Ouarzazate to Fez via Merzouga Desert 3-Days Sahara Tour

If you’re dreaming of wide-open desert dunes, ancient kasbahs, and the thrill of a camel trek under a canopy of stars, this 3-day Morocco desert tour promises just that. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of what to expect — from cinematic landscapes to cozy Berber tents.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, cruise through the dramatic Todra Gorges, and spend a night in the Sahara with the right mix of adventure and comfort. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a sunrise over the dunes and meet local Berbers makes it an authentic journey. That said, some travelers mention organisational hiccups and the shared tent arrangement, so it’s worth considering how these factors might influence your trip.

This tour is perfect for adventurers craving iconic Moroccan scenery, history buffs wanting to walk in movies’ footsteps, or those seeking a mix of cultural sites and desert escapades. If you’re comfortable with some logistical quirks and eager to explore Morocco’s diverse landscapes, this trip could be a highlight of your travels.

Key Points

• Authentic Moroccan experience: Combines cultural highlights with desert adventure.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Mohammed enhance storytelling and insight.
• Excellent value: Includes transport, accommodation, camel rides, and some meals for $185.
• Stunning scenery: From kasbahs and gorges to vast dunes and Cedar Forests.
• Balanced itinerary: Mix of sightseeing, relaxing, and adventure.
• Potential organizational issues: Sharing tents and some planning hiccups noted by travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and First Day: From Ouarzazate to Ait Ben Haddou and Dades

Your adventure kicks off in Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco” thanks to its film studios. The pick-up is scheduled at 3 p.m. in front of the Cinema Museum — a convenient spot if you’re staying nearby. The first highlight is Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its appearance in movies like Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and Lawrence of Arabia. The group is usually accompanied by a local guide, which is a bonus for uncovering behind-the-scenes stories and historical context.

Travelers consistently point out the excellent guided visits — “Mohammed was very thorough and funny,” says one review. The architecture of the Kasbah is mesmerizing, with its wind-blown mud-brick walls and narrow alleyways that seem frozen in time. Post-lunch, the route takes you along the Road of the Thousand Kasbahs, passing through the Rose Valley and the Dades Gorge.

The scenery here is striking: high walls of the canyon, lush oasis patches amidst rocky landscapes, and clusters of traditional Berber villages. The overnight stay in Dades or Tinghir offers a comfortable base with options for hotels or Riads. Many travelers appreciate the balance of history, striking landscapes, and relaxing accommodation.

Day Two: From Dades to Merzouga and the Sahara

Day two dives into the heart of Morocco’s desert landscapes. After breakfast, the journey continues through the Todra Gorges, a favorite for its towering cliffs and narrow pathways. Several reviews mention the sheer beauty of this area, noting how “we loved the way the sunlight played on the rocks.” From there, the route takes you through Tinghir, Tinjdad, Jorf, and Erfoud, charming towns each with their own character.

The highlight of the day is arriving at Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. Here, you’ll relax before embarking on a camel trek that takes you across the Erg Chebbi dunes. The camels are traditionally used, and while some travelers noted that the camels appeared tired, the experience of riding through endless golden dunes is worth it. The trek culminates at a Berber camp, where you’ll spend the night in tents under the stars.

Many guests emphasize how magical it feels to watch the sunset from the highest dunes, and others mention the authenticity of the camp and the chance to listen to drum music beneath the night sky. The overnight stay is a key part of the tour, blending adventure with genuine Bedouin hospitality.

Day Three: Sunrise, Camel Ride Back, and Journey to Fes

The final morning starts early with the famous desert sunrise — an experience many reviewers say is unforgettable. After breakfast in the camp, you’ll camel back to Merzouga, ready to continue your journey north.

The drive takes you through the Ziz Valley, often called the “valley of a thousand palms,” offering lush scenery contrasting with the desert. A stop in Midelt allows for a quick lunch and a chance to stretch your legs. The afternoon route crosses the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine feel and cedar forests—home to Barbary monkeys.

The trip concludes in Fes, a city renowned for its medieval medina, bustling souks, and ancient university. The timing is designed to arrive late afternoon, giving you a chance to rest and explore the city at night.

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How the Tour Works and What to Expect

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drives more bearable — especially important given the 3-day duration and extensive distances. The group size varies but generally remains manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodations are included in hotels, riads, or Kasbahs, with half-board meals (dinner and breakfast). The desert camp provides a traditional Berber tent, offering an authentic yet somewhat basic experience. A recurring theme in reviews is the good quality of food, with some guests praising the local dishes and tapas, although reviews note a limited vegetarian menu and some disappointment with the buffet lunches.

The Camel Trek Experience

The camel rides are a highlight of the journey, with most travelers eager to capture the perfect sunset or sunrise shot. The camels are typically used for this purpose, and while some reviews mention tired-looking animals, the overall experience of riding through the dunes is often described as well worth it.

Guides and Group Dynamics

Guides like Mohammed, praised for their knowledge and humor, significantly enhance the trip. They tend to explain the significance of sites and share interesting stories, turning sightseeing into a more engaging experience. The group setting fosters camaraderie, although some travelers mention sharing tents with strangers was a bit chaotic and not always clearly organized beforehand.

Value for Money

At $185 per person, this tour offers a lot of value — combining transportation, guide service, accommodation, meals, and camel rides. Several reviews highlight the good value, especially considering the diversity of sights covered and the inclusion of iconic activities like the camel trek and desert camping.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring warm clothes for the desert, as temperatures drop significantly at night.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours and canyon explorations.
• Carry some cash for optional souvenirs or tips, as not all meals or activities are included.
• Expect some organisational quirks, so be patient and flexible.
• If you have specific dietary needs, check in advance about vegetarian options or special meals.
• Don’t forget your camera — this journey is packed with photo opportunities at every turn.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for those seeking a blend of cultural exploration and desert adventure. Travelers who don’t mind sharing tents and are comfortable with long drives will find it a great value. It’s perfect for people eager to see famous sites like Ait Ben Haddou and experience the vast Sahara dunes without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic Moroccan experience with knowledgeable guides and stunning landscapes, this tour hits most marks — with a few minor organizational quirks that are common in such adventurous trips. It suits travelers who prioritize scenic beauty, cultural sites, and the thrill of a camel trek over luxury accommodations.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers found it suitable for those comfortable with long vehicle rides and outdoor activities. It’s best for those who can handle sharing tents and are okay with basic desert accommodations.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included in the accommodations, with some lunches provided or available at stops. However, some reviewers mention that lunches aren’t included and can be disappointing or expensive.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so you may want to budget for these separately.

What is the group size like?
While not explicitly stated, most reviews imply moderate group sizes that allow for personal interaction and guide attention.

Can I book the tour now and pay later?
Yes, the booking offers the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel planning.

What should I bring for the desert night?
Warm clothes, sleeping essentials, and a sense of adventure are recommended. The desert can be freezing at night, so pack accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Ouarzazate to Fes 3-day Sahara tour offers a captivating mix of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes and cultural highlights. From the cinematic ruins of Ait Ben Haddou to the mesmerizing dunes of Merzouga, it’s a journey that promises memorable moments and stunning vistas. With knowledgeable guides and well-thought-out stops, you’ll feel like you’re peeling back the layers of Morocco’s diverse identity.

While some organizational aspects could be smoother—like tent sharing and lunchtime options—the overall value and experience outweigh these minor inconveniences. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to blend history, natural beauty, and adventure in one affordable package.

If you’re ready to see Morocco’s Sahara in all its glory, this tour is a memorable way to do it—especially if you’re comfortable with a bit of rustic charm and like to keep things real. The landscapes, the stories, and the starry nights will stay with you long after your trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: