Marrakech to Fes 3 days desert tour

Marrakech to Fes 3 Days Desert Tour Review

Traveling from Marrakech to Fes via the Moroccan desert is an adventure many travelers dream of, and this 3-day tour offers a well-rounded taste of the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Although I haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and thoughtful planning suggest it’s a memorable way to experience the Sahara, Berber villages, and iconic landmarks.

There are several things that make this tour stand out: the seamless organization with private transportation, the chance to experience authentic nomadic life and sandboarding, and the opportunity to witness breathtaking desert sunrises. Plus, the inclusion of cultural stops like Ait Benhaddou and Dades Valley adds depth to this desert adventure.

One potential drawback could be the long driving hours—up to six hours each day—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with extended road trips. This tour seems perfect for those seeking an authentic, affordable Moroccan desert experience with a touch of comfort and guided expertise. It’s ideal for travelers eager to see Morocco’s landscapes beyond the typical sights, with enough flexibility to enjoy the Sahara’s magic.

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience: Camel trekking and sandboarding make this trip memorable.
• Cultural highlights: Visits to UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou and Berber villages offer rich insights.
• Comfortable transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicles ensure smooth travel.
• Flexible options: Dinner is optional, giving you flexibility depending on your energy levels.
• Well-reviewed guide: Mohamed, the driver, is noted for his safety and knowledge.
• Cost-effectiveness: At $662.14 per person, it combines value with comprehensive experiences.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Marrakech to Ouarzazate via Tizi Ntichka and Ait Benhaddou

The journey kicks off early from Marrakech, with the driver picking you up from your accommodation or the airport. The first highlight is Tizi Ntichka, the high mountain pass famed for its panoramic views—expect a scenic drive that showcases Morocco’s rugged terrain and lush valleys. It’s a chance to breathe in fresh mountain air and capture some stunning photos.

Next, you’ll stop at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and cinematic favorite. This ancient kasbah has served as the backdrop for movies like The Mummy and Game of Thrones. Wandering its mud-brick alleyways, you’ll get a sense of traditional Moroccan architecture and history. Many reviews mention how striking and well-preserved the site is, making it a highlight of the trip.

Your day ends in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” where you’ll stay overnight at a local hotel. The 6-hour drive is broken up with these incredible stops, making the journey enjoyable rather than exhaustive.

Day 2: From Ouarzazate through Dades Valley to Merzouga

After breakfast, you’ll visit the Musee Theatre Memoire de Ouarzazate, a cultural stop that offers a glimpse into local Berber traditions and film history. Then, the road takes you through Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic rock formations and lush greenery—an area often called the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” It’s an ideal setting for photos and a chance to appreciate Morocco’s agricultural richness.

Continuing east, you’ll arrive at Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon with towering cliffs. Many visitors find the sheer scale and natural beauty awe-inspiring. Afterward, a lunch stop at Erfoud introduces you to local cuisine before heading towards the vast Erg Chebbi Dunes near Merzouga.

The highlight of the day is camel trekking to a desert camp, where you’ll witness an unforgettable Sahara sunset. The camels take around 90 minutes, and you’ll be able to enjoy the silence and expansive views that only the desert can offer. Many reviews praise this part, with one traveler mentioning that the camel ride is a perfect way to connect with the desert environment.

Day 3: Sunrise, Desert, and the Journey to Fes

The final day is timed for a sunrise view over the dunes—a moment many consider the trip’s pinnacle. After breakfast at the desert camp, you’ll return on camels to the hotel to freshen up. From there, the journey continues with a scenic drive passing Erfoud and Ziz Valley, famed for its date palms and lush greenery.

Your route then takes you through Errachidia, with a lunch break in Midelt. The last stretch includes a drive through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you might spot Barbary macaques, and Ifrane, dubbed the “Switzerland of Morocco” thanks to its alpine-style architecture and cool climate.

Arriving in Fes, you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, completing a 3-day adventure that balances natural beauty, cultural depth, and comfort.

What Makes This Tour Truly Valuable?

