Best 3-Day Trip From Fez to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert

Setting out on a 3-day journey from Fez to Marrakech through the mesmerizing Merzouga Desert is an opportunity to take in Morocco’s captivating landscapes and vibrant culture. Travelers can expect a seamless experience, filled with unforgettable moments, from exploring the cedar forests of Azrou to witnessing the breathtaking sunsets over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Along the way, they’ll uncover the rich heritage of the region, from the lively Rissani market to the historic Ait Benhaddou, before arriving in the vibrant city of Marrakech. This well-curated itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave visitors with a deep appreciation for the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Good To Know

• This 3-day tour from Fez to Marrakech via the Merzouga Desert offers a comprehensive itinerary exploring Morocco’s stunning landscapes and cultural highlights.
• The tour includes activities such as a camel ride at Erg Chebbi dunes, visits to the Todra Gorge and Dades Valley, and an overnight stay in a traditional Berber desert camp.
• Accommodation options range from standard to upgraded hotels and riads, allowing for personalized experiences and comfort levels.
• Highlights include wildlife spotting, exploring the local Rissani market, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech’s medina.
• With an English-speaking driver/guide, transportation, and meals included, this tour provides a seamless and immersive experience to discover the best of southern Morocco.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 3-day Sahara tour from Fez to Marrakech provides an immersive journey through Morocco’s stunning landscapes.

Priced from $219 per person, the tour covers the highlights of the Merzouga desert, Ouarzazate, and Ait Ben Haddou over three days.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, it offers flexibility and convenience.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver/guide, and accommodations include one night in a desert camp and another in Ouarzazate.

Travelers can also opt to upgrade their accommodations and customize their tour.

Reviews praise the tour’s organization, cultural insights, and exceptional guide and driver service.

Detailed Itinerary

The 3-day itinerary from Fez to Marrakech begins with an early morning departure at 7:00 am.

The first day takes you through the scenic cedar forests of Azrou, where you might spot Barbary apes. After lunch in Midelt, you’ll continue to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, where you’ll enjoy a camel ride and watch the sunset.

Overnight, you’ll stay in a Berber desert camp.

Day 2 starts with an early sunrise view, followed by visits to Rissani’s market, the impressive Todra Gorge, and the Dades Valley, with an overnight in Ouarzazate.

On the final day, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou, cross the High Atlas Mountains, and arrive in Marrakech in the evening.

Highlights of Day 1

On the first day, you’ll depart Fez at 7:00 am and head towards the scenic cedar forests of Azrou.

There, you’ll have a chance to spot the iconic Barbary apes.

Next, you’ll continue to Midelt for lunch before driving to Erfoud and the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga.

Here, you’ll embark on a camel ride and enjoy the breathtaking sunset experience.

As night falls, you’ll settle into a traditional Berber desert camp for an overnight stay, complete with dinner and breakfast.

Highlights of Day 2

Travelers will rise early on the second day to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Saharan dunes.

After this magical moment, the group will make their way to Rissani, where they’ll explore the bustling local market.

Next, they’ll visit the impressive Todra Gorge, where they can try their hand at rock climbing for a unique perspective of the towering limestone cliffs.

The day will conclude in Ouarzazate, a vibrant city often referred to as the "Hollywood of Africa" due to its numerous film studios.

Here, they’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and rest for the night before continuing their journey the following day.

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Highlights of Day 3

Location	Activity
Ait Benhaddou	Explore historic mud-brick buildings
High Atlas Mountains	Cross Tizi N Tichka pass
Marrakech	Arrive in the evening

The day culminates with the group’s arrival in Marrakech, the vibrant "Red City", where they can enjoy the bustling medina and experience the energy of this Moroccan gem.

Included Services and Amenities

The tour package includes an array of essential services and amenities to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

Travelers are transported in air-conditioned minivans or 4×4 vehicles, with an English-speaking driver/guide to provide valuable insights throughout the journey. Pickup from accommodation in Fez is included, and a local camel guide accompanies the group during the desert excursion.

Overnight stays feature 1 night in a Berber desert camp with dinner and breakfast, followed by 1 night in a hotel or riad in Ouarzazate, also with meals provided.

Guests have the option to upgrade their accommodations and choose private tours for added flexibility and personalization.

Accommodation Options and Upgrades

While the base tour package provides a convenient and comprehensive itinerary, travelers can opt to upgrade their accommodations and choose private tours for added flexibility and personalization.

Upgrading to higher-end hotels and riads allows travelers to enjoy more comfortable stays and explore the local cuisine at their own pace.

Private tours offer the opportunity to customize the itinerary, spend more time at specific sites, and have a more personalized experience with the driver/guide.

These upgrades come at an additional cost, but they cater to those seeking a more exclusive and tailored journey through the Moroccan landscapes and cultural attractions.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

Travelers have generally provided positive feedback on this 3-day tour from Fez to Marrakech.

With an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on 18 reviews, the tour earns praise for its organization, driver knowledge, and cultural insights. Notable standouts include the coordinator, Mustapha, and the driver, Samir, who receive excellent service mentions.

The feedback offers several recommendations:

1. Arrive early to catch the sunset camel rides.
2. Explore the local markets for an immersive cultural experience.
3. Consider upgrading accommodations and tours for more flexibility.
4. Appreciate the stunning scenery along the High Atlas Mountains crossing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility in stops, time spent at locations, and restaurant choices when you upgrade your accommodation.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour isn’t specified, but it’s common for these Sahara desert tours to accommodate small groups of 6-8 travelers. Guests can inquire about the group size when booking to ensure it aligns with their preferences.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Price?

The price of the 3-day tour from Fez to Marrakech includes most services, but there may be additional costs for personal expenses, optional activities, and tips for the guide and camel handlers that are not explicitly mentioned.

Can I Book This Tour if I Have Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, you can book this tour if you have dietary restrictions. The tour operator accommodates various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and halal options. Just be sure to inform them of your requirements when booking the tour.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Stop on the Itinerary?

The tour’s itinerary doesn’t specify exact time allocations for each stop. However, it allows flexibility to spend more time at locations that interest you. The driver-guide can adjust the schedule based on your preferences during the trip.

The Sum Up

This 3-day trip from Fez to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert provides an unforgettable experience. Travelers can explore the stunning natural beauty of the region, from the cedar forests of Azrou to the Erg Chebbi dunes, and enjoy the rich cultural heritage. With overnight stays in traditional Berber camps and the historic city of Ouarzazate, this tour offers a well-rounded journey through Morocco’s captivating landscapes and vibrant cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: