Experience the Magic of the Sahara Desert

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day journey from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the ancient medina of Fes, passing through the spectacular Sahara Desert. This tour is one of Morocco’s most popular routes, offering dramatic landscapes, ancient kasbahs, and the chance to sleep under the stars in a traditional Berber camp.

Tour Highlights

• Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou Kasbah
• Explore the dramatic Todra Gorge with its 300-meter high canyon walls
• Experience a magical sunset camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Spend a night in a traditional Berber desert camp with live music
• Watch the sunrise over the golden Sahara dunes
• Drive through the beautiful Ziz Valley palm groves
• Visit Ifrane, the ‘Switzerland of Morocco’
• See wild Barbary apes in the cedar forests of Azrou

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley

Depart Marrakech early morning, crossing the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). Stop at the spectacular Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage kasbah featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Continue through Ouarzazate, known as the ‘Hollywood of Morocco’, and arrive at your accommodation in Dades Valley for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga Desert Camp

After breakfast, drive through the magnificent Todra Gorge before continuing to Merzouga, gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. In the late afternoon, embark on a camel trek into the desert to watch the sunset. Arrive at your desert camp for a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber music around the campfire, and a night sleeping under the stars.

Day 3: Merzouga to Fes

Wake early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast at camp, begin your journey to Fes. Pass through the Ziz Valley, stop in Midelt for lunch, and continue through Ifrane and the cedar forests of Azrou where you may spot wild Barbary apes. Arrive in Fes in the late afternoon.

What’s Included

• Private air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle
• English-speaking driver/guide
• 2 nights accommodation (1 hotel/kasbah, 1 desert camp)
• 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners
• Camel trek at sunset and sunrise
• Sandboarding equipment
• All entrance fees

Best Time to Visit

This tour operates year-round. The most comfortable months are March-May and September-November when temperatures are mild. Summer months can be very hot in the desert, while winter nights are cold but manageable with warm bedding provided.