3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Trip via Merzouga and Ait Ben Haddou

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Enjoy a camel trek through the dunes of Erg Chebbi
• 02 Witness the stunning sunrise and sunset over the desert
• 03 Visit a Berber desert camp and stay overnight
• 04 Visit the ancient Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• 05 Drive along the scenic road of the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass
• 06 Experience traditional Moroccan culture and hospitality in small Berber villages
• 07 Enjoy the scenic landscapes of the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert

Embark on a 3-day adventure from the vibrant city of Marrakech to Fes through the stunning Sahara Desert. Travel across the Atlas Mountains, Berber villages, and the scenic Tizi-n-Tichka Pass before reaching the golden dunes of Merzouga. Along the way, discover Moroccan culture and traditions, visit the ancient Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, and admire breathtaking desert and mountain landscapes. This journey combines cultural discovery, dramatic scenery, and an unforgettable desert experience.

Explore the Merzouga desert, home to the highest sand dunes in North Africa, Erg Chebbi.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Luxury

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Fez, Marrakech, Merzouga, Todgha Gorge, Erfoud, Rissani, Aït Benhaddou, Ziz Valley, Erg Chebbi, Azrou, Ifrane, Tinejdad, Dadès Gorges

Languages Arabic, English, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou via the Atlas Mountains

• Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure starting at 8:00 am from Marrakech, the Red City, and travel to the highest road pass in Morocco, Tizi-n-Tichka, at an altitude of 2260 m.
• Experience the magnificent beauty of the Atlas Mountains and capture stunning photos as a keepsake.
• Discover the rich culture and history of Berber villages along the way to the luxurious Kasbah of Telouet, the former home of the renowned governor Thami El Glaoui.
• Marvel at the unique blend of Berber and Andalusian architectural styles, even though some parts are in ruins.
• Then, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and gateway to the "Hollywood of Morocco," the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou.
• Admire the famous film studios where blockbusters such as The Mummy, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones were shot.

2

Day 02

Dades and Todgha Gorges to the Merzouga Desert

• Start the second day of your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes with a delicious breakfast.
• Explore the breathtaking Dades Gorges and Tamnalt Hills, formed by the Dades River over hundreds of years.
• Visit the Todgha Gorges, known for their 300 m high cliffs and offering an ideal climbing experience for both beginners and experienced climbers.
• Take advantage of your free time to enjoy the beautiful weather, stunning landscapes, and blue skies.
• Have lunch and continue the journey to Tinjdad, where you can discover the ancient Khettara irrigation system with its underground canals. Get ready for an exciting day of discovery and adventure.
• Continue the journey and discover several oases, such as Tinjdad, Ziz-Tafilalet, and Hamada, as you pass through Rissani.
• Explore the Merzouga desert, home to the highest sand dunes in North Africa, Erg Chebbi.
• Spend the night in a private nomadic tent beneath the starry sky and enjoy the perfect desert experience.
• Watch the sunrise and sunset on a camel ride, followed by a delicious dinner.
• End the second day of this 3-day tour with a unique and unforgettable memory.

3

Day 03

Merzouga to Fes via Ziz Valley, Azrou, and Ifrane

• Start your day with a sunrise and a delicious breakfast before embarking on a journey through the Ziz Valley, where you'll admire towering palm trees.
• Take a break in Azrou and visit the Cedar Forest, home to playful monkey colonies, and grab a coffee or lunch before continuing to Ifrane, the Switzerland of Morocco.
• Marvel at the town's cleanliness and peacefulness before arriving in Fes, where we'll drop you off at your hotel or riad around 6 pm.
• End your magnificent adventure with unforgettable memories.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Private transportation and all related costs (gas, parking, tolls, etc.)
• Experienced English-speaking driver (guide)
• En suite rooms with A/C heater, dinner, and breakfast
• Overnight in a luxury desert camp with a guide, private tents, dinner, breakfast, and sandboarding
• Accommodations with breakfast in other cities
• Pick-up from and drop-off at your accommodation
• Free time to explore interesting sites such as Ait Benhaddou, kasbahs, walks, canyons, and breaks for photos

What's Not Included

• Personal and alcoholic beverages
• Tips and gratuities
• Lunch

What to bring

• Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen to protect from the sun
• Camera or smartphone to capture stunning landscapes and moments
• Power bank or charger for your electronics

Know before you go

• The temperature in the Sahara Desert can vary greatly from day to night, so be sure to bring warm clothing for cold nights.
• The desert camp is basic but comfortable, with shared bathroom facilities and traditional Moroccan meals.
• Wi-Fi and cellular coverage can be limited or nonexistent in certain areas of the desert, so be prepared to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty around you.
• Our experienced guides will be with you throughout the trip, providing information and assistance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
• The option to visit a nomad or Berber family may be available during the tour.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Marrakech, Maroc

Tour start

Marrakech, Maroc

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.