3 Days Fes to Merzouga Desert tour

Summary:

In this 3 days Fes to Merzouga Desert tour, we have carefully customized this option to allow you more time to fully experience the magic of the desert. Along the way, you’ll have the unique opportunity to visit nomadic families in their traditional tents and gain insight into their daily way of life. Furthermore, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable stop in Khamlia village, where you can immerse yourself in the spiritual rhythms of Gnawa music, performed by locals whose roots trace back to sub-Saharan Africa. To complete this enriching cultural experience, you’ll also savor a delicious traditional Berber pizza for lunch  a true local specialty.

 

3 days tour from Fes to Merzouga

Highlights: 3 Days Fes to Merzouga ​​ Sahara

Itinerary: 3 days tour from Fes to Merzouga

FIRST DAY: Fes - Ifrane - Middle Atlas - Ziz valley - Erfour - Merzouga

On the first day of the 3 days fes to Merzouga desert, we will pick you up from your hotel or riad in Fes and begin our journey south toward Ifrane, a charming mountain town often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its alpine-style architecture and clean, cool atmosphere. From there, we continue to Midelt, passing through the scenic Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains.

Along the way, we’ll stop in Azrou, a traditional Berber village nestled in the heart of Morocco’s largest cedar forest. Here, you may encounter the Barbary macaques, native to the region and often spotted roaming freely among the ancient trees.

After enjoying some time in the forest, the journey resumes toward Midelt, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and mountain landscapes. From Midelt, we cross the dramatic Tizi N’Talghamt Pass and descend into the impressive Ziz Gorge, where the scenery gradually transforms, revealing the first signs of the Sahara as we approach Errachidia. Here, you will pause for lunch and experience warm Berber hospitality.

In the afternoon, we drive through the lush Ziz Valley, dotted with palm groves and traditional villages. We’ll make scenic stops along the way for panoramic views before arriving in Erfoud and continuing to Rissani, the gateway to the desert.

By late afternoon, we reach Merzouga, where you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing glass of mint tea. Then, embark on a camel trek led by an experienced guide, venturing into the vast golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. As the sun sets, you’ll arrive at your desert camp. Enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars, followed by an overnight stay in your tent — a truly magical experience in the heart of the Sahara.

SECOND DAY: 4x4 adventure around the sahara desert witha visit to nomads

This day offers a full desert experience, beginning with a magical “date with the sunrise.” If you’re already in the heart of the Sahara, it’s truly worth waking up early to witness one of the most breathtaking sunrises you’ll ever see, from the top of a nearby dune. As the first light touches the golden sands, you’ll enjoy a peaceful moment that feels like a gift from nature itself.

After sunrise, we return to Merzouga by camel, where a hearty breakfast will be waiting for us. We then begin a drive around the Erg Chebbi dunes, an expansive stretch of desert that includes Morocco’s highest dune, rising over 250 meters.

Continuing our route, we follow part of the legendary track once used in the Paris-Dakar Rally, which eventually leads toward the Algerian border mountains. Along the way, we stop at the Tissardmine oasis, where fossil quarries can still be found — a fascinating link to the ancient geology of the region.

We then proceed along a desert path where we’ll come across nomadic families, giving you a rare opportunity to observe their way of life and traditions. Afterward, we pause at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the entire Erg Chebbi, offering an incredible panoramic perspective.

Our next stop is Khamlia village, home to people of Malian origin, where we’ll enjoy a relaxing glass of tea while listening to the spiritual rhythms of Gnawa music — a soulful tradition rooted in African heritage.

Finally, we transfer you to your accommodation, where you’ll have a free afternoon to relax, explore the town, or walk into the nearby dunes to catch another unforgettable sunset. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the hotel.

THIRD DAY: Merzouga - Errachidia - Ziz valley - Midelt - Middle atlas - Imouzar - Fes

Once you’re ready, we begin our final day heading north through the expansive Tafilalet palm grove, considered the largest in the world. As we drive along this scenic route, you’ll witness thousands of palm trees stretching across more than 20 kilometers. This road leads us to the stunning Ziz Valley, where the river flowing down from the High Atlas nourishes the lush groves below.

We’ll pause at a high panoramic viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of the valley and the town of Aoufous nestled within. Our journey then continues toward Midelt, located in the heart of the Atlas Mountains, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch and take a short break.

Inclusions: 3 Days tour from Fes to Merzouga

Exclusions: 3 Days tour from Fes to Merzouga

Merzouga Map and surounding sights to see on second day of the 3 days itinerary

Sights to explore during the 3 days sahara tour to Erg Chebbi desert

Ifrane:

Ifrane is a charming mountain town located on the northwestern slopes of the Middle Atlas at an altitude of 1,630 meters. Often called the “Swiss Town of Morocco,” Ifrane is known for its clean streets, European-style architecture, lush gardens, and cool climate. Unlike typical Moroccan cities, it feels more like a quaint alpine village, making it a unique destination in the country. The town is also home to the popular Michlifen ski resort, attracting visitors during the winter months for skiing and snowboarding. Its serene environment and natural beauty offer a refreshing contrast to the bustling cities of Morocco.

Cedar Forest:

The cedar forest of Azrou is one of Morocco’s most enchanting natural sites, located in the Middle Atlas Mountains. This vast forest is renowned for its majestic cedar trees, some of which are centuries old, creating a serene and shaded environment perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. Among the forest’s most famous residents are the Barbary macaques, wild monkeys native to this region. These playful primates roam freely among the trees and are often seen interacting with visitors, making the cedar forest a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. The forest’s unique ecosystem and scenic beauty offer a peaceful retreat from the nearby towns.

Middle atlas Mounatins:

The Middle Atlas Mountains form a stunning and diverse mountain range in northern Morocco, known for their lush cedar forests, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes. This region is home to traditional Berber villages, abundant wildlife, and cooler temperatures compared to the surrounding plains and deserts. The Middle Atlas serves as a natural transition zone between the fertile plains and the arid Sahara, offering travelers breathtaking views, peaceful hiking trails, and a chance to experience Morocco’s rich cultural heritage in a serene environment. Its scenic beauty and unique ecosystem make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Ziz Valley

The Ziz Valley is a spectacular oasis located in southeastern Morocco, carved by the winding Ziz River as it flows down from the High Atlas Mountains. Renowned for its endless stretches of lush palm groves, the valley is often called a “green jewel” in the midst of the surrounding desert. Traditional Berber villages dot the landscape, with ancient kasbahs and fortified granaries adding to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the Ziz Valley can enjoy stunning panoramic views from nearby vantage points, explore the vibrant oasis life, and experience the blend of mountainous and desert ecosystems. It is a vital lifeline in the region, supporting agriculture and local communities amidst the arid environment.

Erfoud:

Erfoud is a historic town located on the edge of the Sahara Desert in southeastern Morocco. Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” it serves as a key starting point for desert excursions, including trips to the nearby Erg Chebbi dunes. Erfoud is famous for its rich fossil deposits, which have earned it the nickname “City of Fossils.” The town hosts an annual date festival celebrating its prized date palms, reflecting its agricultural heritage. Visitors to Erfoud can explore traditional markets, enjoy local cuisine, and experience authentic desert culture before heading deeper into the Sahara.

Erg Chebbi:

Erg Chebbi is one of Morocco’s most iconic natural wonders — a vast sea of towering golden sand dunes located near the village of Merzouga. Rising up to 250 meters high, these dunes stretch across approximately 22 kilometers, creating a breathtaking desert landscape that attracts travelers from around the world. Erg Chebbi offers spectacular opportunities for camel trekking, sandboarding, and watching unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. The ever-shifting sands and peaceful silence make it a magical place to experience the true spirit of the Sahara Desert.

Mifis Mines:

The Mifis Mines are historic fossil quarries located near Erfoud, in southeastern Morocco. These ancient mines are renowned for their abundant deposits of marine fossils, some dating back millions of years to when this area was covered by a prehistoric sea. Visitors to the Mifis Mines can explore fascinating fossilized remains of shells, coral, and other sea creatures embedded in the rock formations. The site offers a unique glimpse into Morocco’s geological past and is a popular stop for those interested in paleontology and natural history.

Rissani:

Rissani is a vibrant market town located near the edge of the Sahara Desert in southeastern Morocco. Known as the historic gateway to the Sahara, Rissani was once the ancient capital of the Tafilalet region and retains much of its traditional charm. The town is famous for its lively souks, where locals trade everything from spices and handicrafts to livestock. Rissani also boasts impressive kasbahs and historic sites that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Visitors often pass through Rissani on their way to the desert dunes, making it a perfect place to experience authentic Berber culture and bustling market life.

FAQs about the 3 Days Morocco desert trip

From Fes to the Merzouga desert  typically takes around 7 to 9 hours by road, depending on stops and traffic. This scenic drive passes through the Middle Atlas Mountains, cedar forests, and valleys, offering several interesting stops along the way to break up the trip and enjoy the landscape.

Yes, you can reach the desert camp without riding a camel. If you prefer, we offer a jeep transfer from Merzouga village directly to the camp at no extra charge. This option provides a comfortable and faster way to get to the camp, especially if you’re not keen on camel riding or have mobility concerns. Whether by camel or jeep, you’ll still enjoy the stunning desert scenery and the unforgettable experience of staying overnight under the stars

Yes, the tents do have bathrooms. In recent years, desert camps have become much more luxurious and comfortable, offering private bathrooms with modern facilities inside or very close to each tent. This upgrade ensures you can enjoy the authentic desert experience without sacrificing convenience or comfort.

The camel ride to the camp takes about one hour, including a stop in the middle of the Sahara to enjoy the stunning sunset.

Yes, our 4×4 jeep will transfer all your suitcases and bags directly to your tent. For the camel ride, you only need to carry a small backpack with essentials such as water, a camera, or any special items you may want during the journey.

Yes, some tents are equipped with air conditioning, but not all. To ensure you have A/C, we recommend booking the superior category tents.

Note:

The provided 3 days tour from Fes  can be customized to fit your travel plans. Whether you wish to start the tour from the airport or another location in Fes, it is possible. We also offer a full package that includes airport pickup, hotel accommodation in Fes, and a local guide. Additionally, the tour can be extended to include other destinations according to your preferences.