Morocco 3 Day Marrakech To Fes Desert Tour

Itinerary of the 3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes:

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Boumalne Dades

Drive: 6 hours
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the iconic Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque Berber villages, offering glimpses of local life against the stunning mountain backdrop. The day’s highlight is Ait Ben Haddou, a historic kasbah and UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional architecture and as a filming location for numerous movies.

After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, the journey continues to the Dades Valley. En route, you’ll pass through the fragrant Valley of the Roses, where artisanal rosewater and cosmetics are crafted. In spring, the vibrant rose fields are a sight to behold. As the day winds down, arrive at Boumalne Dades for dinner and an overnight stay at a charming local hotel.

Accommodation Options:

• Hotel Babylon
• Hotel New Mars

Day 2: Boumalne Dades – Todra Gorge – Merzouga

Drive: 4 hours
Following breakfast, the tour takes you through the winding roads of the Dades Valley toward Tinghir, an oasis town surrounded by palm groves. Here, you’ll take a guided walk through the oasis, exploring its lush greenery and learning about its cultural history, including the remnants of its Jewish quarter.

The next stop is the dramatic Todra Gorge, where sheer rock walls tower above a verdant valley. You’ll have time to stroll through the gorge, take photos, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere.

In the afternoon, the journey leads to Merzouga, the gateway to the vast Sahara Desert. A highlight of the day is the camel trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. As the sun sets, the dunes come alive with vivid hues of orange and gold, providing a picture-perfect moment. Arrive at a desert camp where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner, followed by Berber music and stories around the campfire before retiring to your tent for the night.

Accommodation Options:

• Comfortable Camp
• Luxury Desert Camp

Day 3: Merzouga – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes

Drive: 8 hours
Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, then enjoy breakfast at the camp. Leaving the desert behind, you’ll drive through the scenic Ziz Valley, famous for its extensive date palm groves and stunning cliffs.

The next stop is Midelt, a quaint town nestled between the High and Middle Atlas Mountains. Here, you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant while admiring the surrounding landscapes. The journey continues through Azrou’s cedar forests, where you’ll meet the playful Barbary apes, an enjoyable encounter for all ages.

The tour’s final stop is Ifrane, known as “Morocco’s Switzerland” for its European-style architecture and pristine surroundings. Enjoy a coffee or stroll through its charming streets before heading to Fes. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Fes, where your adventure concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation.

This incredible 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is sure to leave you with lasting memories of Morocco’s diverse beauty and culture.

Packing Tips for the Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour:

• Clothing:
• Pack lightweight, breathable clothes for the day, and warm layers for the cooler desert nights.
• A scarf or shawl is useful to protect against sun and sand during the camel trek.
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring kasbahs, valleys, and dunes.
• Essentials:
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from the desert sun.
• Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated (many accommodations offer water refill stations).
• A small backpack for daytime excursions.
• Personal Items:
• Toiletries, including wet wipes and hand sanitizer.
• A power bank to keep your devices charged during long drives.
• Flashlight or headlamp for navigating the desert camp at night.
• Optional:
• A journal to document your adventure.
• A camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning landscapes.

Customizable Options for the Tour:

This 3-day itinerary is customizable to suit your preferences. Here are some options:

1. Upgrade Accommodations: Choose luxury desert camps or boutique hotels for a more comfortable experience.
2. Extend Your Stay: Add an extra day in Merzouga to explore the area further, including visits to the Gnawa village of Khamlia or a 4×4 desert excursion.
3. Private Guide: Opt for a private guide throughout the journey for a more personalized experience and deeper cultural insights.
4. Dietary Preferences: Let us know in advance if you have specific dietary requirements; many camps and hotels cater to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.
5. Transportation: Select between a shared group tour or a private vehicle for flexibility and comfort.

Additional Highlights Worth Exploring:

If time permits, consider these optional stops along the route:

• Skoura Oasis: Known for its beautiful palm groves and the historic Amridil Kasbah.
• Rissani: Visit the vibrant local market, known as the gateway to the Sahara.
• Erfoud: Explore the fossil workshops or visit the ancient Ksar of Maadid.

Important Tips for Your Desert Adventure:

• Fitness Level: The camel trek is manageable for most, but if you have mobility issues, a 4×4 transfer to the camp can be arranged.
• Cash: Carry some cash (in Moroccan Dirhams) for small purchases, tips, or souvenirs in remote areas where card payments are not accepted.
• Cultural Respect: When visiting Berber villages or kasbahs, dress modestly and ask for permission before taking photos of locals.
• Desert Camp Comfort: While camps provide basic amenities, luxury options offer ensuite bathrooms and upgraded bedding for added comfort.

Why Choose This Tour?

• Expert local guides ensure an immersive cultural experience.
• Small group sizes or private tours for personalized attention.
• Comfortable vehicles with air conditioning for long drives.
• A perfect balance of history, nature, and relaxation in just 3 days.