When planning your trip to Morocco, it’s likely that you’ll include the imperial cities of Marrakech and Fes on your itinerary. Full of fascinating history, exotic culture and stunning sites to explore, it’s easy to see why they are considered some of the best places to visit in Morocco!
Between these two major cities lies the most beautiful deserts, ancient villages, and spectacular gorges. The best way to see all of these highlights is by booking a 3 day tour from Marrakech to Fes. Exploring the sites between these cities was the best part of our 10-day trip through Morocco!
Taking a desert tour from Marrakech to Fes will ensure that you don’t miss any of the best attractions and hidden gems along the way. A knowledgeable local guide will lead you on an exciting journey through the Sahara desert where you’ll ride a camel through the golden dunes at sunset and have dinner under the stars in a traditional desert camp.
Read on to discover some tips that will help you plan your visit to these incredible cities as well as my recommendation for selecting the most popular 3 day tour from Marrakech to Fes.
Marvel at the unique landscapes as you journey through the Moroccan desert
Table of Contents
The Best 3 Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Marrakech to Fes Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Marrakech
Ait Ben Haddou
Ouarzazate
Boumalne Dades
Tinghir
Day 2
Tinghir
Todgha Gorges
Merzouga
Erg Chebbi Dunes
Day 3
Merzouga
Ziz River
Midelt
Atlas Mountains
Fes
Camel trekking is a bucket list experience you must have while visiting Morocco!
Marrakech to Fes Tour Overview
Included: Hotel pick up in Marrakech, driver/guide, overnight stays x2, camel trekking, dinner & breakfast x2, drop off at hotel in Fes
This highly rated 3 day tour from Marrakech to Fes offers a great introduction to the deserts of Morocco. Some of the highlights include admiring the scenery of the High Atlas Mountains, strolling through the UNESCO listed fortress of Ait Ben Haddou, exploring the dramatic Todgha Canyons and camel trekking through the sand dunes at sunset.
The first day begins with an early morning pick up from your hotel in Marrakech before beginning the journey through the High Atlas Mountains. The first stop of the trip will be a visit to the desert fortress of Ait Ben Haddou. After a guided tour of the village, you will stop for lunch in Ouarzazate.
The afternoon of day one will bring you to Boulmane Dades to admire the scenery along the Dades River before finishing the day in the town of Tinghir.
The impressive desert fortress of Ait-Ben-Haddou
On day 2 of the tour, the morning starts with a drive along the Road of 1001 Kasbahs followed by a scenic walk through the impressive Todgha Gorge. Enjoy some free time to explore the area and have lunch before moving on to the next stop.
Upon arrival in Merzouga, you will venture out on a sunset camel trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes. This is certain to be the main highlight of your 3 day desert tour. In the evening, finish the day with dinner around a fire at the Sahara desert camp while listening to local nomads playing traditional music.
Wake up early to watch the sunrise from the desert camp on day 3. After eating breakfast, the tour continues with a drive through the Ziz River to see the palm tree oasis. The lunch stop will take place in the small town of Midelt located in the High Atlas Mountains.
As you travel through the mountains toward Fes, you’ll pass through some dramatic landscapes of snow-capped peaks, a sharp contrast from the dry deserts of the previous days. On the evening of the final day, your tour guide will drop you off at your hotel in Fes.
I found that the most convenient way to book this tour was through GetYourGuide. As soon as you book, you get instant confirmation and the ticket is displayed on your phone so there’s no need to print anything.
The best part is that you can book the tour stress-free knowing that you will get a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance. See the link below for more detailed info about booking this desert tour.
Before beginning your journey through the desert from Marrakech to Fes, I would highly recommend spending a few days in this bustling and vibrant city. Below you will find the highlights of Marrakech that can’t be missed during your stay.
Marrakech Walking Tour– Join a half day walking tour to familiarize yourself with the city upon arrival. This popular 4 hour tour takes you through the old city while passing by the main points of interest including the Koutoubia mosque, Bahia Palace and more.
Jemaâ El Fna Market – The busy and chaotic market that brings the city to life every evening has been operating in the main square for centuries. Take your time browsing the stalls, watching the snake charmers and trying some street food.
Koutoubia Mosque – One of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, you can’t visit Marrakech without passing by this iconic 12th century mosque. While tourists are not permitted to enter the mosque, make sure to take a walk through the pretty gardens that surround it.
