3 Days Tour From Marrakech to Fes Via Merzouga Desert and Erg Chebbi Dunes

From

165 

Duration

3 days

Overview

With the imperial center of the Maghreb, our announced 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga is a reminder of Morocco’s spirit. In 2026, with the traveling community becoming even more discerning about what they want in a transit, the adventurous elite are now demanding more than just a journey. Consequently, they are asking of us a 3 days trip from Marrakech to Fes Sahara desert via Merzouga, which is both the adventure they seek and the privacy they must experience on their journey.

Furthermore, this personalized 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes rims the Red City and the ancient medina of Fes, traversing scenery from the snow-covered high Atlas mountain-tops to the golden tranquility of the Erg Chebbi dunes. As a result, our itineraries are the best of the Morocco desert tours, whether you are planning a 3 days trip from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga.

Tour Highlights: 3 Days from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga

  • High Atlas Crossing: Breathtaking vistas at 2,260m altitude via the Tizi n’Tichka pass.

  • Ait Ben Haddou: Explore the world’s most famous Kasbah and cinematic icon.

  • Skoura Oasis: A peaceful retreat amidst ancient palm groves and historic guesthouses.

  • Erg Chebbi Majesty: A private camel trek and overnight stay in a high-end Saharan tent.

  • Gnawa Rhythms: Experience the soulful, traditional music of the desert locals.

  • Cedar Forest Discovery: A stop in the Middle Atlas to see wild monkeys and alpine scenery.

  • Ifrane Sightseeing: Marvel at the unique European-style architecture in the heart of Morocco.

Tour Plan

Day 1 : Marrakech -> High Atlas mountains –> Ait Benhaddou Kasbah -> Ouarzazate-Skoura Palm Oasis

Your Marrakesh to Fes tour through the Sahara Desert starts with a pick-up from your hotel in the morning, and here are the details. We shall move to Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Deep South, through the High Atlas Mountains and the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass (2260m), with beautiful views and Berber terraced homes. En route, we will visit one of the Kasbahs, namely Ait Benhaddou, which is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List and is also famous for its role in the filming of many movies. After lunch, we will continue our journey to Ouarzazate and, on the way, make a photo stop at the famous Taourirt Kasbah.
From there, our trail passes the Skoura Oasis, where Kasbahs can be seen scattered all over palm groves. Our first stop will be the less popular but equally interesting Amridel Kasbah, and then we will proceed to our guesthouse in the oasis for the first night, and get ready for the second day of our 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes.

Day 2 :Skoura –> Valley of Roses -> Dades valley —> Todra Valley -> Todra Gorges -> Merzouga

Our first stop on day 2 of our 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes will be the Valley of Roses, and we can opt to visit a cosmetic workshop after breakfast. This route leads to Merzouga via the Valley of the Kasbahs, with a break in Tinghir for palm groves and a nice walk through the spectacular Todra Gorge. Then, we will continue to Rissani, Erfoud, and the Tafilalt oasis, and finally to Merzouga.
In the late afternoon, we shall enjoy a fascinating. We have to trek on camels for 1.5 hours to reach our campsite, which is set in the middle of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes. Here we will be able to see the beautiful sunset over the desert sands. The rest of the day and night will be spent in a nomadic tent. Depending on the season, one may witness the enchanting Berber music and dance under the stars and the moonlight whilst in the Sahara Desert.

Day 3 : Merzouga-Erfoud – Errachidia – Midelt – Ifran – Fez

The early morning will be spent enjoying the beautiful sunrise and having breakfast, then you will proceed to Fes via the Middle Atlas Mountains. You will be having a very good lunch at Midlet or Zaida. Thereafter, the trip continues to the largest cedar forest in North Africa, where you are likely to encounter wild monkeys among the trees.
Adjacent to it is the beautiful city of Ifrane, also known as the ‘Little Switzerland’ for its green landscape and as a ski resort in the Middle Atlas, at an altitude of 1665 meters. Ifrane is also home to the Brotherhood private university, founded in 1997 by King Hassan II of Morocco and King Fahd of Saudi Arabia, which teaches all courses in English.
The 3-day Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech to Fes resumes after some time spent in the relaxed atmosphere of the historical city of Fes, where history and culture are unraveled.

Included

  • Private transportation in Modern A/C 4WD or van driven by an English/French speaking driver /guide
  • Pickup from your accommodation in Marrakech
  • First night Accommodation in a very nice typical Moroccan guest house (Dar Panorama) at Skoura Oasis
  • Second night stay in a nice desert camp at Merzouga desert (private tent) wit shared bathrooms and showers with dinner and breakfast
  • Dinner x2
  • Breakfast x2
  • Sunset & sunrise camel ride
  • Option to upgrade to a luxury camp with a premium tent with private bathroom and shower is recommended and available upon your booking (50 Euros per person)
  • Private experience ensuring personalized attention
  • Drop off at your accommodation in Fes or the closest accessible location to your Riad in Fes.

