OVERVIEW OF 3 DAY TOUR FROM FES TO MERZOUGA

This three-day journey from Fes to the Merzouga Desert offers a compact yet deeply immersive introduction to Morocco’s southern landscapes. Designed for travelers who wish to experience the Sahara within a limited timeframe, this itinerary combines mountain scenery, Berber culture, palm-filled valleys, and the mesmerizing dunes of Erg Chebbi.

Departing from Fes, the route crosses the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through alpine-style towns, cedar forests, and fertile valleys before gradually descending into the arid expanses of southeastern Morocco. The experience culminates in a camel trek across the golden sands of Merzouga and an overnight stay in a desert camp beneath an extraordinary canopy of stars.

Along the way, you will encounter traditional communities, fossil-rich regions, and panoramic viewpoints that highlight the remarkable geographical diversity of Morocco.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 3 DAY TOUR FROM FES TO 

• Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains
• Visit to Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco”
• Panoramic views of the Ziz Valley and its vast palm groves
• Camel trekking experience in the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Overnight stay in a Sahara desert camp under the stars
• 4×4 exploration of the Merzouga region
• Visit to nomadic families and Khamlia village for Gnawa music
• Discovery of fossil areas and historic mining sites

ITINERARY FOR: 3 DAY TOUR FROM FES TO MERZOUGA

DAY 1: FES – AZROU – MIDELT – MERZOUGA

After breakfast, your desert adventure begins with departure from Fes toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. Much of the day is devoted to traversing picturesque forests, rolling hills, and traditional Berber communities.

The first significant stop is Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its European-inspired architecture, cool climate, and well-maintained environment. Continuing southward, you will travel through cedar forests near Azrou, where Barbary macaques inhabit the trees and forest clearings.

The route proceeds toward Midelt, a town known for its apple orchards and mineral resources, where a lunch stop is scheduled. In the afternoon, the journey continues through mountain roads overlooking the dramatic Ziz Valley, whose river carves its way through extensive palm groves and fortified villages.

As you approach Merzouga and the vast Erg Chebbi dunes, the landscape becomes increasingly arid. Upon arrival, you will exchange your vehicle for camels and begin your trek into the desert. A stop atop a high dune allows you to admire the breathtaking sunset as golden sands shift in color beneath the fading light. You will then continue to your desert camp.

After dinner, gather around the campfire to enjoy traditional drumming and music while gazing at the brilliant Saharan night sky. Overnight in the desert camp.

DAY 2: MERZOUGA 4×4 EXCURSION

An early rise is highly recommended to witness the sunrise over the dunes—an unforgettable spectacle of light and silence.

After breakfast, embark on a 4×4 excursion to explore the wider Merzouga region. Begin by visiting a fossil-rich area that reflects the region’s prehistoric past, when much of this land lay beneath the ocean.

Continue to meet nomadic families living in traditional woven tents. Here, you will share a glass of mint tea and learn about their livestock-based lifestyle and adaptation to the desert environment.

The journey then leads to the Mifiss mines, a historic site once exploited during the early 20th century. From there, proceed to Khamlia, a small village inhabited by descendants of sub-Saharan communities. Known for their vibrant Gnawa music, the villagers will perform traditional rhythms and dances rooted in African heritage.

Lunch will be enjoyed in the village, where you may sample the regional specialty known as “Berber pizza.” In the afternoon, return to your accommodation at the edge of the dunes, where you will have time to relax and appreciate the surrounding desert landscape.

DAY 3: MERZOUGA DESERT – ZIZ VALLEY – MIDDLE ATLAS – FES

After breakfast at your hotel, begin the return journey toward Fes. The route retraces the Ziz Valley, offering additional opportunities to admire its dramatic gorges and extensive palm groves.

Stops may be made in Erfoud, known for its fossil craftsmanship, and in Midelt for refreshments. Continuing northward, you will once again cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing cedar forests and mountain landscapes.

By late afternoon or early evening, you will arrive in Fes, where you will be transferred to your accommodation. This marks the conclusion of your three-day desert tour.