3 Days Explore Morocco in this Fez Desert
Fes
3 Days Desert Tour From Fes
Looking for a journey to the Sahara desert from Fes? This 3 days tour from Fez to Merzouga, where each day unfolds a tapestry of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural encounters. The adventure begins with an early departure through the Middle Atlas, leading to Ifrane, often dubbed “Little Switzerland,” offering a surprising contrast to the Moroccan scenery.
The cedar forest of Azrou provides an unexpected meeting with playful apes, while Midelt, known for its sweet apples, sets the stage for a delightful lunch amid charming houses. The road to Erg Chebbi reveals the picturesque Ziz Gorges and ancient Kasbahs, culminating in an evening under Saharan stars with a delectable dinner.
Day two immerses you in the Sahara’s soul — from a desert sunrise and nomadic lifestyle exploration to encounters with Gnawa musicians in Khamlia and the vibrant market of Rissani. The day concludes with a camel trek to your desert camp, where Moroccan hospitality and the starlit desert sky create an unforgettable atmosphere. On the final day, savor a sunrise walk, camel ride, and breakfast, concluding with a scenic journey back to Fez through the Atlas Mountains.
Trip highlights
- Explore “Little Switzerland” in Ifrane.
- Encounter apes in the cedar forest of Azrou.
- Enjoy lunch in the charming village of Midelt.
- Admire the picturesque Ziz Gorges.
- Immerse yourself in the magic of Erg Chebbi’s desert dunes.
- Enjoy camel rides and nomadic encounters in the Sahara.
- Experience the local culture in Khamlia.
- Stroll through the market in Rissani.
- Marvel at the sunset over Erg Chebbi during a camel trek.
- Witness the Sahara sunrise and camel ride back.
- Explore Midelt and encounter monkeys in the cedar forest.
- Conclude your journey with diverse landscapes on the way to Fez.
Itinerary
1
Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Erfoud – Merzouga
Begin your 3 day tour from Fez to Merzouga with an early start, embracing the allure of Morocco’s diverse landscapes. Traverse the Middle Atlas Mountains, encountering the charming town of Ifrane, often likened to “Little Switzerland,” offering a picturesque escape. As you venture through the cedar forest of Azrou, the playful presence of apes adds a touch of wildlife to your journey.
Pause for a delightful lunch in Midelt, renowned for its sweet apples, before heading towards the captivating Ziz Gorges, where palm trees and ancient Kasbahs adorn the landscape. The day concludes at Erg Chebbi, where the shifting sands of the Sahara set the stage for an unforgettable desert experience, complemented by a delectable dinner in a local riad or Kasbah.
2
Merzouga – Erg Chebbi – Desert
Awaken to the magic of the Sahara as the sun paints the dunes of Erg Chebbi with vibrant hues. Delve into a full day of exploration, riding the dunes and gaining insights into the nomadic way of life. Encounter tea rituals with desert communities, offering a window into their traditions.
Dance to the rhythms of Gnawa musicians in the village of Khamlia and wander through the bustling market of Rissani. Your camel ride awaits to transport you to the high dunes for a beautiful sunset. The desert camp comes alive with storytelling, drum beats, and a starlit sky. A flavorful cup of tea and a sumptuous Moroccan tagine complete this immersive desert experience.
3
Merzouga – Errachidia – Ifrane – Fez
Rise early to witness the desert sunrise, an ethereal spectacle in the dunes. After a camel ride back to the hotel, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a refreshing shower. The homeward journey to Fez unfolds, revealing the diverse landscapes of the Atlas Mountains. Pause in Midelt for a satisfying lunch and explore the famous cedar forest, where monkeys play amidst nature’s grandeur. As you arrive in Fez in the evening, reflect on the rich tapestry of experiences woven through your 3-day odyssey that seamlessly blends Morocco’s natural wonders, cultural treasures, and the enchanting spirit of the desert.
What’s included
- ✓
Private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan - ✓
English-speaking local driver/guide - ✓
Luxury desert camp - ✓
Daily breakfast - ✓
Dinner in Merzouga - ✓
Vegetarian & vegan meal options - ✓
Camel ride & sandboarding - ✓
Photo and rest stops - ✓
Free time to explore - ✓
Airport, hotel & riad transfers
- × Lunches, drinks & extra dinners
- × Entrance fees
- × Tips
- × Personal expenses
- × Anything not listed
Map
Before you book
Does the tour include a visit to Khamlia and Rissani?
Yes. The itinerary includes a visit to Khamlia, where you can experience Gnawa music, as well as a visit to the Rissani market.
What can I expect during the full day in Merzouga?
Day 2 includes exploring the Erg Chebbi dunes, learning about nomadic life, visiting desert communities, experiencing tea rituals, visiting Khamlia and Rissani, and enjoying a camel ride to the dunes for sunset. The evening is spent at the desert camp with storytelling, drums, tea, and Moroccan tagine.
Will I see the Sahara sunrise and sunset during the tour?
Every departure is exclusive to your party — no joining strangers, no fixed schedule.
Guides who know the Atlas roads and desert routes firsthand, not a rotating subcontractor pool.
Adjust the return leg, add nights, or change the pace — all before you book.
One point of contact in Marrakech for the full trip, before and during travel.
