Fes to Merzouga: 3-Day Sahara Desert Tour

Overview

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of the Sahara Desert on this 3-day tour starting from Fes. Travel through ever-changing landscapes, from the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas mountains to the vast Ziz Valley palm groves, culminating in the breathtaking Erg Chebbi dunes. This adventure includes a camel trek at sunset and an unforgettable night under the stars at a traditional Berber camp.

Highlights

Travel through the Middle Atlas mountains, stopping at Ifrane, the "Switzerland of Morocco".
See the Barbary apes in the cedar forests of Azrou.
Journey through the scenic Ziz Valley with its vast palm groves.
Experience a camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes to watch the sunset.
Spend a night in a Berber desert camp with traditional music and dinner.
Wake up to a beautiful sunrise over the dunes.
Return to Fes through a scenic route.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Fes → Ifrane → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Merzouga

We will pick you up from your accommodation in Fes early in the morning and begin our journey south. Our first stop is Ifrane, a charming town known for its alpine-style architecture. We then continue through the cedar forests near Azrou, where we might spot Barbary apes. We'll pass through Midelt and across the Tizi n'Talghamt pass, enjoying the views of the High Atlas. As we approach Errachidia, you'll see the landscape transform into a desert-like environment. Our journey continues along the lush Ziz Valley, stopping for panoramic views along the way. In the afternoon, we will arrive in Merzouga, where you'll be welcomed with mint tea before checking into your hotel at the edge of the dunes.

Day 2: Merzouga Area Exploration → Camel Trek & Night in Camp

After breakfast, you'll have a chance to explore the Merzouga area. We will visit the village of Khamlia, home to the Gnawa people, where you'll enjoy their unique music. We may also visit a nomad family to see their lifestyle. In the afternoon, prepare for your camel adventure. You will ride your camel for about 1.5 hours across the beautiful orange dunes to a Berber camp. You'll have time to watch the stunning sunset from atop a high dune. In the evening, enjoy a delicious traditional dinner, followed by Berber music around a campfire before spending the night in a tent under the starry desert sky.

Day 3: Merzouga → Ziz Valley → Fes

Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast at the camp, you'll ride your camels back to Merzouga to meet your driver. We then start the long drive back to Fes, with stops for photos and lunch along the way. We will re-cross the Atlas Mountains and enjoy the changing scenery one last time before arriving in Fes in the early evening. We will drop you off at your accommodation, marking the end of your desert adventure.