3 days through the desert from Fez to Marrakech
Overview
Taking a 3-day trip from Fez to Marrakech through the Merzouga desert is one of the most complete and fascinating experiences in Morocco. This route combines mountainous landscapes, fertile valleys, historic kasbahs, and the incomparable magic of the Moroccan Sahara, offering a cultural and natural immersion in a short time.
Itinerary
Day 1: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Merzouga
The adventure begins in the historic city of Fez, heading south across the Middle Atlas mountains.
Ifrane: Known as the “Switzerland of Morocco”, this charming town surprises visitors with its alpine-style architecture and pristine natural surroundings.
Azrou Forest: A perfect stop to see the Barbary macaques in their natural cedar forest habitat.
Midelt & the High Atlas: We cross stunning mountainous landscapes with breathtaking views.
Ziz Valley: A lush oasis of palm groves that winds along the river, surrounded by traditional kasbahs and villages.
Erfoud: Famous for its fossils and date production, Erfoud is the gateway to the desert.
By late afternoon we reach Merzouga, where a camel trek takes us into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. There, we watch a magnificent sunset before spending the night in a traditional or luxury Berber camp, under a starlit desert sky.
Day 2: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
After admiring the sunrise over the dunes, we continue westward through desert and fertile landscapes.
Rissani: Once a major caravan town, Rissani is known for its lively traditional market and historical ties to the Alaouite dynasty.
Todra Gorges: Towering cliffs that rise up to 300 meters high, offering a dramatic canyon perfect for walking and appreciating nature’s majesty.
Dades Valley: Also called the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs”, it is famous for its unique rock formations and authentic Berber villages that preserve their traditions.
Overnight stay in a charming hotel or traditional riad in the Dades Valley, surrounded by mountains and tranquility.
Day 3: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech
The final day takes us along the legendary Route of a Thousand Kasbahs, rich in history and cinematic landscapes.
Ouarzazate: Known as the “Gateway to the Desert”, it is home to film studios where productions such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed.
Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this iconic adobe fortress is one of Morocco’s most famous landmarks.
Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m): Crossing the majestic High Atlas mountains with winding roads and breathtaking scenery, we descend towards the plains of Marrakech.
By sunset, we arrive in Marrakech, the vibrant Red City, where this unforgettable journey comes to an end.
Highlights of the Route
Landscape contrasts: From cedar forests in the Middle Atlas to Sahara dunes and the towering High Atlas mountains.
Cultural richness: Encounters with Berber villages, traditional markets, and historic kasbahs.
Desert experience: Camel trekking, a night in a desert camp, and sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Cinematic scenery: Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate are part of Morocco’s famous film trail.
👉 This 3-day trip from Fez to Marrakech via Merzouga offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where Morocco’s landscapes and cultural treasures blend into an unforgettable adventure. From golden Sahara dunes to ancient kasbahs and mountain passes, this journey captures the very essence of Morocco.