3 Days from Fez to Marrakech Via Desert

Day 1: Fez – Ifrane – Monkey Forest – Middle Atlas – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Desert of Merzouga

The 3-day tour from Fez to Marrakech begins with pickup from your chosen location, whether it’s a hotel in Fez or the airport, by our English-speaking driver in a comfortable private vehicle.

Exploration of the Middle Atlas 

Our journey south leads us to the Middle Atlas, where we’ll encounter fascinating sights. Our first stop is Ifrane, known as the “Moroccan Switzerland,” famous for its gabled buildings and unique architecture.

Ifrane National Park 

Next, we’ll explore the Ifrane National Park, also known as the National Park of the Cedars or the Monkey Forest, home to the Barbary macaque. This protected area is of significant ecological value, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife.

Journey through the Middle Atlas Pass 

As we descend through the Middle Atlas, the landscape transitions to the arid environment of the Ziz Valley, dominated by stony hamadas. Our route takes us through Erfoud, renowned for its fossil heritage, before reaching Merzouga.

Arrival in Merzouga and Desert Adventure 

In Merzouga, we’ll embark on an unforgettable excursion into the Sahara desert. We’ll travel by dromedary or 4×4 vehicles to the dunes of Erg Chebbi, experiencing the mesmerizing sea of golden sand.

Evening in the Desert Camp 

Upon arrival at our tent camp in the desert, we’ll be greeted with traditional Berber tea. As night falls, we’ll witness a spectacular display of stars in the clear desert sky, followed by dinner and overnight stay in comfortable traditional tents.

Summary of the Day

• Pick up in Fez: from the airport or agreed location.
• Route includes stops at Ifrane, Ifrane National Park, and Erfoud.
• Excursion in the dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga via dromedary or 4×4.
• Dinner and overnight stay in desert camp.

Day 2: Merzouga Desert – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Day 3: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

After starting the day with a good breakfast at the riad, we will continue the route by road in what will be the last day of this 3-day circuit from Fez to Marrakech. After leaving the Dades Valley, two Berber monuments worthy of being visited await us.

1. Kasbah of Taourirt in Ouarzazate 

The first stop is the kasbah of Taourirt, located in the city of Ouarzazate. Once the residence of the Sultan of the Atlas, of the powerful El Glaoui tribe, its richly decorated rooms offer insight into its historical significance.

2. Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou 

The second stop is the larger and more spectacular ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village that played a crucial role in desert caravan routes between Marrakech and Timbuktu. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts impressive Berber adobe architecture and has been featured in the Game of Thrones series.

Passage through the High Atlas 

After visiting Ait Ben Haddou, the road ascends towards the Tizi n’Tichka pass, the main pass to cross the High Atlas, reaching an altitude of about 2,200 meters. Descending through a landscape of special beauty, we’ll pass humble mountain villages and enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.

Conclusion of the Tour 

After covering the last kilometers of this road, we will conclude this 3-day tour from Fez to Marrakech. Our driver will drop you off at the agreed place, which can be a point in the center or the international airport if your return flight is scheduled for that afternoon. Our services will end here, with hopes for a future reunion on another of our Moroccan tours.

Summary of the Day

• Breakfast in a riad in the Dades Valley.
• Visit to the Kasbah of Taourirt in Ouarzazate.
• Visit to the Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou.
• Passage through the High Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
• Arrival in Marrakech and conclusion of our services.
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