3 Days from Marrakech to Fes Morocco Desert Tour

Morocco is a country filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and timeless traditions. One of the best ways to experience this beauty is by taking a 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes. This journey not only immerses you in the heart of the Sahara Desert but also introduces you to the country’s fascinating history, diverse landscapes, and local way of life.

Day 1: From Marrakech to Dades Gorges

The adventure begins in the bustling city of Marrakech, where travelers are greeted with the warm Moroccan hospitality before heading towards the Atlas Mountains. The drive through the Tizi n’Tichka pass, the highest in Morocco, is breathtaking, offering panoramic views of mountain peaks, valleys, and small Berber villages.

Ait Benhaddou: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

A key stop on the way is Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified village that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic site has served as the backdrop for many famous films and is a symbol of Morocco’s ancient architecture. After exploring this iconic location, the journey continues through the city of Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” and onwards to the scenic Dades Gorges.

Day 2: From Dades Gorges to Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi Dunes

Waking up in the Dades Valley offers a refreshing start with views of striking rock formations and green valleys. After breakfast, the tour heads towards the Todra Gorges, a series of towering limestone cliffs that are a favorite spot for rock climbers and photographers alike.

Exploring Todra Gorges

The Todra Gorges are an awe-inspiring natural wonder. The cliffs soar up to 300 meters, with a crystal-clear river running through the base of the gorge, creating a serene atmosphere. Travelers often take a moment to walk along the river, taking in the cool air and stunning views.

The Journey to Merzouga and the Sahara Desert

From Todra Gorges, the journey continues to the desert town of Merzouga, the gateway to the vast Erg Chebbi dunes. As you approach the desert, the landscape transforms into an endless sea of sand dunes, glowing in golden hues as the sun begins to set.

Camel Trek and Desert Camp Experience

The highlight of the day is the camel trek through the Sahara, a quintessential Moroccan experience. Riding atop a camel, travelers are led through the rolling dunes, surrounded by the stillness of the desert and the ever-changing play of light on the sand. As the sun sets over the dunes, the sky is painted in brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a magical atmosphere.

Arriving at the desert camp, guests are welcomed with traditional Moroccan tea and a delicious meal served under the stars. The camp experience offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of the desert, with the only sounds being the crackle of the campfire and the occasional breeze sweeping across the dunes. The night is spent in traditional Berber tents, providing an authentic and unforgettable desert experience.

Day 3: From Merzouga to Fes

The final day begins with a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. After a hearty breakfast, the tour continues towards Fes, crossing the Ziz Valley, a lush oasis lined with palm trees and fortified villages.

Errachidia and the Ziz Valley

On the way to Fes, the tour passes through the town of Errachidia, an important economic hub of the region. The Ziz Valley is a striking contrast to the arid desert landscape, offering views of verdant palm groves and ancient ksars, or fortified villages, that line the valley. This region is known for its rich history and agriculture, producing dates, olives, and other crops that thrive in the desert oasis.

Midelt and the Middle Atlas Mountains

The journey continues through the Middle Atlas Mountains, with a stop in Midelt, a town nestled between the High Atlas and Middle Atlas ranges. Midelt is known for its apple orchards and as a base for hiking in the surrounding mountains. The landscape here is rugged and beautiful, with cedar forests, deep valleys, and towering peaks.

Azrou and Ifrane: The Switzerland of Morocco

On the way to Fes, the tour passes through the Berber town of Azrou, known for its handicrafts, particularly wood carving and wool weaving. Further along, the town of Ifrane surprises visitors with its European-style architecture and lush gardens, earning it the nickname “The Switzerland of Morocco.” This region is a popular spot for skiing in the winter and offers a refreshing change of scenery with its cool climate and alpine feel.

Arriving in Fes: The Cultural Capital of Morocco

The tour concludes in Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest and most vibrant cities. Known for its medieval medina, Fes el-Bali, Fes offers a stark contrast to the tranquil desert. The medina is a maze of narrow streets, bustling souks, and stunning examples of Islamic architecture. Fes is also home to Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest university in the world, making it a center of learning and culture in the Arab world.