3 Days Private Desert Safari from Marrakech to Fez
Private Desert Safari lovers, get ready to embark on a soul-stirring journey through the heart of Morocco — a 3-day adventure that whisks you from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the timeless city of Fez. This is not just a transfer between two cities; it’s a deeply immersive experience where each moment is steeped in history, culture, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Moroccan desert. From the dramatic gorges of the Dades Valley to the golden dunes of the Sahara, every stop is a postcard come to life. Spend your nights under star-filled skies, whether nestled in a charming valley guesthouse or a traditional desert camp. This Private Desert Safari is designed for those who crave authenticity, discovery, and emotional connection with the landscapes they traverse. Below, we reveal every detail of this unforgettable itinerary — your perfect blend of exploration, comfort, and wonder.
Day 1: Travel through the Atlas Mountains to the Dades Valley
Your Private Desert Safari begins at dawn in the vibrant city of Marrakech, where you’ll be warmly welcomed around 8:00 a.m. for the start of an extraordinary journey. As your vehicle ascends the winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains, the scenery transforms into a majestic panorama of snow-capped peaks, terraced fields, and ancient Berber villages clinging to the hillsides. Crossing the legendary Tizi n’Tichka Pass — the highest road pass in Morocco — you’ll be swept away by breathtaking views that seem to stretch into infinity, a true feast for the soul and the senses.
Your first magical stop is none other than the fabled Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that rises from the desert like a mirage in earth tones. Its mud-brick towers and fortified walls tell centuries of stories — of nomads, traders, and cinematic legends. Standing within its timeworn corridors, it’s easy to see why it has captivated filmmakers for productions like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones. Once a thriving hub on the ancient Salt Route, Ait Ben Haddou echoed with the footsteps of caravans carrying gold, spices, silk, and salt across the harsh Sahara.
From here, your adventure leads to Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert and a city affectionately known as « Africa’s Hollywood. » A brief visit reveals its cinematic charm and vibrant pulse, with iconic film studios and sand-colored architecture blending into the desert backdrop. The road then takes you through the lush Skoura Oasis, a haven of palm groves and hidden kasbahs, and on to the Valley of Roses, a place of romance and natural beauty where the scent of blooming roses perfumes the air each spring.
As twilight approaches, you’ll arrive in the stunning Dades Valley, a land of dramatic gorges and quiet beauty. Here, nestled in a charming local hotel surrounded by towering cliffs and winding rivers, you’ll savor a delicious dinner and drift off to sleep, cradled by the silence of the mountains and the promise of more wonders to come.
Day 2: Exploring the Todra Gorge and the Sahara Desert
Day two of your Private Desert Safari brings a new wave of wonder, Awaken to the serene charm of the Dades Valley, where the first light of day paints the landscape in golden hues, before embarking on your journey toward the majestic Todra Gorge — one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural marvels. After a hearty breakfast, your journey leads you through winding roads flanked by towering cliffs of red limestone, carved over centuries by the Todra River. These dramatic gorges, rising up to 300 meters high, are a sacred haven for hikers, climbers, and anyone seeking a moment of pure connection with nature. Here, you’ll have time to walk along the canyon floor, soak in the serenity, and let the silence of the stone walls calm your spirit.
As the journey continues, you’ll pass through a tapestry of authentic Berber villages, where life flows to the rhythm of tradition. Along the way, short visits to the towns of Tinjdad, Jorf, and Erfoud open a fascinating window into Morocco’s ancient past. These desert towns are renowned for their fossil-rich terrain — a surreal landscape where time seems preserved in stone. Step inside a local fossil workshop and discover ammonites, trilobites, and marble slabs embedded with ancient marine life — a reminder that even the driest corners of the Sahara were once submerged beneath prehistoric seas.
By late afternoon, your road finally leads you to Merzouga, the golden threshold of the Sahara Desert. Here begins perhaps the most magical chapter of your Private Desert Safari. Leaving your vehicle behind, you’ll mount a camel and glide across the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi, bathed in the golden light of the late afternoon sun. As you ride deeper into the sea of sand, the world falls quiet, the only sound being the soft padding of camel hooves. The vastness, the silence, the changing colors of the dunes — it all creates a deeply moving, almost spiritual atmosphere.
And then, just as the sun dips beneath the horizon, the desert reveals its most spectacular show: a sunset of fire and gold, casting long shadows across the rippling sand. This is a moment that imprints itself on your memory — timeless, powerful, and unforgettable.
You’ll spend the night in a traditional desert camp, welcomed by Berber hosts and warmed by a hearty dinner cooked under the stars. As the rhythmic beat of drums fills the night, you’ll sit by the fire, gaze up at a sky full of brilliant stars, and feel the quiet magic of the Sahara embrace you. It’s not just a night in the desert — it’s a dream made real.
Day 3: From the desert to Fez through breathtaking scenery
As the final day of your Private Desert Safari begins, you’ll rise before dawn to witness one of nature’s most enchanting displays — a sunrise over the Sahara. As the first light paints the dunes in shades of gold and crimson, the desert seems to come alive with quiet magic. It’s a moment of serenity and wonder, a peaceful farewell to the timeless beauty of Merzouga. After enjoying a traditional breakfast and a refreshing shower, it’s time to leave the stillness of the dunes behind and journey north toward a new chapter.
