This 3-day journey is a classic and spectacular transit across Morocco, connecting the vibrant, bustling city of Marrakech with the ancient, imperial city of Fes. It is an immersive experience that dramatically shifts landscapes each day, moving from the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains to the dramatic canyons of the Dades and Todra Gorges, and ultimately culminating in an unforgettable night under the stars in the Sahara Desert’s Erg Chebbi dunes. The route allows travelers to witness the cultural heartland of Morocco, exploring ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites like Ait Ben Haddou and driving through the famous “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” and the contrasting cedar forests and alpine towns of the Middle Atlas Mountains before arriving at the final destination.
Your adventure begins with an early departure from Marrakech, heading east and climbing into the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Our route takes us over the iconic Tizi n’Tichka Pass ( 2,260 meters) providing spectacular panoramic views of the winding roads and traditional Berber villages that cling to the slopes.
Our first major stop is the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah. This fortified mud-brick village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has served as a stunning backdrop for countless Hollywood films. You’ll have time to explore its ancient, labyrinthine alleys before we continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Sahara” and the “Hollywood of Africa.”
The day concludes with a scenic drive along the famous “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” a route dotted with ancient fortifications, as we make our way to the Dades Valley. You’ll settle in for the night at a charming riad or hotel in this beautiful area.
After a delicious breakfast, we leave the Dades Valley and journey toward the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges. Here, towering, sheer rock walls rise over 300 meters high, creating a magnificent canyon. We’ll take a walk to truly appreciate the scale of this natural wonder.
The journey continues, leading us ever closer to the desert. Upon arrival in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara, you’ll be welcomed with traditional Moroccan mint tea.
The highlight of the day is the unforgettable camel trek! Your camel guide will lead you into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes, where you’ll witness a mesmerizing sunset over the golden, sculpted sands.
You’ll spend the night at a private desert camp, enjoying a traditional dinner and the rhythmic sounds of Berber music around a campfire before retiring to your tent under a stunning blanket of stars.
Wake early to experience the truly magical moment of sunrise over the Sahara dunes. Following a hearty breakfast, you’ll either ride your camel or be transferred by 4*4 back to Merzouga.
Today is a long but diverse drive north to Fes. We begin by passing through the lush, verdant Ziz Valley, known for its extensive ribbon of palm groves. Our route then takes us through the dramatic landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains. We’ll stop in Midelt for a well-deserved lunch.
In the afternoon, we’ll pass through Ifrane, often nicknamed “Little Switzerland” because of its unique alpine architecture. Finally, you’ll arrive in the imperial city of Fes in the late afternoon, concluding your memorable desert journey.
Transport in a private, air-conditioned vehicle
English/French-speaking driver/guide
2 nights of accommodation
Meals: 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners
Camel trek in the desert
Lunches, drinks, and personal snacks
Entrance fees to monuments
Tips for drivers and camp staff
Travel insurance
At DesertEldenMorocco, we craft unforgettable Moroccan experiences. If our standard tours don’t match your vision, we’ll design one that does.
Contact us to share your dream trip, and we’ll create a custom itinerary tailored to your interests, pace, and budget. Your perfect Moroccan adventure awaits—we’re here to make it real.
