3 days from marrakech to fes
Overview : An Unforgettable 3 days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Embark on a remarkable 3 days from Marrakech to Fes desert tour, one of the best private tours from Marrakech to Fes, connecting the imperial cities “Marrakech and Fes”. Starting in the bustling Red City of Marrakech, you’ll journey through the magnificent Atlas Mountains along a curvy route, passing scenic Berber villages and iconic landmarks like the famous kasbahs of Ait Benhaddou. Discover the charm of Ouarzazate, often called the “gateway to the desert,” and witness the dramatic landscapes of Dades Gorges. This tour is an opportunity to discover a big part of the south of Morocco, offering stunning desert views, traditional buildings, and a relaxing night in a comfortable hotel.
On the second day of your 3 days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes, the adventure leads you to the breathtaking Todra immense gorges and into the golden dunes of Merzouga Desert, where the Sahara reveals its wonders. Experience the magic of the deserts as you ride the camels and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the dunes. Spend an unforgettable night in a luxury camp, staying in private tents equipped with comfortable beds. After a delicious dinner, enjoy the beauty of a starry night under a peaceful sky, with traditional music around a after a delicious dinner, creating memories to last a lifetime.
The third day of our 3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes offers captivating scenery, including quaint villages and scenery leading to the lush cedar forest, home to playful monkeys. Pause for a coffee break at Ifrane, Morocco’s charming “Little Switzerland”, before arriving in Fes, the cultural capital. Upon arrival, your driver will drop you off at your hotel, marking the end of an extraordinary journey filled with incredible landscapes, cultural encounters, and unforgettable experiences.
This 3-day itinerary from Marrakech to Fes is a great way to explore the cultural, scenic and natural richness of Morocco. Here is a detailed summary and some additional recommendations to make the most of the experience:
- Day 1: Marrakech – Ouarzazate – Skoura – Dades Gorges
Morning : Early start to cross the Tichka Pass (2260 m), with stops for photos and rest.
Optional visit to the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the setting for many films.
Afternoon : Lunch in Ouarzazate. You can visit the Kasbah Taourirt or the film studios if time permits.
Explore the Skoura Valley with its impressive palm groves and the Kasbahs such as Amridil.
Night : Arrival at the Dades Gorges, with stops in the picturesque Valley of the Roses. Dinner and overnight in a hotel or riad near the Dades River.
- Day 2: Dades Gorges – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert
Morning : Walk through the Dades Gorges to admire their impressive rock formations.
Continue to the Todra Gorges, famous for their high rock walls ideal for climbers.
Afternoon : You will pass through Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops.
Arrival in Merzouga, where you will enjoy a camel ride to reach a camp in the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Night : Typical dinner under the stars and overnight in a desert camp.
- Day 3: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Azrou – Fez
Highlights of the 3 Days from Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour
- Begin your adventure in the Red City of Marrakech, crossing the scenic Atlas Mountains with its curvy route.
- Explore iconic landmarks, including the famous kasbahs of Ait Benhaddou and the cinematic city of Ouarzazate.
- Witness the dramatic beauty of Dades Gorges, surrounded by stunning rock formations.
- Marvel at the immense Todra Gorges and experience the vast Merzouga Desert.
- Ride camels across golden dunes and spend a night at a luxury camp, with private tents equipped with comfortable beds.
- Enjoy a peaceful starry night, traditional music around a fire, and delicious Moroccan cuisine.
- Discover Morocco’s unique biodiversity at the cedar forest, home to playful monkeys.
- Relax at Ifrane, Morocco's “Little Switzerland”, before arriving in the vibrant city of Fes.
3 Days from Marrakech to Fes desert Tour Info
- Tour Duration: 3 Days & 2 Nights
- Departure Time: 8:00 AM
- Starting Point: Marrakech
- Ending Point: Fes
What's included
- Pick up at your hotel in Marrakech
- Air-conditioned Transport
- Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou Visit
- 1 night in Dades Valley at Riad/Hotel ( Dinner & Breakfast )
- Todra gorge Visit
- 1 Night in a Desert Camp (Standard or Luxury) with Dinner and Breakfast Included
- Camel ride per person in the desert
What's NOT included
- Tips and gratuities: Optional gratuities for guides, drivers, and other service providers.
- Personal expenses: Expenses for souvenirs, phone calls, and other personal items.
- Optional activities: Any activities or excursions not included in the tour package.
Please note: This private tour is fully customizable to align with your individual travel preferences and schdule.
Tips and recommendations:
1. Comfortable clothing: Temperatures can vary, especially when crossing mountains and in the desert, so it is ideal to wear layers.
2. Water and snacks: Stay hydrated during the tour.
3. Photography: Charge your devices, as the landscape is spectacular and you will want to capture it.
4. Local guides: At sites such as Ait Ben Haddou or the Todra Gorges, a guide can enrich your visit with historical and cultural details.
Enjoy your adventure in Morocco!
