From Fez: 3-Day Merzouga and Ouarzazte Tour to Marrakech

This 3-day tour from Fez to Marrakech promises an unforgettable adventure through Morocco’s stunning landscapes. Travelers will embark on a captivating journey, exploring the iconic Merzouga dunes, the breathtaking Todra Gorge, and the picturesque Dades Valley. With opportunities to experience camel trekking and discover the rich history of UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the region. The itinerary is designed to provide comfortable accommodations, seamless transportation, and immersive desert experiences, making it an enticing option for those seeking to uncover the enchanting wonders of this vibrant North African destination.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best 3 Day Tours In Fes.

Key Points

• This 3-day tour from Fez to Marrakech includes stops in Merzouga, Ouarzazate, and Ait Ben Haddou, showcasing the stunning Sahara desert and Moroccan culture.
• The tour includes round-trip transport, camel trekking, and accommodations in a luxury desert camp and hotel/riad, suitable for wheelchair users.
• Highlights of the tour include scenic drives through the Middle Atlas mountains, exploring the Merzouga dunes, and visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou.
• The second day features natural wonders like Todra Gorge and Dades Valley, as well as a stop in Kalaat Mgouna, known for its rose-petal production.
• The tour concludes in the vibrant city of Marrakech, renowned for its lively markets, stunning palaces, and Moroccan cuisine.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 3-day Sahara desert tour takes travelers from Fez to Marrakech, with stops in Merzouga, Ouarzazate, and Ait Ben Haddou.

Priced from $201.07 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional driver, camel trekking in the Merzouga dunes, and accommodations in a luxury desert camp and hotel/riad.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offered in English and French.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

With an overall rating of 3.7/5 based on 24 reviews, the tour receives positive feedback on the camel ride and desert stay, though some criticize the quality of accommodations and dining experiences.

Detailed Itinerary

The 3-day tour kicks off with a departure from Fez at 7:30 am, traversing the Middle Atlas mountains and cedar forests before reaching Ifrane for a break.

After lunch in Midelt, the journey continues to Merzouga, where guests will have the chance to embark on a camel trek and spend the night in an equipped desert camp.

The second day starts with a morning camel trek for breakfast, followed by visits to the Todra Gorge and Dades Valley.

The group then stops at Kalaat Mgouna before spending the night in a hotel or riad in Ouarzazate.

On the final day, the tour visits the iconic Ait Ben Haddou before heading to Marrakech.

Highlights of Day 1

The tour departs Fez at 7:30 am, winding through the scenic Middle Atlas mountains and cedar forests before reaching the quaint town of Ifrane for a break. Continuing the journey, the group then heads to Midelt, where they’ll enjoy a delicious lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to the exciting camel trekking experience in the Merzouga dunes, allowing travelers to enjoy the captivating Sahara desert landscape. The day concludes with an overnight stay in a well-equipped desert camp, offering a taste of traditional Berber hospitality under the vast, starry sky.

Destination	Duration	Highlights
Ifrane	1 hour	Picturesque Berber town in the Middle Atlas mountains
Midelt	1 hour	Lunch in this oasis town at the crossroads of the High Atlas and Middle Atlas
Merzouga	2 hours	Camel trekking in the iconic Saharan dunes, overnight in a desert camp

Exploring Merzouga Dunes

Embarking on the camel trek, travelers enjoy the captivating expanse of the Merzouga dunes, exploring the undulating sand formations that define this iconic Saharan landscape.

Gliding atop the gentle swaying of the camels, they witness the dunes’ ever-changing hues, from rich ochres to shimmering golds, as the sun’s position shifts throughout the day.

The serene tranquility is occasionally broken by the soft shuffling of feet and the occasional camel’s call, creating a mesmerizing symphony of the desert.

As they climb the towering dunes, travelers are rewarded with panoramic vistas, where the endless sand meets the distant horizon, leaving a lasting impression of the Sahara’s timeless beauty.

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Day 2 Destinations

On the second day, travelers journey from Merzouga to explore the remarkable natural wonders of Todra Gorge and Dades Valley, pausing along the way at the rose-petal-producing town of Kalaat Mgouna.

They begin the day with a morning camel trek, taking in the stunning desert landscapes one last time before bidding farewell to the dunes.

At Todra Gorge, they marvel at the towering limestone cliffs and deep canyons carved by the Todra River.

Further along, the lush Dades Valley offers a striking contrast, with its oases, kasbahs, and rose gardens.

After a stop in Kalaat Mgouna, travelers continue to their overnight accommodations in the city of Ouarzazate.

Visiting Ouarzazate

After exploring the dramatic landscapes of Todra Gorge and Dades Valley, travelers reach the city of Ouarzazate, known as the ‘Gateway to the Sahara.’

This former French Foreign Legion post is now a hub for the film industry, with many movie studios and sets dotting the surrounding region.

Visitors can explore the Kasbah of Taourirt, a magnificent mud-brick fortress that’s been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987.

Other highlights include the Tifoultoute Kasbah and the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a well-preserved ksar that’s featured in numerous films.

Ouarzazate provides a taste of Moroccan history and culture before the grand finale in Marrakech.

Ait Ben Haddou and Marrakech

The tour’s grand finale takes travelers to the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a well-preserved ksar that has featured in numerous films.

This fortified city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich architectural heritage. Guests will have the opportunity to explore its maze-like alleys, adobe buildings, and historic landmarks.

From there, the journey concludes with a drop-off in the vibrant city of Marrakech.

This bustling urban center is renowned for its lively markets, stunning palaces, and delectable Moroccan cuisine. Visitors can enjoy the city’s captivating blend of tradition and modernity, creating lasting memories of their Saharan adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the 3-day Merzouga and Ouarzazate tour are transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional driver, hotel/camp pick-up and drop-off, and fuel costs.

Travelers will also enjoy the services of a local camel guide during the desert activities, as well as dinner and breakfast meals in Merzouga and Ouarzazate.

However, not all expenses are covered. The tour doesn’t include:

1. Lunches and beverages during the trip.

2. Admission fees to any attractions or sites.

3. Tips for the driver and camel guide.

4. Personal expenses and souvenirs.

While the inclusions provide a comfortable and convenient experience, travelers should budget accordingly for additional costs to fully enjoy the 3-day Sahara desert adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour overview, lunches and drinks are not included in the tour package. Travelers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks if they prefer, as long as they do not interfere with the provided meals.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not explicitly stated in the knowledge provided. However, it is common for small group tours in Morocco to accommodate around 12-16 people for a personalized experience, though the exact number may vary.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Camel Ride?

For the camel ride, travelers don’t need special equipment. However, they should wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. The tour provider will provide necessary items like blankets and pillows for the desert camp.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities During the Long Drives?

The tour includes stops at designated rest areas with restroom facilities during the long drives. Travelers can use these facilities as needed throughout the journey, providing convenience and comfort during the extended periods of travel.

Can I Extend the Tour or Add Additional Stops Along the Way?

Yes, the tour can generally be extended or additional stops added, though this may incur extra costs. Travelers should contact the tour operator to inquire about customizing the itinerary to meet their specific needs and interests.

The Sum Up

This captivating 3-day tour from Fez to Marrakech offers an unforgettable adventure.

Travelers will experience the thrill of camel trekking across the iconic Merzouga dunes, explore the stunning Todra Gorge and Dades Valley, and discover the rich history of Ait Ben Haddou before concluding their journey in the vibrant city of Marrakech.

With comfortable accommodations and transportation, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Morocco’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: