Marrakech to Fes via the Sahara
The classic Morocco route: Marrakech to Fes through the High Atlas, Ait Benhaddou, Dades Gorge and a night on the Merzouga dunes.
The Marrakech-to-Fes desert route is the most popular multi-day tour in Morocco, and for good reason. In three days you cross the High Atlas, walk through a Hollywood-famous kasbah, drive through dramatic gorges, sleep on Saharan dunes and arrive in the medieval labyrinth of Fes.
We offer this as a private tour (your own vehicle and driver) or a shared tour (join a small group). Both follow the same route — the difference is flexibility and price.
What's included
Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Gorge
Cross the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m), stop at Ait Benhaddou (UNESCO World Heritage), and reach the pink cliffs of Dades Gorge by evening.
Learn more →Day 2: Dades to Merzouga
Drive through the Todra Gorge and across the hammada to Merzouga. Mount camels at sunset for a trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Sleep in a desert camp.
Learn more →Day 3: Merzouga to Fes
Sunrise on the dunes, then a long but scenic drive north through Midelt and the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas. Arrive in Fes by evening.
Included
- Private or shared vehicle with driver
- 2 nights accommodation (Dades hotel + desert camp)
- Breakfast and dinner each day
- Camel trek to the dunes at sunset
- Desert camp with traditional music and dinner
- All fuel, tolls and parking
Not included
- Lunches (we stop at local restaurants)
- Entrance fees (Ait Benhaddou is free)
- Tips for driver and camp staff
How it works
Choose your dates
The tour runs any day of the year. Tell us when you want to start.
Pick private or shared
Private gives flexibility (stop where you want). Shared is more affordable and social.
Pack light and go
Bring a small bag for the desert overnight. Your main luggage stays in the vehicle.
Common questions
How long is the drive from Marrakech to Fes via the desert?
About 18 hours of driving spread over three days. Each day is 5-7 hours of driving with multiple scenic stops.
Can I do the reverse route (Fes to Marrakech)?
Yes. The route works equally well in both directions. We can arrange pickup from your Fes riad.
Is the desert cold at night?
In winter (November-February), desert nights can drop to 5-8°C. Camps provide thick blankets and heating. In summer, nights are warm and comfortable.
What type of camp is included?
The standard camp has comfortable shared tents, clean communal bathrooms and a communal dining tent. For private en-suite tents with hot showers, choose the luxury camp upgrade.
Ready to book the desert route?
Message us on WhatsApp for a free quote. We reply within an hour.
Reply within hours · Free cancellation · No deposit required