Morocco desert tour

Tour Details at a Glance

5.0 Excellent | Based on 1012+ Verified Traveler Reviews
From €200 per person
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Start Point: Marrakech
End Point: Fes
Tour Type: Private & Customizable
Distance: ~1,150 km
Total journey
Drive Time: ~18 hours
over 3 days
Camel Trek: 1 hour
Erg Chebbi dunes
Desert Camp: 1 night
Luxury Berber tent

Tour Overview

The Sahara is calling — and this 3-day tour gets you there fast. Starting in Marrakech, you will cross the High Atlas Mountains to the legendary kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, spend your first night in the dramatic Dades Valley, and continue through the Todra Gorges before the desert opens up around you.

The highlight comes on day two: a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, followed by a night in a luxury desert camp under more stars than you have ever seen. On the final day, you will cross the Ziz Valley and the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas — keep an eye out for Barbary macaques — before arriving in Fes, often called the Athens of Africa for its long history as a center of learning and culture.

It is a short trip, but it covers some of the most iconic landscapes in Morocco — mountains, kasbahs, gorges, and the Sahara itself.

3-Day Marrakech to Fes Itinerary

01

Day 1 – Marrakech to Dades Valley via High Atlas & Ait Ben Haddou

Leaving the red city, you will travel southeast, passing through the incredible High Atlas Mountains, with spectacular views of traditional Berber villages. Along the way, there will be scenic stops for photo opportunities.

Lunch will be in the town of Ait Ben Haddou, where you will also visit the world-famous kasbah. This fortified village has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and has served as a film set for many award-winning films, including Lawrence of Arabia, Babel, and Gladiator.

Continuing your tour, you will also stop in Ouarzazate to see Africa's largest film studio, with the option to tour inside (additional cost). Then you will continue through Boumalne and drive alongside the Valley of Roses. You may choose to visit the unique rock formations known as the "monkey fingers" in Dades Valley before continuing to your accommodations for the night.

  • Drive: Marrakech to Dades Valley — approx. 351 km (around 6–7 hours)
02

Day 2 – Dades Valley to Merzouga via Todra Gorge

After a delightful breakfast, we continue our journey to Tinghir, where we will stop at a beautiful viewpoint overlooking a verdant oasis dotted with palm trees and historic kasbahs. From this point, we will also have the chance to visit the striking Todra Canyon, created by the winding Todra River, with sheer drops of up to 300 meters.

On the way to the Merzouga Desert, we may stop at a local Berber cooperative, where you can browse traditional textiles and crafts — entirely optional, with no obligation to buy.

Once you arrive in Merzouga, a 4x4 will transport your luggage to the camp. At this time, you will get a chance to ride camels that will take you to the next destination. You will take in a beautiful sunset, with vibrant red and orange hues reflecting over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Then you will spend an incredible night under the lovely atmosphere of the Sahara's local culture with drumming, storytelling, and stargazing.

  • Drive: Dades Valley to Merzouga — approx. 290 km (around 5–6 hours)
03

Day 3 – Merzouga to Fes via Ziz Valley & Ifrane

Wake early and enjoy a quiet and beautiful sunrise. After a hearty breakfast at camp, you may choose to ride a camel trek back to the town of Merzouga or return in the comfort of a 4×4 vehicle.

Leave Merzouga and travel to Fes, stopping to admire the panoramic view of the beautiful Ziz Valley, with its palm groves and villages.

As we travel through the Cedar forest of the Middle Atlas, look out for Barbary apes, a one-of-a-kind monkey that has adapted to colder temperatures. A stop in Ifrane, known as the "Switzerland of Morocco," is a chance for a leg stretch and coffee.

The Marrakech to Fes desert tour ends with a drop-off at your accommodation in Fes in the late afternoon.

  • Drive: Merzouga to Fes — approx. 490 km (around 7–8 hours)

Inclusions & Exclusions

  • Private, modern transportation with air conditioning
  • Car fuel
  • Pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation
  • Experienced English-speaking driver/guide
  • 1 Night in a hotel in Dades Valley
  • 1 Night in a private tent in the desert camp
  • Dinner and breakfast included for 2 nights
  • Camel ride in the Sahara Desert
  • Sandboarding experience in the desert
  • Beverages
  • Lunches
  • Entrance fees to monuments and museums (optional)

Accommodation During the Tour

Enjoy carefully selected lodgings designed for comfort and authenticity throughout your desert tour. Accommodation may be adjusted based on availability, and upgrades are available upon request.

Night 1: Dades Valley Hotel

  • Standard: Hotel Babylon / Hotel Panorama / Riad Villa Dades – Comfortable rooms with beautiful valley views and traditional ambiance.
  • Superior: Kasbah Xaluca Dades / Ksar Sultan / La Perle Du Dades – Luxurious accommodations with spa facilities, panoramic views, and excellent amenities.

