3 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga desert

From the Red City to the Imperial Medina: High Atlas, Kasbahs, Todra Gorges & Erg Chebbi Dunes

3 days adventure from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga offers an exploration of the richness of Moroccan heritage, enchanting desert landscapes, and historic sites.

This expedition doesn't just traverse distances but also delves into the depths of history, allowing travelers to witness the legacy of ancient civilizations embedded in the heart of Morocco. Along this route, the blend of cultural richness and natural beauty seamlessly unfolds, revealing the grandeur of majestic desert dunes and the echoes of ancient tales told through historical sites.

Highlights

• Cross the breathtaking Tizi n'Tichka pass in the High Atlas Mountains
• Guided visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
• Journey through the Hollywood of Africa (Ouarzazate) and Skoura palm groves
• Explore the dramatic towering cliffs of Todra Gorges and Dades Valley
• Camel trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset and sunrise
• Overnight stay in a nomadic Berber desert camp with dinner and traditional music
• Scenic travel through the Ziz Valley gorge and Midelt cedar forests with Barbary macaque monkeys
• Visit the alpine-styled town of Ifrane before arriving in medieval Fes

Included

• Transportation
• Professional Guide
• Camel Trek
• Activities
• Daily Breakfast

Not included

• Lunch and Beverages
• Personal Expenses
• Travel Insurance
• Tips
• Optional Activities

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Departure at 8:00 AM from Marrakech for your 3-day desert expedition to Fes. Cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m), enjoying panoramic views over Berber mountain hamlets. Arrive at the iconic Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage site and backdrop for cinematic epics like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Following a guided tour and lunch, proceed through Ouarzazate, known as the Gateway to the Sahara and Hollywood of Africa, and continue across the verdant Skoura palm oasis and Valley of the Roses into the dramatic Dades Valley. Dinner and overnight stay in a scenic kasbah-style hotel.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga & Erg Chebbi Desert Camp

After a Moroccan breakfast, explore the geological wonder of the Dades Valley and continue towards Tinghir and the monumental Todra Gorges. Walk along the riverbed beneath sheer 300-meter-high limestone canyon walls, a world-renowned haven for rock climbers. Journey forward through Erfoud, famous for its ancient marine fossils and marble workshops, to reach the golden dunes of Merzouga. Mount your camels for a serene trek into the Erg Chebbi sea of sand as the sun dips below the horizon. Arrive at your nomadic desert camp for a warm Moroccan dinner, live campfire drum music under the canopy of Saharan stars, and a restful night in private desert tents.

Day 3: Merzouga Sunrise – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Azrou Cedar Forest – Ifrane – Fes

Wake up early to witness the majestic sunrise painting the dunes in warm amber hues. Ride camels back to Merzouga (or 4×4 transfer) for breakfast and a refreshing shower. Begin the northern journey following the winding Ziz River through towering canyon gorges and expansive date palm oases. Ascend into the Middle Atlas mountains, stopping in Midelt for lunch. Continue through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you can watch and feed native Barbary macaque monkeys in the wild. Pass through the manicured alpine town of Ifrane, often hailed as the 'Switzerland of Morocco'. Arrive in the historic imperial city of Fes by late afternoon, concluding with a transfer to your riad or hotel.