Fes to Merzouga desert tour 3 Days

duration

3 Days

Location

Fes

Group size

20 +

- Overview :

This 3-day desert tour from Fes to Merzouga offers a unique opportunity to explore the spectacular landscapes of southeastern Morocco while immersing yourself in authentic Berber culture. A popular choice for those seeking a short but rich experience in the Sahara, this journey takes you from the Middle Atlas Mountains to the vast sand dunes of Erg Chebbi.

Along the way, you’ll encounter cedar forests inhabited by Barbary macaques, discover remote Berber villages, and visit the impressive Todgha Gorges. On your return to Fes, pass through the lush Ziz Valley, known for its endless palm groves and annual date festival, and stop in Erfoud to explore fascinating fossil collections that reveal the ancient history of this region.

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the magical camel ride through the dunes, the golden sunset over Erg Chebbi, and a night spent under a starlit sky in a luxury desert camp. Complete your desert adventure with a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber music around the campfire, and an unforgettable sunrise the next morning.

If you’re looking for an extended experience, we also offer a 4-day Fes to Marrakech desert tour via Ouarzazate.

- Highlights :

  • Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains and the Tizi-n-Talremt pass
  • Stop to observe Barbary monkeys in the cedar forests near Azrou
  • Discover the palm-filled Ziz Valley and the fossil-rich town of Erfoud
  • Explore the dramatic Todgha Gorges and walk along the riverbed
  • Camel trekking in the Erg Chebbi dunes with sunset views
  • Overnight in a luxury Sahara desert camp with private ensuite tent
  • Enjoy Berber drumming and music around a campfire
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- Tour plan :

Depart from your hotel or riad in Fes at 8:00 AM. Your journey begins with a drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains. The first stop is Ifrane, known as the "Switzerland of Morocco" for its alpine architecture.

Continue through cedar forests near Azrou, where you can observe Barbary apes in their natural habitat. After passing several Berber villages, arrive in Midelt—famous for its apple production—where you’ll stop for lunch.

Later, head south through Er Rich and into more remote mountain landscapes, finally reaching the dramatic Todgha Gorges. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel nestled in the heart of the gorge.

After breakfast, enjoy a stroll along the riverbank or explore the Todgha Canyon. Continue the journey through more Berber villages before arriving in Tinjdad.

Along the road, spot the fascinating "khettaras" – ancient underground water channels used for irrigation. If you're interested, you may descend into one to understand this ingenious system.

Reach Merzouga in the afternoon. After a welcoming mint tea, embark on a camel trek through the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes (some as high as 250 meters). Watch a stunning desert sunset before arriving at your luxury camp. After a traditional Moroccan dinner, enjoy an evening of Berber music by the campfire under a sky full of stars.

Rise early to witness an unforgettable sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, return by camel or 4x4 to the Merzouga base, where you’ll begin the journey back to Fes.

Stop in Rissani and Erfoud to visit local fossil exhibits—featuring ancient artifacts and fossilized objects. Continue through the Ziz Valley, famous for its massive palm groves and agricultural richness.

Pause again in Midelt for lunch before crossing the Ayachi Mountains and the Middle Atlas range. You’ll arrive in Fes by late afternoon, where your driver will drop you off at your riad, marking the end of this memorable desert adventure.

 

- Tour Gallery :

- Included / Excluded :

Private air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle or deluxe van with fuel

Hotel/riad pick-up and drop-off in Fes

Experienced Berber/nomad driver-guide (English, French, Spanish, or Italian speaking)

One night in a hotel at Todgha Gorges (private room with bathroom)

One night in a luxury desert camp with private toilet and shower

All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner (vegetarian and vegan options available)

Camel ride with a guide

Sandboarding (on request at the camp)

Option to transfer to and from the camp by 4x4

Luggage transfer to and from the desert camp

Berber music and drumming at the campfire

Time to explore sites such as Todgha Gorges, with breaks for photos, tea, and coffee

Flexibility to stop at places of interest during the journey

All entrance fees and local guide fees

Bottled water, tea, and coffee in the desert

Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages

Tips and personal expenses

Optional extras not mentioned above

- Tour Map :

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