Start an extraordinary 3-day, 2-night camp adventure from Fes to Marrakech, where every moment is a blend of cultural immersion and natural wonder. Traverse the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, savoring the unique charm of our overnight camps. From the historic city of Fes to the vibrant tapestry of Marrakech, this journey promises unforgettable experiences, rich with cultural discovery and the magic of starlit nights in the desert. Join us for an immersive exploration that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
Early in the morning, we'll meet you at your Riad and set off for the Merzouga Desert. Our first stop will be in Ifrane, known as the "Switzerland of Morocco" due to its clean, modern, and well-ordered appearance. A few kilometers from the city is the cedar tree forest of Azrou, home to the Barbary apes, a type of Macaque. We'll take some time to observe these fascinating creatures before we hit the road again.
Our next stop is Midelt, the "country of apples," where we'll have lunch before heading towards the Atlas Mountains, following the Ziz Valley. We'll arrive at the city of Er-Rachidia, which is the gateway to the desert and southern Morocco.
We'll continue driving south, passing through the Ziz Oasis, filled with palm groves and Berber villages along the way, until we reach Erfoud. This city is famous for its fossils that date back hundreds of millions of years, and it's the last stop before our final destination, the Merzouga Desert.
When we reach the Erg Chebbi dunes, we'll take a pit stop at our hotel in the dune line and then start your camel ride adventure to our camp within the dunes. The night will be spent in a desert camp, where we'll enjoy a traditional local music performance around the fire.
~470 km / 292 mi · approx. 6h30 drive
Join us on a mesmerizing journey through Morocco's Erg Chebbi sand dunes and the Merzouga Desert, one of Morocco's most stunning attractions. We'll pick you up from your Sahara Desert Camp and set out to explore.
Our first stop is at a Nomad's tent, where you'll enjoy a traditional cup of tea and learn about their rich culture and way of life. Then, visit one of the oldest coal mines in Mfis village, a remnant from the French occupation. Next, discover the Khamlia village, home to descendants of escaped slaves and famous for their traditional Gnaoua music. Enjoy a live show before a delicious lunch at a local Berber Pizza restaurant.
After lunch, continue your desert excursion to one of the most incredible sights, a seasonal lake in the middle of the desert, a haven for desert birds like desert warblers and flamingos. At the end of the day, relax at your hotel in the dune lines and enjoy the breathtaking dune views from your terrace.
For those seeking additional adventure, there are plenty of optional desert sports and activities to choose from. So, rest and rejuvenate, and we'll be ready to take you on another exciting adventure tomorrow!
After a hearty breakfast at the camp, you will be picked up by a 4x4 car for a journey across the striking Erg Chebbi dunes to a hotel located within the dune lines. Your driver will be waiting for you there.
Leaving the Merzouga desert, you will head to the bustling Rissani Local Market, where you can take a leisurely walk and discover the Berber culture, as well as the trading traditions of the region.
Your next stop is N'Kob, a small village boasting 44 authentic Kasbahs and a picturesque palm grove oasis, reached by driving through the Hamada mountains and the palm tree-filled Draa Valley.
After a delicious lunch in Agdez, you will cross the Ait Saouen mountain pass to reach Ouarzazate, famously known as the "Hollywood of Morocco" due to its use as a backdrop for numerous international movies and series.
Next, we will drive through the High Atlas Mountains and Drop off in your accommodation in Marrakech.
~560 km / 348 mi · approx. 9h drive
| Day | Route | Distance | Driving time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane and Midelt | 470 km / 292 mi | approx. 6h30 |
| Day 3 | Merzouga to Marrakech via Todra Gorge and the Tizi n'Tichka pass | 560 km / 348 mi | approx. 9h |
Distances are approximate road distances. Driving times are without stops for sightseeing, photos and meals.
| Duration | 3 days |
|---|---|
| Price from | US$850 per person, based on 2 travellers sharing a double room (US$1,700 total for 2) |
| Starts | Fes |
| Ends | Marrakech |
| Tour type | Private tour, only you and your travelling companions |
| Total driving | about 1,030 km / 640 mi |
| Transport | Private air-conditioned vehicle |
| Languages | English, French, Spanish, Arabic |
| Availability | Year-round, on your dates |
This tour runs for 3 days, covering Fes, Merzouga.
The tour price includes: Air-conditioned vehicle; English Speaking driver/guide; 2 Night in Luxury Desert Camp; Traditional Music live show in desert; Camel ride (one camel per individual); Meals as stated (HB) - Dinner & Breakfast included. Flights, travel insurance and personal expenses are not included. Ask us if you want anything confirmed before you book.
Many nationalities, including the US, Canada, UK and most EU countries, can enter Morocco visa-free for tourist stays of up to 90 days. Requirements vary, so confirm what applies to you before booking.
Most of our tours suit travellers with a reasonable level of general fitness — expect walking on uneven terrain, some early starts, and on Sahara itineraries a camel trek. Tell us about any concerns when you inquire.
Yes. This itinerary can be adapted to your travel dates, pace and interests — use the inquiry form on this page to tell us what you would like to change.
Yes. Every Escorted Morocco Tours trip is private: the vehicle, driver guide and itinerary are for you and the people you travel with, whether that is a couple, a family or friends. We do not run shared departures and never add other travellers. Prices are per person based on 2 travellers; ask us for a quote for your own party size.
The tour covers about 1,030 km (640 miles) of driving over 2 days. The longest is Day 3, Merzouga to Marrakech via Todra Gorge and the Tizi n'Tichka pass: about 560 km (348 miles), roughly 9h of driving before stops for sightseeing, photos and meals. You travel in a private air-conditioned vehicle and can ask your driver to stop whenever you like.
Layered clothing for big day-to-night temperature swings, sun protection, a scarf for sand and wind, and closed shoes for the camel trek are the essentials. See our full desert packing list.
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