Fes To Marrakech : 3 Days Tour Via The Desert Of Merzouga & Camel

Traveling from Fez to Marrakech over three days offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s varied scenery, history, and culture. This tour, rated 5.0 out of 5 based on hundreds of reviews, has become a favorite for those eager to see the Sahara’s towering dunes, explore historical kasbahs, and enjoy local hospitality—all in a manageable, well-organized package.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the expert-guided stops like Aït Ben Haddou and Todgha Gorges provide authentic insights. Second, the comfortable yet traditional accommodations in tents and hotels make the experience both cozy and immersive. Third, the value for money is evident, given the variety of activities, scenic drives, and included meals.

A potential consideration is the long drive times—covering vast distances in a short period can be tiring, especially with early starts. But if you’re looking for a packed, adventure-filled journey that hits all the highlights, this tour is a strong contender.

This experience suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and adventure, especially those with limited time but a thirst for authentic Moroccan landscapes. It’s ideal for solo explorers, couples, and small groups eager to tick off key sights with expert guides.

Key Points

Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to desert dunes, gorges, kasbahs, and mountain passes, all in three days.
Authentic Experiences: Camel rides, sandboarding, and local meals deliver genuine Moroccan flavor.
Expert Guides & Drivers: Knowledgeable guides like Hassan and capable drivers enhance the trip’s comfort and insight.
Good Value for Money: The price includes accommodations, activities, breakfasts, dinners, and transfers.
Long Drives, Rich Rewards: Expect lengthy drives but with frequent stops and scenic views to break up the journey.
High Ratings & Positive Feedback: Consistent praise for organization, scenery, and guides from hundreds of travelers.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1: Fez to Merzouga via the Middle Atlas and Ziz Valley

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup from Fez around 7:00 am. We loved how smoothly the transport was arranged—air-conditioned vehicles that felt comfortable for the long drive. The first stop is Azrou’s cedar forest, where we encountered playful barbary monkeys. Reviewers highlight how feeding these monkeys adds a fun touch to the experience, with many noting the photo opportunities are excellent here.

Continuing through the mountain range of the Middle Atlas and along the Ziz Valley, the scenery transforms into lush palm groves and dramatic river valleys. One traveler mentioned the second largest palm grove in Morocco, which makes for some spectacular photos. Lunch at a local restaurant offers a taste of Moroccan cuisine amidst beautiful surroundings, a welcome break during the drive.

The highlight of the day is arriving at the dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga. The hotel or camp options are described as standard, but comfortable, with some reviews praising the well-organized check-in and the sense of being in a true desert setting. As the sun sets, many take the camel ride to witness the desert’s flaming hues—an experience described as “spectacular” by participants.

Day 2: From Merzouga to Dades Gorge via Todgha Gorges

The morning begins with an early sunrise camel ride, which many reviews say is worth waking up for—some mention it’s a peaceful moment to appreciate the stark beauty of the desert. Post-breakfast, the journey continues to the Toudgha Gorges, where a local guide provides insights into the geological marvels and Berber culture.

Traveling through the Dades Valley offers striking views of rugged cliffs and lush terraced fields. Reviewers often describe the scenery as “insanely beautiful,” and many appreciate the opportunity to walk around and explore the area. The overnight stop here provides a chance to relax and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner.

Day 3: Dades to Marrakech via Ouarzazate and Aït Ben Haddou

The final day features a scenic drive over the High Atlas Mountains. The stop at Ouarzazate is a highlight, known as the “Hollywood of Africa” for its film studios—famous productions like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were shot here. The Taourirt Kasbah is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and many reviewers mention the guided tour’s depth of knowledge.

Next, you’ll visit Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar that transports visitors back in time with its mud-brick architecture. Many travelers say this is a “must-see,” and some mention the optional lunch at local restaurants on the Tichka pass offers panoramic mountain views.

As the trip wraps up in Marrakech, drivers ensure a smooth, timely arrival, often by late afternoon or evening. This allows ample time to explore the vibrant city further or relax after the journey.

What We Loved Most About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Hassan for their engaging storytelling and local insights. Their expertise turns what could be a generic bus ride into an educational experience.

