3 Day Marrakech to Fez Sahara Desert Tour

Set off on a Marrakech to Fez Desert Tour, spending time in Morocco’s varied landscapes. Our private desert tours offer an exclusive journey from Marrakech to Fez, unveiling the allure of the Sahara. Traverse wide vistas, from golden dunes to traditional Berber villages, with our expert guides ensuring an authentic experience. With the Marrakech to Fez Desert Tour, witness the splendour of the Atlas Mountains, camp under starlit skies, and relish the cultural richness of Morocco. This in-depth journey promises a seamless blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and moments to remember in the heart of the desert.

A Unique Desert Adventure from Marrakech to Fez

This private desert tour allows you to travel between the iconic cities of Marrakech and Fez while experiencing a unique desert adventure. Available in a 3-day version or longer, the tour includes exciting activities like camel trekking and sandboarding.

Highlights

1. Cross the High Atlas Mountains with its Tizi Ntichka pass
2. Explore Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou famous for its still-existing film sets
3. Visit the oasis of Skoura and the Kasbah of Amridil
4. Drive along the Valley of the Roses and the road of 1001 Kasbahs
5. Walk in Todra oasis to the Gorges and visit a Berber village
6. Enjoy a splendid sunset camel ride in Erg Chebbi dunes
7. Spend the night under the stars at your Sahara desert camp
8. Drive along Ziz Valley and cross the Middle Atlas Mountains to Fez
9. Stop in cedar forests to watch Barbary apes

Know Before You Go: Preparing for the Marrakech to Fez Desert Tour

Setting off on the Marrakech to Fez Desert Tour is a thrilling adventure, but proper preparation can make your journey even more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to know:

Climate and Weather

The desert climate can be extreme. During the day, expect high temperatures, which can drop drastically at night. Pack light, breathable clothing for the day, and warm layers for the cool desert evenings. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Essential Gear

A sturdy pair of comfortable walking shoes is a must, as you’ll be exploring diverse terrain. A good travel backpack, refillable water bottles, and a portable charger will also enhance your experience. Bring a small first aid kit, including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medication you might need.

Cultural Etiquette

Morocco is rich in culture and traditions. Modest attire is recommended to respect local customs, particularly in rural areas and during visits to religious sites. Learn basic Arabic phrases, such as “Salam Alaikum” (Peace be upon you) and “Shukran” (Thank you), to engage respectfully with locals.

Currency and Payments

The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD) and you can pay in (USD) or (Euros). While credit cards are accepted in major cities, cash is preferred in rural areas and small towns. ATMs are available in bigger towns, but it’s wise to carry enough cash for remote locations.

Health and Safety

Staying hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of water and consider using a hydration pack for convenience. Be cautious of food from street vendors if you have a sensitive stomach, and it’s advisable to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

What to Expect

• Travel Time: The journey from Marrakech to Fez can take several hours. Sit back and enjoy the scenic landscapes, which include the High Atlas Mountains and the Erg Chebbi dunes.
• Accommodation: Overnight stays in traditional desert camps are often part of the experience. These camps range from basic to luxurious, so confirm details beforehand.
• Local Highlights: Savor the opportunity to ride camels, visit ancient kasbahs, and witness sunsets over the dunes. Don’t miss the chance to explore Ifran, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco,” due to its alpine-style architecture and pristine environment.

Prepare well, be open to new experiences, and you’ll have a real adventure on your Marrakech to Fez Desert Tour.

How Flexible Are the Lunch and Activity Options on the Marrakech to Fez Desert Tour?

The lunch and activity options on the Marrakech to Fez Desert Tour are highly flexible to cater to your preferences. While the tour has scheduled stops for meals, these aren’t set in stone. Your guide is open to altering the plans based on your wishes, whether you want to try a different restaurant or need to adjust timings to fit personal activities.

Customizable Lunch Stops

• Scheduled Yet Adaptable: While there are predefined lunch stops, the itinerary can be adjusted.
• Local Cuisine Variety: Choose among various local eateries to suit your taste.
• Dietary Accommodations: Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary options available upon request.

Flexible Activity Schedule

• Tailored Experiences: The tour guide can customize activities based on your interests.
• Additional Activities: Options to include camel rides, local market visits, and cultural experiences.
• Time Management: If you need more or less time at certain spots, the schedule can be modified.

This level of flexibility ensures you have a personalized and enjoyable experience throughout your journey from Marrakech to Fez.

What’s Included?

• Private Transportation aboard a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle.
• Pick up from your Hotel/Riad in Marrakech (or from the airport).
• Drop off at your Hotel/Riad in Fez (or at the airport).
• English-speaking Berber nomad driver.
• Fuel for the entire Chebbi travel desert package.
• All-night accommodations.
• Dinners & Breakfasts
• Camel trekking in Erg Chebbi dunes.
• Sandboarding in Erg Chebbi dunes.
• Berber music at night around the fire under the stars in Erg Chebbi desert camp.
• Free stops when you want.

3 Day Marrakech to Fez Sahara Desert Tour

1. 1

   Marrakech to Dades ( 7 HOURS DRIVE )

   Your Marrakech to Fez Morocco Desert Trip will depart from your hotel or riad at 7:30 AM, heading towards Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou through the Tizi Ntichka pass and the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we'll make several stops to take in the wide views. Our first major stop is at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a historic fortress that has served as the backdrop for numerous Hollywood blockbusters. After exploring the kasbah, we continue to Ouarzazate, where we'll visit Kasbah Taourirte before enjoying lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, we will drive through the scenic Valley of the Roses on our way to Boumalne Dades. Here, you'll check into a charming boutique guest house located in the Dades Valley. Enjoy a delicious dinner and relax for the night in this scenic setting. Meals: Dinner Accommodation: Boutique guest house in Dades Valley
2. 2

   Dades to Merzouga ( 4 HOURS DRIVE )

   After breakfast, we’ll set off on a scenic drive along the road of 1001 Kasbahs to the oasis of Tinghir. Along the way, you’ll be captivated by the varied scenery and the remnants of fortified villages that once hosted caravan routes until the early 20th century. Upon arrival in Tinghir, a former military post during the French occupation, we’ll take a detour to the oasis. Feel free to walk beside the stream, observing locals as they farm and herd their cattle. Your walk will culminate at one of the tour’s highlights: the Todgha Gorges. After lunch at a local café, we’ll continue to Rissani, one of Morocco's holiest towns. The current ruling dynasty, the Alaouites, originated here, and their founder is buried locally. Rissani was also a key starting point for ancient caravan routes crossing the Sahara to Timbuktu. From Rissani, we’ll traverse rocky terrain to reach Merzouga, where our camel caravan will be waiting. Enjoy a camel ride over the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes, culminating in a sunset. We’ll then return to our Sahara desert camp, set in the heart of the desert. Dinner will be served under the stars, with entertainment provided by our local nomad hosts, who will play traditional drums throughout the night. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Accommodation: Sahara Desert Camp
3. 3

   Merzouga to Fez( 8 HOURS DRIVE )

   After breakfast at your camp, we will set out on a long drive to Fez, crossing the Ziz Valley and passing through Errachidia, the capital of the Tafilalt region. Continuing our journey, we’ll reach Midelt, where you can enjoy lunch at your leisure. After lunch, we will drive across the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, known for their cedar forests and charming Berber towns like Imouzzar and Ifrane. We expect to arrive in Fez late in the afternoon. Your Marrakech to Fez desert tour concludes with a drop-off at your chosen riad or hotel in Fez. Meals: Breakfast