2 Days Tour From Marrakech To Fes

A Desert Adventure Like No Other

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Overview

If you’re short on time but want a true taste of Morocco, this 2-day tour from Marrakech to Fes offers the perfect snapshot. Starting in the vibrant streets of Marrakech, this route takes you across the scenic High Atlas Mountains, through key cultural stops, and into the heart of the Sahara.

You’ll spend the night in the Merzouga dunes, enjoying the desert views and starlit skies before returning to Fes the next day.

Duration Departure Time & Location Arrival Time & Location Price Per Guest
2 days and 1 night 7:00 AM from Marrakech 18:00 in Fes From 145 EUR

Highlights of the 2-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

Below are the top highlights of the 2-day tour from Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga:

  • Erg Chebbi Dunes: Engage in camel trekking and enjoy a breathtaking sunrise over the golden sand dunes.
  • Atlas Mountains: Enjoy scenic views and dramatic landscapes as you cross this rugged mountain range.
  • Ait Benhaddou: A short stop to capture great photos at this historic kasbah with its unique architecture and film set legacy.
  • Ouarzazate: A brief stop to relax and see the iconic Gate of the Sahara, known for its film studios and desert vibe.
  • Skoura Oasis: Wander through the lush palm groves of this serene oasis.
  • Merzouga Desert: Go on a camel ride, spend an overnight in a desert camp, and stargaze under a vast night sky in the Sahara.

Itinerary For 2-Day Adventure From Marrakech to Fes

Here is the tour itinerary for the 2 days Marrakech to Fes desert tour:

Day 1: From Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

Route: Marrakech ➜ Atlas Mountains ➜ Ait Benhaddou ➜ Ouarzazate ➜ Skoura Oasis ➜ Merzouga

Distance: 561 km

Key stops:

  • High Atlas Mountains
  • Ait Benhaddou
  • Ouarzazate
  • Skoura Oasis
  • Erg Chebbi Dunes (Merzouga)

Drive through the High Atlas Mountains

Our desert adventure begins with a scenic drive from Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains, passing through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of rugged peaks, valleys, and small Berber villages tucked into the hillsides.

Short stop at Ait Ben Haddou

Next, we’ll reach Ait Benhaddou, a historic site and one of Morocco’s most iconic fortified villages. This ancient kasbah has been the backdrop for countless films and TV shows, like Gladiator, Prince of Persia and many more. We’ll stop to relax a bit and snap some amazing photos.

Visit Ouarzazate – the gate of the Sahara

We’ll continue on to Ouarzazate, often called the “Gate of the Sahara,” where we’ll take a short break. This desert town is known for its impressive film studios and the Taourirt Kasbah, a historic fortress that has served as a set for many famous movies and TV series like The Mummy, Prison Break, and Lawrence of Arabia.

Drive through Skoura Oasis

We continue through the Skoura Oasis, a green stretch of palm groves and traditional kasbahs along the Dades River. It’s a refreshing change of scenery and a great place to relax before we reach the desert.

Camel trek in Erg Chebbi dunes, Merzouga

As we arrive in Merzouga, get ready for a camel ride through the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Watch the sun set over these vast dunes for a truly magical experience.

Overnight stay in a desert camp

After your camel trek, you’ll spend the night in a traditional Berber camp in the Sahara. Enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner, local music by the campfire, and stargazing under the beautiful desert sky.

Day 2: From Merzouga Desert to Fes

Route: Merzouga ➜ Rissani ➜ Erfoud ➜ Ziz Valley ➜ Azrou Cedar Forest ➜ Fes

Distance: 460 km

Key stops:

  • Sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes
  • Rissani
  • Erfoud
  • Ziz valley
  • Azrou cedar forest

Sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes

We’ll start the day with one of the most breathtaking sights: a sunrise over the towering Erg Chebbi dunes. Capture this beautiful moment for a lifetime memory.

Camel ride & breakfast at the camp

After witnessing the desert come alive, you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast at the camp. Once you’ve had your fill, we’ll mount the camels once more for a gentle ride back through the dunes.

Discover Rissani souk

Our next stop is Rissani, home to the region’s largest and most lively souk (market). This bustling marketplace has a rich history as a trading post, where you can experience the vibrant local culture.

