Experience the beauty of Morocco on this 3 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Fes. Travel through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains, visit Ifrane, Azrou Cedar Forest, and the scenic Ziz Valley. Enjoy a memorable camel trek in Merzouga Desert and spend a magical night in a Sahara Desert camp beneath the stars. Discover local culture, meet nomad families, and explore the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. This tour is the perfect combination of adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes in the heart of Morocco.
Itinerary – 3 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Fes
Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, your driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Fes. Then, begin your exciting journey toward the Sahara Desert. Travel through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains and enjoy the changing landscapes along the way.
First, stop in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” This charming town is famous for its alpine-style architecture, clean streets, and beautiful gardens. Take a short walk, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and capture memorable photos.
Next, continue to Azrou and visit the famous cedar forest. Here, you may encounter the friendly Barbary macaques that live among the ancient cedar trees. Afterward, continue through winding mountain roads surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Later, arrive in Midelt, a peaceful town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. Known for its apple orchards and spectacular views, Midelt is an ideal place to stop for lunch and relax before continuing your adventure.
In the afternoon, travel through Errachidia and enter the gateway to the Sahara. Soon, reach the magnificent Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s largest palm groves. Stop at a panoramic viewpoint and admire thousands of palm trees stretching across the valley floor. The views here are truly unforgettable.
Then, continue toward Merzouga. As you approach the desert, the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi gradually appear on the horizon. Upon arrival, meet your camel guide and begin a memorable camel trek across the dunes.
Finally, enjoy a magical sunset over the Sahara before arriving at your desert camp. After a warm welcome, savor a traditional Moroccan dinner. Later, gather around the campfire for Berber music and drumming beneath a sky filled with stars. Overnight in a desert camp.
Day 2: Merzouga Desert Exploration – Nomad Families – Khamlia – Desert Camp
Wake up early and experience a breathtaking sunrise over the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the vast sea of sand, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and capture unforgettable photos. Afterward, return to the camp for a delicious breakfast before beginning your desert adventure.
Then, set out on an exciting exploration of the Merzouga region. First, visit local nomad families living in traditional desert tents. Learn about their daily life, customs, and centuries-old traditions. Enjoy a cup of traditional Berber tea while discovering how these families continue to live in harmony with the harsh desert environment.
Next, continue to the village of Khamlia, a small community famous for its rich Gnawa culture. Here, enjoy a live performance of traditional Gnawa music, known for its rhythmic drums and spiritual melodies. Furthermore, learn about the fascinating history of the Gnawa people and their cultural heritage.
Afterward, travel through the surrounding desert landscapes and visit former mining areas that reveal part of the region’s history. Then, continue to a peaceful desert oasis filled with palm trees and natural beauty. Take time to relax and appreciate the tranquility of this hidden gem in the Sahara.
Later, return to Merzouga for lunch and some free time. In the afternoon, you can explore the dunes at your own pace, try sandboarding, take a walk across the golden sands, or simply relax while admiring the stunning scenery.
As evening approaches, enjoy another spectacular sunset over the dunes. Finally, savor a traditional Moroccan dinner before spending a memorable night in your desert camp or hotel.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Azrou – Ifrane – Fes
After breakfast, bid farewell to the Sahara Desert and begin your journey back to Fes. Enjoy the morning views of the golden dunes before setting off through the diverse landscapes of southern Morocco.
First, stop in Rissani, a historic town known as the ancient capital of the Tafilalet region. Famous for its traditional souk and rich cultural heritage, Rissani offers an authentic glimpse into local life. If the market is open, take time to explore its lively atmosphere and discover local products, spices, and handicrafts.
Next, continue through the spectacular Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s most impressive palm groves. Along the way, stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking thousands of date palms spread across the valley. The contrast between the green oasis and the surrounding desert landscape creates unforgettable scenery.
Then, travel toward Midelt, located between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. This peaceful town is well known for its apple orchards and mountain views. Stop here for lunch and enjoy a relaxing break before continuing the journey.
In the afternoon, cross the beautiful Middle Atlas Mountains and pass through the cedar forests near Azrou. If you are lucky, you may once again spot the playful Barbary macaques among the ancient cedar trees. The fresh mountain air and forest landscapes provide a refreshing contrast to the desert scenery.
Afterward, continue to Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” because of its European-style architecture and clean surroundings. Enjoy a short walk and take some final photos.
Finally, arrive in Fes in the late afternoon. Your driver will transfer you to your hotel, riad, or airport, marking the end of your memorable 3-day Sahara Desert tour.
Tour Highlights
- Visit Ifrane, the Switzerland of Morocco
- Explore the cedar forests of Azrou
- Admire the panoramic views of Ziz Valley
- Camel trekking in the Sahara Desert
- Sunset and sunrise over the dunes
- Overnight in a desert camp
- Visit nomad families
- Discover traditional Gnawa music in Khamlia
- Sandboarding experience
- Explore the Merzouga Desert region
- Visit the historic town of Rissani
Included
- Private transportation with air conditioning
- Professional driver/guide
- Pick-up and drop-off in Fes
- Camel trek in Merzouga
- Desert camp accommodation
- 2 breakfasts
- 2 dinners
- Sandboarding
- Fuel
Excluded
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
- Entrance fees
- Tips and gratuities
FAQs
How long is the drive from Fes to Merzouga?
The journey from Fes to Merzouga takes approximately 7 to 8 hours, including several scenic stops along the way.
Is the camel trek included in the tour?
Yes, the camel ride through the dunes of Erg Chebbi is included in the tour price.
Can I choose a luxury desert camp?
Yes. You can choose between a standard desert camp and a luxury desert camp depending on your preferences and budget.
What should I pack for the desert?
We recommend comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a jacket for cool evenings, and a camera.
Is sandboarding included?
Yes, sandboarding is usually available at the desert camp and can be enjoyed free of charge.
Will I see nomad families during the tour?
Yes. On the second day, you will visit local nomad families and learn about their traditional desert lifestyle.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes. The tour is family-friendly and suitable for travelers of all ages.
What meals are included?
The tour includes 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners. Lunches and drinks are not included.
What type of vehicle is used?
Transportation is provided in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle suitable for the size of your group.
What is the best time to take this tour?
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are pleasant. However, the tour operates throughout the year.
Can vegetarians or people with special diets be accommodated?
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements can be accommodated if requested in advance.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts from your accommodation, airport, or riad in Fes and ends in Fes on the third day.