The quality of transportation is a major plus—air-conditioned, private vehicles mean stress-free travel, especially during the long drives. That’s crucial when covering this much ground in just three days. The group size is limited to your private group, making the experience more personalized and flexible.

The inclusion of key sites like Ait Benhaddou and Dades Valley enriches the trip beyond just the desert, offering cultural context and stunning landscapes. This isn’t just a Sahara excursion; it’s a comprehensive Moroccan adventure wrapped into a manageable timeframe.

Camel trekking and sandboarding are highlights that provide authentic, hands-on experiences. Many reviews mention the guides’ safety consciousness and the scenic beauty of the Sahara sunrise, which is considered a must-see.

Cost-wise, at $662.14 per person, the tour offers good value for a multi-day trip packed with diverse activities, cultural stops, and comfortable transport. Plus, the flexibility of optional dinners and private pickups adds convenience.

Practical Considerations

While the itinerary is well-planned, be prepared for long hours of driving—up to six hours daily. This means packing light, wearing comfortable clothes, and having entertainment or snacks on hand. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those sensitive to long journeys might need to take it slow and rest when possible.

The tour includes breaks for meals and scenic stops but doesn’t cover lunch. It’s worth planning ahead or budgeting extra for meals, especially in Erfoud and Midelt. Also, while the tour is primarily designed for sightseeing, bring layers for temperature changes—desert mornings and evenings can be chilly, even in warmer months.

The optional dinner can be a nice way to unwind after a day of exploring, but it’s not included, so you may want to budget for your evening meals.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviewers

Many travelers highlight how Mohamed, the driver and guide, enhances the trip with his safety focus and local knowledge. One reviewer gushes, “He drives safely and is very knowledgeable,” making the long drives more comfortable.

The camel trek, often cited as the trip’s highlight, takes about an hour to an hour and a half, allowing you plenty of time to soak in the landscape. Multiple reviewers recommend the Sahara sunrise as “a breath-taking moment,” worth waking up early for.

A common theme among reviews is the appreciation for the tour’s mix of natural beauty, cultural history, and personal touches. The opportunity to see Hollywood filming locations like Ait Benhaddou, combined with authentic Berber villages, offers a genuine taste of Morocco beyond typical tourist spots.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want an immersive Moroccan experience without overextending themselves on a lengthy trip. It suits those interested in cultural exploration, scenic landscapes, and Sahara adventures.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors looking for a curated experience that hits the highlights—desert dunes, historic kasbahs, and mountain passes—while ensuring comfort and safety. If you’re seeking an affordable yet comprehensive Moroccan desert journey, this tour checks many boxes.

Travelers who enjoy guided experiences with personal touch will find Mohamed’s expertise especially valuable. However, if you prefer very flexible, self-guided travel, this might feel a bit structured.

FAQ

How long is each day’s drive?
Expect around 6 hours of driving each day, with scenic stops included to break up the long hours.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included each morning, but lunch is not. Dinner is optional and can be added for convenience.

What’s the highlight of the tour?
Many travelers rave about the Sahara sunrise and camel trek, which create unforgettable memories of Morocco’s vastness and quiet beauty.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though the long drives might be tiring for very young children or elderly travelers.

What are the stops on the last day?
You’ll pass Erfoud, Errachidia, Midelt, Azrou, and Ifrane, enjoying views of the Ziz Valley, cedar forests, and the Swiss-like town of Ifrane.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour private or group?
It is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, enhancing flexibility and personalized attention.

What should I pack?
Bring layers for temperature changes, comfortable shoes for walking, and any personal essentials. Mineral water is provided during transport.

Who should consider this tour?
It’s perfect for those wanting a well-organized, authentic Moroccan desert experience with cultural stops, scenic vistas, and a reliable guide.

Overall, this Marrakech to Fes 3-day desert tour offers a rewarding glimpse into Morocco’s natural and cultural riches. It’s especially valuable for travelers seeking a balance of adventure, comfort, and authenticity, all at a reasonable price. If you’re eager to see the Sahara, explore Berber villages, and enjoy Moroccan landscapes in just a few days, this tour might be exactly what you’re looking for.