Night 2: Merzouga — Sahara Desert Camp

  • Standard: Sahara Stars Camp (Comfort Desert Camp) – Ensuite tents, Berber music, camel trekking included.
  • Superior: Luxury Desert Camp with Air Conditioning – Private tents, gourmet meals, premium amenities.

Pricing & Group Options

Prices may vary based on group size, accommodation type, and travel season. Larger groups receive a lower price per person.

  • 2 People €380 per person
  • 4 People €250 per person
  • 6+ People €200 per person
  • Custom Pricing Available for solo travelers, families, or larger groups

Tour Route Map

Book Your 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

No payment required • Response within 24 hours

Why Travel With Morocco Camel Trekking?

  • Best Price Guarantee
  • Private & Customizable Tour
  • 24/7 Customer Support
  • Experienced Local Drivers
  • Safe & Reliable Travel Experience
  • Comfortable Air-Conditioned Vehicle
  • Authentic Camel Trek & Desert Camp

Need Help Planning Your Morocco Trip?

Our dedicated team is here to help you plan the perfect Morocco adventure. Whether you'd like to inquire about tours, desert excursions, or need travel tips, please don't hesitate to reach out at any time.

What Our Travelers Say

Real stories from real guests

Highly recommended desert and Atlas Mountains tour

"We had a great 3-day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga (for a night in the desert) ending up in Fes. Making arrangements with Ibrahim — from initial email inquiry to booking — was a breeze, and he answered all our naive questions as first-time travelers to Morocco. Our guide Youssef was friendly, charming, and took care of our every need while sharing his firsthand experiences as the child of Berber nomads. The accommodations and meals along the way were all pleasant surprises. Highly recommended!"
Traveler smiling

Klaudia G

From Chicago, US

3 Day Camel Trek Adventure from Marrakesh to Fes

"The camel trek through the desert with Omar, our driver, for 3 days was the absolute BEST part of our Morocco adventure. If I could do it again I would spend less time in the cities and more time with the camel trek company!!! Every single person made us feel welcome and special and the mountains, desert and Sahara were breath taking. Omar, our driver for the full 3 days, made us feel safe, taught us about the culture, took us everywhere we wanted to see, and by the end of the trip made us feel like family! I am hoping to return one day and be able to visit again"
Traveler portrait

Michelle H

San Diego, CA

5 star experience

"We had a fantastic time on our three day trek from Fes to Marrakech! We were able to see so much more of the country and experience more of the culture than I ever thought possible in such a short amount of time. The camel trek and night in the desert, in particular, was an incredible experience! Definitely not something to miss! Lhoucine, our guide, was wonderful! Very knowledgeable and informative, and made sure we were able to see and do everything we wanted to along the way. Overall fantastic experience and 5 star service all the way around!"
Traveler enjoying desert

Reid E Butt

From Toronto, Canada

3 day tour of East Morocco

"Aziz was our guide and we had such an amazing time! The trip was funny and relaxed which allowed us to have a comfortable and flexible trip. Aziz was friendly and accommodating and knowledgeable which allowed us to have such an effortless trip. A great way to see everything you want in a short time. Car was very comfortable and clean, comfortably seating 5 people. No question or request was too big of an ask. Would definitely recommend to anyone!"
Traveler at camp

Montana D

From London, UK

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions – 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour. From logistics and comfort to included activities and accommodations, we've got everything you need to plan your unforgettable Morocco adventure.

The 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour takes you from Marrakech to Fes, with many scheduled stops along the way that showcase the stunning scenery of the Moroccan Sahara, including the Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga. This tour allows you to experience the vastness of the desert and to enjoy beautiful panoramic views while staying in a hotel of your choice (luxury camp) or a comfortable hotel. Optional services also include city tours, airport transfers, and additional activities before, during, or after your tour.

Yes, the Marrakech-to-Fes desert tour is customizable. You can request changes to the standard 3-day plan, adjust the pace, or extend the tour. The team encourages you to share your preferences and special requests via the contact form, WhatsApp, or phone so they can tailor the itinerary to your needs.

You can choose from several accommodation options for both nights of the tour. Options include Hotel Babylon Dades, Dar Blues, Eden Boutique Hotel, Africa Luxury Camp, Caravanserai Luxury Desert Camp, and Desert Luxury Camp. You can mix and match; for example, stay at Hotel Babylon Dades on the first night and at Caravanserai Luxury Desert Camp on the second night. If you have other preferences, the team can help arrange them.

No. If you would rather not ride a camel, a 4x4 transfer directly to the desert camp can be arranged instead. Just let your guide know your preference and they will take care of it.

You can use the contact form on the tour page to send your details and requests. If you do not receive a reply within 24 hours, don't hesitate to get in touch with us via WhatsApp or call +212 676 712 825. We're delighted to help with booking questions, customization requests, and any special arrangements you'd like to add to your Marrakech-to-Fes desert experience.