Stunning Scenery & Cultural Stops: From the Sahara dunes to the kasbahs, each stop offers a postcard-perfect scene. Many mention their favorite moments include sandboarding and star-gazing at the desert camp, as well as exploring historic sites like Aït Ben Haddou.

Good Value for Money: For around $389, the package includes accommodations, meals, camel rides, and activities. The reviews indicate that the quality of experience far exceeds the modest price—especially considering the included guided tours and transportation.

Authentic Moroccan Experiences: Travelers rave about the chance to eat local dishes, ride camels, and interact with Berber communities. One reviewer noted how the trip made their first Moroccan visit “AMAZING,” thanks to local guides and friendly hosts.

Practical Aspects & Travel Tips

Transportation & Comfort

The tour offers an air-conditioned vehicle that feels suitable for long hours on the road. While the drives are lengthy, the stops and scenic views make the journey part of the adventure. Reviewers frequently mention the drivers as capable and friendly, with some highlighting how they appreciated the flexibility—stopping for photos or extra time at sites.

Timing & Duration

Starting early at 7:00 am, the schedule is packed but well-paced. Expect around 10 hours on the road on the last day, but with plenty of sightseeing to break it up. Many reviewers found the long drives manageable thanks to the comfort of the vehicle and the frequent stops.

Accommodation & Meals

Staying in a standard camp in the desert and a standard hotel in Dades Valley keeps costs reasonable while still providing a memorable experience. Breakfasts are included in both nights, with dinners in the evenings, often praised for their Moroccan flavors. Reviewers mention the desert camp as “amazing,” with some describing it as “well-organized” and cozy.

Activities Included

Camel rides are a highlight, with one in the evening and another at sunrise—these are often cited as “spectacular” moments. Sandboarding adds a dash of fun, and the optional activities like exploring kasbahs or the film studio are well worth the time.

Cost & Value

At just under $390 per person, this tour offers great value considering the inclusions: transport, accommodations, all meals, camel rides, and guided visits. The reviews reinforce that the experience’s quality far exceeds the price, with many travelers feeling they received excellent value for their money.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Reviewers

One standout review describes a birthday surprise arranged by the guide, demonstrating the tour’s personal touch. Others praise the knowledgeable guides like Hassan and Mohammad, who make complex histories simple and fun. The desert camp is often highlighted as a “best trip ever,” with star-gazing, dancing, and camel rides making it unforgettable.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This 3-day Fes to Marrakech trip is a fantastic option for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that balances adventure, cultural insight, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those with limited time who don’t want to miss key highlights like the Sahara dunes, Aït Ben Haddou, and the High Atlas. The inclusion of authentic activities like camel riding and sandboarding enhance the sense of adventure, while the knowledgeable guides ensure you gain meaningful context and local stories.

The overall value and positive reviews suggest this tour is well-organized, reliable, and offers a genuine taste of Morocco’s diverse scenery. If you’re looking for an adventure that’s easy to book, rich in authentic experiences, and packed with scenic beauty, this trip is an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned vehicles that comfortably handle long drives, with many reviews noting the drivers as capable and friendly.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers accommodations (one night in a camp, one in a hotel), meals (breakfasts and dinners), camel rides (sunset and sunrise), sandboarding, and guided visits to key sites.

Are meals provided?
Yes, two breakfasts and two dinners are included, giving you a taste of Moroccan cuisine in a variety of settings.

How long are the drives between stops?
Expect around 8-10 hours of driving over the three days, but with scenic stops and activities to break up the journey.

What are the accommodations like?
They are described as standard but comfortable, with the desert camp being a memorable, well-organized experience, and the hotel in Dades Valley offering a cozy respite.

Can I expect guided tours at each site?
Most stops include guided tours, especially at Aït Ben Haddou and the Kasbahs, often led by local guides with extensive knowledge.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, many reviews mention solo travelers having a fantastic time, highlighting the friendly guides and well-organized nature of the trip.

What is the best time to book?
The tour is usually booked 33 days in advance, so early planning is recommended, especially for peak travel seasons.

In sum, this 3-day desert adventure from Fez to Marrakech offers a blend of scenic drives, cultural encounters, and unforgettable desert moments—all at a price that offers excellent value. It’s a well-loved choice for travelers eager to experience Morocco’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.