3-Day Grand Desert Expedition: From Marrakech to Fes

DETAILLED ITINERARY

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Boumalen Dades

Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech by the Morocco4X4 team. We embark on a scenic drive, crossing the renowned Tizi Ntichka pass in the Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities. Our first major stop is at the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of this ancient fortified village, famous for its impressive architecture and as a backdrop for numerous films. After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, we continue to Ouarzazate, often dubbed the Hollywood of Morocco, where you can visit the Atlas Film Studios and learn about its cinematic history. Our journey then takes us through the picturesque Dades Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and traditional Berber villages, before arriving in Boumalen Dades for an overnight stay in a traditional hotel.

Day 2: Boumalne Dades – Tinghir – Todra Gorge – Merzouga Dunes

After a hearty breakfast, we continue our adventure towards Merzouga, traversing through spectacular desert scenery. Along the way, we make stops at Tinghir and the impressive Todra Gorge, where you can marvel at the sheer cliffs and enjoy a leisurely stroll. Continuing through the towns of Tinjedad, Tourug, and Erfoud, known for its fossil products, we finally reach the gateway to the Sahara Desert – Merzouga. Here, you’ll embark on a memorable camel ride through the mesmerizing dunes of Erg Chebbi, experiencing the magic of the desert at sunset. Tonight, you’ll dine under the stars at a luxurious desert camp, enjoying traditional Berber hospitality and music around a campfire.

Day 3: Merzouga – Azrou – Fes

Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi, a magical moment in the Sahara. After breakfast and some time to relax, we begin our journey towards Fes. En route, we stop at Rissani to explore its bustling traditional souk, offering a glimpse into authentic Moroccan commerce and culture. Continuing our drive, we pass through diverse landscapes, from the fertile Ziz Valley to the majestic Middle Atlas Mountains. Pause at the Cedar Forest of Azrou, home to Barbary macaques, and take in the serene surroundings before continuing to Ifrane, known as Morocco’s “Little Switzerland” for its European-style architecture and clean streets. Finally, arrive in Fes in the late afternoon, where our 3-day desert adventure concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or riad.