Experience Morocco’s essence on this 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes. Journey through the High Atlas Mountains, visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, and explore the dramatic Todra Gorge. Venture deep into the Sahara for an unforgettable night in a luxury desert camp beneath the stars, surrounded by golden dunes. Discover Berber culture, lush oases, and the unique Cedar Forest en route. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery.
Begin your adventure with an early departure from Marrakech, ascending into the High Atlas Mountains. Traverse the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m), admiring breathtaking views of traditional Berber villages and terraced fields along the winding roads. Descend to explore the magnificent Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lose yourself in the narrow alleys of this ancient fortified ksar (clay village), famous as a backdrop for many international films.
Continue to Ouarzazate, the “Gateway to the Sahara” and Morocco’s film capital. Briefly glimpse its cinematic history before driving through the fragrant Rose Valley (especially vibrant in spring). Your day ends in the stunning Dades Valley, known for its dramatic gorges and unique rock formations. Settle into your local guesthouse or hotel for the night, surrounded by this incredible landscape.
After breakfast, journey further into the Dades Valley, pausing to marvel at the peculiar “Monkey Fingers” rock formations sculpted by nature. Proceed to the spectacular Todra Gorge, a massive canyon with towering vertical cliffs reaching up to 300 meters. Enjoy a walk beneath the immense rock walls or simply soak in the dramatic scenery.
Travel onwards through the lush Ziz Valley oasis, a ribbon of green dotted with palm groves. Arrive in Merzouga by the afternoon, the edge of the Sahara Desert. Here, meet your camels and begin an unforgettable trek into the heart of the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi dunes. Witness a magical Saharan sunset painting the dunes in shifting colours. Reach your luxury desert camp, where you’ll savor a traditional dinner, enjoy Berber music around a campfire, and experience the profound silence of the desert under a breathtaking canopy of stars.
Wake early to witness the serene beauty of a desert sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes – a truly magical experience. After breakfast at the camp, begin your journey towards Fes. Pass through Rissani, the ancient capital of the Tafilalet region and birthplace of the ruling Alaouite dynasty. Stop again to admire panoramic views over the expansive Ziz Valley palm grove.
Ascend into the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Midelt, known for its apple cultivation. Your next stop is the fragrant Cedar Forest near Azrou, where you can stretch your legs and might encounter playful Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. Make a brief stop in Ifrane, nicknamed “Morocco’s Switzerland” for its unique alpine-style architecture and clean environment. Continue your drive, arriving in the historic city of Fes by the evening, marking the end of your memorable 3-day desert adventure.
