3-Day Marrakech to Fez Desert Tour: Ait Ben Haddou & Merzouga

Summary

Marrakech to Fez Sahara Journey: Camel Trek & Kasbahs

If you want to see Morocco beyond postcards—mountain passes, ancient kasbahs, real Berber hospitality—this three-day trip from Marrakech to Fez covers it all: camel rides at sunset, starry desert nights, lively markets, and landscapes that change every hour.

What’s the experience like?

The first morning kicked off early—bags packed, the city still waking up as we left Marrakech behind. The minivan climbed steadily into the High Atlas, twisting past roadside stalls where locals sold oranges and flatbread. Somewhere near Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, our guide Youssef pulled over for mint tea at a tiny café. The air was crisp up there, and I remember the way the wind carried the smell of wild thyme. We snapped a few photos before heading down toward Ait Ben Haddou. Walking through that ancient mud-brick kasbah felt like stepping into a movie set (which, turns out, it actually is—Youssef pointed out spots from Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia). Ouarzazate was just a quick stop—Atlas Studios loomed in the distance but we kept rolling through the Valley of Roses. By sunset, we reached Dades Gorge. Dinner at the hotel was simple but hearty; I could hear water trickling somewhere outside my window all night.

The next day started with a walk in Todra Gorges—the rocks towered above us and you could hear birds echoing between them. We drove along what locals call “the road of 1000 Kasbahs,” passing Tineghier village and an old Jewish kasbah that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking. Lunch in Rissani meant fresh bread and dates from the market stalls (the place buzzes with people buying spices and carpets). By late afternoon, we swapped wheels for camels in Merzouga. Riding into Erg Chebbi dunes as the sun dipped low is something I won’t forget—the sand turned gold under our feet. That night in the Berber camp, dinner was tagine by lantern light and someone played drums under more stars than I’ve ever seen.

Before dawn broke on day three, our camel guide woke us up—he said sunrise here is worth losing sleep for. He wasn’t wrong: watching light spill over those dunes felt unreal. After breakfast back at the hotel (and a much-needed shower), we hit the road again toward Fez. The drive cut through Ziz Valley’s palm groves; somewhere near Midelt we stopped for apples at a roadside stand—apparently this area’s famous for them. The last stretch wound through cedar forests where monkeys sometimes dart across the road (we spotted one!). By afternoon, Fez came into view—a maze of rooftops and minarets marking journey’s end.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Marrakech to Dades Gorge

• Drive through Tizi-n-Tichka Pass
• Visit Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
• Travel via Ouarzazate and Valley of Roses to Dades Gorge

Day 2 — Todra Gorges to Desert Camp

• Walk through Todra Gorges
• Visit Rissani market and Kasbahs
• Camel ride to Erg Chebbi Dunes and overnight in Berber tent

Day 3 — Desert to Fez via Ziz Oasis

• Sunrise camel ride and return to hotel
• Drive through Rissani, Ziz Valley, and cedar forest to Fez

Top questions

Is this Marrakech to Fez desert tour suitable for kids?

Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by two paying adults. Just keep in mind there’s some walking and camel riding involved.

Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag for the desert camp?

No need—bedding is provided at the Berber camp so you’ll be comfortable overnight.

Are meals included during the trip?

Dinners and breakfasts are included at your accommodations; lunch stops are usually at local cafes or markets along the way.

How many people will be on this tour?

A minimum of six guests is needed for departure; groups are small enough to feel personal but big enough for good company.

What’s included

Your spot includes transport by air-conditioned minivan for all three days, two nights’ accommodation (one in Dades Gorge hotel, one in a desert camp), pickup and drop-off at your hotel or port in Marrakech/Fez, plus your camel ride into Erg Chebbi dunes. Specialized infant seats are available if you let us know ahead of time.