Marrakech to Fez via Merzouga Desert 3-Days Sahara Tour

Traveling from Marrakech to Fes with a stop in the Sahara? This 3-day Morocco adventure promises a mix of striking scenery, authentic culture, and unforgettable moments. It’s a popular choice for anyone wanting to see the country’s diverse landscapes — from rugged mountains to endless dunes — without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

What makes this tour appealing? We love its well-rounded itinerary that balances sightseeing, culture, and adventure. The highlight definitely has to be the camel trek through Erg Chebbi dunes and the night spent in a traditional Berber tent under the stars. Plus, the stops at UNESCO-listed Aït Benhaddou and the Todra Gorges give you a real taste of Morocco’s varied terrain and history.

That said, it’s a long ride on the last day—expect around 9 hours of travel from Merzouga to Fes—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long drives. If you’re after a trip packed with iconic sights, scenic drives, and authentic Sahara nights, this tour hits the mark. It works especially well for adventurous travelers, culture lovers, and anyone eager to experience Morocco’s landscapes beyond the city.

Key Points

• Scenic mountain passes: Cross the Tizi N Tichka, the highest road in North Africa.
• Cultural highlights: Explore UNESCO-listed Aït Benhaddou and Berber villages.
• Desert experience: Camel treks and a night in desert tents with traditional music.
• Diverse scenery: From Todra Gorges to rose valleys and cedar forests.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicles with knowledgeable guides.
• Long travel days: Last day involves around 9 hours of driving, so be ready for a bit of a road trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Morocco Adventure

This tour is designed to combine Morocco’s most iconic sights with the thrill of desert life, all while providing decent comfort along the way. We’ll walk through the itinerary step by step, sharing what you can expect at each stop and why it’s worth your time.

Day 1: Marrakech to the High Atlas and Ouarzazate

The journey kicks off early with a pickup from your Marrakech hotel or a nearby meeting point. From there, the scenery starts changing almost immediately as you head east toward the High Atlas Mountains. This mountain range is home to Tizi N Tichka, the highest road in North Africa, offering sweeping views and a sense of achievement as you ascend.

We loved the way the guide pointed out the various villages and Berber fortresses along the route—these moments add depth and context to the landscape. There’s plenty of opportunity for photos, especially at scenic outlooks, so keep your camera ready.

The first major stop is Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its mud-brick kasbah. This site has starred in movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia, which is a fun tidbit for film buffs. You can wander the narrow alleys, admire the fortified walls, and soak in the atmosphere. The local guide does a quick tour (though guide fees aren’t included), and you’ll get a real sense of the kasbah’s history.

After exploring, it’s time for lunch before continuing to Ouarzazate, the “Gateway to the Sahara,” and the nearby Rose Valley. The drive through the valley is colorful and fragrant when in bloom, and it’s a great place to try local rose-based products or just enjoy the scenic views.

Day 2: The Desert and Todra Gorges

Early breakfast fuels up your energy for the day’s highlight — heading into the Sahara Desert. The drive along the river past small villages and lush oases marks the transition from mountains to sand dunes.

The stop at Todra Gorges is a highlight for many. These towering rock walls, up to 300 meters, create a dramatic landscape perfect for a short hike or just a quick photo stop. Reviewers mention the gorges as a “spectacular hike between palms,” and it’s easy to see why. The canyon is a favorite for its sheer scale and the sense of adventure it offers.

Once in Merzouga, the desert village, you’ll change into something more suited for sand — perhaps packing a small bag for your overnight in the dunes. The camel ride into the dunes is a special experience, often lasting around two hours. Many travelers, including those who enjoyed this tour, appreciated the way guides like Hassan and Mohamad made the ride fun and safe, making sure everyone was comfortable.

The night in a Berber tent camp is truly a highlight. You’ll listen to tribal drumming, enjoy traditional Berber dinner, and sleep under a blanket of stars (or under the tent if you prefer). Many reviews rave about the simple but comfortable tents, with some mentioning the unforgettable experience of watching the sunset from the highest dunes.

