Embark on an unforgettable 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga, passing through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, dramatic gorges, and the magical Sahara Desert. This Marrakech to Fes desert tour is perfect for travelers seeking authentic Berber experiences, camel trekking, and scenic landscapes.
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Aït Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Skoura – Rose Valley – Dades Gorges
Your private Morocco desert tour begins after breakfast in Marrakech as we drive through the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters) in the High Atlas Mountains, offering panoramic views and traditional Berber villages.
As we get to the other side of the Atlas mountains, we will stop at the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a fortified village famous for its appearances in films like Gladiator 1 Gladiator 2, Game of Thrones, Lawrence of Arabia and others.
After lunch and exploring the kasbah, we continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Next, we pass through the Skoura Oasis, with its palm groves and hidden kasbahs, then drive through the fragrant Valley of Roses before reaching the Dades Valley, where dramatic rock formations and gorges await. Overnight in a charming accommodation in Boumalne Dades.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Tinghir – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)
After breakfast, we drive to Tinghir, a lush palm valley, and continue to the spectacular Todra Gorges, where 300-meter cliffs tower above a crystal-clear river — perfect for photography and a walk.
We then head toward the edge of the Sahara Desert, passing through Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops and palm date fruits festival in every October. In Merzouga, you will meet your camel caravan for a sunset camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Arrive at your Berber desert camp, where you will enjoy dinner, traditional music under the stars, and overnight in the camp.
Day 3: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt –Cedar forest – Ifrane – Fes
Wake early to witness the magical sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast and a shower at the camp, we depart toward Fes.
We will pass through the lush Ziz Valley, famous for its endless palm groves as well as enjoying the scenic road driving through the ziz gorges, cross the High Atlas Mountains. Enjoy a lunch stop in Midelt, then continue our way to Azrou cedar forest, where you may spot wild Barbary monkeys in the cedar trees. A quick stop in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco,” precedes your arrival in Fes.Your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga ends here.
Explore more unforgettable itineraries with Traveling Around Morocco on our All Morocco Tours page.