3 Days from Marrakech to Fes desert tour FAQ
1. What does the 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour include?
This tour includes private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, an experienced English-speaking driver/guide, and accommodations for two nights. The first night is at a traditional hotel or riad in the Dades Gorges, and the second night is in a luxury camp in the Merzouga Desert, complete with private tents equipped with comfortable beds. It also features activities like a camel ride in the desert, meals (dinner and breakfast at the accommodations), and plenty of stops for sightseeing, including the famous kasbahs of Ait Benhaddou and the Todra Gorges.
2. Is the tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and can be tailored to accommodate families with children. The itinerary includes safe and enjoyable activities like exploring Berber villages, visiting the cedar forest to see playful monkeys, and a gentle camel ride suitable for all ages. The accommodations are comfortable, with family-friendly options at both the hotel and the desert camp.
3. What should I pack for the tour?
It’s recommended to pack light but include essentials for varying temperatures. During the day, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are ideal for the desert sun. Evenings in the desert can get chilly, so bring a warm jacket or sweater. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring sites like the Dades Gorges and the Atlas Mountains, and don’t forget a small daypack for water and personal items during activities like the camel ride.
4. Can dietary restrictions or preferences be accommodated?
Yes, dietary restrictions or preferences can be accommodated during the tour. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have specific allergies, the team ensures that meals at the hotel, camp, and stops along the way meet your needs. Be sure to communicate your preferences when booking or before the tour begins to allow for proper arrangements.
5. What is the camel ride experience like?
The camel ride is a highlight of the 3 days from Marrakech to Fes desert tour. It takes place in the stunning Merzouga Desert, where you’ll ride across golden dunes during the magical sunset or sunrise hours. The ride lasts about an hour each way and is suitable for all fitness levels. Experienced guides ensure your comfort and safety throughout. At the end of the ride, you’ll arrive at your luxury camp, where a delicious dinner, music around a fire, and a serene starry night await.
Review From Clients
Marrakech to Fes/ Desert trip (3 days/2 nights)
If you are looking to go to the desert on a short trip, this is the tour to take. Our driver was really nice and was careful when driving in the mountains. If you get car sick, I recommend sitting in the front of the bus. He made stops when necessary and we did not feel like he was stopping in locations where locals were trying to sell us anything (contrary to other reviews). We learnt a lot through the local guides in Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate. It was a nice surprise to stop at nice viewpoints along the way to have a moment to stretch our legs, take pictures and/or have a coffee (about every hour and a half- two hours). The journey really doesn’t feel as long as it seems. The first hotel was quaint and sits at the top of the hill for a beautiful sunset. The desert camp is equipped with facilities (does not always have toilet paper, would be smart to bring your own!), including communal stalls with shower heads. Each tent is equipped with only beds and a single wool blanket is laid out, so expect to be cold (pack layers!). Lunches are not included and cost approximately 100MAD each. The only thing I felt deceived with was the head scarves, they should cost no more than 30MAD, however we were told in Ait Ben Haddou by the guide that it would be our last opportunity to buy one. Here, they charged us 70MAD each and claimed it to be a “tour special”. I would recommend buying one in Marrakech prior to your departure or in Ouarzazate on Day 2. All in all, the trip was excellent and included everything I was expecting and a little more! Great value for your money.
Had the pleasure of traveling to the Sahara from Marrakech to Fes with Achraf. Firstly, he offered to pick my husband and I from the airport and bring us to our riad complementary since we booked with them. Which we greatly
appreciated. On our way from airport to the riad he gave helpful tips on navigating Marrakech and places worth visiting during our short stay before we headed off to the desert.
The drive to the desert was a very long but Achraf made several stops to cut up the travel. We saw many “must-see” sites and amazing panoramic views. He pointed things out during our drive giving us a good understanding life in Morocco. He answered all of our questions we had and nothing was off limits.
Our accommodations were good. We stayed at mid-range hotel (Auberge Panorama) the first night. Do bring your own towels as they don’t provide any.
We stayed in a superior desert camp. It was very nicely furnished and equipped. We traveled in January so it was extremely cold and difficult to get comfortable. They did provide a heated blanket in our beds. Thankfully they did. Food was ok in both locations in my opinion.
In the desert we rode camels, sand-boarded, star-gazed, by far our favorite time in Morocco.
Our least favorite experience was our last visit before going into Fes…the Cedar Forest. We got dropped off to see the monkeys here and Achraf stayed close by in his car. We couldn’t enjoy the experience as we were being harassed the entire time by men there. They stay uncomfortably close to us trying to give us fruits or have us take pictures with their horses to later charge us. My husband kindly declined multiple times but they wouldn’t let up until he got very stern. One man bumped into him pretty hard afterwards looking upset. We did feel very violated. We weren’t aware of what we were going into. So, if you make stop here be aware.
Achraf was very accommodating, patient, kind, knowledgable and a safe driver. We did enjoy our time. Overall we’re glad we booked with Ready Morocco Tours.