From Marrakech: 3-Days Private Desert Tour

Embark on an enchanting desert adventure with this captivating 3-day private tour from Marrakech to Fes. Traverse stunning landscapes, including the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou and the dramatic Dades Gorge. Experience the thrill of a camel trek across the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi dunes, culminating in a magical sunset at a traditional Berber camp. Traverse the scenic Ziz Valley and explore the cedar forests of Ifrane before reaching the imperial city of Fes. This immersive journey promises to ignite your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s captivating beauty. Curious to learn more?

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Erfoud.

Good To Know

• 3-day private desert tour from Marrakech to Fes, including visits to UNESCO site Ait Benhaddou and a camel trek across Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga.
• Explore Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa," and experience the stunning Dades Gorge, a dramatic limestone canyon.
• Witness the sunset and sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at a Berber desert camp.
• Traverse the scenic Ziz Valley, spot Barbary apes in the cedar forests of Ifrane, and end the tour in the imperial city of Fes.
• Accommodations include a private hotel room in Tinghir and a desert camp tent, with meals and transportation provided throughout the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 3-day private desert tour from Marrakech to Fes offers a comprehensive journey through Morocco’s stunning landscapes.

Travelers will visit the UNESCO site of Ait Benhaddou, known for its role in famous films like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia.

The second day features a camel trek across the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga, culminating in an overnight stay in a traditional Berber camp.

On the final day, the tour passes through the Cedar Forests and Ziz Valley, with potential encounters with Barbary apes.

Guests enjoy private transportation, a hotel room, and meals throughout the 3-day experience, making for a seamless and immersive exploration of Morocco’s natural and cultural wonders.

Itinerary Day 1: Marrakech to Tinghir

From Marrakech, the tour heads east towards Tinghir, making several stops along the way.

The first stop is the Tizi n’Tichka pass, a winding mountain route with stunning views.

Next, the tour visits the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, a well-preserved ksar (fortified city) that has served as a filming location for movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia.

After exploring Ait Benhaddou, the tour continues to Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa" due to its film studios.

The final stop before reaching Tinghir is the Dades Gorge, a dramatic limestone canyon carved by the Dades River.

Exploring Ait Benhaddou UNESCO Site

On the way to Tinghir, the desert tour makes a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou. This iconic fortified city is renowned for its impressive earthen clay architecture and has served as a filming location for famous movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. Visitors can explore its maze-like alleys, admire the traditional Moroccan houses, and learn about the region’s history. The table below highlights key facts about Ait Benhaddou:

Fact	Details
UNESCO Status	World Heritage Site
Location	Ouarzazate Province, Morocco
Historical Role	Important trading post on trans-Saharan trade route
Notable Films	Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy

This captivating stop provides a glimpse into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage and sets the stage for the rest of the desert adventure.

Itinerary Day 2: Tinghir to Merzouga

After exploring the historic Ait Benhaddou, the private desert tour heads east towards the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga.

The second day brings a thrilling camel trek across the vast sand dunes. Travelers will have the chance to witness the stunning sunset over the dunes before settling into a traditional Berber desert camp for the night.

The camp offers a unique opportunity to immerse in the local Berber culture and traditions. As the sun sets, guests can expect a delicious Moroccan dinner and an evening under the stars in the peaceful desert environment.

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Camel Trek and Berber Camp Experience

The camel trek across the vast Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga is a highlight of the private desert tour. Guests will mount the camels and embark on a serene journey through the golden sands, taking in the breathtaking views of the dunes and the surrounding landscape.

The camel ride culminates in an overnight stay at a traditional Berber camp, where travelers can:

• Witness the stunning sunset and sunrise over the dunes
• Enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner prepared by the camp staff
• Immerse themselves in the nomadic Berber culture and hospitality
• Gaze at the stars in the clear desert sky before retiring to their private tents

Itinerary Day 3: Merzouga to Fes

Departing the desert camp, the tour traverses the scenic Ziz Valley, renowned for its verdant palm groves and rugged mountain vistas.

The journey continues through the town of Erfoud, known for its fossil and mineral trade, before heading to the cedar forests of Ifrane.

Along the way, there are opportunities to spot Barbary apes in their natural habitat.

The final leg of the tour takes the group through the Moroccan countryside, offering panoramic views, until they reach the imperial city of Fes.

Here, travelers can explore the UNESCO-listed medina and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this ancient city.

Scenic Views and Wildlife Sightings

Traversing the scenic Ziz Valley, the tour offers breathtaking views of verdant palm groves and rugged mountain landscapes.

As the journey continues towards Fes, travelers will be treated to stunning vistas of the Cedar Forests near Ifran. This region is home to the endangered Barbary macaque, and with a keen eye, visitors may spot these charismatic primates leaping from tree to tree.

The contrasting natural beauty of the Atlas Mountains and the lush greenery of the valleys create a visually captivating experience.

The tour’s emphasis on showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes and wildlife is a highlight for many guests.

• Awe-inspiring views of the Ziz Valley
• Rugged mountain landscapes surrounding the route
• Sightings of the endangered Barbary macaque in the Cedar Forests
• Diverse natural scenery throughout the journey

Inclusions, Accommodations, and Meals

For this private desert tour, travelers can expect a well-rounded experience with numerous inclusions.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle for the duration.

Accommodations are provided, with the first night in a private hotel room in Tinghir and the second night in a private tent at a desert camp.

Meals are also included, with 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners during the tour.

The camel ride across the sand dunes at sunset or sunrise is a highlight, with one camel per person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Have a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, this is a private tour experience. The tour is a 3-day private desert excursion from Marrakech to Fes, with an English-speaking driver and transportation in a private vehicle.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary Based on My Interests?

Yes, the private desert tour allows you to customize the itinerary based on your interests. You can discuss your preferences with the driver and they’ll tailor the experience to meet your needs.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Private Tour?

According to the tour overview, this is a private group experience without a specified group size. The tour is customized for each private group, allowing flexibility to accommodate individual interests and travel preferences.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Camel Trek?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks for the camel trek. However, the tour includes 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners, so additional snacks and beverages may not be necessary during the experience.

Is There Any Additional Cost for Special Dietary Requirements?

There’s no additional cost for special dietary requirements on the 3-day desert tour. The tour includes 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners, and travelers can arrange any other meals or snacks as needed during the trip.

The Sum Up

This 3-day private desert tour from Marrakech to Fes offers an unforgettable experience through Morocco’s captivating landscapes. Highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, a camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes, and the scenic Ziz Valley. Travelers will enjoy the country’s rich culture and natural beauty, culminating in the imperial city of Fes.

You can check availability for your dates here: