The 3 Day Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga takes you from the medieval charm of Fes to the golden dunes of the Sahara and back, offering a perfect short escape into Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes. In just three days, you’ll cross the Middle Atlas mountains, ride a camel at sunset, sleep under a blanket of stars, and immerse yourself in Berber culture.
You’ll begin by traveling through Ifrane (“Morocco’s Switzerland”) and the cedar forests of Azrou to spot Barbary macaques, then descend through the stunning Ziz Valley oasis to Merzouga. Your first evening includes a sunset camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes and a night in a luxury desert camp with traditional dinner and live music.
Day two is a full desert immersion – visiting a nomadic family, experiencing Gnawa music in Khamlia, exploring a salt lake and abandoned mines, and enjoying sandboarding before another magical night in the desert. On day three, you’ll visit Rissani’s lively market before returning to Fes via the Middle Atlas mountains and cedar forests.
Your three‑day desert tour begins with an early morning pickup from your accommodation in Fes. We’ll first visit Ifrane, a charming town known for its unique alpine architecture – often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Our journey continues through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, where we’ll stop in the Cedar Forest to see Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. After a delicious lunch in Midelt, we’ll descend into the spectacular Ziz Valley, a vast oasis of palm groves that creates a stunning contrast with the arid landscape. By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. Here, your desert adventure begins as you mount a camel for a peaceful trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes during sunset. You’ll spend the night in a luxury desert camp, enjoying a traditional Berber dinner and live music under a blanket of stars.
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes before enjoying a hearty Berber breakfast at the camp. This day is dedicated to exploring the desert surroundings. You’ll visit a nomadic family to learn about their way of life while sipping mint tea. You’ll then head to the village of Khamlia to experience the hypnotic rhythms of Gnawa music. Next, you’ll explore the nearby Dayet Srji Salt Lake, where flamingos can sometimes be seen, followed by a visit to the abandoned Mifis mines. In the afternoon, you can try sandboarding on the golden dunes or simply relax. At sunset, you’ll enjoy another peaceful night in the desert – either returning to the camp or choosing to stay at a nearby hotel with a pool (depending on your preference or tour option).
After breakfast, you’ll begin your return journey. The first stop is Rissani, a historic trading town where you can explore its lively market. The route will take you through Errachidia and Midelt, where you’ll stop for lunch (not included). As you cross the Atlas Mountains again, you’ll pass through the Cedar Forest for a final opportunity to see the macaques. You’ll arrive back in Fes in the early evening, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, filled with unforgettable memories of your Sahara adventure.
Lunches and drinks Entrance fees to optional sites Tips for guides and drivers
