Cross the High Atlas, walk between towering canyon walls and ride camels into Erg Chebbi on this compact three-day route from Marrakech to Fez. Expect long driving days, dramatic geology, and an overnight in a Berber tent beneath the desert sky.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave Marrakech before dawn, the city’s ochre silhouette shrinking as the road climbs toward Col du Tichka. The pass rises to about 2,260 m and the high Atlas opens in folded ridges and wind-swept plateaus; granite spires and streaked red earth push the sky. By midafternoon the adobe towers of Ait Ben Haddou appear — a compact kasbah that once controlled caravan traffic and later doubled as a film set — then the route eases into the sculpted Dades Valley.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Basic to moderate fitness; long vehicle transfers with short walks and a camel trek require mobility and stamina for climbing dunes and walking canyon floors.
Wildlife
History
Ait Ben Haddou is a UNESCO World Heritage kasbah that sat on trans-Saharan trade routes; the route also crosses historic caravan corridors and film locations near Ouarzazate.
Conservation
Water is scarce across this region and tourism concentrates pressure in oases and camps; minimize plastic waste, respect local guidelines, and choose operators who support local communities.
Reserve your spot on the 3 days tour from Marrakech to Fez today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Prepare for long drives
The itinerary covers roughly 500–600 km across three days; bring snacks, neck support, and plan for roadside stops to stretch.
Layer for temperature swings
Daytime heat in the desert and cold nights at the camp mean base layers plus a warm jacket are essential.
Sun and dust protection
Wear a wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen and a lightweight scarf to shield against sun and sand during the camel trek.
Footwear for gorges and kasbahs
Sturdy walking shoes with good grip are useful for short hikes in Todra and uneven kasbah lanes.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction for canyon trails, kasbah streets and dune edges.
Layered clothing and insulated jacket
Warm nights in the desert and cold passes demand thermal layers.
winter
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Protects against strong Saharan sun and glare on dunes.
summer
Small daypack with water reservoir
Keeps hydration, camera, and layers accessible during stops and short walks.