Jardin Majorelle – Just outside of the medina, you’ll find this lush oasis filled with exotic plants, cacti, and a museum. This is a very popular attraction so be sure to arrive early to avoid standing in a long queue.
Bahia Palace – Make sure to visit to this stunning 19th century palace to admire the traditional architecture and lovely gardens. It’s located on the outskirts of the medina and costs 70 dirham (€7) to enter.
El Badi Palace – Explore the 16th century ruins that were once a beautiful palace. You’ll find an awesome view over Marrakech from the walls of El Badi Palace.
Traditional Hammam Spa – Treat yourself to a 3 hour traditional spa experience which includes an oil massage and time to relax in the hammam (bath). Hotel pick up and drop off is included in the price of the ticket.
Jemaâ El Fna Market at sunset
Highlights of Fes
Fes is a beautiful historic city full of fascinating sites and unique architecture. Once you arrive in Fes after your desert tour from Marrakech, consider spending at least 2 days here to see the highlights listed below.
Fes Medina Guided Tour – Allow a local guide to lead you through the maze of alleys that make up the ancient medina of Fes. Learn about the city’s history while stopping at a number of key attractions on this half day guided tour.
Royal Palace of Fes – Take a walk to the magnificent Royal Palace and admire the intricately designed exterior. The palace is still in use by the royal family and unfortunately is not open to tourists. It’s still a must-see and worthy of a quick stop for some photos.
Bou Inania Madrassa – Located in the heart of the medina, this stunning religious building was once a school in the 14th century. Featuring impressive tile work and intricate wood carvings, the Bou Inania can’t be missed on your explorations around Fes. Entrance costs 20 dirhams per person.
Chouara Tannery – An icon of Fes, the historic Chouara Tannery has been operating since the 11th century making it the oldest leather tannery in the world. Take in the sights and smells of this famous tannery by entering one of the many leather shops that surround it.
Fes El Bali (Fes Medina) – The UNESCO listed medina of Fes is the world’s largest walled medieval city. Take some time getting lost in the winding alleys, browsing the stalls and shops and stopping for a mint tea as you go.
Day trip to Chefchaouen – If you have any time to spare during your stay in Fes, it is well worth booking a day trip to see the magical blue city of Morocco, Chefchaouen. This small group tour will show you the very best of Chefchaouen in a day including a visit to the Kasbah Museum, Grand Mosque and free time to explore the town.
Retreat from the busy medina at this peaceful oasis in the heart of Marrakech. This lovely riad features a plunge pool, an onsite restaurant and comfortable rooms, all for a very reasonable price. Breakfast is also included in your stay.
This stunning riad is centrally located and features a rooftop terrace offering beautiful views. There is also an on-site restaurant which is great for those who prefer to have a relaxing dinner without having to venture out into the busy streets. There is also a spa with a heated swimming pool that offers a range of spa treatments to choose from.
This highly reviewed riad is conveniently located near all of the main highlights of Marrakech. There is a beautiful indoor swimming pool, restaurant/bar and a spa/wellness centre onsite. With tastefully decorated rooms and a picture perfect courtyard, you can’t go wrong with choosing this gorgeous riad!
This centrally located guesthouse has everything you need during your stay in Fes. Although the rooms are a little small, you will be spending most of your time exploring the town. For a very reasonable price this guesthouse features clean rooms and a delicious breakfast included.
Relax with a mint tea while taking in panoramic views of the medina from the rooftop terrace. Dar Anne offers the perfect location to explore the old town from, there is also a breakfast included in your stay. The staff there is very helpful, the rooms are comfortable and the property is highly rated on Booking.com.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast as you take in the breath taking views over the medina from the rooftop terrace. The décor of this riad is simply beautiful and the rooms are clean and spacious. If you want to end your time in Morocco on a good note, it’s worth it to spend a little extra and treat yourself with a stay at this stunning riad!
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Final Thoughts on Doing a 3 Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes
Morocco is an incredibly diverse country with endless beauty to discover and unique experiences to be had. Of all the countries I’ve visited, Morocco remains at the top of the list for many reasons; amazing food, friendly locals, unique landscapes, and ancient cities.
If you’re seeking that bucket list adventure through the Moroccan desert, look no further than this epic 3 day tour. If you’re in the process of planning your trip to Morocco, be sure to check out our one week in Morocco guide to get some inspiration on where to go.
I hope this guide has helped you to plan the perfect tour from Marrakech to Fes. The cities themselves and the sites between them are truly amazing and your time spent there is certain to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send me a message or leave me a comment!
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