Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech by Merzouga 3days 2nights trip

A comprehensive look at a 3-day desert adventure from Fez to Marrakech

Traveling through Morocco is like flipping through a vivid, living postcard—vibrant markets, ancient kasbahs, and sweeping desert vistas. This 3-day desert tour from Fez to Marrakech by Explore Travel Tours promises a journey through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes, combining the scenic beauty of the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara dunes, and historic towns.

What makes this trip stand out? We particularly appreciated the seamless blend of nature, culture, and comfort—from the panoramic mountain views, serene cedar forests, to luxurious desert tents with private bathrooms. The balanced itinerary keeps things lively without rushing, offering authentic experiences like camel trekking and local visits.

A possible consideration? While the journey covers a lot, the long driving hours between stops might feel tiring for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to road trips. However, the vehicle comfort and the variety in scenery usually make up for it. This tour seems best suited for travelers craving an authentic, adventurous exploration of Morocco’s diverse terrains, especially those who want a well-organized experience without sacrificing the charm of local life.

Key Points

• Diverse Landscapes: Crosses the Atlas Mountains, cedar forests, Ziz gorges, and the Sahara dunes.
• Authentic Comfort: Luxurious Berber tents with private bathrooms and comfortable transport.
• Rich Cultural Spots: Includes stops in Ifrane, Midelt, Todra Gorge, and Ait Ben Haddou.
• Balanced Schedule: Combines sightseeing, camel trekking, and relaxation.
• Authentic Morocco: Enjoy local mint tea and traditional berber hospitality.
• Value for Money: At $187.93 per person, it offers a comprehensive, immersive experience.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1: From Fez to Merzouga – The Road Less Traveled

The journey kicks off with a pickup from your hotel in Fez, setting out early at 8:00 am. The first leg takes you into the Middle Atlas Mountains, offering stunning views of forests, rocky outcrops, and Berber villages. The highlight here is Ifrane National Park, often called “Little Switzerland” for its neat, European-style architecture and beautiful pine trees. It’s perfect for stretching your legs and snapping photos of the charming scenery.

Next, the route takes you through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you might spot Barbary macaques—an unexpected highlight for animal lovers. This part of the drive is noted for its springs and jagged cliffs, giving you a true feel for Morocco’s rugged beauty.

Midelt is your lunch stop, a small town nestled between mountains and fertile plains. Here, you’ll enjoy a break and a meal, often included or available nearby. After lunch, the trip continues toward the southern dunes, passing through the Ziz gorges and palm oases—a striking contrast of lush greenery against the desert backdrop.

Arriving at Merzouga late afternoon, you’ll enjoy a relaxing cup of mint tea at a traditional Kasbah before your camel trek. The hour-long ride across the sand dunes leads you to your private Berber tent, where your overnight stay awaits. Although the tents are described as luxurious, some reviewers mentioned the private bathrooms as a notable feature, adding to the comfort after a day of travel.

Day 2: From Merzouga to Ouarzazate via Todra Gorge

Starting your second day early, the focus shifts from the dunes to dramatic rocky gorges and valleys. After a sunrise camel ride—an experience that reviewers have praised for its magical, serene atmosphere—you’ll return to your vehicle for the trip to Todra Gorge.

The Todra Gorges are a standout with their towering 300-meter cliffs, perfect for stretching your legs and taking in breathtaking views. Many travelers highlighted the gorge as a “must-see,” noting how it’s a photographer’s paradise. The walk along the gorge is brief but rewarding, offering a sense of the raw power of nature.

From Todra, the route takes you through the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, dotted with ancient fortresses and small villages. After lunch, you’ll head to the Dadès Valley, famous for its colorful rock formations and escarpments. The landscape here feels like an artist’s palette—vivid reds, oranges, and ochres.

By late afternoon, you arrive in Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco,” home to Kasbah Taourirt and the famous studios where many films have been shot. The evening is set aside for rest and local cuisine, with options for hotels that keep travelers comfortable after a day packed with sightseeing.

