Embarking on a remarkable journey through the heart of Morocco, the 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes unveils a tapestry of diverse landscapes, ancient traditions, and captivating experiences.
As you traverse the iconic Atlas Mountains, venture into the timeless Sahara Desert, and immerse yourself in the culture of historic towns and villages, this unforgettable itinerary captures the essence of Morocco’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
These are the highlights of this enchanting voyage from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the ancient medina of Fes.
3-Day Tour From Marrakech To Fes
This is a suggested itinerary for your 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes. There are of course other possibilities of things to see on this route but these are the main places you will want to go to to get the best out of the region.
If you don’t want to do this itinerary independently then this 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes is highly recommended as the best one to do:
Note that Fes is sometimes spelt Fez.
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate
Depart from Marrakech early in the morning, drive through the High Atlas Mountains, and enjoy the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
The Tizi n’Tichka Pass is one of the most famous and highest mountain passes in the country, reaching an elevation of about 2,260 meters above sea level. The pass is known for its stunning scenic views, winding roads, and its role as a major route connecting the city of Marrakech to the regions of Ouarzazate and the Sahara Desert.
Next visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah is a famous fortified city (ksar) and is situated along the former caravan route between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech. The Kasbah is renowned for its unique architecture, historical significance, and its appearance in numerous films and television shows.
Visiting Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah is a must-do on your 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes.
Continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco,” and visit the Taourirt Kasbah. The Taourirt Kasbah is a historic fortress and is one of the most well-known and significant kasbahs in the region, showcasing traditional Moroccan architecture and serving as a testament to the history and culture of the area.
Ouarzazate has been the backdrop for numerous movies and TV shows, taking advantage of its diverse landscapes that range from desert scenes to mountainous terrain.
Stay overnight in Ouarzazate. Find hotels in Ouarzazate here.
Day 2: Ouarzazate – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
Depart from Ouarzazate and head to the Todra Gorges, known for their stunning rock formations.
The road leading to the Todra Gorges offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. As you approach the gorges, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with the canyon walls becoming increasingly impressive.
The gorges are formed by the Todra River, which has carved its way through the rock over millennia, creating narrow and towering canyons with dramatic rock walls. The Todra Gorges are not only a geological marvel but also a sacred space.
Continue to Erfoud, famous for its fossil workshops. The workshops offer more than just souvenirs; they offer a tangible connection to the Earth’s past, a reminder that the stories of our world are etched into every layer of rock.
But it’s not just the fossils that capture your attention; it’s the artisans themselves. Skilled craftsmen meticulously chip away at the stone, revealing the hidden beauty within.
Erfoud is located near the edge of the Sahara Desert in the Tafilalt Oasis, which is known for its palm groves, date production, and unique desert landscapes.
Arrive in Merzouga which is a small village on the edge of the Sahara Desert. It is renowned for its stunning sand dunes, including some of the largest in the world.
Enjoy a camel ride into the Sahara Desert from Merzouga, watch the sunset over the sand dunes, and spend the night at a desert camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga.
The desert camp provides a unique and immersive experience in the heart of the desert, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of sand dunes and clear night skies.
Experience traditional music at the camp. Berber music reflects the history, customs, and way of life of their communities and has a unique blend of rhythms, melodies, and instruments.
While listening to the music, or afterwards, stargaze at the vast landscape of stars in the clear desert sky.
Visiting the Sahara Desert area is easily one of the best things to do on your 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes.
If you are not on a full tour from Marrakech to Fes, then these are recommended tours into the desert from Merzouga to book:
Day 3: Merzouga – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes
Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the desert dunes and return to Merzouga by camel and have breakfast.
Drive to Fes, passing through the Ziz Valley and the Middle Atlas Mountains.
The Ziz Valley is a picturesque valley known for its stunning landscapes, date palm oases, and traditional Berber villages. It’s one of the most scenic valleys in the country and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
As you wind your way through this oasis, you’ll be transported from the vast desert plains into a lush haven where date palm trees sway, and life flourishes in the midst of the parched surroundings.
The Middle Atlas Mountains are located between the High Atlas Mountains to the south and the Rif Mountains to the north. This region is known for its diverse landscapes, which include forests, lakes, rivers, and high plateaus.
Visit the city of Midelt and the town of Ifrane.
Midelt is situated approximately midway between the cities of Fes and Erfoud. It’s nestled in a valley surrounded by the High Atlas Mountains to the south and the Middle Atlas Mountains to the north.
Ifrane is known for its European-inspired architecture, clean streets, and tranquil atmosphere, Ifrane is often referred to as “Little Switzerland” due to its picturesque landscapes and unique character.
Arrive in Fes by the evening.
Stepping into Fes is like entering a world frozen in time. The medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of narrow streets, bustling souks, and hidden courtyards. The air is filled with the fragrant aroma of spices, and artisans practice their crafts just as their ancestors did.
Each corner reveals a new discovery, from the ancient tanneries where leather is dyed using age-old techniques to the vibrant markets where vibrant textiles and intricate ceramics are displayed.
At the heart of Fes lies the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in the 9th century and recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating educational institutions in the world.
The city’s architecture is a mesmerizing blend of Moorish and Andalusian influences, evident in the intricate tile work, graceful arches, and ornate facades. The Bou Inania Madrasa and the Al-Attarine Madrasa are prime examples of this artistic fusion, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship that has made Fes a hub of artisanal excellence.
Yet, Fes is more than its historical marvels; it’s a city of vibrancy and life. In the bustling squares and bustling streets, you’ll encounter locals going about their daily routines, each interaction a glimpse into the city’s pulse.
Fes’s culinary scene is equally enchanting, with its aromatic tagines and delicate pastries inviting you to savour the flavours of Morocco.
Visiting Fes in its own right is one of the best things to do on your 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes.
Find places to stay in Fes here.
As the final rays of the Moroccan sun dip below the horizon, the echoes of your 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes are etched in your memory.
From the bustling energy of Marrakech’s medina to the serene beauty of the Sahara’s dunes, and the timeless allure of Fes’s medina, this adventure has woven together the threads of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural riches.
The Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert, and the captivating towns in between have unveiled the layers of Morocco’s past and the promise of its future.
If you want to do this tour in reverse from Fes to Marrakech you can and if you don’t want to do it independently here are some options, as well as local things to do in Fes.
Travel Morocco
This is a fast-paced itinerary for a 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes, with long drives, but it allows you to experience some of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes in a short amount of time.
Keep in mind that travel times can vary based on road conditions and stops along the way. If you have more time, consider extending your trip to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the region.
Again, as mentioned at the beginning of this article, if you don’t want to do this trip independently then this is the best 3-day tour from Marrakech to Fes to do:
For more on travel in the region take a look at my guides to Morocco.
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