Embark on an unforgettable 3-day Sahara Desert tour from Fes to Marrakech and discover the magic of southern Morocco. This journey takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, cedar forests of Azrou, the Ziz Valley palm groves, the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, Todra Gorges, Dades Valley, Ouarzazate, and Ait Benhaddou before crossing the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech.
Travelers will experience authentic Morocco: from camel trekking and stargazing in a Berber desert camp, to exploring centuries-old kasbahs, lush valleys, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Perfect for those seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, this tour connects two of Morocco’s most iconic cities—Fes and Marrakech—with the Sahara Desert as its centerpiece.
Your desert adventure begins with an early morning pick-up in Fes. The drive south crosses the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping first at Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture. Continue to Azrou, a Berber town surrounded by cedar forests, where you can spot wild Barbary monkeys.
After crossing the Zad Pass (2,178 m), stop for lunch in Midelt, a town known for its apple orchards. The road then descends toward the desert, passing through Errachidia and the spectacular Ziz Valley, dotted with palm groves and fortified villages.
By late afternoon, you’ll reach Merzouga at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, swap your vehicle for camels and trek across the golden sands to your desert camp. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber music by the campfire, and sleep under a blanket of stars in your private tent.
Wake up early to admire the magical sunrise over the Sahara dunes, then ride camels back to Merzouga for breakfast and a refreshing shower.
The journey continues to Rissani, the cradle of the Alaouite dynasty and home to one of Morocco’s most vibrant traditional markets. Next, explore Todra Gorges, a breathtaking canyon carved into the High Atlas mountains, famous for its towering cliffs and palm oasis.
After lunch, travel through the Dades Valley, known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs” and the Valley of Roses, before reaching Ouarzazate, Morocco’s “Hollywood of Africa.” Depending on time, you may visit the Kasbah Taourirt or the world-renowned Atlas Film Studios. Dinner and overnight in a comfortable hotel.
After breakfast, head to the iconic Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and backdrop for films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Stroll through its narrow alleys and mud-brick kasbahs, a living example of Morocco’s historic caravan routes.
The drive continues across the High Atlas Mountains, via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), with panoramic views of valleys, Berber villages, and terraced farms. Arrive in Marrakech by evening, where your driver will drop you off at your riad or hotel—marking the end of your Fes to Marrakech Sahara Desert adventure.
