3-Day Marrakech to Fes Through Merzouga

On Day 1, we depart early from Marrakech, traveling through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), offering spectacular views of mountain landscapes and traditional Berber villages. We visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an iconic example of traditional Moroccan architecture, before continuing to Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the desert and home to the historic Taourirt Kasbah. Driving through the Valley of Roses, famous for its fragrant rose fields, we reach Boumalne Dades, where we explore the stunning rock formations and winding roads of the Dades Gorges. The first night is spent in a comfortable hotel in Boumalne Dades. The total driving distance for the day is approximately 320 kilometers, with an estimated travel time of 6 hours.

On Day 2, after breakfast, we continue toward the spectacular Todra Gorges, where sheer cliffs rise 300 meters, creating one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Morocco. We take time to explore the canyon before traveling through Tinghir and the Ziz Valley, known for its endless palm groves and lush oasis scenery. The journey takes us to Erfoud, a town famous for its fossils and date markets, before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. In the late afternoon, we embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes, witnessing a mesmerizing sunset before arriving at our luxury desert camp, where a traditional dinner is served under the stars, accompanied by Berber music around the campfire. The total driving distance for the day is approximately 270 kilometers, with a travel time of around 4 hours.

On Day 3, we wake early to watch the sunrise over the dunes before returning to Merzouga by camel or 4×4. After breakfast, we begin the journey towards Fes, traveling through the scenic Ziz Valley and crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we stop in Midelt, a town known for its apple orchards and mountain views, before continuing to Azrou’s Cedar to see the barbary apes then we head to Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its alpine-style houses and clean streets. By late afternoon, we arrive in Fes, where our journey concludes. The total driving distance for the day is approximately 470 kilometers, with a travel time of around eight hours.