Best 3 Days Tour From Fes to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech
3 Days tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech OVERVIEW :
This 3 days tour from Fes to Merzouga and ends in Marrakech takes you on a scenic journey through Morocco’s stunning landscapes. On Day 1, depart Fes for the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane and Azrou, with a lunch stop in Midelt. Afterward, head towards the desert, where you’ll embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi Dunes for a night in a traditional Berber camp. Enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night in a nomadic tent. On Day 2, wake up to a mesmerizing desert sunrise before returning to your hotel and continuing your journey. Visit Todra Gorge, Dades Gorge, and the Rose Valley, arriving in Ouarzazate for the night. Day 3 takes you through the iconic Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before traveling to Marrakech via the scenic Tizi N’Tichka pass.
highlights of the 3 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert:
- Travel from Fes through Ifrane and Azrou, stopping for photos in the Middle Atlas.
- After lunch in Midelt, continue to Merzouga and enjoy a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi Dunes for a sunset experience.
- Stay overnight in a Berber camp.
- Watch the sunrise over the dunes, then travel through the Todra Gorges, Valley of the Roses, and the Thousand Kasbahs to Ouarzazate.
- Spend the night in a kasbah hotel.
- Visit Kasbah Tifoultout, Ouarzazate Studios, and Ait Benhaddou.
- Cross the Tizi N’Tichka Pass and return to Marrakech by evening.
Itinerary 3 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech
Day 1 : Fes – Midelt – Erfoud – Merzouga – Erg Chebbi
we will pick you up at your Riad or your hotel around 8:00 a.m. We leave for Midelt through the Mountains and the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas. We pass by Ifrane, a charming ski resort, and Azrou, an important handicraft center specializing in the work of cedar wood. We arrive in Midelt for lunch. In the afternoon we will drive to Erfoud and into the desert. You will have a camel trek into the beautiful Erg Chebbi Dunes, where you will spend the evening in a bivouac (camp). There you will enjoy a Berber dinner, and sleep in a traditional nomadic camel hair tent.
Day 2 : Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Gorges – Rose valley – Ouarzazate
Wake up for Sunrise lovely pictures, and Breakfast in the open air. We return by camel to the hotel for a Shower. Depart from Merzouga to Ouarzazate via Todra Gorge and Rose Valley. Transfer to Ouarzazate via Todra Gorge, Kelaa Mgouna (valley of the roses), the valley of one thousand kasbahs, and Skoura palmerie. Have a night in a nice Kasbah hotel in Ouarzazate.
Day 3 : Ouarzazate – Tizi n’tichka – Marrakech
After breakfast, the entire day is devoted to a visit to Ouarzazate: visit the Kasbah of Tifoultout and the cinema studio. Then you will drive to the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou (under Unesco protection); visit the Kasbah and the old village, afternoon departure to Marrakech via the Tizi-N-Ticha pass; arrive in Marrakech around 6:30 pm. End of your 3 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech.
included :
- Transport in 4×4 car with Air condition
- Private driver/English speaking guide
- Accommodation (dinner and breakfast) in hotels
- Camel ride through the desert
- Sleep in desert tent
excluded :
- Airline tickets
- Noon meals
- Drinks
- Entrance fees
Map – 3 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech
Know Before You Go: Essential Travel Tips for Morocco – 3 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech
1. Culture & Etiquette
- Morocco is welcoming and culturally rich, but traditions are important. Dress modestly in rural areas and when visiting markets or religious sites.
- Greetings matter: a simple “Salam Alaikum” always creates a warm connection.
- Public displays of affection are uncommon, especially outside big cities.
- Always ask before taking photos of locals, especially in the desert or souks.
2. Money, ATMs & Payments
- Moroccan currency is the Dirham (MAD) and is not available outside the country.
- ATMs are widely available in major cities; withdraw when you can; small towns have fewer machines.
- Souks, small restaurants, and local guides often prefer cash.
- Credit cards are accepted in hotels, riads, and large businesses, but not always in rural areas.
- Bring some small bills for tips, markets, and snacks.
3. Safety & Health Tips
- Morocco is generally very safe for travelers, including solo female travelers.
- Petty theft can happen in crowded markets; keep your belongings secure.
- Tap water is not recommended; bottled water is cheap and everywhere.
- Street food is amazing but choose busy, clean vendors.
- Pharmacies are easy to find, and medication access is good.
4. Transportation & Getting Around
- Taxis are affordable; use small taxis for city rides and grand taxis for longer distances.
- Trains between Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and Marrakech are clean and reliable.
- For the desert, expect long but scenic drives; the journey is part of the adventure.
- Renting a car is common, but driving in medinas is not recommended.
5. Weather & Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal: pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Summers can reach 45°C in the desert and southern regions.
- Winter brings cold nights, especially in the mountains and the Sahara, pack warmth even if the days are sunny.
- Coastal cities like Casablanca and Essaouira are breezy and mild year-round.
6. Packing Tips for Morocco
- Light, breathable clothing for the day + warmer layers for evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes for medinas and uneven streets.
- A scarf or shawl, useful for sun, wind, or modesty in cultural areas.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (Morocco is sunny all year).
- Portable charger, desert camps, and long drives may have limited outlets.
- Small backpack for day trips and medinas.
7. Desert Travel Tips
- Desert nights are cold from October to April; pack fleece, warm socks, and a jacket.
- Summer desert days are extremely hot; drink water often and wear loose cotton clothes.
- Camel rides are part of the experience; wear long pants to avoid friction.
- Sand can get into everything—keep devices in zipped bags.
- Electricity in camps is limited; charge essentials beforehand.
- If you’re staying in a luxury camp, they often provide showers, hot water, and comfortable bedding.
8. Food & Eating Customs
- Moroccan cuisine is flavorful but not always spicy—great for most travelers.
- Tajines, couscous, harira, and mint tea are must-tries.
- Sharing food is a sign of hospitality; you’ll often be offered more than you can finish.
- Eating with the hand (right hand) is traditional in some places but not required—utensils are always available.
9. Communication & Language
- Moroccan Arabic (Darija) is the main language.
- French is widely spoken in cities.
- Many locals in tourism also speak English, Spanish, or Italian.
Useful phrases:
• “Shukran” – Thank you
• “Safi” – Enough / okay
• “Besh-hal?” – How much?
10. What to Expect in Souks
- Souks are lively, colorful, and full of bargains.
- Haggling is normal—start at 30–40% of the asking price and negotiate politely.
- Vendors are friendly and love conversation; take your time.
FAQs – 3 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech
1. Is Morocco safe for travelers?
Yes. Morocco is generally very safe, especially in major cities and tourist areas. Just stay aware of your belongings in busy markets.
2. Do I need a visa to enter Morocco?
Most travelers from Europe, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter without a visa for up to 90 days. Check the latest rules for your nationality.
3. What is the best time to visit Morocco?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most comfortable weather. Desert nights can get very cold in winter.
4. How many days do I need for a desert tour?
A 3-day tour is the ideal minimum from Marrakech or Fes. It allows time for stops, landscapes, and a night in the Sahara.
5. What should I pack for a desert trip?
Light clothing for the day, warm layers for the night, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a scarf for wind or sand.
6. Are desert camps comfortable?
Yes. Most desert camps offer proper beds, blankets, private or shared bathrooms, and traditional meals. Luxury camps provide hot showers and electricity.
7. Is camel riding comfortable?
Camel rides are safe but can feel bumpy. Wearing long pants and holding the saddle firmly helps. You can request a 4×4 transfer if preferred.
8. Can I buy a SIM card in Morocco?
Yes. SIM cards are cheap and easy to get at the airport or in major cities. Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi are the main operators.
9. Is tap water safe to drink?
It’s better to drink bottled water. It’s inexpensive and widely available.
10. What type of clothing is recommended?
Dress modestly in rural areas. Comfortable, breathable clothes work best. A light jacket is useful for cool evenings.
11. Do people in Morocco speak English?
English is common in tourism. French is widely spoken in cities, and locals appreciate simple Arabic greetings.
12. Can I use credit cards everywhere?
Hotels, riads, and big restaurants accept cards. Markets, small cafés, and local shops usually prefer cash.
13. How much should I tip in Morocco?
A small tip is appreciated. Around 10% in restaurants, a few dirhams for cafés, and small tips for drivers or guides.
14. Are long drives required for desert tours?
Yes. The Sahara is far from major cities, but the journey includes scenic mountains, valleys, and Berber villages.
15. What’s the weather like in the Sahara?
Hot during the day in summer, cold at night in winter. Expect strong sun year-round.
Overview of the 3 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech
This 3-day journey from Fes to Marrakech was the highlight of our trip. The landscapes changed every hour, from cedar forests to palm valleys, and the night in Merzouga was magical. Our guide was fun, knowledgeable, and made the long drive enjoyable with great music and stories. Highly recommend!
Yes, the distances are long, but the scenery is stunning, and the stops are well planned. The desert camp exceeded expectations, with comfortable beds, delicious food, and the night sky full of stars. The drive through the Todra Gorge and the High Atlas was breathtaking. Fantastic experience for couples or families.
We loved every moment of this tour. The camel ride at sunset, the luxury desert camp, and the warm hospitality made it incredible. Our driver stopped for photos anytime we asked and showed us great local places to eat. We felt safe and well taken care of the whole way.
Everything was organized perfectly from start to finish. The car was clean, the guide was always on time, and the itinerary was exactly as described. We especially enjoyed the Berber music around the campfire and sunrise over the dunes. A truly memorable way to travel from Fes to Marrakech.
