3 Days Tour From Fes to Merzouga

Embark on a breathtaking 3-day journey from Fes to Merzouga, an adventure that takes you through the heart of Morocco’s diverse landscapes. From the historical city of Fes to the vast dunes of the Sahara Desert, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Enjoy stunning vistas, traditional Berber villages, and unforgettable desert experiences.

Day 1: Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane, Azrou, and the Ziz Valley

Departure from Fes

Our journey begins in Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest imperial cities. We set off in the morning, leaving behind the bustling medina and heading towards the serene Middle Atlas Mountains.

Stop in Ifrane – The Switzerland of Morocco

Our first stop is Ifrane, a picturesque town often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its alpine-style architecture and cool climate. Nestled at an altitude of 1,665 meters, Ifrane boasts clean streets, European-style chalets, and lush parks. We take a short break to explore the town and enjoy its scenic beauty.

Azrou and the Cedar Forest – Meet the Barbary Macaques

Continuing our journey, we arrive at Azrou, a traditional Berber town famous for its cedar forests. Here, we take a short walk through the Cedar Forest of Azrou, home to the Barbary macaques. These friendly primates are native to the region, making for an exciting wildlife encounter.

Ziz Valley – A Panorama of Palm Groves and Oases

As we drive further south, the landscape gradually changes, revealing the magnificent Ziz Valley. This lush valley is lined with thousands of palm trees and ancient kasbahs, creating a stunning contrast against the arid desert backdrop. We stop at a panoramic viewpoint to capture breathtaking photos before continuing towards Merzouga.

Arrival in Merzouga and Camel Trek to the Desert Camp

Upon reaching Merzouga, we are greeted by the mesmerizing sight of the Erg Chebbi dunes, some of the tallest dunes in the Sahara Desert. Here, we embark on a camel trek, led by experienced Berber guides, to our desert camp. As the sun sets, the golden sands transform into a magical landscape.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

We spend the night in a traditional Berber desert camp, enjoying an authentic Moroccan dinner under a star-studded sky. The evening is filled with traditional music, storytelling, and a campfire experience, making for an unforgettable night in the Sahara.

Day 2: Exploring Merzouga and Surroundings

Sunrise Over the Dunes

We wake up early to witness one of the most spectacular sunrises over the dunes. The first rays of light paint the desert in hues of gold and orange, creating a picture-perfect moment.

4×4 Desert Adventure and Visit to Nomadic Families

After breakfast, we set off on a thrilling 4×4 tour around the dunes of Erg Chebbi. This off-road adventure takes us to some of the most remote and scenic areas of the desert.

We visit a nomadic Berber family, gaining insight into their traditional way of life. The Berbers have lived in the Sahara for centuries, and their resilience and hospitality are truly inspiring.

Khamlia Village – The Gnawa Music Experience

Next, we stop at Khamlia Village, known for its vibrant Gnawa music. This unique musical tradition, brought by sub-Saharan African slaves, is deeply spiritual and rhythmic. We enjoy a live performance by local musicians before continuing our exploration.

Exploring Fossil Sites and Desert Oases

The region around Merzouga is rich in fossils dating back millions of years. We visit a local fossil workshop to see how these ancient relics are preserved and crafted into stunning artifacts.

A visit to a nearby desert oasis allows us to see how locals cultivate crops in the arid environment using ancient irrigation techniques.

Return to the Desert Camp

After an eventful day, we return to our camp for another authentic Moroccan dinner. The night is spent enjoying traditional Berber hospitality, music, and the serenity of the desert.

Day 3: Merzouga to Fes via Rissani and Midelt

Breakfast and Departure from Merzouga

After a hearty breakfast, we bid farewell to the Sahara and begin our journey back to Fes.

Stop in Rissani – The Gateway to the Sahara

Our first stop is Rissani, an ancient trading hub known for its traditional souks. This bustling market town offers a glimpse into Morocco’s vibrant commerce, where locals trade everything from spices to textiles.

Drive Through the Middle Atlas Mountains

We drive through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through picturesque towns and breathtaking landscapes. The journey takes us through Midelt, a town famous for its apple orchards and impressive mountainous terrain.

Arrival in Fes

By evening, we arrive back in Fes, marking the end of our incredible 3-day tour from Fes to Merzouga. This unforgettable journey offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-experience trip for any traveler visiting Morocco.