3 Days Tour to Fes via Sahara Desert from Marrakech

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley

Early Morning Departure from Marrakech

Your journey begins with an early morning departure from the vibrant city of Marrakech. As we leave the hustle and bustle behind, the road takes us into the heart of the High Atlas Mountains, where we cross the renowned Tizi n’Tichka Pass. This winding road offers stunning panoramic views, with opportunities to capture the dramatic landscapes of Morocco’s rugged mountain terrain.

Visit to Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah

Our first major stop is the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Morocco’s rich history. This ancient fortified village, with its iconic red clay architecture, has been a backdrop for numerous films, making it one of the most photographed locations in the country. As you explore the narrow alleys and ancient structures, you’ll get a glimpse into the past and the way of life that has endured for centuries.

Lunch in Ouarzazate

After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, we head to the nearby city of Ouarzazate for a traditional Moroccan lunch. Known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” Ouarzazate is home to several film studios and the impressive Taourirt Kasbah. This city is a cultural hub and a gateway to the desert, offering a unique blend of history and modernity.

Journey to Dades Valley

Post-lunch, our journey continues through the Valley of Roses and the Skoura Oasis before reaching the Dades Valley. This area, often referred to as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” is renowned for its stunning rock formations and the lush greenery that lines the river. As the day ends, we’ll check into a local hotel or riad for dinner and an overnight stay, allowing you to relax and soak in the tranquil beauty of the valley.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Desert)

Exploration of Todra Gorge

After breakfast, we depart for one of Morocco’s most dramatic landscapes, the Todra Gorge. Towering cliffs rise up on either side of the narrow canyon, creating a stunning natural corridor. This area is a popular destination for rock climbers, but even if you’re not scaling the cliffs, the sheer beauty of the gorge is awe-inspiring. We take some time to walk through the gorge, where you’ll feel dwarfed by the immense rock walls that surround you.

Journey to Merzouga

Our journey continues as we head towards the desert town of Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi Dunes. Along the way, we’ll pass through the small towns of Tinjdad, Jorf, and Erfoud, known for their palm groves and traditional Berber culture. As we approach Merzouga, the landscape shifts to vast expanses of golden sand, signaling our arrival at the edge of the Sahara Desert.

Camel Trekking into the Desert

Upon reaching Merzouga, we exchange our vehicle for camels and embark on a camel trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi Dunes. As the sun begins to set, the dunes come alive with vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere that is unique to the desert. This camel ride takes you deep into the dunes, where you’ll arrive at a traditional Berber camp for the night.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

The evening is spent in the tranquility of the Sahara Desert, under a sky filled with countless stars. You’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of Berber music played by local musicians. The night in the desert camp offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and connect with the timeless beauty of the Sahara.

Day 3: Merzouga to Fes

Sunrise Over the Sahara

Your final day begins with an early morning wake-up call to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara Desert. Watching the first rays of the sun illuminate the dunes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t want to miss. After sunrise, we’ll have breakfast at the camp before beginning our journey towards Fes.

Crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains

As we leave Merzouga, the road takes us through the Ziz Valley, famous for its extensive palm groves and ancient Kasbahs. The valley is a lush oasis in the otherwise arid landscape, providing a stunning contrast to the desert. Our journey then continues into the Middle Atlas Mountains, where we’ll pass through the cedar forests of Azrou and the ski resort town of Ifrane, often referred to as “Little Switzerland” due to its Alpine-style architecture and cool climate.

Arrival in Fes

In the late afternoon, we arrive in Fes, one of Morocco’s most historic and culturally rich cities. As the oldest of the country’s imperial cities, Fes is a city of winding alleyways, ancient mosques, and vibrant souks. Our tour ends here, but the memories of the journey—from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serene dunes of the Sahara—will stay with you forever.