3 Days Fes to Marrakech via Sahara Desert Tour

3-Days Fes to Marrakech via Sahara Desert Tour
Tour Overview
Journey from Fes through Morocco’s stunning landscapes. Cross the Middle Atlas with its cedar forests, drive past Midelt and along the scenic Ziz Valley to reach the Sahara at Merzouga. Experience camel treks, desert campfires, and both sunrise & sunset over the dunes. On the return, explore Rissani, Erfoud, Todra and Dades Gorges, Kasbahs like Aït Ben Haddou, then cross back over the High Atlas via Tizi n’Tichka to arrive in Marrakech. A short but deeply immersive desert adventure.

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Start: Fes • End: Marrakech

Itinerary
Day 1: Fes → Ifrane → Cedars Forest → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Merzouga
  • Early pick-up from your Riad or hotel in Fes.
  • Travel through Ifrane (known as the “Switzerland of Morocco”) and wander through cedar forests in Azrou.
  • Lunch stop in Midelt; then drive along the scenic Ziz Valley with its palm-lined river banks.
  • Arrive in Merzouga in time for a camel trek into the dunes at sunset.
  • Evening: campfire, Berber music under a sky full of stars.

    Overnight in Merzouga – Luxury Desert Camp.

Day 2: Merzouga → Rissani → Erfoud → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley
  • Witness a desert sunrise among the dunes. Breakfast at camp.
  • Return by camel or 4×4 to Merzouga village; depart toward Rissani and explore its traditional market.
  • Continue to Erfoud to see the fossil workshops.
  • Travel through palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad.
  • Reach Todra Gorge, walk through the canyon and enjoy the towering red cliffs.
  • Drive on to Dades Valley for the evening with scenic views.

    Overnight in Dades Valley.

Day 3: Dades Valley → Rose Valley → Skoura → Ouarzazate → Aït Ben Haddou → High Atlas → Marrakech
  • After breakfast, drive through Rose Valley (Kalaa M’Gouna), enjoy its flower-scented air (especially in May).
  • Pass through the palm groves of Skoura.
  • Visit Ouarzazate and tour Taourirt Kasbah or local film studios.
  • Then head to Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah (UNESCO site).
  • Cross back over the High Atlas via Tizi n’Tichka Pass with dramatic mountain views.
  • Arrive in Marrakech in the evening. Drop-off at hotel/riad or airport.
    End of tour.
What’s Included
  • Private transport in A/C vehicle (4×4 or minivan) + fuel
  • English-speaking driver/guide
  • Accommodation: 1 night desert camp + 1 night hotel/riad in Dades Valley
  • Camel rides (sunset & sunrise) or optional 4×4 alternatives
  • Daily breakfasts + 2 dinners (camp & valley)
  • Pick-up from Fes & drop-off in Marrakech
Not Included
  • Lunches & drinks not listed
  • Entrance fees to some monuments or film studios
  • Optional extras (hammam, ATV rides, etc.)
Note
This itinerary is a suggestion. We can tailor the trip to your interests, add activities (like ATV, extra stops), or adjust the pace. Just contact us for customization.
Why Travel With Morocco Ino Tours?
  • Comfort & Authenticity: hand-picked Riads and desert camps
  • Flexibility: private tours with your own driver and car
  • Local expertise: discover Morocco through the eyes of locals
  • Unforgettable experiences: camel rides, desert campfire music, Atlas panoramas
Best Time to Travel
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are ideal for this tour — mild days, cool desert nights, fewer crowds. Winter nights in the desert and higher altitudes can be quite cold; summer midday heat in desert areas can be intense.