3-Day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech

3-Day Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga and Ait Ben Haddou

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Fes into the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through cedar forests that have been prized since Phoenician and Roman times for their woodcraft and shipbuilding. Stop in Ifrane, known for its Alpine architecture and cool climate, then continue to Azrou, a traditional Berber village of the Zayan tribe.

Travel through Midelt and follow the road through the dramatic Ziz Valley and Gorges, a route lined with palm trees and fortified kasbahs, as you descend toward the Sahara. Arrive in Erfoud, famous for its fossils and dates, then take a desert track to reach the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes of Merzouga.

At sunset, mount your camel for a magical ride into the golden dunes, arriving at a luxury Berber camp nestled in the heart of the Sahara. Enjoy a delicious dinner and traditional music under a sky filled with stars.

Day 2: Merzouga – Khamlia – Nomad Visit – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
Wake early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the dunes, then return by camel to your camp for breakfast and a shower. Optional sandboarding is available for the adventurous.

Afterward, visit Khamlia, a village known for its Gnawa music, performed by descendants of Sub-Saharan African slaves. Then meet a local nomad family to learn about desert life and share a traditional Berber pizza seasoned with a blend of 44 spices.

Continue through Rissani, once the capital of the ancient Tafilalet kingdom and the cradle of the Alaouite dynasty, Morocco’s current royal family. Travel through desert landscapes to reach the breathtaking Todra Gorges, a favorite for rock climbers and nature lovers.

The day ends in the picturesque Dades Valley, where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night in a comfortable hotel surrounded by dramatic rock formations and kasbahs.

Day 3: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Marrakech
After breakfast, drive through the Valley of the Roses and the Skoura oasis en route to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Explore the famous Atlas Film Studios, where many Hollywood movies were filmed.

Next, visit the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Morocco’s most iconic ksar, featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Enjoy lunch in the village before crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters), with panoramic views and photo stops.

Arrive in Marrakech by evening, where your driver will drop you off at your riad or hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable desert adventure.