MARRAKECH TO FES DESERT TOUR 3 DAYS
OVERVIEW
Experience the charm of Morocco on a 3 days Marrakech to Fes desert tour, combining mountains, valleys, deserts, and history. Travel through the High Atlas Mountains, where traditional Berber villages dot the slopes of towering peaks sometimes dusted with snow, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the ancient Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic caravan stop, then continue to Ouarzazate, the heart of Moroccan cinema. In spring, the Valley of Roses enchants with its fragrance and traditional beauty products made from rose water and essential oils, and enjoy an overnight stay surrounded by nature in the Dades Valley.
Head to Todgha Valley, famous for its steep cliffs and stunning scenery, and ride camels across the golden dunes of Merzouga for an unforgettable sunset. Visit historic towns like Rissani, birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty, and enjoy the beauty of the Ziz Valley with its longest palm groves in Morocco. Stop in Midelt, famous for its high-quality apples, and explore the Cedar Forest, home to free-roaming Barbary macaque monkeys.
End the tour in Ifrane, “Little Switzerland,” before arriving in Fes, where the old city, craft workshops, and ancient schools await. This 3 days tour from Marrakech to Fes combines adventure, culture, and nature, offering a rich and immersive experience of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes and heritage. Don’t hesitate—book your journey now!
- Start: Marrakech
- Price: Check it below
- Duration: 3Days/ 2Nights
- Cancellation: Free within 7 days of confirmation
- End: Fes
GALLERY
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 3 DAY TOUR FROM MARRAKECH TO FES
- Drive through the High Atlas Mountains with panoramic views of towering peaks and traditional Berber villages.
- Visit Ait Ben Haddou, the fortified village that reflects Morocco’s rich history and has appeared in international films.
- Pass through Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” and take photos at the Atlas Film Studio, one of the largest film studios in Africa.
- Explore the Valley of Roses in spring, where the air is filled with the scent of roses, and visit women-led cooperatives producing cosmetic products from these roses.
- Discover the unique “Monkey Fingers” rock formations in Boumalne Dades.
- Journey through Todgha Valley, where steep cliffs reach up to 300 meters, a perfect destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
- Try on traditional Berber clothing at a local shop and take souvenir photos.
- Embark on a camel adventure in the golden Merzouga Desert, moving across the sand dunes.
- Stop at a high point in the desert to watch the magical sunset over the dunes.
- Arrive at the Berber desert camp, enjoy mint tea and local sweets, followed by a traditional dinner and a musical session around the campfire under a starry sky.
- Wake up early to watch the sunrise in the Desert, enjoying unforgettable moments of peace and calm.
- Visit Rissani, a historic city reflecting Amazigh and Alaouite heritage, and explore its traditional markets.
- Pass through Ziz Valley, home to one of Morocco’s longest palm groves, and enjoy the stunning landscapes.
- Visit Midelt, with an opportunity to take a photo with its famous giant apple.
- Explore the Cedar Forest, home to Barbary macaque monkeys that live freely among the tall trees.
- Pass through Ifrane, the elegant European-style city.
- Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains to reach the historic city of Fes.
WHY CHOOSE A PRIVATE 3 DAY DESERT TOUR FROM MARRAKECH TO FES?
A private 3 days tour from Marrakech to Fes offers a unique and flexible experience. Although it costs more than group tours, you travel at your own pace, stop wherever you like, and enjoy the scenery without pressure or delays, with the added option to choose the type and level of accommodation you prefer.
You will reach Morocco’s top attractions faster, with direct interaction with your driver/guide to learn about Berber culture and desert life. The trip can be fully customized to your interests—camel riding, visiting Berber villages, tasting local cuisine, or spending extra time in the desert to watch the sunrise and sunset—making it perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking a personalized and memorable adventure.
WHY CHOOSE A SHARED 3 DAYS DESERT TOUR FROM MARRAKECH TO FES?
A shared 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is an ideal choice for travelers looking for an affordable and social experience. You can enjoy Morocco’s top landscapes, historical sites, and the desert without paying the higher cost of a private tour.
Meet other travelers, share experiences, and make new friends while exploring the High Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Todgha Valley, the Merzouga desert, and Fes. All arrangements—including transportation, meals, and accommodations—are taken care of, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey without planning stress.
This option is perfect for solo travelers, budget-conscious adventurers, or anyone who enjoys discovering Morocco’s culture, nature, and history with company along the way.
ITINERARY OF THE MARRAKECH TO FES DESERT TOUR 3 DAYS
We tailor each tour to your preferences for an unforgettable experience in Morocco. If you’d like to customize the Marrakech to Fes 3 day tour or have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Day 1: Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah → Ouarzazate → Rose Valley → Boumalne Dades
Start your 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes at 8:00 AM with a pickup from your hotel or riad. From there, head southeast through diverse and scenic landscapes.
Enter the High Atlas Mountains, where towering peaks, sometimes dusted with snow, create stunning views. Berber villages dot the slopes, making it the perfect spot to stop and take panoramic photos.
Continue climbing toward the highest mountain passes, where winding cliffs and expansive valleys stretch as far as the eye can see. Take a deep breath of the fresh mountain air and enjoy the breathtaking scenery around you.
After 2 hours of driving, arrive at Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, one of Morocco’s most famous fortified villages and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will explore its narrow streets and admire the unique clay architecture that has appeared in movies like Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and Game of Thrones. Capture some memorable photos before continuing your Morocco desert tour.
You stop for lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the historic kasbah, then continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Here, you can take photos outside the largest film studio in Africa or opt for a short tour inside the studio.
On the way, pass through Kelaat M’Gouna, the famous Valley of Roses. In spring, the air is filled with the scent of roses used to produce rose water, essential oils, and traditional products. Visit a women-led local cooperative to see how these products are made.
As the day winds down, reach Boumalne Dades. You can explore the unique rock formations called “Monkey Fingers” before checking in at your riad for the night, or leave it for the next day.
[Approximate distance: 350 km / 6–7 hours driving]
Day 2: Boumalne Dades → Tinghir → Todgha Gorge → Berber Shop → Merzouga → Camel trekking → Desert Camp
Start the second day of your Marrakech to Fes desert tour after breakfast at your riad, then head toward Todgha Gorge, but before reaching it, stop at a viewpoint overlooking an oasis filled with trees and palms, surrounded by historic kasbahs that reflect the traditional life of the region, making it a perfect spot for taking souvenir photos.
Continue the tour into Todgha Valley, where the canyon winds between steep cliffs ranging from 150 to 300 meters high, making it an ideal spot for rock climbing. You can walk inside the valley and see the sources of water present there.
After exploring the valley, visit a traditional Berber shop, where you can try on Berber clothing and take photos wearing it (optional).
After lunch, continue your tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, arriving in the afternoon to begin your desert adventure. Get ready to ride camels and embark on an exciting journey across the sand dunes, reaching a high point in the middle of the desert to enjoy the magnificent sunset reflecting on the golden sands. Then continue to your Berber desert camp.
Upon arrival at the camp, you will be welcomed with Berber tea and sweets, then rest a little before enjoying a delicious Berber dinner. End the evening with a music session around the campfire, where Berber drums play under a starry sky in a magical atmosphere.
[Approximate distance: 253 km / 5–6 hours driving]
Day 3: Merzouga Desert → Rissani → Ziz Valley → Midelt → Cedar Forest → Ifrane → Middle Atlas Mountains → Fes
On the last day of your tour, it is recommended to wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Merzouga dunes and enjoy the peaceful moments the desert offers in the early morning. After breakfast, prepare to leave Merzouga, where your driver will be waiting to say goodbye to the Sahara.
The journey begins toward Rissani, the capital of the Tafilalet region and the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty. The city is famous for its large traditional markets held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, where you can discover local spices, dates, handmade crafts, and traditional leather and wood products. After exploring the market, continue to the Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s most beautiful and famous valleys, home to the country’s longest palm groves. Stop at a panoramic viewpoint to capture stunning photos of the endless palms and surrounding dry mountains before heading to Midelt for lunch and a short break, with a chance to take a photo with the town’s famous giant apple.
After lunch, head to the Cedar Forest, home to Barbary macaque monkeys that live freely among the tall trees, where you can interact with and feed them in a beautiful natural setting.
Then continue to Ifrane, a city known for its cold climate and snowy winters, with elegant European-style architecture that earned it the nickname “Switzerland of Morocco.”
Finally, arrive in Fes, where you will be dropped off at the airport or your Riad, concluding your 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour.
[Approximate distance: 490 km / 7–8 hours driving]
WHAT'S INCLUDED AND NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR
What's Included
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech and Fes
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with fuel
- Private driver/guide who speaks English (if you prefer another language, please inform us when booking)
- One night in a desert camp (standard or luxury, depending on your choice)
- One night in a riad in Dades Valley
- Photo stops wherever you like
- Two dinners and two breakfasts
- Camel trekking in the Merzouga desert (one camel per person)
- Sandboarding
- Traditional Moroccan clothing experience for photos
- Evening music session around the desert campfire with Berber music
- Visit a local cooperative to experience and learn about rose and argan oil products.
What's Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
- Tips for driver/guide and camp staff (Optional)
- Tickets for the Ouarzazate film studio
- Personal expenses
ITINERARY MAP
3 DAYS MARRAKECH TO FES DESERT TOUR PRICE
The Marrakech to Fes desert tour 3 days, starts at 150 EUR per person. The price varies depending on the number of travelers, booking date, and type of accommodation (standard or luxury).
The minimum price of 150 EUR applies to the shared tour, with shared desert camp accommodation and bathroom.
The price may change based on included services and the trip details you choose. Lower prices mean lower comfort and fewer options, while higher prices offer better quality and the possibility to add stops at different locations.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
In addition to the 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes, you can add various activities and experiences to explore Morocco more deeply, whether cultural, recreational, or adventurous. We can arrange these activities before, during, or after your trip, depending on your preference, to make your experience more enjoyable, flexible, and give you the chance to discover different sides of Morocco’s beauty.
Before the Tour
Hot air balloon ride
A magical flight over Morocco’s landscapes at sunrise, including a traditional Moroccan breakfast.
Moroccan cooking class
Learn to prepare classic Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous with expert guidance.
Guided tour of Marrakech
Explore Marrakech’s historic landmarks and lively traditional markets.
Day trip to Essaouira
Walk through the old medina, visit the busy port, and enjoy the Atlantic breeze.
Day trip to Casablanca
Explore Morocco’s economic capital and visit the famous Hassan II Mosque overlooking the ocean.
Day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls
Enjoy stunning natural scenery and cascading waterfalls, with an option to ride a boat under the falls.
Day trip to Ourika Valley
Lunch by the river and visit traditional Amazigh villages in a breathtaking natural setting.
Day trip to Imlil
Explore the High Atlas Mountains and Berber villages with spectacular mountain views.
During the Tour
Professional photography session
Capture special moments during your desert tour or along the journey.
Romantic dinner in the desert
Enjoy a candlelit dinner under the starry desert sky with soft music for a romantic experience.
Romantic proposal in the desert
A magical proposal experience in the heart of the desert, complete with flowers and special lighting.
Horse riding
Explore the golden desert dunes on horseback for a traditional and unique adventure.
Quad & buggy rides
Experience an exciting and thrilling ride through the desert on quad bikes or buggies.
After the Tour
Day trip to Chefchaouen
Explore the charming blue city, famous for its vivid blue-painted streets and buildings.
Day trip to Meknes and Volubilis
Visit the historic imperial city of Meknes and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.
Guided tour of Fes
Discover Fes with an expert guide, exploring ancient alleys, traditional tanneries, and historic landmarks.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BOOKING YOUR MARRAKECH TO FES 3-DAY DESERT TOUR
- If you want your tour to end in Marrakech, book the 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga; but if you prefer to start in Fes and finish in Marrakech, choose the 3-day Fes to Marrakech desert tour.
- If you’d like to add an extra day to explore the desert more deeply, visiting the nomad families, the old mines, the village of Mifis, Khamlia village known for its Gnawa music, car Museum, and other fascinating sites, then book the Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour 4 Days for a richer and more complete experience.
- For lunch, the driver/ Guide will take you to good local restaurants. If you prefer other places or know specific restaurants, he will gladly take you there.
- If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please let us know when booking. We will coordinate with restaurants, Riad, and the desert camp to provide safe and suitable meals for you throughout the trip, offering alternatives if needed to ensure a comfortable experience.
- You can return from the camp for free using a 4×4 vehicle; that is, ride a camel to the camp and return by car. This is included in the program.
- Carry some cash: ATMs may be limited in certain areas or in the desert, so it’s best to carry some Moroccan Dirhams for small expenses like drinks, souvenirs, or local fees.
- Camera & Phones: Bring extra batteries or power banks—plenty of photo opportunities!
- In Kalaat M’Goun, you will see the small pink taxis, so be ready to spot them as you pass by.
MARRAKECH TO FES DESERT TOUR: FAQs
Is the desert tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is suitable for families with children. Although the drive can be a bit long, there are multiple stops along the way, and children will enjoy the fun activities and experiences throughout the trip.
What happens to my luggage during the camel trek in the desert?
During your camel trek, you only need to take essential items such as water, a camera, or personal belongings for the ride.
All other luggage will be safely stored in the 4×4 vehicle and transported directly to the desert camp, ready for you upon arrival, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free journey.
How far in advance should I book the Marrakech to Fes desert trip 3-day?
It’s best to book the 3 day desert trip from Marrakech to Fes at least two to three months in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring, fall, and holidays), to ensure availability of dates, accommodations, and preferred activities.
Booking in summer means air-conditioned transport, while winter has its own advantages, but spring, fall, and holiday periods are generally recommended for milder weather.
During less busy months, you may be able to book on shorter notice, but booking early guarantees the best options and allows us to customize the tour according to your preferences.
What payment methods are available for the 3 days Marrakech to Fes desert tour?
Our tourism company, Exploring Morocco Trips, offers various options to suit all travelers, making booking simple. To confirm your 3 day tour from Marrakech to Fes, a small deposit is required, payable via bank transfer, Wise, or PayPal for a secure and smooth process. If you prefer another payment method, please let us know.
The remaining balance is paid in cash on the first day of the tour directly to the driver/guide, in Euros, US Dollars, or Moroccan Dirhams.
Can I skip the camel ride and reach the desert camp by 4×4 instead?
Yes, you can skip the camel ride and reach the desert camp using a 4×4 vehicle provided by the camp, and you can return the next morning with the same vehicle after spending the night at the camp.
If you are an adventure seeker, you can cross the desert and watch the sunset using a buggy or quad bike, then return the next morning by 4×4. (These activities require an additional fee
Is the Marrakech to Fes desert tour 3 days private or shared with others?
The 3 days Marrakech to Fes desert tour can be private or shared. A private tour provides a vehicle and driver/guide exclusively for your group, offering full flexibility, while a shared tour is more affordable and includes joining other travelers.
What kind of vehicles are used during the 3 days tour from Marrakech to Fes?
During the Marrakech to Fes desert tour, the mode of transportation varies depending on the group size. Small groups of up to 4 passengers travel in a Land Cruiser Prado 4×4, while groups of up to 8 passengers use a Mercedes Vito or Ford Custom Van. For groups larger than 8 people, a minibus accommodating up to 18 passengers is provided. All vehicles are equipped with air conditioning to ensure comfort throughout the journey.
Is sandboarding included during the desert experience?
Yes, sandboarding is included in the program. If you are interested, you can ask the camp staff, as the boards are available—just let them know and they will provide one for you. Then, climb to the top of a nearby dune and enjoy sandboarding.
How can I travel from Fes to Marrakech?
You can travel from Marrakech to Fes in several ways, depending on your priorities and budget:
By plane: Fast and comfortable, with prices starting from €30 (the price may vary). The flight takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
By train: Comfortable and affordable, starting from €25–30, covering a distance of around 483 km in about 7 hours, with beautiful scenery along the way.
By taxi or private car: Flexible but more expensive, ideal for small groups or families. The drive takes about 5–6 hours for roughly 532 km.
The best way to enjoy the journey between the two cities is by taking a 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes, an affordable and enriching experience that allows you to discover the High Atlas Mountains, kasbahs, valleys, Berber villages, and the Merzouga Desert.
If your goal is to reach Fes quickly, the plane or private car is the best choice. But if you have enough time and want a more memorable desert experience while traveling to Fes, the 3 day desert tour is the perfect option.
REVIEWS
IMPORTANT NOTE
This Marrakech to Fes desert tour 3 days is just a suggestion and can be adjusted to your preferences. If you have a different plan or places you’d like to visit, feel free to contact us, and we’ll help you organize a wonderful trip to Morocco.
- +212631617767
- +212762246715
- info@exploringmoroccotrips.com
BEST PLACES TO SEE IN YOUR 3 DAYS MARRAKECH TO FES DESERT TOUR
Here are the 16 best places you will enjoy during your 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes. Each destination offers something unique and memorable along the trip until you reach Fes.
Tizi n’Tichka Pass
Tizi n’Tichka is the highest mountain pass in Morocco, reaching about 2,260 meters (7,415 feet) above sea level. It serves as the main route connecting Marrakech to Morocco’s desert regions and the city of Ouarzazate. The road offers breathtaking scenery, including snow-capped peaks in winter, green valleys, and traditional Berber villages along the way. Travelers can also see terraced farming and shepherds with goats and sheep on the slopes, showcasing the local way of life. The pass is an ideal spot to stop for photos and enjoy panoramic views before continuing the journey toward the desert.
Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah is one of Morocco’s most famous and stunning fortified villages, located on the banks of the Ouarzazate River along the route between Marrakech and the Moroccan desert. Built in the 17th century, it is an excellent example of traditional Moroccan clay architecture, featuring high walls, narrow alleyways, and defensive towers.
Historically, Ait Ben Haddou served as an important trading post on the caravan route between the desert and major cities, and it was also used as a defensive fortress against attacks. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site attracting tourists from all over the world. Visitors can explore the ancient clay houses, walk through the inner courtyards, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
The kasbah has also been a filming location for many international movies, including Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia, which has added to its fame and made it a major attraction on the road to the desert.
Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” is a city in southern Morocco and an important center for film and television production. One of the main attractions you will visit during the 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world, where many international movies were filmed, including Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and The Mummy. During your visit, you will be accompanied by a guide inside the studio, and the tour lasts about an hour.
Atlas Studios offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore behind the scenes, see film sets and shooting locations, and learn about Moroccan and international filmmaking techniques.
Rose Cooperative in Kelaat M’Gouna (Rose Valley)
Kelaat M’Gouna, near Boumalne Dades, is located in the Rose Valley, famous for its extensive fields of fragrant roses that typically bloom in April and May. Most of the roses grown are Rosa Damascena, used to produce rose water, essential oils, perfumes, and natural cosmetic products.
The cooperative combines traditional and modern methods for harvesting and processing the roses. Flowers are picked early in the morning to preserve their quality, then distilled to extract rose water and essential oils. Visitors can see the manual distillation process, learn about each production stage from harvesting to packaging, and have the option to purchase authentic products directly from the cooperative.
The Rose Valley is an important economic and cultural center in the region, as many local residents rely on rose cultivation and processing. This visit offers an educational and sensory experience, combining culture, local economy, and the fragrant beauty of the roses.
Boumalne Dades: Monkey Fingers Rock Formation
Boumalne Dades is where you will spend your first night of the trip. It is located in the Dades Valley, famous for its natural landscapes and unique geological formations. One of the most notable nearby landmarks is the rock formation called “Monkey Fingers” (Doigts de Singe), tall and slender rocks rising sharply from the valley floor, resembling fingers reaching toward the sky.
These formations were created by the erosion of sandstone and clay, making them a remarkable example of natural geology. The area is also known for its winding roads and kasbahs, offering stunning views for photographers and travelers.
Visiting “Monkey Fingers” gives you the chance to explore the dramatic scenery of the Atlas Mountains and discover local Berber villages. It is a prominent stop on the 3 days tour from Marrakech to Fes.
Tinghir and Todgha Gorge
Tinghir, located at the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, is an important center in the Todgha Valley. It is known for its ancient earthen kasbahs reflecting traditional Berber architecture, and the palm groves lining the valleys, creating a harmonious landscape of mountains, palms, and farms. The local population is Amazigh, also known as Berbers.
During the Marrakech to Fes desert tour, you will stop at a panoramic viewpoint to admire these historic kasbahs among thousands of palm trees and capture stunning photos.
Afterward, the tour continues to Todgha Gorge on the edge of the Eastern High Atlas. The rocky passage stretches about 1.5 kilometers, with cliff walls reaching approximately 300 meters, creating a dramatic view.
The gorge is popular with hikers and rock climbers, and the small river running through it adds a refreshing touch, while surrounding palm oases and traditional farmland provide a striking contrast between rugged rocks and greenery.
Ksar Melaab
The village of Ksar Melaab is located in Errachidia Province, in the Drâa‑Tafilalet region, and is a notable stop on the 3 days Marrakech to Fes desert tour. The village is famous for its ancient ksars (fortified villages) and seasonal music festivals. Most of its residents live in Europe, while some remain in the village, creating a unique mix of local heritage and external connections.
When passing through the village, the driver will stop so you can try on the traditional Amazigh (Berber) clothing. Local women set up small shops where visitors can wear the traditional attire of the southeastern region and take souvenir photos. If you like any of the clothing, you can purchase it at a reasonable price. You can also buy other local products such as scarves and desert dresses, which you can wear for photos in the desert, as well as other souvenirs for your family. If you are not interested in this experience, you can simply ask the driver to continue without stopping, but many tourists find it a truly unique and enjoyable experience.
Touroug: Lunch Stop
Touroug is a small village located in southeastern Morocco along the 3 days desert tour route from Marrakech to Fes. Surrounded by desert mountains and traditional houses, it offers visitors a glimpse into authentic rural life. Some locals work in nearby mineral mines, while others run local restaurants serving traditional Moroccan meals to travelers.
During the tour, Touroug serves as the lunch stop, where visitors can enjoy a Moroccan meal before continuing the journey toward Merzouga and the desert adventure.
Merzouga Desert
Merzouga is a small village in southeastern Morocco, on the edge of the Erg Chebbi desert, and is considered one of the most visited areas in the world for its stunning beauty. It is about 35 kilometers from Rissani and 50 kilometers from Erfoud, and it is the destination you will reach during the 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert trip. The village is famous for its massive sand dunes, some reaching up to 150 meters high, making them among the tallest in Morocco.
Merzouga has a dry desert climate, with hot summers and cooler winters. The local population, mostly Amazigh (Berber), relies heavily on tourism as a main source of income, offering camel trekking, quad biking, buggy rides, KTM excursions, 4×4 Jeep tours, and experiences in desert camps. The village also has riads and hotels very close to the dunes, providing breathtaking views right from your window in the morning.
Merzouga is a perfect place to watch magical sunrises and sunsets, and to enjoy the desert sky filled with stars in incredible clarity. During summer, domestic tourism increases, while in other seasons, many international visitors come to discover its unique charm despite its desert environment.
Desert Camps
The desert camps in Merzouga are located on the edge of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes near the village of Merzouga and offer a unique experience for travelers who want to enjoy the beauty of the Moroccan desert.
Accommodation Types
Luxury: Each tent has neatly made beds and private bathrooms, with heating or air conditioning depending on the season. Truly, it’s amazing.
Standard: Divided into two types:
1. Economy: Shared bathrooms and tents may be shared with another traveler.
2. Comfort Standard: Private bathroom in the tent, desert attire provided inside the tent, delicious meals, and other things.
Activities and Services
Camel riding from Merzouga to the camps (usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the camp’s distance), with a camel guide who knows the route well and stays with you until the morning to return to Merzouga, or you can return by 4×4 vehicles instead of camels.
Sandboarding.
Bonfire evenings featuring Amazigh music under the star-filled desert sky.
Wi‑Fi may be available in some camps, while other camps recommend staying away from phones and noise to focus on desert meditation.
Accommodation and Additional Services
Guest reception varies depending on the camp, regardless of the accommodation level chosen.
When booking through a travel agency, the price includes dinner, breakfast, and other amenities. When booking through platforms like Booking, it may only include breakfast, and dinner must be paid separately.
Visitors can stay at the camp as long as they wish, making them feel like part of the camp family.
The camps provide a comfortable and safe option, with transportation services to the site, allowing visitors to fully and peacefully experience the desert.
Rissani
Rissani is a historic town located near Merzouga, known for its traditional and historic ksars where residents still live, some of which date back many years. The town features a distinctive local market held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, attracting people from various areas.
Visitors can stroll through this market and enjoy a unique experience compared to markets in other cities. The town is also famous for its traditional bread called “Medfouna.”
In the past, Rissani was an important trading center along ancient caravan routes, which gave it significant historical value. Today, the town serves as a notable stop on Sahara desert tours, whether traveling from Marrakech or from Fes.
Ziz Valley
Ziz Valley is located in southeastern Morocco, stretching along the Ziz River, and is known for its vast palm oases that blend the landscapes of mountains and desert. The valley is home to around five million palm trees, and the local population relies on growing dates and vegetables. Traditional villages and ksars reflecting Amazigh and Arab heritage are scattered throughout the valley. It is a notable stop on desert tours from Marrakech to Fes, where visitors can enjoy a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the valley. Ziz Valley is also one of the largest oases in Morocco and a major source of Tafilalt dates.
Midelt
Midelt is a mountain town located between the High Atlas and Middle Atlas mountains, and it is an important stop on desert trips from Marrakech to Fes, where travelers stay overnight before continuing their journey toward Fes or the Merzouga Desert. The town is known for its cool climate throughout the year and its high-quality apple production, earning it the nickname “Apple City” of Morocco. During the 3 days trip from Marrakech to Fes, visitors will stop here for lunch before continuing the trip.
Cedar Forest
The Cedar Forest is located in the Middle Atlas region near Ifrane and Azrou. It is a dense forest primarily made up of Atlas cedar trees. The forest is famous for its Barbary macaque monkeys, a species native to North Africa and the only type found outside Asia. These playful monkeys often interact with visitors, and if you have some food, you can feed them and play with them, providing a unique natural experience. The forest also offers walking trails, fresh air, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, making it a popular stop on the 3 days desert trip Marrakech to Fes.
Ifrane
Ifrane is located in the Middle Atlas of Morocco and is known as the “Little Switzerland” for its natural beauty and cleanliness. It also features buildings that resemble European architecture. The city is very clean, and visitors are amazed by its calmness and tidiness, having ranked second in 2013 as one of the cleanest cities in the world.
Ifrane enjoys a cold climate in winter and a mild climate in summer. It has spacious gardens, artificial lakes, and walking and cycling paths. It is also home to Al Akhawayn University, a prestigious institution known for its world-class education and excellent facilities. Ifrane is a notable stop on Moroccan desert tours and is also famous for the Lion Statue, one of its most iconic landmarks, where visitors love to take photos.
Fes: The City of History and Culture
Fes is located in the north-central part of Morocco and is one of the country’s oldest historical cities. Founded in the 8th century, it is also one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. The city is known as a cultural and scientific center and is home to the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest existing university in the world, founded in 859 AD and still active today. The old city (Fes el Bali) preserves its narrow alleys, traditional markets, mosques, and historic kasbahs. Exploring it requires plenty of time due to its rich historical and cultural heritage — truly, Fes is the city of history.
Fes is famous for its traditional crafts such as leatherwork, pottery, and carpets, and it features significant historical landmarks like the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Royal Palace. The city also serves as a starting point for desert tours or trips to other Moroccan cities, making it a major and remarkable tourist destination like Marrakech.
