3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fez

Your desert adventure begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, heading east through the stunning High Atlas Mountains via the winding road of the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m). Along the way, you’ll stop to admire panoramic views of valleys and Berber villages that cling to the mountainsides. The first highlight of the day is a visit to the legendary Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of southern Moroccan architecture. You’ll have time to walk through its narrow alleys, climb to the top for sweeping views of the valley, and imagine life in this centuries-old caravan stop.

After lunch near the kasbah, continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert” and home to Morocco’s famous film studios. Then, the road leads you through the Skoura Oasis, dotted with ancient kasbahs and lush palm groves, before reaching the Valley of Roses, famous for its spring bloom and natural beauty products. As the sun begins to set, you’ll arrive in the Dades Valley, where towering cliffs and strange rock formations create a breathtaking backdrop. Dinner and overnight stay in a traditional riad or kasbah overlooking the valley.

Overnight: Riad or hotel in Dades
Meals: Dinner & breakfast

After breakfast, the journey continues along one of the most scenic drives in southern Morocco, passing through small Berber villages and oases. The first major stop is the Todra Gorges, where massive limestone cliffs rise dramatically up to 300 meters, forming a narrow canyon carved by the river. You’ll have time to stroll along the gorge, meet local nomads, or relax in one of the small cafés that line the riverbank.

Leaving the mountains behind, you’ll travel deeper into the desert landscape, passing through Tinjdad, Jorf, and Erfoud, a town famous for its fossils and date production. In the afternoon, you’ll reach Merzouga, the gateway to the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes — some of the highest in Morocco. Here, your camel caravan awaits to take you on an unforgettable trek through the dunes as the sun sets, casting shades of orange and gold across the vast Sahara.

After arriving at your luxury desert camp, enjoy mint tea and traditional Moroccan hospitality. Dinner will be served under the stars, followed by Berber music and drumming around the campfire. The silence of the desert and the brilliance of the starry sky create a moment of pure magic — an experience that will stay with you forever.

Overnight: Desert camp in Merzouga
Meals: Dinner & breakfast

Rise early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, an unforgettable moment when the desert glows with soft light and tranquility. After breakfast, you’ll ride back to Merzouga village by camel or 4x4 vehicle, where your driver will be waiting to begin the journey toward Fez.

The route takes you north through the spectacular Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves and dramatic gorges carved by the Ziz River. You’ll stop for photos and continue through Midelt, a mountain town famous for its apple orchards and scenic views of the Middle Atlas. Crossing the Cedar Forest of Azrou, you may encounter Barbary macaque monkeys that live in the wild here.

After a relaxing stop in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its clean streets and Alpine-style architecture, the journey continues through the lush Middle Atlas Mountains before arriving in Fez in the evening. Your driver will drop you off at your riad or hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable 3-day journey from Marrakech to Fez through the Sahara.

Meals: Breakfast