3 Days Tour From Fes Merzouga Desert

Day 1: Fes to Merzouga desert – Through the Middle Atlas Mountains

Departure from Fes – The Historical City

Your tour begins in the cultural heart of Morocco, Fes. Departing early in the morning, you leave behind the vibrant streets and ancient medina, heading towards the Middle Atlas Mountains. The journey quickly immerses you in Morocco’s diverse landscapes as you ascend into the mountainous region.

Ifrane – The Little Switzerland of Morocco

Your first stop will be the charming town of Ifrane, also known as “Little Switzerland.” With its alpine-inspired architecture and clean, crisp air, Ifrane feels like a world away from the desert ahead. Take a moment to stretch your legs, wander through its parks, and admire the unique landscape of this Moroccan mountain town.

Azrou – Cedar Forests and Barbary Apes

Continuing through the Middle Atlas, you pass through Azrou, home to the famous cedar forests. These ancient woods are not only a scenic spot but also home to wild Barbary apes. A quick stop here allows you to interact with these playful primates and take in the serenity of the cedar trees towering above.

Midelt – Lunch in the Apple Capital

After passing through the cool mountain air, you arrive in Midelt, a town famous for its apple orchards. Located at the crossroads between the Middle and High Atlas mountains, Midelt offers a perfect spot for lunch. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal in one of the local restaurants while admiring the scenic surroundings of the town.

Ziz Valley – The Lush Desert Oasis

As you leave the mountains behind, the road takes you into the Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s largest oasis regions. Lined with towering date palms and dotted with ancient kasbahs, the Ziz Valley is a welcome sight of greenery amidst the dry desert landscape. As you drive through, the valley offers panoramic views of fertile lands framed by rocky desert cliffs.

Arrival in Merzouga – The Edge of the Sahara

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, a small village nestled at the foot of the massive Erg Chebbi dunes. These towering dunes are some of the highest in Morocco, reaching up to 150 meters. The serene landscape of the Sahara stretches endlessly, offering a stunning contrast to the greenery of the valleys you passed through earlier in the day.

Camel Trek into the Merzouga Desert

As the sun begins to set, you’ll embark on an unforgettable camel trek into the heart of the Sahara Desert. Riding on camels, you’ll make your way across the golden dunes, watching as the sun paints the sky in shades of orange and red. The camel trek leads you to a traditional Berber desert camp, where you’ll spend the night.

Dinner and Berber Music Under the Stars

After arriving at the camp, you’ll be welcomed with traditional Berber hospitality and a delicious Moroccan dinner. As night falls, you can enjoy live Berber music around the campfire, with the clear desert sky full of stars overhead. This is a truly magical experience, offering a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle of the Berber people.

Day 2: Merzouga – Exploring the Sahara

Sunrise over the Erg Chebbi Dunes

Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. The first light of the day casts long shadows across the desert, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. After enjoying this peaceful moment, you’ll have breakfast at the desert camp.

4×4 Adventure and Exploration

After breakfast, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the desert further by 4×4. This thrilling ride takes you deeper into the Sahara, visiting hidden gems such as Nomad camps, fossil sites, and small desert oases. You’ll also visit Khamlia Village, where you can experience the unique culture and music of the Gnawa people, descendants of African slaves brought to Morocco centuries ago.

Return to Merzouga and Relaxation

In the afternoon, you’ll return to Merzouga. Spend some time exploring the village or simply relaxing in the tranquil desert environment. You may also choose to try sandboarding down the dunes or take a walk to admire the sheer size of the Erg Chebbi dunes. The desert landscape is ever-changing, and its beauty is both calming and awe-inspiring.

Another Night Under the Stars

As night falls, you’ll return to your desert camp for another night under the stars. The peacefulness of the Sahara at night, with its vast skies and silence, creates a sense of serenity and reflection. Another traditional Moroccan dinner awaits, accompanied by Berber music and stories of the desert.

Day 3: Merzouga to Fes – The Return Journey

Sunrise Farewell to the Desert

Your final day begins with one last sunrise over the Sahara Desert, a moment to capture the beauty of the vast dunes one more time. After a leisurely breakfast at the camp, you’ll embark on the return journey to Fes, retracing your route through the diverse landscapes of Morocco.

Drive Through the Ziz Valley and High Atlas

As you make your way back to Fes, the Ziz Valley once again provides a lush oasis to break up the arid scenery. The journey continues through the High Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and rugged cliffs.

Lunch in Midelt

Once again, you’ll stop in Midelt for lunch, enjoying a traditional meal before continuing the final leg of your journey. The town’s cool mountain air and apple orchards provide a pleasant break before you descend into the plains near Fes.

Arrival in Fes – Journey’s End

By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive back in Fes, where the tour ends. After three days of exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of Morocco, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of the Sahara Desert and the country’s diverse landscapes.