3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour in Morocco: Everything You Need to Know
Are you thinking about booking a Marrakech to Fes desert tour and wondering if it’s actually worth spending three full days on the road? It’s one of the most iconic journeys in Morocco and trust me, after doing it myself, I can confidently say it’s worth every single mile. From the dramatic High Atlas Mountains to ancient kasbahs, winding gorges, and the magical Sahara Desert, this route packs in some of the most stunning landscapes in Morocco. If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, one experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss is the 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour.
When my husband and I were planning our Morocco trip, we kept hearing the same thing from everyone: “You HAVE to do the desert tour!” With only limited days in Morocco and a big list of places we wanted to see, we needed a route that would cover a lot without the stress of planning each stop ourselves.
In this blog, I’m breaking down everything you need to know before you book—what’s included, the itinerary, FAQs, and helpful tips to make your trip smooth and stress-free.
Disclosure: This trip was hosted by Morocco Fabulous Travel. However, all opinions, experiences, and recommendations shared in this blog are entirely my own.
Private vs Small Group Tours
When you’re booking a Marrakech to Fes desert tour, one of the first things you’ll decide is whether to take a private tour or join a small group. Both options cover the same route, but the experience can feel completely different. My husband and I chose a small group tour with Morocco Fabulous Travel, and it turned out to be the perfect choice for us. Our vehicle had space for six people, but we were only four in total (just us and another family of two), so the entire three-day journey felt spacious, relaxed, and almost semi-private.
If you’re someone who prefers flexibility, privacy, or a custom-paced itinerary, a private Marrakech to Fes 3-day tour is definitely the better choice. But if you’re traveling on a budget or simply don’t mind sharing the experience, a small group tour can be just as enjoyable.
About the tour I booked
With only a few days to travel between Marrakech and Fes, I knew I wanted a tour that wasn’t rushed, included the major highlights, and offered a comfortable way to see the Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, the Todgha Gorges, and of course… a night in the Sahara Desert. So when I found a 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour with Morocco Fabulous Travel, I booked it right away!
I chose the small group option, which was perfect for us. Our car was supposed to fit six people, but there were only four of us—my husband, myself, and another family of two.
The moment we started our drive from Marrakech, I knew this trip was going to be unforgettable. Picture this: wide open desert views, sunset camel rides, cozy nights under a sky full of stars, and friendly locals who make the journey even more special.
This tour can also be done in reverse as a “Fes to Marrakech desert tour.” Alternatively, if you prefer to end your journey back in Marrakech, you can opt for the “3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga”
My 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Sahara Desert Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech → Ait Ben Haddou → Dades Valley
My Marrakech to Fes desert tour started bright and early at 8:00 AM. I and my husband were picked up right from Jemaa el-Fnaa, the heart of Marrakech, where we met Brahim, our driver and guide for the next three days.
We left Marrakech and drove for about an hour toward the Atlas Mountains. As soon as the city disappeared behind us, the scenery shifted to winding mountain roads and traditional Berber villages sitting quietly on the hillsides. Our first quick stop was for a cup of fresh mint tea with incredible views overlooking the mountains.
Soon after, we continued our journey to the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest mountain pass in Morocco. We pulled over for a quick photo stop, and wow, the wind up there was wild! But the dramatic mountain scenery made every windswept moment worth it.
Our next major stop was Ait Ben Haddou, one of the most iconic and historically significant kasbahs in Morocco. Wandering through its ancient mud-brick alleys truly felt like stepping back in time. Brahim shared fascinating stories about how this UNESCO-listed village has been featured in major films and series such as Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and The Mummy.
We climbed all the way to the top of the kasbah, where we were rewarded with sweeping views of the old fortified village and the surrounding desert plains. It’s one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to another century.
After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, we stopped for lunch at a nearby restaurant. This was a good break before continuing our journey deeper into the mountains.
The afternoon drive took us toward the Dades Valley, one of the most breathtaking regions in Morocco. Before reaching our hotel, we made two scenic stops: Monkey Fingers, known for its uniquely shaped rock formations, and the Timzzillite viewpoint, where we stood above the winding Dades Gorge road – one of the most photographed roads in Morocco.
By early evening, we checked into our hotel in the Dades Valley. The property overlooked the valley, and the views were absolutely beautiful, especially as the sun started to set. We had a private room with our own bathroom, which felt comforting after a full day of exploring.
Dinner was served shortly after, and it was delicious. Warm soup to start, followed by local Moroccan dishes like aubergine tagine and freshly baked bread. It was the perfect end to our first day on the road.
Day 2: Dades Valley → Todgha Gorges → Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
Next day, After breakfast in our hotel, we headed to the Tinghir Oasis viewpoint. Tinghir Oasis is a long stretch of lush greenery tucked between dramatic desert mountains. The view from the top is stunning; you can see the entire oasis stretching like a green ribbon in the middle of an otherwise dry landscape.
After that, we continued toward the Todgha Gorges. Todgha Gorges is a breathtaking natural wonder – towering limestone cliffs rising almost 300 meters on both sides, creating a narrow canyon with a river running through it. The walls change color throughout the day, glowing in soft shades of orange and gold when sunlight hits them. Walking through the gorge feels surreal, with rock climbers scaling the cliffs and locals passing by with their mules.
We then stopped for lunch at a local Berber place where they served Berber pizza, chicken skewers, and tajine along with the classic Moroccan mint tea. Everything was fresh, hearty, and so delicious. After lunch, we visited a Berber shop where we dressed up in traditional outfits and took some fun photos.
Then we hopped back into our car and headed toward the highlight of the tour – The Sahara Desert. As we drove, the landscape slowly transformed from rocky gorges to soft golden dunes. This was the moment I had been waiting for – the first glimpse of the golden Sahara dunes. It’s such a breathtaking sight when the dunes suddenly appear on the horizon.
Brahim set the vibe perfectly by playing chill Berber songs, and the entire drive felt like a cinematic moment. Merzouga, a quiet and dusty village near the Algerian border, welcomed us with its peaceful charm. It’s best known as the gateway to the rose-gold dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Upon reaching Merzouga, we started our one-hour camel ride into the dunes for sunset. Watching the sun melt into the horizon over the Sahara is honestly impossible to put into words — the silence, the colors, the vastness… it felt magical. After sunset, we hopped back on our camels and were dropped off at our luxury desert camp for the night.
We had dinner at the camp, followed by live Berber music performances around the fire. The sky was unbelievably clear, and seeing the Milky Way above the desert was something I’ll never forget. We took so many beautiful night sky photos before finally calling it a night.
We spent the night in a private tent with comfortable bedding, and it honestly felt much nicer than I expected a desert camp to be. Our tent even had a private bathroom and a shower ! I wasn’t prepared for this level of comfort in the desert. It was stunning and the perfect place to stay.
Day 3: Merzouga → Ziz Valley → Middle Atlas Mountain → Ifrane → Fes
We woke up early on the final morning to catch the sunrise over the dunes, and honestly—it was worth every bit of lost sleep. Watching the Sahara slowly brighten from deep blue to gold felt peaceful, magical, and like one of those moments you never forget.
After breakfast, a 4×4 picked us up from our desert camp and dropped us at the meeting point, where we reunited with Brahim for the long drive to Fes. It was a full travel day, but the changing landscapes and scenic stops along the way broke it up nicely.
Our first stop was Ziz Valley, where we stretched our legs and took in sweeping views of one of the largest oasis valleys in Morocco. Palm trees, fertile green patches, and mountains in the distance. It was a beautiful contrast to the desert dunes we had just left.
After few hours of drive and lunch in between, we stopped at the Cedar Forest, home to wild Barbary macaques. We spent some time watching them leap, climb, and groom each other in the trees. After two days in the desert, the cool air and green forest felt like entering a completely different part of the country.
Our final stop before reaching Fes was Ifrane, often nicknamed “Little Switzerland” because of its alpine architecture, clean streets, and surrounding forests. It’s the kind of town you don’t expect to find in Morocco at all – quiet and surrounded by mountain scenery.
By a little past 6 PM, we arrived in Fes and were dropped off at our accommodation. We said our goodbyes to Brahim and the other family in our group, grateful for the friendships we’d made and for the safe, smooth journey throughout the tour.
What’s Included in a 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour
One thing I always check before booking any multi-day Morocco tours is what’s actually included, because it makes a huge difference in planning and budgeting. Our Marrakech to Fes 3-day tour with Morocco Fabulous Travel was very clear and straightforward, and once we started the journey, everything matched exactly what was promised.
Our tour included transportation for all three days in a comfortable air-conditioned car. Since our small group had only four people, we had plenty of space, which made the long drives so much easier.
The tour also included two nights of accommodation—one in a cozy hotel in the Dades Valley and the second in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga. Both stays came with dinner and breakfast, and the meals were surprisingly delicious.
The camel ride into the Sahara Desert was also included, and this was honestly one of the most magical parts of the entire trip. At the camp, we were welcomed with mint tea, live traditional music, and a cozy setup under a sky full of stars.
Lunch and optional activities weren’t included, which is pretty standard for most desert tours in Morocco. We spent around 150–180 Moroccan Dirhams per lunch, plus some extra cash for small purchases along the way.
Things to Know Before You Go
Before you book your Marrakech to Fes desert tour, there are a few things I wish I had known nothing major, but definitely helpful for planning the best experience. First, prepare for long driving days. Morocco is huge, and you’ll cover a lot of ground over three days.
The drives are scenic and broken up with viewpoints, villages, and photo stops, but it’s still important to know what you’re signing up for. If you tend to get car sick, bring motion-sickness tablets just in case, especially for the winding Atlas Mountain roads.
One thing that made our experience incredible was being in a small group. We were only four people in total, which made the entire journey more personal, flexible, and easygoing. If you prefer more privacy or want full control over stops and timing, consider upgrading to a private tour. Otherwise, a small group is the perfect balance between comfort and value.
The weather can vary a lot depending on the season. In November, the mornings and evenings in the desert can be chilly, while the afternoons are warm. Layered clothing is a must, especially if you’re planning to watch sunrise or sunset in the Sahara. Comfortable walking shoes are also essential, particularly if you plan to explore kasbahs or the gorges.
It’s also a good idea to carry some cash in Moroccan Dirhams for small expenses, like drinks, tips, or souvenirs. While most major stops are included in the tour, lunches and optional activities, and some smaller shops may not accept cards.
Finally, know that this tour isn’t just about “getting to the desert.” It’s a full cultural and scenic journey through mountains, valleys, Berber villages, and historic sites. Some people underestimate how much there is to see along the way, but honestly, the road trip itself became one of my favorite things of the entire Morocco itinerary. As long as you go in knowing what to expect – stunning landscapes, early starts, long drives, and unforgettable moments – you’ll absolutely love this experience.
What to Pack for Your Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour
Packing for a Marrakech to Fes desert tour is easier than you think, but a few key items can make your trip so much more comfortable. Here’s everything I recommend bringing based on my experience.
Start with comfortable clothing that you can layer. The temperatures change a lot throughout the day, especially in the Sahara. I wore lightweight pants, a breathable top, and a warm jacket or fleece for early mornings and nights. A scarf or shawl is also super useful—not only for warmth, but also to protect your face from the wind or sand. If you plan to take lots of photos (which you will!), bring an outfit you love for sunset in the dunes.
Good footwear is important too. I brought sneakers, which were perfect for walking through gorges, viewpoints, and village areas. Sandals are fine for camp, but you’ll want closed shoes for most of the activities.
Don’t forget sun protection. The desert sun is no joke, even in cooler months. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
As for toiletries, I always pack a small kit with tissues, hand sanitizer, and wipes. Also bring your charger, power bank, and whatever camera gear you like. There are so many beautiful spots you’ll want to capture!
Lastly, make sure you carry enough cash. A lot of small shops, cafés, and restrooms along the way don’t take cards.
FAQs: Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour
If you’re considering a Marrakech to Fes desert tour, you probably have a few questions. I had the same ones before booking, so here’s everything I learned from my experience with Morocco Fabulous Travel.
How long is the tour?
The full tour takes three days and two nights. Day 1 takes you from Marrakech to Dades Valley, Day 2 from Dades Valley through Todgha Gorges to Merzouga, and Day 3 from the Sahara Desert to Fes. Each day involves several hours of driving, but the scenery along the way makes the time fly.
Can the tour be done in reverse?
Yes! If you’re starting from Fes, you can opt for the “Fes to Marrakech desert tour” which follows the same route in reverse. For travelers who want to focus more on the desert experience and end back in Marrakech, there’s also the “3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.”
What’s included in the tour?
The tour typically includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, transportation in a modern air-conditioned vehicle, two nights of accommodation (one in a hotel in Dades Valley and one in a luxury desert camp), two dinners and two breakfasts, and a camel trek in the Sahara Desert. Optional activities, and lunches are usually not included.
When is the best time to do the tour?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal. The weather is comfortable for driving and outdoor activities, and the Sahara isn’t too hot. We did our trip in November, and the mornings and evenings were cool, while the afternoons were pleasantly warm
Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring layered clothing, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone for the incredible landscapes, and some cash for optional purchases and lunches.
Final Thoughts
We only had a few days to make our way from Marrakech to Fes, and this tour let us experience so many iconic Moroccan landscapes in such a short amount of time with almost zero planning on our end. It was scenic, packed with adventure, and honestly one of the most memorable parts of our entire Morocco trip.
If I were to do it again, I might also consider the reverse route Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour, especially if your itinerary works better starting up north. And if you’re someone who prefers ending back in Marrakech, the 3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Tour is another great option that focuses entirely on the desert experience while still including the major highlights.
No matter which direction you go or which tour you choose, the Sahara is hard to beat. It’s fast-paced, long at times, and a little chaotic in the best way—but it’s also unbelievably beautiful and absolutely worth squeezing into your Morocco itinerary. This is one of those trips you think about long after you’ve left, and I’m so glad we did it.
In short, if you’ve been wondering whether a Marrakech to Fes desert tour is worth it, my answer is a resounding yes.