Day 1: Fes ⇢ Ifrane ⇢ Ziz Valley ⇢ Merzouga desert
Your fes to marrakech desert tour begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel or riad in Fes. The first stop is Ifrane, often nicknamed the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture, followed by a drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, where a stop in the cedar forest offers a chance to spot Barbary macaques in their natural habitat.
Continuing toward Merzouga, the road follows the palm-filled Ziz Valley, one of the most scenic stretches of the journey. You will reach Merzouga in the late afternoon, where a camel trek carries you into the dunes of Erg Chebbi toward your desert camp. Along the way, stop on a high dune to watch the sunset before settling in for an evening of traditional music, storytelling, and a night beneath the stars.
Driving distance: Approximately 500 km Driving time: Approximately 7.5 hours
Early risers can catch a peaceful sunrise over the dunes before breakfast at the camp. You can then choose to return to Merzouga town by camel or by 4×4, depending on your preference.
From there, the route continues toward Boumalne Dades, passing through Rissani, Erfoud, and Todra Gorge. If your visit coincides with a market day in Rissani (Sunday, Tuesday, or Thursday), you’ll have a chance to explore a traditional souk filled with local crafts and produce. At Todra Gorge, take time to walk along the river beneath the towering canyon walls of Tinghir.
Arrive in the Dades Valley in the afternoon, with a scenic detour to view the “monkey fingers” rock formations before checking into your hotel for the night.
Driving distance: Approximately 310 km Driving time: Approximately 5 hours
Day 3: Dades Valley ⇢ Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah ⇢ High Atlas Mountains ⇢ Marrakech
The final day of your fes to marrakech desert tour begins with a scenic drive through the Valley of Roses and Ouarzazate. In Ouarzazate, you can visit the Atlas Studios or simply take photos from outside before continuing.
A short distance from Ouarzazate lies the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its role in productions such as Game of Thrones and Gladiator. After the visit and lunch, the journey continues to Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters, with sweeping views along the way. You will arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon, bringing your 3-day desert tour to a close.
Driving distance: Approximately 353 km Driving time: Approximately 6.5 hours
