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This three-day tour explores the Sahara desert of Morocco from Fes to Marrakech, weaving in some of the country’s most striking settings: Ifrane, the Middle Atlas Mountains and the cedar forest near Azrou, the Ziz Valley, the golden Erg Chebbi dunes around Merzouga, Rissani, Erfoud, the Todra Gorge in Tinghir, the Dades Valley, the Valley of Roses, Ouarzazate, the kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, and the High Atlas Mountains with the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
You ride camels crossing the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi and spend an unforgettable night in a luxury desert camp, enjoying the complete silence among the high dunes in Merzouga — a place that feels like a million miles from civilization. Alongside the camel trekking, sunset and sunrise over Erg Chebbi, and the night in the desert, you watch the Barbary macaques in the cedar forest near Azrou, explore the Todra Canyon, visit the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, and much more.
Every itinerary is fully customisable to suit your preferences and pace.
DAY 1: FES -> IFRANE -> ZIZ VALLEY -> MERZOUGA DESERT
Your tour commences right after your morning meal at your hotel or riad. From there, we journey to the captivating Moroccan desert. Our first pause takes us to Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.”
Continuing our trip, we traverse the Middle Atlas Mountains, pausing amidst the cedar forests to observe the fascinating Barbary macaques, a unique primate species native to the region.
Lunch is arranged at a restaurant along our route, providing flexibility to dine at your preferred time. As we near Merzouga, a picturesque panorama of the Ziz Valley, full of palm trees, awaits our admiration.
Merzouga greets us in the late afternoon, marking the beginning of an enchanting camel trek. Each traveler embarks on a camel, setting out for a luxury desert camp nestled amidst the sweeping dunes of Erg Chebbi. On the way, we’ll stop to watch a breathtaking sunset from a high dune. Delight in an unforgettable evening steeped in the Sahara Desert’s local culture. Experience rhythmic drumming, enthralling storytelling, and the amazing starry night sky of the desert.
Approximate driving distance/time: 500 km / 7 hours 30 minutes
DAY 2: MERZOUGA DESERT -> RISSANI -> TODRA GORGE -> DADES VALLEY
An early morning today is highly recommended to watch a peaceful sunrise. After a tasty breakfast at your camp, you can choose your preferred return mode to Merzouga town: a camel trek or a comfortable 4×4 car ride.
Embark on a scenic journey to Boumalne Dades, passing through Rissani, Erfoud, and the stunning Todgha Gorges. Should your visit coincide with a Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a traditional market in Rissani, providing insight into the vibrant culture of southern Morocco. Take a leisurely stroll along the Todra River and beneath the imposing Todgha Gorge in Tinghir.
Reach Boumalne Dades in the afternoon. Prior to settling into your accommodation, embark on a picturesque drive through the Dades Valley to a location offering breathtaking views of the remarkable rock formations famously known as the “monkey fingers.” Your evening will be spent in the comfort of a charming hotel in the heart of the Dades Valley.
Approximate driving distance/time: 310 km / 5 hours
DAY 3: DADES VALLEY -> AIT BEN HADDOU KASBAH -> HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS -> MARRAKECH
Today marks the conclusion of your tour. Following a yummy breakfast at your accommodation, embark on a scenic drive to Ait Ben Haddou, passing through the enchanting Valley of Roses and Ouarzazate. This route takes you through numerous picturesque Berber villages.
In Ouarzazate, you have the option to explore the Atlas Studio. In this studio, various film sets and decorations from numerous movies are preserved. You can also choose to take some memorable photos from outside only, then carry on.
A mere 15 kilometers from Ouarzazate lies the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, recognized for its appearances in Game of Thrones as Yunkai and its roles in numerous other iconic films such as Gladiator.
Following a visit to the Kasbah and a satisfying lunch, your journey continues to Marrakech, leading you through the majestic High Atlas Mountains and the elevated Tizi n’Tichka pass, which stands at 2260 meters above sea level. Along this scenic route, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes that unfold before you. Your day concludes with your arrival in Marrakech, expected in the late afternoon.
Approximate driving distance/time: 353 km / 6 hours 30 minutes
IMPORTANT NOTES
THE PRICE
The price varies depending on the number of travelers. The more people join the tour, the lower the price per person can be. Transportation costs are fixed and shared between the travelers. The final price also depends on the accommodation category you choose, such as standard, superior, or luxury. Contact us for an exact quotation based on your group size, travel dates, and preferences.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the tour private or shared?
This itinerary can be booked as a completely private tour, where you travel exclusively with the members of your own group, or as a small group tour (maximum of 10 travelers). The private option gives you greater flexibility with the schedule, stops, pace, and overall experience.
How long is the camel ride? What is the alternative to camels?
The camel ride usually takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours to reach the desert camp, depending on the camp location and conditions. If you prefer not to ride a camel, you can be transferred to the camp by 4×4 vehicle at no additional cost. Quad biking and buggy excursions are also available at an extra cost.
Is the desert tent private? Does it have a private bathroom and shower?
Yes. Our luxury desert camp offers private tents equipped with private en-suite bathrooms, including a shower and hot running water.
What happens to our luggage during the camel ride?
During the camel ride, you only need to carry a small backpack with the essentials you need for the night. Your main luggage will be transported by the camp’s 4×4 vehicle and will be waiting for you at your tent when you arrive.
What is the best time to visit Morocco?
The best times to visit Morocco are generally spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, when temperatures are usually pleasant across much of the country. Winter can also be an excellent time to travel, especially for exploring the southern desert regions.
What type of vehicles are used?
We use modern, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles:
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Yes. We can accommodate a wide range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific requests. Please let us know when booking so we can arrange the included meals and stops along the route accordingly.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is suitable for travelers of different ages. Please note that some days involve several hours of driving to cover the distances between different regions of Morocco. Our vehicles are comfortable, and regular stops can be made during the journey.
Where does the tour start and finish?
Pick-up is available directly from your hotel or riad in Fes on the first day. The tour ends in Marrakech, with a drop-off at Marrakech Menara Airport or your accommodation on the final day. If preferred, the itinerary can also start or finish in another city upon request.
Expenses and additional costs
Currency exchange: Euros and US Dollars can be exchanged for Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) at banks, airports, and exchange offices. ATMs are also widely available throughout Morocco.
Cost of meals: Lunches are not included in the tour price and generally cost around 5–20 EUR per person, depending on the restaurant and location.
Bargaining: Negotiating prices in souks and traditional markets is a normal part of shopping culture in Morocco.
BOOKING PROCESS
1. Contact us
Contact us through our contact form, email, or WhatsApp and provide the number of travelers, your approximate travel date, and your preferred accommodation category.
2. Confirm your booking
A small deposit is required to confirm your reservation. Payment can be made through PayPal, Wise, or bank transfer.
The remaining balance can be paid in cash in EUR, USD, or MAD directly to the driver upon arrival.
WHY CHOOSE A PRIVATE MOROCCO TOUR?
A private tour allows you to travel at your own pace, with greater flexibility over departure times, sightseeing stops, breaks, activities, and accommodation choices.
You will have an experienced private driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group, giving you more freedom and comfort throughout the journey. Whether you are traveling as a couple, family, group of friends, or a small private group, the itinerary can be adapted around your interests and travel preferences.
