Guests have appreciated the balanced pacing of the tour, feeling it was enough to see major sights without feeling rushed. One reviewer mentioned, “The stops at the Gorges and the Kasbahs felt authentic and untouristy.” The hotel stay in Ouarzazate was described as comfortable, with some appreciating the pool after a day on the road.

While some travelers note the long travel hours, most agree that the scenery and experiences outweigh the fatigue, especially with the flexibility to book now and pay later or cancel 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up

This Moroccan tour offers a well-rounded taste of the country’s natural beauty, history, and vibrant culture. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a short, immersive adventure that balances scenic drives with cultural highlights and authentic experiences. The desert night in a luxury tent combined with visits to iconic film locations and mountain passes creates a memorable journey.

If you’re after a value-packed, carefully curated adventure that showcases Morocco’s diverse landscapes and historical sites, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for those who want a blend of comfort, authenticity, and adventure in a manageable timeframe.

For travelers eager to see the Sahara, explore filmic landscapes, and experience Moroccan hospitality firsthand, this trip offers a compelling and accessible option.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your trip comfortably.

What’s the cost of the tour? The price is $284 per person, which includes accommodations, dinners, breakfasts, and transportation.

Are lunches included? No, lunches are not included, so you’ll need to plan for additional meals or snacks during the day.

What should I bring on the tour? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, sunscreen, cash, sun hat, and water are recommended for comfort and practicality.

Is the desert stay in a luxury tent? Yes, the desert nights are spent in comfortable tents that offer a luxurious feel while maintaining an authentic desert experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve your spot with the option to pay later, providing flexibility for your plans.

This Moroccan adventure combines scenic beauty, cultural richness, and a dash of luxury, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting a genuine taste of Morocco’s diverse offerings in just a few days.

You can check availability for your dates here: