Travel from Marrakech to Fez in three days across the High Atlas and the Sahara, stopping at Ait Benhaddou, Todra Gorge, and Erg Chebbi. Expect a sunset camel trek, a private desert camp night with Berber music, and dramatic mountain-to-dune landscapes.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Before dawn you leave Marrakech and the city’s ochre walls fall away as the road climbs toward the High Atlas. Cold air bites at the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260 m) and, beyond it, kasbahs and layered canyons unspool toward the desert. By day two the sand arrives — dunes of Erg Chebbi rising and falling like a slow, deliberate ocean daring you to cross it by camel.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days (72 hours)
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average fitness—short, non-technical hikes and a camel trek; mostly seated travel between stops.
Wildlife
History
The route follows historic caravan corridors; kasbahs like Ait Benhaddou were fortified grain-and-trade hubs on trans-Saharan routes.
Conservation
The Sahara’s dune systems and local oases are sensitive to overuse—minimize waste, avoid off-route driving in dunes, and support community-run camps.
Reserve your spot on the Marrakech To Fes Desert Tour 3 Days today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for big temperature swings
Desert days warm quickly and nights get cold; pack a lightweight insulating layer plus a wind shell.
Hydrate and carry electrolytes
Long drives and sun on the dunes dehydrate you faster than you expect—carry at least 2 liters and electrolyte tablets.
Protect from the sun
Wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and UV sunglasses are necessary for long dune and pass exposures.
Respect local customs
Dress and behave conservatively at villages and kasbahs; ask before photographing people and homes.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good traction for rocky gorges and courtyard streets in kasbahs.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Protects you on dunes and during long vehicle transfers.
summer
Light insulating layer and wind shell
Useful for cold mornings in the Atlas and chilly desert nights.
spring
Small daypack with water reservoir
Keeps essentials and water accessible during short hikes and walks.