Though the road to Fez is long, it unfolds like a living tapestry of Morocco’s most diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Your journey begins in the lush Ziz Valley, a vibrant oasis winding through the arid landscape, where endless rows of palm trees dance with the wind and towering cliffs create a striking natural backdrop. It’s a stunning contrast to the sandy silence of the Sahara, and a reminder of Morocco’s ever-changing terrain.
Continuing onward, you’ll pass through Midelt, a peaceful town nestled at the foot of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Surrounded by orchards and peaks, it offers a gentle pause and a taste of rural life. The route then guides you to Azrou, home of the famous Cedar Forest, where the air is crisp and cool, and centuries-old trees rise tall around you. In this serene woodland, you may encounter the region’s playful residents — the Barbary macaques, a rare and cherished species that bring delight to visitors of all ages.
From there, the journey takes a picturesque turn as you arrive in Ifrane, affectionately known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” With its European-style architecture, flower-lined avenues, and alpine atmosphere, Ifrane feels like a different world — a final surprise in a trip already rich in contrasts.
As the sun begins to dip, your vehicle finally approaches Fez, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual heart. The medina’s ancient walls rise in the distance, welcoming you into a city steeped in history, art, and tradition. With hearts full and minds brimming with memories, you’ll complete your Private Desert Safari, not as a tourist, but as a traveler forever touched by the soul of Morocco.
Highlights of 3 Days Private Desert Safari.
- Drive through the spectacular mountains of the High Atlas Mountains
- Visiting the historic kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
- Exploring the dramatic Todra Gorges
- Camel ride through the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Watching the sunrise and sunset over the Sahara Desert
- Spend a magical night in a desert camp
- Admire the lush landscapes of the Ziz Valley
- Walk through the peaceful Azrou cedar forest
- Explore Ifrane, a picturesque alpine town in Morocco
Prices and accommodation options
This unforgettable journey is available as a Private Desert Safari or in a small group format, offering flexibility to match your travel style. Whether you’re seeking an intimate escape for two or a shared adventure with fellow explorers, the pricing adapts according to the number of participants and your choice of accommodation — from cozy guesthouses to luxurious desert camps. Every detail is tailored to ensure your experience is as personal and comfortable as possible.
Standard tour prices of 3 Days Private Desert Safari:
1 person: €650
2 persons: €335 per person
3 people: €266 per person
4 persons: €212 per person
5 persons: €180 per person
Groups of more than 5 people: Contact us for customized rates
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Basic but comfortable hotels or riads and camps in the desert
- Mid-range: Comfort and better amenities
- Luxury: High-end hotels and tented camps for a more luxurious experience.
- What the tour includes.
- Private air-conditioned transportation
- Experienced, multilingual driver
- Fuel for the car
- One night in a hotel (including dinner and breakfast)
- One night in a camp in the desert (including dinner and breakfast)
- Camel trekking through the dunes
- Optional sandboarding activity
What is not included in 3 Days Private Desert Safari.
- Drinks
- Lunches
- Accommodation in Marrakech
- Entrance fees to attractions
Instructions and important information
Important Travel Notes for Your Private Desert Safari Experience
While your Private Desert Safari promises unforgettable moments, it’s important to be aware of a few practical aspects to ensure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
Long Drives & Travel Pace:
The landscapes between Marrakech and Fez are vast and incredibly diverse, but they also require time to traverse. Especially on the third day, the drive from Merzouga to Fez can be long and tiring. Be prepared to spend several hours on the road. If your schedule allows, we highly recommend extending your adventure to 4 or even 5 days — giving you the luxury of a slower pace, more stops, and deeper immersion in the regions you’ll pass through.
Weather Conditions:
The desert is a land of extremes. While most days are filled with sunshine, unexpected weather such as rain or sandstorms can occasionally affect activities like camel rides or sunrise and sunset viewings. Your safety and comfort always come first, and alternative plans may be arranged in the rare case of inclement weather.
Camel Ride Comfort:
Riding a camel across the dunes is a magical and iconic part of the experience — but it’s also physically demanding. Travelers should be aware that long camel rides may not be suitable for pregnant women, the elderly, or those with back or joint issues. If you’re unsure, we can arrange alternative transportation options to ensure everyone enjoys the desert in comfort.
Meal Options:
Throughout the journey, lunch stops are thoughtfully chosen at local restaurants known for their freshness and authentic Moroccan flavors. However, we understand that everyone has different tastes and dietary needs — so feel free to let your driver know if you’d prefer a different spot. We’re happy to help customize the experience to your preferences.
Frequently asked questions about Private Desert Safari.
1 – What types of accommodations are available?
Depending on your preferences, you can choose standard, mid-range or luxury accommodations.
2. What should I pack for the trip?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and warm layers for the cool desert nights.
3 How long is the trip from Marrakech to Merzouga?
The trip takes about 9-10 hours, including stops for sightseeing.
4. Can I book a Private Desert Safari?
Yes, private tours are available to provide a more personalized experience.