Excluded

  • Lunch on the way
  • Drinks
  • Tips
  • Optional local guide to visit Ait Benhaddou Kasbah and Amridel Kasbah
Your 3 days tour from Marrakech to Fes starts with a climb of the historic Tizi n'Tichka pass. As you pass the mountains, the scenery changes from fertile valleys to the dry ochre land that characterizes the south. This is the Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga desert road, meant for people who appreciate pure cultural experiences, beginning with the UNESCO-protected Ait Ben Haddou, a fortress featured in numerous films and the point of entry for Saharan caravans.

The Golden Transition: Between Valleys and Dunes

Day 2 of your 3-day Marrakech Fes Sahara desert tour via Merzouga takes you down the pungent Valley of Roses and the sandy limestone cliffs of the Todra Gorges. Coming to the Sahara, at the time when the sun starts descending, you reach the entrance of the Saharan world: Merzouga. This is where the real magic of the 3-day Morocco Sahara tour from Marrakech to Fes via the Merzouga Desert comes to life. You will swap your luxury 4x4 for a camel ride across the dunes of the Erg Chebbi to a luxury Berber camp. Traditional Gnawa music and nomadic narrative under the canopy of a million stars make the desert tour around Marrakech come alive.

The Middle Atlas Ascent: Cedar Forests and Imperial Fes

The last stage of your 3 days trip from marrakech to fes through the sahara desert trip from marrakech to fes via merzouga dunes is a shocking contrast. You abandon the sands and climb to the Middle Atlas Mountains. Before your 3-day desert trip in Morocco finishes at the spiritual capital of the Kingdom, you will pass through the cedar forests of Azrou, which are inhabited by wild Barbary macaques, and Ifrane—the so-called "Switzerland" of Morocco.

Knowledge Hub: Your Morocco Travel Resource

Frequently Asked Questions: Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga

How long is the 3-day Marrakech to Fes Sahara desert tour via Merzouga?

The expedition covers about 530 kilometers (330 miles). We divide the Marrakech to Fes via the Merzouga desert route over three days, so you spend less time driving and more time experiencing the Moroccan desert.

What is the best time of year for a 3-day Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga​?

The best time for this 3-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga is Spring (March to May) or Autumn (September to November), when temperatures are moderate. This allows you to enjoy the tour without the summer heat or winter cold.

Is the camel trek to the Erg Chebbi dunes difficult?

No. The camel ride on your 3-day Marrakech to Fes Sahara Desert tour via Merzouga lasts 1 to 1.5 hours, with sunset as the backdrop. If you prefer not to ride, a 4x4 transfer to the camp is included in our private desert tours in Morocco.

What kind of accommodation is provided in the Merzouga desert?

On our 3-day Morocco Sahara tour from Marrakech to Fes, enjoy luxury in a Berber tented camp with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and gourmet dining. Your desert trip will be comfortable and authentic.

Can we see wild animals on the way from Marrakech to Fes?

Yes. On the final leg from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga, we stop at the Cedar Forest near Azrou. Here, you can see wild Barbary macaques, a highlight often included in desert trips to Morocco.

Is the Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga route safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely. Whether on a private tour or a small-group expedition, our professional drivers and guides ensure your safety. This route is a staple of desert tourism, well-traveled and secure.

Are meals included in the 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga?

Usually, breakfast and dinner are included at your riads and the desert camp. During the day, your guide will recommend the best local spots for lunch, allowing you to sample regional delicacies as you enjoy your Marrakech Desert Tour.

What should I pack for a 3-day desert tour?

For anyFor any desert tour in Marrakech, we recommend packing layers. The  days are warm, and the desert nights can be chilly. Essential items include sunscreen, a good camera for the desert vistas in Morocco, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring Ait Ben Haddou.n Haddou, our trip in Fes, and end in Marrakech?
Yes, we frequently organize the 3-Day Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech via the Merzouga Route. It covers all the same magnificent highlights—such as the Todra Gorges and the High Atlas—just in reverse order, fitting perfectly into your Morocco Desert Tours schedule.

How do I book a 2026 Marrakech to Fes desert expedition?

You can easily secure your spot for a Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga adventure through our booking portal. We recommend booking early for 2026 to ensure the best availability for our luxury Morocco desert tours and expert guides.

Custom-Tailored Saharan Itineraries

Whether you are seeking the best Luxury Morocco Tour or a specialized 3-Day Marrakech Desert Tour, our team specializes in seamless logistics. We cater to every direction of travel, ensuring that your Marrakech Desert Tour is more than just a vacation—it is a lifelong memory. As a premier agency for Marrakech Desert Tours, we guarantee that every sunset in the dunes and every mountain pass crossed is handled with expert care.

Tour map

Tour Map

3 Days Tour From Marrakech to Fes Via Merzouga Desert and Erg Chebbi Dunes

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Pick up time : 8:30 AM
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