Journey through Erfoud & the beautiful Ziz Valley

Our journey continues driving through the desert and passing Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil-rich rocks and unique marble sculptures. Next, we’ll travel through the lush Ziz Valley, where endless palm groves line the scenic route. Don’t forget to take pictures of these beautiful places.

Azrou cedar forest & Barbary monkeys

As we leave the desert behind, we’ll pass through the Middle Atlas Mountains, making a stop at the Azrou cedar forest. This green, serene forest is home to the famous Barbary monkeys. Take some photos and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Arrival in Fes

As the afternoon winds down, we’ll make our way toward the cultural capital of Fes. Arriving in the late afternoon, our journey comes to a close as you’re dropped off at your accommodation.

Tour Itinerary Map

Tour Includes & Excludes

What’s Included:

  • Transportation: Enjoy comfortable pick-up and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles for the duration of your tour.
  • Accommodation: Overnight stay in an authentic desert camp.
  • Meals: Savor delicious Moroccan breakfasts and dinners.
  • Guidance: Travel with a knowledgeable, English-speaking driver and guide for an enriched journey.
  • Activities: Experience camel treks, buggy driving, and cultural visits.
  • Alternative Options: Opt for a 4×4 transfer to the desert camps if camel riding isn’t your preference.

What’s Excluded:

  • Meals: Lunches and beverages.
  • Personal Expenses: Any extra purchases, like shopping or optional activities, are at your discretion.
  • Entrance Fees: Charges for entry to monuments, attractions, and optional tours.

Available Tour Options

1. Ait Benhaddou Kasbah

Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a centuries-old clay village known for its striking architecture and film history. Just four hours from Marrakech, it’s a great place to explore narrow alleys and take in panoramic views from the top.

2. High Atlas Mountains

Right outside Marrakech, the High Atlas Mountains offer dramatic views, winding mountain roads, and scenic Berber villages. This part of the journey sets the tone for the adventure ahead with unforgettable photo stops.

3. Camel Trek in the Erg Chebbi Dunes

Near Merzouga, you’ll ride camels through the towering Erg Chebbi dunes, some up to 150 meters high. Sunset in the Sahara is magical, and spending the night in a Berber tent under the stars adds to the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

4. Ziz Valley

This lush palm-filled valley offers a peaceful contrast to the desert landscapes. Known for date farming, it’s a scenic stop en route to Fes. It is ideal for photos and a quick walk.

5. Azrou Cedar Forest

Close to Fes, this cool, green forest is home to ancient cedar trees and wild Barbary monkeys. It’s a great place to take a break from the desert heat and enjoy a bit of wildlife and nature.

Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle and drink often.
Dress Right: Wear light clothes for daytime, a jacket for cool nights, and don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Pack Wisely: Bring sunscreen, a scarf, comfy shoes, a small backpack, and a camera or phone.
Camel Trek Tips: Wear comfy clothes, hold the saddle, and stretch afterward.
Enjoy the Culture: Talk to your guides, try local food, and enjoy the music.
Balance Photos & Experience: Snap pictures, but don’t forget to stay in the moment.
Carry Cash: Some places don’t take cards, so have dirhams for tips and extras.
Long Drive Ahead: The route is scenic but lengthy—use breaks to move around.

FAQs Answered

The camel trek in the Erg Chebbi Dunes typically lasts around 45 minutes to one and a half hours, depending on the pace and conditions.

You’ll spend the night in a traditional Berber-style camp in the desert, with options ranging from standard tents to luxury en-suite tents.

Pack light, but bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, a jacket for cooler desert nights, and a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes.

Yes, we offer meals according to your preferences. Be sure to inform us in advance so we can prepare meals that meet your requirements. Whether you need vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, we can cater to your preferences.

The ideal time is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), as the desert weather is more moderate, with cooler days and nights.

Booking a tour with us is easy, after contacting us and choosing the tour you want, a small deposit is required in order to secure your reservation with us. Read our booking policies.

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What's Next?

Looking to have more experiences with us? Here are a few other amazing day trips you can do either after or before your tour.

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Important Note:

Our proposed desert tours from Marrakech can be modified and designed according to your requirements and needs, feel free to contact us.

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