From Marrakech To Fes Through The Desert Of Merzouga: Shared

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Marrakech to the historic city of Fes, exploring the captivating landscapes of the Moroccan desert along the way. This shared tour offers the chance to discover the renowned Ksar Ait Ben Haddou, learn about the dramatic Dades Gorges, and experience the serenity of a camel safari in the golden dunes of Merzouga. With an overnight stay in a traditional desert camp, you’ll be immersed in the tranquil Saharan atmosphere before arriving in Fes, where the blend of ancient and modern awaits. Get ready to be captivated by the diverse wonders of Morocco.

Key Points

Pickup from Marrakech hotel and transfer to the meeting point at Place 16 Novembre to begin the journey to Fes.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Ksar Ait Ben Haddou, a well-preserved example of traditional mud brick construction along the Trans-Saharan trade route.
Venture into the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Gorges, admiring the region’s stunning geology and interacting with the local Berber people.
Set out on a camel safari into the vast, golden dunes of the Merzouga Desert, culminating in an overnight stay at a traditional desert camp.
Arrive in Fes and have the opportunity to immerse in the city’s captivating blend of ancient and modern through various accommodation options within the historic medina.

Marrakech Pickup and Transfer

The tour typically begins with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Marrakech, where the driver will greet you and escort you to the meeting point at Place 16 Novembre.

This is the designated starting point for the journey ahead. The driver will ensure a smooth transfer, handling your luggage and making sure you’re comfortable before setting off.

Guests are advised to be ready at the pickup location on time to avoid any delays. Once the group is assembled, the driver will navigate the roads, providing a comfortable and efficient transfer to the next destination on the itinerary.

UNESCO-listed Ksar Ait Ben Haddou

After departing Marrakech, the tour makes its way towards the UNESCO-listed Ksar Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified city that has stood the test of time. This iconic landmark, recognized for its cultural significance, sits atop a hill overlooking the Ounila River valley, offering visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history.

Feature	Description
Architecture	A well-preserved example of traditional mud brick construction
History	Served as a fortified granary and trading post along the Trans-Saharan trade route
Filming Locations	Used as a backdrop in numerous films, including "Lawrence of Arabia" and "Game of Thrones"

The tour allows ample time to explore the labyrinth of narrow alleys, adobe houses, and communal areas that make up this captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Exploring the Dades Gorges

Following the visit to Ksar Ait Ben Haddou, the tour ventures deeper into the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Gorges, a breathtaking natural wonder carved by the Dades River over millions of years.

Winding through towering red-rock formations, the gorge offers visitors a chance to admire the region’s stunning geology. Travelers can explore the twisting trails, spot local wildlife, and take in the serene atmosphere of this natural oasis.

The Dades Gorges also provide an opportunity to interact with the Berber people, who’ve inhabited this rugged terrain for centuries. With its awe-inspiring vistas and cultural heritage, the Dades Gorges is a highlight of the journey from Marrakech to Fes.

Camel Safari in Merzouga Desert

From the dramatic Dades Gorges, the tour continues its journey towards the captivating Merzouga Desert, where travelers can embark on an unforgettable camel safari.

This iconic experience begins with a gentle camel ride into the vast, golden dunes, offering a unique perspective of the serene desert landscape.

As the sun sets, guests arrive at a traditional desert camp, where they’ll spend the night under the stars. Here, they’ll have the chance to savor a delectable dinner and enjoy the tranquil Saharan atmosphere.

With an overnight stay in a desert tent, this camel safari promises to be a cherished highlight of the Marrakech-to-Fes excursion.

Overnight in Desert Camp

Guests spend the night in a traditional desert camp, where they’ll have the chance to admire the serene Saharan atmosphere under a canopy of stars. After an exhilarating camel ride, they’ll settle into their cozy tents, furnished with comfortable mattresses and Moroccan-inspired decor. In the evening, they can savor a delicious dinner prepared by the camp’s skilled staff, followed by mesmerizing Berber music and stories around the campfire. The next morning, they’ll wake up to the stunning desert landscape and enjoy a hearty breakfast before continuing their journey.

Amenities	Included	Not Included
Overnight Stay	✓
Dinner	✓
Breakfast	✓
Camel Ride	✓
Berber Music & Stories	✓

Arrival and Accommodation in Fes

Upon reaching Fes, travelers will find their accommodations awaiting them. The lodgings, often located within the historic medina, offer an immersive experience, allowing guests to fully embrace the city’s captivating blend of ancient and modern.

Whether it’s a traditional riad, a cozy guesthouse, or a modern boutique hotel, the accommodations in Fes provide a comfortable base from which to explore the enchanting sights and sounds of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Riads, with their tranquil courtyards and ornate interiors, are a popular choice, transporting visitors back in time. Guesthouses and boutique hotels, on the other hand, combine the charm of the old with the conveniences of the new, ensuring a memorable stay in this captivating Moroccan city.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes door-to-door hotel transfers, 2 nights’ accommodation, breakfast and dinner on 2 occasions, a camel ride, and an overnight stay in a desert tent.

However, the cost of food and drinks, as well as lunch, aren’t included in the package. Travelers should also plan to tip the guides and drivers.

The tour meets at Place 16 Novembre in Marrakech and ends at the same location.

Travelers should note that the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant women, and infant seats are available.

Dietary requirements should be communicated at the time of booking, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Additional Information and Requirements

Travelers must advise any dietary requirements when booking, as the tour operates in all weather conditions. Children qualify for the discounted rate only when accompanying two paying adults.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or pregnant women, and it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Health restrictions – Participants mustn’t have any heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Age limitations – Infant seats are available, but the child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults.

Physical accessibility – The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant women, and isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Weather resilience – The tour operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should be prepared accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cancel or Change My Booking if Needed?

Yes, you can cancel or change your booking as needed. However, there may be fees or penalties associated with these changes, so it’s best to review the tour operator’s cancellation and change policies prior to booking.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?

The tour has no minimum group size requirement. It’s a shared group tour, so you can book it regardless of the number of travelers in your party. The tour will operate as long as at least one person has booked it.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Tour?

Whether you need a visa for this tour depends on your nationality. Most travelers will require a visa to visit Morocco. It’s best to check the visa requirements for your specific country before booking the tour.

Can I Bring Additional Luggage on the Camel Ride?

Yes, you can bring additional luggage on the camel ride. The tour includes door-to-door transfers, so you can leave any extra bags with the driver during the desert portion of the trip.

Is There an Age Limit for the Camel Safari Experience?

There is no age limit for the camel safari experience. The tour accommodates travelers of all ages, including children, though it’s not recommended for infants or those with certain medical conditions. Participants must be able to ride a camel safely.