3 Days Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley

Departure from Marrakech

Begin your journey early in the morning, leaving the bustling streets of Marrakech and heading towards the High Atlas Mountains. As you wind through the mountains, you’ll pass traditional Berber villages and scenic landscapes that highlight Morocco’s rural charm.

Crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

Your route takes you across the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest major mountain pass in North Africa, with breathtaking views over valleys and mountain peaks. This mountain range is known for its steep cliffs and strikingly beautiful panoramas.

Ait Benhaddou Kasbah

A highlight of the day is the stop at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s best-preserved kasbahs. This fortified village, made from traditional mudbrick, has appeared in numerous films, including “Game of Thrones” and “Gladiator.”

Activities:

• Explore the kasbah’s narrow streets and climb to the top for panoramic views.
• Learn about the kasbah’s historical significance and local Berber culture.

Lunch in Ouarzazate

Continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Desert” and a hub for the Moroccan film industry. After a delicious lunch, you may have time to visit Taourirt Kasbah or a film studio for a quick tour.

Drive through Skoura and Rose Valley

The journey proceeds through Skoura, an oasis with thousands of palm trees, and Rose Valley, known for its rose products and festivals in spring. The route is scenic, with glimpses of ancient kasbahs nestled among the green valleys.

Overnight in Dades Valley

End the day in Dades Valley, also known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Here, you’ll stay in a traditional guesthouse or hotel with views of dramatic rock formations. Enjoy a hearty Moroccan dinner and relax in this peaceful setting.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga Desert

Exploring Dades and Todra Gorges

Start your morning with a visit to Dades Gorges, a unique landscape with impressive rock formations and winding roads. Then continue to Todra Gorges, a towering canyon with steep walls that reach heights of over 300 meters. It’s a popular spot for hikers and photographers.

Highlights:

• Hike through Todra Gorges and capture breathtaking photos.
• Admire the stunning rock formations and tranquil river flowing through the gorge.

Heading to Merzouga and the Sahara Desert

After lunch near Todra Gorges, the landscape begins to transform as you approach the Sahara Desert. Upon reaching Merzouga, you’ll prepare for a quintessential desert experience: a camel trek to the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. As the sun begins to set, you’ll ride through the dunes, witnessing the breathtaking colors and vastness of the Sahara.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

Your night will be spent in a traditional desert camp nestled within the sand dunes. After a delicious Moroccan dinner, relax under the stars and enjoy Berber music around a campfire. This night in the desert, with its serene beauty and vast skies, is sure to be a memorable experience.

Desert Camp Activities:

• Traditional dinner with live Berber music and dance.
• Stargazing under the clear desert sky.

Day 3: Merzouga to Fes

Sunrise over Erg Chebbi Dunes

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over Erg Chebbi, as the morning light casts a golden glow over the desert sands. After a traditional breakfast in the camp, you’ll return by camel to Merzouga, where your driver will be ready for the journey to Fes.

Travel through the Ziz Valley

On the way to Fes, you’ll pass through the scenic Ziz Valley, famous for its lush palm groves and extensive date orchards. The valley provides some of the most stunning landscapes in Morocco, with ancient kasbahs and river oases framed by the rugged mountains.

Midelt – Lunch in the Middle Atlas Mountains

Midway through your journey, you’ll stop in Midelt, a town located at the foothills of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Here, you’ll enjoy lunch and take a break before continuing through the mountain scenery.

Cedar Forests of Azrou

The journey continues with a drive through Azrou’s cedar forests, home to the Barbary macaque monkeys. This lush and green region provides a stark contrast to the desert, and you’ll have a chance to spot these playful monkeys and enjoy the cool mountain air.

Arrival in Fes

By the late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive in Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest cities and a hub of traditional culture. Known for its medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, Fes is a fascinating destination to end your journey. This city is rich with history, culture, and architectural beauty that you’ll be ready to explore further.

What to Bring for Your 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Tour

• Comfortable Clothing: Pack lightweight layers for hot days and warmer clothes for the cool desert nights.
• Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses: Essential for protection against the desert sun.
• Comfortable Shoes: Good for hiking in the gorges and walking through kasbahs.
• Camera: Capture the incredible landscapes, especially at sunrise and sunset.
• Cash: Many local markets and small shops don’t accept credit cards, so cash is useful for shopping and small purchases.

Tips for an Amazing Desert Tour Experience

• Hydrate Regularly: The desert climate can be harsh, so bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Travel Light: Desert travel requires minimal luggage, as you’ll only need essentials for the tour.
• Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and respect the traditions of local communities, especially in rural areas.
• Capture the Moments: The landscapes and experiences are unique—take plenty of photos to remember this incredible journey.

The 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes offers a perfect combination of Morocco’s natural beauty, historical richness, and unforgettable desert experiences. From the majestic Atlas Mountains and historical kasbahs to the enchanting Sahara and lively culture of Fes, each day on this tour brings new discoveries. This journey is ideal for travelers looking for an immersive experience that showcases the diverse landscapes, culture, and history of Morocco.