3 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga

Day 1: Fes to Merzouga – Through the Atlas Mountains and Valleys

Departure from Fes

Your tour begins with a morning departure from your hotel or riad in Fes. After meeting your driver and guide, begin your journey toward Merzouga, a town on the edge of the Sahara Desert. The drive takes you through several stunning landscapes, from fertile valleys to rugged mountain passes, providing a visual feast along the way.

Ifrane – The Swiss Village of Morocco

As you leave Fes, make your first stop at Ifrane, a charming town often referred to as “The Switzerland of Morocco” due to its Alpine-style architecture and well-maintained gardens. Here, you can stretch your legs and take in the cool mountain air.

Azrou Cedar Forest and Barbary Macaques

Next, continue to the Azrou Cedar Forest, where you can take a short walk among ancient cedar trees. The forest is home to the famous Barbary macaques, which often approach visitors for food. Be sure to have your camera ready for a chance to capture these playful monkeys in their natural habitat.

Midelt – Gateway to the Desert

Continue your journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains and stop in Midelt, a small town known for its apple orchards and mineral mines. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch here before continuing toward the desert.

Ziz Valley and Erfoud

As you approach the desert, you’ll drive through the stunning Ziz Valley, where lush palm groves and kasbahs dot the landscape. The contrast between the valley’s greenery and the surrounding desert is dramatic. After passing Erfoud, famous for its fossil production, you will finally reach Merzouga by evening.

Camel Trek and Desert Camp

Upon arrival in Merzouga, enjoy a traditional Moroccan mint tea before embarking on a camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes. The camel trek takes you to a desert camp, where you will experience an authentic night under the stars. Enjoy a delicious dinner of traditional Berber food, accompanied by live music around the campfire.

Overnight stay in your desert camp with the sounds of the Sahara surrounding you.

Day 2: Merzouga – Explore the Sahara Desert and Berber Villages

Sunrise over the Dunes

Start your day early to witness the magnificent Sahara sunrise. As the first light of day touches the sand, the dunes come to life in shades of orange and gold, creating an unforgettable scene. After watching the sunrise, return to the village by camel and enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast at your accommodation.

Explore the Merzouga Region

Today, you will explore the Merzouga area with a guided 4×4 excursion, visiting local Berber villages and discovering the desert’s unique culture and lifestyle. You’ll have the chance to visit:

• Khamlia Village – Known as the “village of the Gnawa people,” famous for their music and vibrant cultural traditions.

• Mifiss Mines – Ancient salt mines that offer insight into the region’s history of trade and exploration.

• The Oasis of Tisserdmin – A peaceful oasis hidden in the desert, where you can enjoy a break surrounded by palm trees.

Your guide will also take you to see the black volcanic rocks that form part of the surrounding desert landscape, adding another dimension to the stunning scenery.

Return to Merzouga

In the late afternoon, you will return to Merzouga, where you can relax before enjoying another traditional Moroccan dinner. After dinner, take a stroll through the town or simply relax and unwind in your riad or hotel.

Day 3: Merzouga to Fes – A Scenic Return Journey

Morning Departure from Merzouga

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Fes, retracing your route back through the Ziz Valley and the Middle Atlas Mountains. As you make your way back, enjoy the scenic landscapes that Morocco is so famous for, with several stops along the way to stretch and take in the views.

Rissani – A Glimpse of Moroccan Life

Make a stop in Rissani, the historical center of the region and the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty. Here, you can explore the bustling souks (markets) and the historic Rissani Mausoleum. The town is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and spices.

Azrou and Ifrane

On your way back, make additional stops in Azrou and Ifrane. In Azrou, you can once again visit the cedar forests to see the Barbary macaques or simply relax in the town’s cool, crisp air. Ifrane offers a great place to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and explore more of its charming streets before continuing the journey.

Return to Fes

You’ll arrive back in Fes in the late evening, marking the end of your memorable 3-day tour. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or riad, where you can rest after an incredible adventure.

Why Choose the 3-Day Fes to Merzouga Tour?

• A Comprehensive Desert Experience: From camel trekking to exploring Berber villages, this tour provides a well-rounded Sahara adventure.

• Comfortable Travel: Enjoy private transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout your journey.

• Immersive Cultural Experience: The tour gives you a chance to experience Moroccan culture, including traditional Berber music, food, and lifestyle.

• Breathtaking Landscapes: The diverse landscapes, from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, offer some of the most stunning scenery in Morocco.

• Authentic Desert Adventure: Spend a night in a traditional desert camp and witness a sunrise over the Sahara dunes, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What’s Included in the Tour

• Private transport from Fes to Merzouga and back

• Camel trekking in the Sahara Desert

• 2 nights’ accommodation: One in a hotel or riad in Merzouga and one in a desert camp

• Meals: Breakfast and dinner each day

• Guided excursions: Local Berber guide for desert activities and village visits

• Bottled water and refreshments throughout the trip

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Fes