Day 3: Sunrise, Scenic Drive to Fes

Waking up early for the desert sunrise is often cited as a must-do moment. The colors of the dunes and the quiet of the desert at dawn create a magical scene. After breakfast, you might choose to do a quick camel ride or quad bike (if you picked that option) before heading back to Merzouga.

The route from the desert to Fes takes you through the Ziz Valley, with plenty of scenic stops along the way. Midelt is the lunch stop — reviewers mention the food as good quality, though some note the cost can be a bit high for the experience.

Crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains, you’ll pass cedar forests and small Berber villages, adding a touch of Morocco’s rural charm. Keep an eye out for Barbary apes in the forests, a delightful surprise for some travelers. The entire last day is a long drive, roughly 9 hours, but the landscapes and the company of your guide make it manageable.

Expect to arrive in Fes late in the evening, around 7 pm, with a feeling of having seen a good slice of Morocco in just three days.

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Transport and Comfort

Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, generally a private or semi-private group. The reviews emphasize that the car is clean, safe, and well-maintained, with some noting that the driver often waits patiently while guests take photos or explore sites. Guides like Youssef, Mohamed, and Hassan are praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and local knowledge, making the long drives more engaging.

Accommodation varies but often includes a stay at a Kasbah or Riad like Kasbah Safari Rose. The desert night is in traditional Berber tents, which most reviewers found comfortable and unique. The tents are designed for winter comfort, but nights can still be chilly, so pack accordingly.

Activities and Extras

The tour includes one camel ride each, a quad option for those seeking extra adventure, and sandboarding — all of which reviewers say add fun and variety. The experience is flexible enough for different activity levels, and guides ensure safety and enjoyment.

Food and Dining

Breakfasts and dinners are included, providing a good opportunity to try Moroccan dishes. Reviewers mention that food quality is generally good, though some note that lunches can be overpriced and tourist-focused. You might find the meals somewhat predictable but satisfying after a day of sightseeing.

Authenticity and Local Impact

Many reviews appreciate that the tour supports local economies by including visits to Berber villages and artisans. Guests often enjoy chatting with locals and seeing traditional crafts. The guides’ local knowledge helps you understand and appreciate Morocco’s diverse culture.

Pricing and Value

Given the inclusion of transportation, accommodations, some meals, camel rides, and the desert night, this tour offers solid value for the experience packed into three days. While the drive on the last day is long, the scenery, activities, and cultural insights make it worthwhile for most travelers.

This 3-day Marrakech to Fes Sahara tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive Moroccan adventure packed with iconic sights, desert thrills, and culture. The experienced guides, comfortable transport, and authentic desert experience make it a memorable trip.

It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor activities like camel riding and sandboarding, and don’t mind long travel days. The nights under the stars and visits to UNESCO sites deliver a genuine taste of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and history.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed journey that combines adventure and cultural insights, this tour covers all the essentials—and then some.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup from my Marrakech hotel included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your accommodation or the closest accessible location by vehicle, making it easy to start your adventure.

How long is the drive to Fes on the last day?
The drive from Merzouga to Fes takes approximately 9 hours, so be prepared for a lengthy journey.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in a Kasbah or Riad like Kasbah Safari Rose for the night near the desert, and in a comfortable tent camp in Merzouga for the desert night.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour features two breakfasts and two dinners, with options to try Moroccan cuisine, although lunches are not included and can be pricier.

Can I do quad biking or sandboarding?
Yes, optional quad biking and sandboarding are available and generally included in the package, adding extra fun to the desert experience.

What should I pack?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and layers for varying temperatures, especially for early mornings and desert nights.

Is this tour suitable for families or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments due to the physical activities and long drives involved.

How do reviews rate this tour?
With an overall score of 4.8 out of 5 from 159 reviews, travelers praise the guides, scenery, and value — many mentioning the professional and friendly guides as a highlight.

What makes this tour good value for money?
The inclusive activities, comfortable transport, authentic cultural experiences, and overnight in the desert make it a worthwhile investment for a Morocco trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: