This Marrakech to Fes Tour 4-day takes you from Marrakech to Fes, passing through beautiful landscapes and historical sites. The trip includes the High Atlas Mountains, the famous Telouet Kasbah, and the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah. You will also visit the film city of Ouarzazate, the Roses Valley, and the Dades Valley.
Along the way, there are stops at Todra Gorge, the town of Erfoud, and the Merzouga Desert, where you can ride camels across the Erg Chebbi dunes. The tour includes visits to the homes of Berber nomads, as well as scenic spots like Merzouga Lake and palm groves. It ends in Fes after passing through the Ziz Valley, the Cedar Forest, and the town of Ifrane.
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Starting Location: Marrakech
- Ending Location: Fes
Depart Time: | 8:00 AM |
Arrival Time: | 17:00 Pm |
Tour Type: | Private Trip |
Price: | Starts at €188 per person |
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains.
- Visit Telouet Kasbah.
- Explore Ait Ben Haddou.
- Discover Ouarzazate, known for its film studios.
- Drive through the Roses Valley.
- See Dades Valley with unique rock formations.
- Walk in Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon.
- Ride camels in the Merzouga Desert.
- Drive through the Ziz Valley and Cedar Forest.
- Visit Ifrane, the “Switzerland of Morocco.”
Itinerary of the Private Marrakech To Fes Desert Tour 4 days:
Day 1: Marrakech → Ouarzazate → Ait ben haddou → Roses Valley → Boumaln dades
We’ll begin the trip from Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N’Tichka pass. The road winds through stunning mountain scenery, with views of small Berber villages and deep valleys. It’s a great opportunity to take photos of the breathtaking landscapes along the way.
Our first main stop is the Telouet Kasbah, a historic fortress that was once home to powerful leaders. After exploring its fascinating ruins, we will head to Ait Benhaddou, a famous ancient village made of clay and stone. This village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has appeared in many popular movies.
We will continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “gateway to the desert,” where many movies are filmed. Passing through the fragrant Roses Valley, known for its rose gardens, we reach Dades Valley, where we will stay overnight in a riad, surrounded by impressive rock formations and the peaceful valley.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 320 Km
- Approx. 7 Hours (Including Stops)
- Accommodation Details:
- Accommodation Options:
- 1. Hotel Babylon Dades
- 2. Dar Blues
- 3. Eden Boutique Hotel
Day 2: Dades Valley →Todra Gorge → Ziz Valley → Erfoud → Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, we’ll leave Dades Valley and drive towards the stunning Todra Gorge, a deep canyon with towering cliffs. The gorge is known for its steep rock walls, and it’s a popular spot for hikers and photographers. We’ll take some time to walk through the gorge and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this natural wonder.
Next, we’ll continue our journey to Erfoud, a town famous for fossils and the gateway to the desert. You can see many shops selling fossils and explore the local culture. From here, the landscape starts to change as we get closer to the desert, with endless dunes appearing on the horizon.
In the afternoon, we’ll arrive at Merzouga, where the Erg Chebbi dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. you’ll experience a camel ride through the golden dunes, watching the sunset over the desert. At night, we stay in a desert camp, where you can enjoy a traditional meal and Berber music and sleep under the sky full of stars.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 270 Km
- Approx. 6 Hours (Including Stops)
- Accommodation Details:
- Options for Standard Camp:
- 1. Merzouga Standard Camp
- 2. Nomad Standard Camp
- 3. Erg Chebbi Standard Camp
- Options for Luxury Camp:
- 1. Africa Luxury Camp
- 2. Caravanserai Luxury Camp
- 3. Desert Luxury Camp
Day 3: Full Day in the Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi → Nomads → Khamlia → Merzouga Lake → Palm Grove)
We will begin the day by exploring the Erg Chebbi dunes, some of the tallest dunes in Morocco. You’ll experience the calm and beauty of the desert. We will visit a nomad family, where you can learn about their simple lifestyle and share a cup of traditional tea with them.
Next, we’ll visit the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnawa music. You’ll enjoy a live performance of this unique style of music, which is part of the village’s rich culture. After that, we’ll stop at the peaceful Merzouga Lake and explore the nearby palm groves, which bring a touch of green to the desert landscape.
In the evening, instead of returning to the desert camp, we head back to a comfortable riad in the nearby village. You can relax and enjoy a nice dinner at the riad, spending the night in a cozy and traditional Moroccan riad/hotel.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 50 Km
- Approx. 5 Hours (including Stops)
- Accommodation Details:
- Accommodation Options:
- 1. Riad Serai
- 2. Riad Madu
- 3. Riad Dar Hassan
Day 4: Merzouga Desert → Erfoud → Ziz Valley → Cedar Forest → Ifrane → Fes
After breakfast, we’ll leave the Merzouga Desert and head back through Erfoud, known for its fossils and desert charm. From there, we drive through the beautiful Ziz Valley, with its stunning palm groves and lush green scenery, a refreshing sight after the desert.
Next, we’ll pass through the Cedar Forest, home to friendly wild monkeys. We’ll stop here to enjoy the cool air and maybe feed the monkeys, which is a fun experience. The forest is peaceful and provides a nice break from the road.
As we continue, we will reach the town of Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” because of its European-style buildings and clean streets. After a short stop in Ifrane, we finally arrive in Fes, where the tour ends.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 470 Km
- Approx. 7 Hours (including Stops)
Included:
- Pick up and drop off at your accommodation in Marrakech.
- Private, comfortable A/C vehicle with a driver/guide.
- Camel trekking experience in the Merzouga desert.
- 1 night in a Riad in Boumaln Dades (including breakfast & Dinner).
- 1 night in a luxury camp in Merzouga (including dinner and breakfast).
- 1 night in a Riad in Merzouga (including dinner and breakfast).
- Guide and driver who speaks your language for the entire tour.
- Fuel and all taxes
- Sandboarding in the Sahara Desert.
Excluded:
- Lunches, Beverages
- Entrance fees to monuments or attractions.
Gallery:
Know Before You Go:
1. Packing Tips: Bring light clothing for the daytime and warmer layers for the evening, as the desert can get cold at night. Don’t forget sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
2. Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included each day, but you’ll need to pay for your own lunches. Your driver can recommend good local restaurants during the tour.
3. Camel Trekking: The camel ride to the desert camp in Merzouga is about an hour. Wear comfortable clothing, and don’t forget to bring a scarf or head covering to protect yourself from the sun and sand.
4. Accommodation: You’ll stay in a riad or hotel in Dades Valley and Fes, and in a traditional desert camp in Merzouga. These accommodations include dinner and breakfast.
5. Cash: It’s good to carry some local currency (Moroccan dirhams) for lunches, drinks, and tips, as not all places accept cards.
6. Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Wi-Fi might be available in hotels and some riads, but it can be limited in desert areas, especially at the camp.
7. Physical Activity: This tour includes walking and camel riding. If you have any health issues, let your driver know, and they can adjust the itinerary accordingly.
8. Language: Your driver and guide will speak your preferred language, so communication won’t be a problem.
9. Optional Extras: If you’re interested in activities like quad biking or a visit to movie studios in Ouarzazate, let your driver know, and they can help arrange it (at an additional cost).
10. Weather: The desert can get very hot during the day and cold at night. The best time to visit is spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate
Accommodation Options: Luxury Vs Standard
1. First Night & Third Night: Dades Valley & Merouga
- Standard Option: Stay in a simple riad & hotel. You’ll have a private room with a bathroom and a hot shower. Dinner and breakfast are included. A cozy and comfortable place after a day of travel.
- Luxury Option: Upgrade to a nicer hotel with bigger rooms, air conditioning, and extra amenities like a pool. Dinner and breakfast are included, offering more comfort and relaxation.
2. Second Night: Merzouga Desert Camp
- Standard Desert Camp: Stay in a traditional Berber tent. The camp is simple with shared bathrooms, providing a cozy desert experience. Dinner and breakfast are included, and you’ll sleep under the stars in the peaceful desert.
- Luxury Desert Camp: Stay in a private tent with your own bathroom and comfortable beds. The tents have electricity and better dining facilities. Dinner and breakfast are included, offering a more comfortable desert stay.
Note: If these camps and riads are fully booked, there are other excellent options. offering both standard and luxury stays for a fantastic desert experience.
Pricing Overview for the Marrakech To Fes Desert Trip 4 Days
The 4-Day Desert Trip Marrakech To Fes starts at €188 per person. The final price will vary based on your group size, choice of accommodation (luxury or standard camp), and the dates of travel.
Larger groups can enjoy a lower price per person. For an exact price, it’s best to contact the tour provider for a customized quote.
Group Size | Estimate Price (Per person) |
6 People | From €188 |
5 People | From €198 |
4 People | From €208 |
3 People | From €228 |
2 People | From €258 |
1 Person | From €318 |
- Prices include transportation, standard accommodation (hotel/standard camp), and meals (dinner and breakfast).
- Upgrading to luxury camps or adding activities like quad biking will increase the cost.
- Prices may vary depending on the season and availability.
Choose Your Tour Type: Private VS Shared
You can pick between a private tour for more personal options or a shared tour for a cheaper group experience. The table below shows the main differences:
Private Trip | Shared Trip |
Customized itinerary | Fixed itinerary |
Flexible departure time | Set departure time |
Exclusive vehicle and guide | Shared vehicle and guide with others |
Luxury camp or riad accommodation | Standard room in camp or riad |
Starts From 188€ per person | Starts From 118€ per person |
Extra Activities:
We offer extra activities to make your trip special. Before, during, or after your tour in Marrakech, we can plan fun experiences for you. Just tell us what you want!
Before The Trip | During The Trip | After The Trip |
Hot Air Balloon Ride in Marrakech | Professional Photographer | Guided Tour of Fes Medina |
Day Trip to Essaouira | Romantic Dinner in the Desert | Day Trip to Chefchaouen |
Day Trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls | Quad Biking Activity | Explore Volubilis |
Day Trip to Ourika Valley | Buggy Driving Activity | Family Cooking Class |
Marrakech Guided Trip | Horse Riding | Day Trip To Atlas Mountians |
Agafay Desert Trip | Picnic In Sahara Desert | Day Trip To Meknes |
Places to Visit on Your Marrakech To Fes Desert Tour 4 Days:
1. High Atlas Mountains:
The High Atlas Mountains have beautiful views and winding roads. You’ll pass through small Berber villages, seeing local life and green valleys before reaching the rocky mountain peaks.
2. Telouet Kasbah:
The Telouet Kasbah is an old fortress hidden in the mountains. Once home to powerful leaders, it is now an interesting historical site to explore with beautiful designs and a rich past.
3. Ait Ben Haddou
Ait Ben Haddou is a famous ancient village made of clay. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been used in many movies. Walking through its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time.
4. Ouarzazate:
Known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” Ouarzazate has film studios and the Taourirt Kasbah, an old fortress. It’s a city full of history and is the gateway to the Sahara Desert.
5. Roses Valley
The Roses Valley is known for its rose gardens. In the spring, roses bloom everywhere, and there’s even a Rose Festival. It’s a peaceful and beautiful place to stop on your journey.
6. Dades Valley:
The Dades Valley has unique rock formations called Monkey Fingers. It’s a scenic valley filled with green fields, kasbahs, and small villages, making it perfect for nature lovers.
7. Todra Gorge:
Todra Gorge is a deep canyon with tall rock walls, reaching up to 300 meters. There’s a small river running through it, making it a great spot for walks and photos.
8. Erfoud:
Erfoud is a town known for its fossils and desert markets. It’s a gateway to the Sahara Desert, and you’ll find shops selling fossils and local crafts here.
9. Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes):
The Erg Chebbi Dunes near Merzouga are huge, golden sand dunes. You can ride camels through the dunes and spend the night in a desert camp, sleeping under the stars.
10. Ziz Valley:
The Ziz Valley is full of palm trees and small villages. It’s a scenic drive through the valley, with green oases contrasting the surrounding desert landscapes.
11. Cedar Forest:
The Cedar Forest is known for its large trees and friendly wild monkeys. It’s a cool, refreshing stop before reaching the end of your journey.
12. Ifrane:
Ifrane is called the “Switzerland of Morocco” because of its clean streets and European-style buildings. It’s a peaceful town with cool weather and a perfect stop before arriving in Fes.
The drive from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert usually takes about 8 to 9 hours. However, the trip includes several stops along the way, such as the High Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, and other scenic spots. This helps break up the drive and gives you time to explore.
Yes, camel trekking is included in the tour, and it’s one of the highlights. You’ll ride camels in the Merzouga Desert, especially during sunset or sunrise, which adds to the magical experience of crossing the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Yes, dinner and breakfast are included in your accommodations each day. However, you will need to pay for your own lunches at restaurants along the route. Your guide will recommend good local places where you can enjoy traditional Moroccan food.
Yes, you have the option to upgrade to a luxury desert camp. These camps offer private tents with more comfort, including en-suite bathrooms, proper beds, and sometimes even electricity. This upgrade allows for a more relaxing desert experience.
In most standard desert camps, there may not be Wi-Fi. However, luxury camps do offer Wi-Fi, though the connection might be slow. It’s a good idea to disconnect and enjoy the peaceful desert environment while staying in the camp.
The tour is usually done in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, such as a 4×4, van, or minibus. The type of vehicle depends on the size of your group. The vehicles are equipped to handle long desert drives and rough terrain.
Yes, you can choose to end the tour in Marrakech instead of going to Fes. Just let the tour provider know when you book the trip.
Yes, the tour is suitable for children. Kids often enjoy the camel rides, exploring the desert, and seeing new landscapes. The tour is designed with family comfort and safety in mind, but it’s always good to let the guide know if you have special needs.
Important:
You can customize your trip to fit exactly what you want. If our suggested plan doesn’t work for you, you can decide how many days to spend and which places to visit. Want to add extra stops or stay longer? We can change the tour to match your preferences.
If you’re short on time, the 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is perfect for exploring the desert.
For more time to see gorges and valleys and return to Marrakech, or if you have a flight from Marrakech, choose the 4-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.
Let us know your preferences, and we’ll help create the perfect trip for you!
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