3-Day vs 4-Day Morocco Desert Tours: Which One Is Right for You?

Planning a desert adventure from Marrakech? You will likely come across two popular options: The 3-day vs 4-day Morocco desert tours. Both routes offer stunning landscapes, camel treks, and unforgettable nights in the Sahara — but they differ in pace, comfort, and how much you get to explore. In this guide, we will help you choose the desert tour that suits your travel style best, whether you are heading back to Marrakech or continuing onward to Fes.

Looking for specific itineraries? Check out our 3-day desert round-trip tour from Marrakech, our 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour, our 4-day desert round trip to Merzouga, or our 4-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour.

Desert Tour Starting Point: Why Marrakech?

Marrakech is the most common starting point for Morocco desert tours — and for good reason. With its major international airport, vibrant medina, close access to the High Atlas Mountains and Essaouira in the Atlantic ocean, it’s the ideal launchpad for your Sahara tour.

Most tours begin with a drive over the scenic Tizi n’Tichka pass in High Atlas Mountains before reaching destinations like Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Boumalen Dades and eventually Merzouga — the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. So, which one to choose 3-day vs 4 day Morocco desert tours?

3-Day Desert Tours: A Quick but Rich Experience

Perfect for travelers with limited time, the 3-day desert tours pack a lot into a short timeframe.

Pros:

• Great for tight schedules.
• Includes camel trek & overnight in a desert camp.
• Covers key landmarks like Ait Ben Haddou, Todra gorges and the Dades Valley.

Limitations:

• Long driving hours (especially Day 3).
• Fewer stops and shorter exploration time especially in Winter(short days)

 Explore the 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga round trip
 Check out the3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes

4-Day Desert Tours: A More Relaxed Adventure

If you prefer a slower pace or want to enjoy more scenic stops, the 4-day tour is your best bet.

Pros:

• Less rush; more time in each destination.
• Additional time in Dades Valley, Todgha Gorges, and small Berber villages.
• More flexible driving schedule.

Limitations:

• Requires one extra day in your itinerary.
• Slightly higher cost due to the extra day.

 View our 4-day Marrakech to Merzouga tour
 See our 4-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes

Marrakech to Sahara desert and Back vs Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga

Both options are available in 3-day and 4-day formats.

• Round Trip to Marrakech: Convenient if you are flying in/out of Marrakech.
• End in Fes: Ideal for travelers continuing to northern Morocco (Chefchaouen, Meknes, or Tangier).

Tip: Ending in Fes gives you the benefit of crossing the Middle Atlas and seeing more of the country.

What to Pack for the Desert Tour

Regardless of duration, here’s what to bring:

• Comfortable clothing (layers for day/night temperature changes)
• Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
• Warm jacket (especially in winter)
• Sturdy walking shoes
• Camera or phone with extra battery
• Reusable water bottle
• Small backpack
• Scarf or turban (often provided for camel rides)

Best Time to Take a Desert Tour

• Spring (March–May): Ideal weather, green valleys, and comfortable temperatures.
• Autumn (September–November): Also great; warm days and cool nights.
• Winter (December–February): Nights can be freezing, but skies are mostly clear.
• Summer (June–August): Very hot — especially in July — not recommended for sensitive travelers.

Choosing the Right Desert Tour for You