Day 3: Ouarzazate to Marrakech – The Final Stretch

The last day begins with a visit to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its fortified kasbah and its appearance in movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Walking through the ancient mud-brick structures offers a glimpse into traditional Moroccan architecture and history.

From Ait Ben Haddou, the drive continues through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi-n-Tichka pass. The winding roads and small villages provide a colorful, constantly changing landscape. You’ll see waterfalls and tiny hamlets dot the route, making the drive more scenic and less monotonous.

By the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, where the tour concludes. Travelers typically find this trip a perfect setup for exploring the vibrant city’s markets and gardens afterward, or heading home with a full appreciation of Morocco’s diverse scenery.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Based on reviews, many travelers mention how the scenery is genuinely stunning—from the cedar forests and rocky gorges to the endless dunes of Merzouga. One reviewer called it “the best experience we had in Morocco,” emphasizing the luxury tents and comfortable vehicle. Others appreciated the authenticity—local mint tea, Berber hospitality, and the chance to see Morocco’s varied landscapes up close.

The camel trek into the dunes is often highlighted as a highlight—an iconic Moroccan experience. The stops at Todra Gorge and Ait Ben Haddou resonate with visitors for their dramatic visuals and cultural significance.

Travelers also praise the value for money—$187.93 per person includes not just transportation but the chance to see a wide variety of Morocco’s scenery and historic sites, all organized and guided by a knowledgeable team.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation: The tour uses comfortable, private vehicles capable of handling mountain roads and uneven terrain. Group sizes are small, capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Timing: Departure is at 8:00 am from Fez, with the return to Marrakech in the late afternoon of day 3. The schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing without rushing, though expect long driving hours—something to consider if you’re sensitive to road fatigue.

Accommodation: The overnight tents at Merzouga are described as luxurious with private bathrooms, providing a comfortable desert stay. The hotel in Ouarzazate also receives positive comments for its comfort.

Price and value: At around $188 per person, this trip balances cost and adventure nicely. The inclusion of unique experiences like camel trekking, local visits, and scenic stops offers great value, especially given the quality of the accommodation and transport.

Booking & cancellation: The tour can be canceled free of charge if done more than 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind to your plans.

Final thoughts: Is this tour right for you?

This 3-day desert journey offers a fantastic mix of Morocco’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and authentic desert experience. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive, organized tour that hits all the major highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

If you’re excited by stunning vistas, historic kasbahs, and a taste of the Sahara, this trip checks all those boxes. The mix of long drives and memorable stops makes it ideal for those comfortable with spending time on the road, and who value comfortable accommodations and authentic Moroccan touches.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to avoid long hours in the vehicle, this might feel a little rushed. The desert tents and scenic stops seem to please most travelers, especially those eager to capture memorable photos and enjoy Moroccan hospitality.

In summary, for an adventurous, scenic, and culturally rich expedition across Morocco’s iconic landscapes, this tour offers a solid, well-reviewed choice.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transportation in a comfortable vehicle, overnight stays in a luxurious tent with private bathroom, camel trekking, and visits to key sites like Todra Gorge and Ait Ben Haddou.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel in Fez, making the start easy and convenient.

How long is the drive between stops?
While exact times aren’t specified, expect several hours of driving each day, with scenic stops along the way to break up the journey.

What are the accommodation amenities like?
The tents are described as luxurious, with private bathrooms, providing comfort after a day of exploring.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothes for mountain and desert climates, sun protection, and a camera for the stunning scenery.

Are meals included?
Lunch is likely included or available during stops, and the tour provides dinner and breakfast in the desert tent.

Is the group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of 15 travelers, the experience remains intimate and personalized.

Will I need to do any strenuous activity?
Most activities involve sightseeing and camel trekking, which are suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for some walking and riding.

This Morocco desert tour from Fez to Marrakech combines scenic drives, cultural richness, and the unforgettable experience of sleeping under the stars in the Sahara. It’s perfect for adventurers eager to see the country’s diverse landscapes with a well-organized, comfortable package that balances sightseeing and authentic Moroccan hospitality.