Marrakech to Fes
Erg Chebbi Desert Tour
3 Days
Overview
This 3-day one-way desert tour from Marrakech to Fes offers a fast-paced but unforgettable journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes. Travel through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, explore ancient kasbahs, walk through dramatic gorges, and spend a magical night under the stars in the Sahara Desert. Ideal for travelers short on time, this route combines cultural highlights with scenic drives and an authentic desert experience.
Highlights
• Cross the scenic High Atlas Mountains and Tizi-n-Tichka Pass
• Explore the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
• Drive through the Valley of the Roses and the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs
• Visit the stunning Dades and Todra Gorges
• Sunset camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Overnight stay in a luxury Sahara desert camp with Berber music
• Pass through Rissani and Erfoud, the gateway to the desert
• Enjoy views of the lush Ziz Valley and Mid-Atlas cedar forests
• End your journey in the cultural capital of Fes
What's Included
• Private transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4 or van
• Experienced English-speaking nomad driver-guide
• Hotel pick-up in Marrakech and drop-off at your hotel in Fes
• Two nights’ accommodation (one night in luxury desert camp)
• Daily breakfast and dinner (vegetarian and vegan options available)
• Camel trek in Erg Chebbi with optional sandboarding
• Berber music and campfire drumming
• Guided walks and free time at scenic stops
• Tea and coffee at the desert camp
Not Included
• Lunches
• Local guides
• Entrance fees
• Tips
Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley
Depart from Marrakech early in the morning and journey across the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi-n-Tichka Pass. Visit the famous Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and filming location for many Hollywood epics. Continue through Ouarzazate and the Skoura Oasis, then travel along the scenic Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. Pass through the fragrant Valley of the Roses before arriving in the Dades Valley. Overnight in a local riad or hotel with views over the valley..
Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)
After breakfast, explore the dramatic rock formations of the Dades Gorges, then drive to the towering Todra Gorges, where you can take a short walk through the canyon. Continue your journey through the desert towns of Tinjdad and Erfoud, known for fossils and local markets. Arrive in Merzouga by late afternoon, where your camel awaits to carry you into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy a breathtaking sunset and an evening of Berber music, storytelling, and dinner at your luxury desert camp.
Day 3: Merzouga to Fes
Wake early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast at camp. Depart via 4x4, then begin the journey north. Pass through the Ziz Valley, known for its sweeping palm groves, and stop for lunch in Midelt, nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains. Continue through the cedar forests near Azrou, where you may spot Barbary macaques, before arriving in Fes by evening. Drop-off at your riad or hotel in the medina.
* This 3-Day Marrakech to Erg Chebbi Desert Tour can be customized to create a personalized experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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This tour is private and customizable, meaning you'll travel with your own group and have a dedicated driver-guide throughout the journey.
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We recommend packing comfortable walking shoes, a hat or scarf for sun protection, sunglasses, layers for cooler desert nights.
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Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs can be accommodated just let us know in advance so we can prepare accordingly.
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You’ll stay in comfortable, locally-owned riads or boutique hotels with traditional Moroccan charm, and spend one unforgettable night in a luxury desert camp with en-suite tents, hot showers, and a star-filled sky overhead.
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The camel ride is optional. If you prefer not to ride a camel, we can arrange a 4x4 transfer to the desert camp with no extra cost—just let us know your preference ahead of time.