Set out on a captivating 3-day journey from Marrakech to Fes, where you’ll explore the enchanting landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains and discover the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, you’ll savor delicious local meals, including dinner and breakfast at comfortable accommodations. As you traverse through valleys and gorges, the highlight of your trip awaits – a magical sunset camel ride in the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. This Moroccan adventure promises to immerse you in the country’s rich culture and breathtaking scenery, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Good To Know
- A 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes featuring scenic drives through the High Atlas Mountains, UNESCO site of Ait Ben Haddou, and exploration of Dades Valley and Todgha Gorges.
- Overnight stays in Dades Valley and a desert camp in Erg Chebbi, with meals (dinner and breakfast) provided at the hotels.
- Camel ride experience in the Sahara Desert at sunset, offering an immersive encounter with the iconic Moroccan landscape.
- Drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains on the way to Fes, showcasing the region’s diverse scenery, including cedar forests and Berber villages.
- Pickup and accommodations arranged, with the itinerary allowing for breaks at scenic locations to immerse in the local culture.
3-Day Marrakech to Fes Tour Overview
The Fes Desert Tour kicks off with a scenic drive from Marrakech through the stunning High Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking views along the way.
Travelers will visit the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a delightful lunch in the charming village.
After reaching the Dades Valley, guests will settle into their hotel and savor a delicious dinner.
This 3-day adventure promises an immersive experience, with opportunities to explore the Todgha Gorges, embark on a camel ride in the Erg Chebbi sand dunes, and witness a magnificent sunrise before continuing the journey to the historic city of Fes.
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Highlights of the Itinerary
On the first day, travelers depart from Marrakech and embark on a scenic drive through the majestic High Atlas Mountains.
They’ll visit the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy lunch in the nearby village.
After reaching the Dades Valley, they’ll spend the night in a local hotel, savoring a delicious dinner.
The second day begins with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a walk along the stunning Todgha Gorges.
Next, they’ll hop on camels for a ride into the Erg Chebbi sand dunes, culminating in a breathtaking sunset.
The night is spent at a desert camp, where a delightful dinner awaits.
On the final day, travelers have the option to witness a stunning sunrise before driving through the Middle Atlas Mountains and along the Ziz River.
Lunch is served in Midelt before the tour concludes with drop-off at a Fes hotel.
Pickup and Accommodations
Pickup for the Fes Desert Tour takes place at the traveler’s hotel in Marrakech, where participants are advised to wait in the lobby 10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
The tour includes overnight accommodations at Dades Hotel Bougafer or Hotel Les Gazelle in the Dades Valley, and Layali desert camp in Erg Chebbi.
Meals are provided throughout the journey, including dinner and breakfast at both accommodations, as well as lunches during the tour.
The itinerary is designed to allow for breaks at scenic locations and to provide ample opportunities for participants to enjoy the local culture and stunning landscapes of the region.
High Atlas Mountain Scenery
As the scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains commences, travelers are treated to a breathtaking display of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and winding roads. The journey offers a glimpse into the region’s diverse landscapes, from the snow-capped summits to the lush green oases. Along the way, the road winds through picturesque Berber villages, where traditional mud-brick architecture blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Stopping at scenic overlooks provides ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs and soak in the serene atmosphere. The dramatic vistas of the High Atlas Mountains set the stage for the adventure that lies ahead.
Landscape | Elevation | Photo Opportunity |
---|---|---|
Rugged peaks | Up to 4,167 m (13,671 ft) | Capture the grandeur of the snow-capped summits |
Deep valleys | Varying depths | Showcase the scale and depth of the mountain ranges |
Winding roads | Traversing the terrain | Photograph the twisting roads that lead through the mountains |
Ait Ben Haddou UNESCO Site
The tour next ventures to the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled along the former caravan route connecting Marrakech to the Sahara Desert.
This ancient ksar, or fortified city, is renowned for its striking reddish-brown earthen buildings huddled together within defensive walls. Guests explore the maze-like alleys and climb to the top of the settlement, marveling at the panoramic views across the surrounding desert landscape.
Ait Ben Haddou has also served as a filming location for numerous Hollywood blockbusters, adding to its cinematic mystique.
After a delicious lunch in the village, the tour continues its scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains toward the Dades Valley.
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Dades Valley and Todgha Gorges
After exploring the ancient UNESCO site of Ait Ben Haddou, the tour continues its scenic journey towards the rugged splendor of the Dades Valley. The drive through the High Atlas Mountains offers breathtaking vistas, leading to the Dades Valley, where the group will spend the night. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:
Dades Valley Highlights | |
---|---|
Kasbah-style accommodations | Dinner and breakfast included |
Walk along the lush Dades River | Opportunity to interact with locals |
Explore the dramatic rock formations | Stunning landscape photography |
The next day, the tour heads to the Todgha Gorges, a stunning limestone canyon, where travelers can enjoy a leisurely walk and soak in the natural beauty before continuing the journey towards the Sahara Desert.
Sunset Camel Ride in Merzouga
Traversing the Erg Chebbi sand dunes in Merzouga atop a camel offers a quintessential Saharan experience.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the golden sand glows with a warm, ethereal light. Guests will marvel at the serene beauty of the desert landscape, with towering dunes stretching as far as the eye can see.
The gentle sway of the camel’s gait provides a tranquil and immersive journey, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the majesty of this iconic Moroccan setting.
This unforgettable sunset camel ride is a highlight of the 3-day tour, providing an authentic and memorable way to experience the captivating Sahara Desert.
Drive Through Middle Atlas Mountains
The journey from Merzouga to Fes takes travelers through the majestic Middle Atlas Mountains, a breathtaking region dotted with cedar forests, alpine lakes, and traditional Berber villages.
The winding roads offer stunning panoramic views, as the scenery shifts from the desert landscapes to the lush, green highlands.
Along the way, visitors may catch glimpses of the native Barbary macaque monkeys, as well as traditional Berber communities going about their daily lives.
The drive provides a peaceful contrast to the previous day’s camel trek, allowing travelers to absorb the tranquil beauty of the Middle Atlas before reaching their final destination in Fes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for this tour. Participants are advised to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for the desert climate and activities like camel riding. Layered clothing is recommended to adjust to temperature changes.
Can Children Participate in the Camel Ride?
Children can participate in the camel ride, though they’ll need to be accompanied by an adult. The tour company provides safety measures and ensures a comfortable experience for riders of all ages.
Are There Any Bathroom Breaks During the Long Drives?
Yes, the tour includes scheduled bathroom breaks during the long drives. The itinerary allows for stops at service stations and villages along the way to accommodate participants’ needs and ensure a comfortable experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
Participants are welcome to bring their own food and snacks during the tour. However, meals at the hotels and lunch stops are included in the tour price, so bringing additional food may not be necessary.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Shopping at Local Markets?
The itinerary doesn’t specifically allocate time for shopping at local markets. However, there may be opportunities to browse markets and shops during free time or meal breaks. The focus of the tour is on the sights and experiences.
The Sum Up
This 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes is a captivating exploration of Morocco’s enchanting landscapes. Travelers will enjoy the stunning scenery of the High Atlas Mountains, discover the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, and cap off the journey with a magical sunset camel ride in Erg Chebbi. With delicious meals and comfortable accommodations, this tour provides an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
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