3 Day Desert Tour From Marrakech
Overview of: 3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Looking for an exciting 3-day trip from Marrakech to Fes? This journey takes you through Morocco’s stunning landscapes, historic cities, and cultural gems. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the medieval charm of Fes, this itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience.
The Best 3 Days trip
Highlights of: 3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
- Travel over the impressive Tizi N'Tichka Pass for breathtaking views.
- Explore the legendary UNESCO-listed kasbah, a famous film location.
- Optional visit to the "Hollywood of Morocco" and its film studios.
- Witness the stunning rock formations of Dades and the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge.
- Enjoy a serene camel ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset.
- Spend an unforgettable night in a well-equipped desert camp with Berber hospitality, music, and stargazing.
- Experience the unforgettable spectacle of dawn over the sand dunes.
- Drive through one of Morocco's most impressive palm-filled valleys.
- See Barbary macaques (apes) in their natural habitat.
- Discover the unique "Swiss-style" architecture of this charming mountain town.
The Best 3 Days tour
Today's Program: 3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Day 1
- 8:30 AM: Begin your adventure with a departure from Marrakech (exact time may vary by season).
- Morning: Traverse the breathtaking Tizi N'Tichka pass, with scenic photo stops along the way.
- 12:30 PM: Discover the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou on a guided tour, followed by a delicious lunch nearby.
- Afternoon: Journey to Ouarzazate. You'll have the option to visit the famous Atlas Film Studios or continue directly to the picturesque Dades Valley.
- 6:00 PM: Arrive in the Dades Valley, where you'll enjoy a traditional dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 2
- 9:00 AM: Depart from your Dades Valley hotel.
- Morning: Explore the stunning Dades Gorges, including the unique "Monkey Fingers" rock formations. Then, immerse yourself in the natural grandeur of the Todra Canyon with a walk through its impressive 300m cliffs.
- 1:00 PM: Savor traditional Berber cuisine during lunch in or around Tinejdad.
- 2:00 PM: Journey towards Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert.
- 5:00 PM: Upon arrival in Merzouga, embark on an unforgettable camel trek through the golden Erg Chebbi dunes, timed perfectly for a breathtaking sunset.
- 7:30 PM: Arrive at your comfortable Berber desert camp, where you'll find equipped tents ready for your stay.
- 8:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious dinner under a canopy of stars, followed by an enchanting Amazigh musical performance around the campfire.
Day 3
- 9:00 AM: After a traditional breakfast at your desert camp, begin your journey.
- Morning: Enjoy a scenic drive through the verdant Ziz Valley.
- 1:00 PM: Stop for lunch on the road, perhaps in Midelt or a charming nearby town.
- Afternoon: Continue your adventure through the majestic Middle Atlas Mountains.
- 3:30 PM: Make a memorable stop at the Cedar Forest to observe the playful Barbary apes in their natural habitat.
- 4:30 PM: Take a refreshing break in the charming "Switzerland of Morocco," Ifrane.
- 6:00 PM: Arrive in the historic city of Fes, where you'll be transferred to your hotel or riad.
Check our Customized 3 day Marrakech desert tour
Itinerary of 3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Day 1 Marrakech – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Your three-day desert tour begins with an early pickup from your Marrakech accommodation. We'll drive southeast, crossing the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N'Tichka Pass (2,260m). Enjoy stunning panoramic views and photo opportunities before descending towards our first major stop.
We'll explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified village famed for its appearances in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After a traditional lunch, we continue to Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Morocco," with an optional visit to its famous film studios. Our journey then takes us through the scenic Valley of Roses before we reach the dramatic rock formations of the Dades Canyons, where you'll spend the night in a comfortable hotel or riad.
Day 2 Dades Valley – Merzouga
After breakfast, we head to the magnificent Todra Gorge, where cliffs soar 300 meters high—a perfect spot for a short walk. We then travel through the lush Tinghir Oasis, a verdant contrast to the arid landscape, before stopping for lunch in a local village.
In the afternoon, the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga rise on the horizon. Here, your desert adventure truly begins as you mount a camel for a peaceful trek into the sea of sand during the golden hour. You'll arrive at a luxury desert camp in time for sunset. Enjoy mint tea, a delicious dinner, and live Berber music under a canopy of stars before retiring to your private, well-appointed tent.
Day 3 Merzouga’s Hidden Treasures
Wake up early to witness a magical sunrise over the Sahara dunes. After breakfast at the camp, you'll return to the village of Merzouga by camel or 4x4 vehicle. From there, we begin the scenic drive to Fez.
The route takes us through the stunning Ziz Valley, known for its vast palm grove, and into the Middle Atlas Mountains. We'll stop at the Cedar Forest to see Barbary apes in their natural habitat and take a break in Ifrane, a unique town known for its charming Alpine-style architecture, often called the "Switzerland of Morocco." We will arrive in Fez by evening, where your tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or riad.
Price Includes
- 1 night in private hotel room (your preferred room type)
- 1 night in a luxury desert camp (your preferred tent style)
- 3 breakfasts
- 2 dinners
- Private Trip transfers from your Marrakech accommodation
- Modern air-conditioned vehicles for the entire journey
- 4×4 transfers to/from the desert camp (camel ride alternative available)
- Sunset camel trek (1 camel per person)
- Guided dunes exploration
- English-speaking driver/guide
- All vehicle fuel costs
- Sand-boarding
Price Excludes
- Drinks
- Lunch
- Tipping
3 Days Desert Tour
Optional Activities and Prices
| Activity | Duration | Price (MAD) | Price ($/€) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quad Biking | 1 hour | from 400 | from 40 |
| ATV Tour | 1,5–3 hours | from 800 | from 80 |
| Private Tour | Sunset/Sunrise | from 300 | from 30 |
3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Accommodation on the 3 Day Tour
- Night 1: Unwind in a charming riad in the Riads, where traditional hospitality and a cozy atmosphere welcome you.
- Night 2: Fall asleep under a blanket of stars in a luxury desert camp. Your private tent, complete with a comfortable bed and bathroom, offers a magical end to your day.
3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
What to Bring on the Trip?
- Clothing: Light, breathable layers for the day; warm layers for cold desert nights.
- Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes and sand-appropriate footwear (e.g., closed-toe sandals).
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Camera: Essential for capturing the stunning landscapes.
- Personal Items: Toiletries, any necessary medications, and a small backpack for daily essentials.
3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Why Choose This Tour?
- Transparent Pricing: Enjoy peace of mind with our all-inclusive, no-hidden-costs approach.
- Personalized Journey: Your private tour is fully customizable, crafted to your preferences for a truly unique adventure.
- Local Expertise: Benefit from our friendly and knowledgeable local guides/drivers who bring Morocco to life.
- Unbeatable Value: Experience luxury camping, authentic cultural encounters, and create unforgettable memories—all at the best value.
Check our Road Map Itinerary
Map of: 3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Frequently asked Question
FAQ of 3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Are there bathroom facilities at the desert camp?
Yes! Our luxury camps feature private tents with attached bathrooms (western toilets and basic showers). However, water pressure may be limited due to the remote location.
What is the best time of year for this desert tour?
The ideal seasons are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are mild (20-30°C/68-86°F). Summers can be extremely hot (40°C+/104°F+), while winters (December-February) offer chilly nights but pleasant days.
What should I pack for the Sahara overnight stay?
Essentials include:
- Warm layers (desert nights get cold)
- Scarf/sunglasses (for sand and sun)
- Sturdy shoes (for dunes and gorges)
- Portable charger (camps have limited electricity)
Is this tour suitable for children or older people?
Yes, with notes:
- Children 6+ handle the camel trek well (shorter rides available).
- Older people can opt for 4x4 transfers instead of camel rides.
- Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility issues (uneven terrain).
How does payment work?
- Deposit: 20% to secure your booking.
- Balance: Paid in cash (EUR/MAD) upon pickup or online before departure.
- Cancellation: Full refund 15+ days prior; flexible rescheduling.
Good to know
For a more immersive experience, consider our 3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes . The extra day allows you to fully appreciate the desert's magic.
Important notes for all our tours:
The daily itinerary can be adjusted according to:
• The season
• Local conditions
• Your personal preferences
Your Itinerary, Your Way: We build flexibility into every tour. Feel free to discuss your interests with your guide—they can tailor the day's attractions and schedule to your preferences.
Dietary Needs: We happily accommodate vegan and vegetarian diets. Please inform us of your dietary requirements in advance to ensure we can prepare suitable meals.
Optional Activities: For an additional thrill, quad biking and buggy rides can be easily arranged through your guide during the tour. (Please note that these are optional extras and not included in the standard price).
3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Book Your Perfect Stay
Moroccan-Holiday offers three distinct accommodation options for our 3-Day Desert Tours, all designed to cater to different tastes and budgets. Every option includes:
OPTIONS
First Night
Second night
The first OPTION
Hotel Babylon Dades
Africa Luxury Camps
The Second OPTIONS
Riad Azawad + Caravan Serai Camp
