3 days desert tour from fes to Marrakech

This is a condensed 3-Day Desert Traverse Tour connecting Morocco’s two major imperial cities, Fes and Marrakech. It is an ideal itinerary for travelers with limited time who wish to cross the country while experiencing the essential highlights: the Middle Atlas Mountains, the Ziz Valley, the Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi), the dramatic Todra and Dades Gorges, and the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Due to the distance covered, the days involve significant driving but offer a spectacular variety of landscapes.

• Passing through Ifrane (“Little Switzerland”) and the Cedar Forests of Azrou (home to Barbary macaques).
• Admiring the vast, ribbon-like oasis of palm groves.
• An iconic sunset camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes and a night at a luxury desert camp.
• Walking between the towering cliffs of the magnificent Todra Gorge.
• Driving through and staying in the scenic Dades Valley.
• Ascending and descending the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass to arrive in Marrakech.

Day 1: Fes to Merzouga Desert – Through Mountains and Oases

Your desert adventure begins with an early departure from Fes, driving south through the spectacularly scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. We will pass through the charming alpine-style town of Ifrane and the famous Cedar Forests of Azrou, where you may spot wild Barbary macaques.

After a lunch stop in Midelt, the landscape transitions dramatically as you enter the breathtaking Ziz Valley, a vast oasis of palm groves.

Finally, arriving in Merzouga by evening, you will embark on a classic camel ride into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset. Your night is spent in a luxury desert camp, where you will enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine and the enchanting rhythms of Berber music around a campfire under the stars.

Day 2: Merzouga to the Dades Valley – Gorges and Kasbahs

Wake up early to witness a magical sunrise over the Sahara before returning to your lodge for breakfast and a shower. The journey continues west to the magnificent Todra Gorge, where you can walk between its towering 300 meter-high cliffs.

Later, we travel through the stunning Dades Valley, famously known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs” for its numerous ancient fortresses. The day ends with a comfortable overnight stay in a hotel or riad nestled within the valley, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views.

Day 3: Dades Valley to Marrakech – Across the High Atlas Mountains

Following breakfast, we depart the Dades Valley, beginning the final leg of your traverse to Marrakech. We will pass through the fragrant Valley of Roses (best seen in spring) and the serene Skoura Oasis, dotted with historic mud-brick kasbahs.

Finally, we begin the major ascent to cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass. This high mountain route offers ever-changing panoramic views and unforgettable photo opportunities. You will arrive in Marrakech by early evening, concluding your tour.