A 3-day, round-trip tour from Fes to Merzouga is an ideal introduction to the Moroccan Sahara and this route is a great option for visitors who don’t have time for a longer trip into the desert. You’ll travel round-trip from Fez through the Middle Atlas Mountains, cedar forests of Azrou, and the Ziz Valley to reach the towering ergs of the Merzouga desert. You will also have an unforgettable sunset camel trek, a night under the stars in a luxury desert camp and being hosted by traditional Berbers along the way. On the way, you will pass through stunning scenery, get to see some cute little villages and also learn about the desert culture of Morocco. Perfect for those in Fes who want a sample of the desert, minus a massive itinerary.
If you want absolute flexibility, comfort and a one-on-one personalized experience, consider booking a private Morocco tour. Offering visits to historic cities, the sweeping Sahara, and the beautiful Atlas Mountains, personal travel with a private tour means you can set the pace and only focus on the sites and activities which you want to do and see. You’ll receive greater cultural insights and smoother logistics from beginning to end with the help of local experts. Private tours are fully tailor-made exactly to your schedule, interests, group size and travel-styles, for any couples, families, friends, and solo travelers. And the larger your group, the cheaper it is per person, while transportation costs are consistent regardless of the season.
Your morning begins with an early departure from Fes, leaving behind the Middle Atlas Mountains, as we travel south. The road proceeds through attractive towns such as Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and Azrou, a stopping point to view the cedar forests and wild Barbary monkeys. Next drive on past the apple orchards of Midelt and the palmeries in the wider Ziz Valley, you’ll eventually stand at the edge of the Sahara at Merzouga.
Here is where you will ride out to the dunes to relax and take in magical scenery of desert as the sun sets on the horizon. Once the lights of the day start to fade, a luxury desert camp will be your base for the night offering you a traditional dinner and Berber music by the fire in an expansive sky filled with stars.
Today after a typical breakfast we depart on a 4×4 tour of the Merzouga region. First we will visit Khamlia village to listen to grizzled veterans playing traditional Gnawa music. Next visit nomadic families residing in tents. Furthermore, we pass by fossil-studded plains and pull in at the seasonally dry salt lake of Dayet Srji (if there’s water). Later in the afternoon, check into a lovely hotel or riad in Merzouga for rest and relaxation, a swim, or just some down time by the pool in time for you to enjoy watching the sun go down over the dunes. Dinner and breakfast included.
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes and have your breakfast at the camp before returning to Merzouga village by camel or 4×4. Start your return back to Fes with your first stop in Rissani, the thousand year old town which is regarded as the birthplace of the current ruling royal family of Morocco. Take a walk around its traditional market if you desire.
Later Keep driving on to the north beyond Erfoud and Errachidia, winding up now in the Middle Atlas Mountains. You’ll be treated to stunning vistas, photo breaks, and leisurely lunch stop in Midelt. The route now leads through Azrou and Ifrane, where you have time for a final leisurely stop to admire the beautiful landscape before arriving at Fes early in the evening, the end of an adventure that you will never forget!
⇒ Important Note:
This 3 Days from Fes to Merzouga is a bespoke tour, so it can be tailored to meet your specific requirements and can be adjusted within your schedule and style of travel. If you’re looking for a more cultural emphasis, a bit more time, or some upgraded accommodations, we are delighted to be able to customize the trip for you to make it just what you’re looking for.
Note that prices can change according to the number of participants and the kind of accommodation you choose (standard or luxury). The larger the group that takes the tour, the cheaper it gets per person. But the cost of transportation remains the same since it is per vehicle and not per person. Feel free to contact our team for a custom quote or to customize your itinerary — it is available 24/7 to take your call!
This 3-day tour from Fes to Merzouga and back completely exceeded my expectations. The drive through the Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley was stunning, and the camel ride into the dunes at sunset felt like a dream. Spending the night in the luxury desert camp was both comfortable and magical—great food, beautiful music, and a sky full of stars. Our guide, Rachid, was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the whole experience smooth and memorable. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!
Though just three days, this tour gave us a deep and beautiful glimpse into Morocco’s desert life. The long drive from Fes was broken up with scenic stops and great storytelling from our driver, Ali. The highlight was definitely the camel ride and the peaceful night in the desert camp it felt like something out of a movie. The return journey was just as scenic, and we learned so much along the way. A fantastic option if you’re short on time but want to experience the Sahara!
Customization Available: All our tours can be personalized to match your itinerary, desires, and travel style. If you want to make modifications such as adding stops, upgrading the accommodations or taking it a bit slower feel free to ask, we take care of it all.
Tour costs depend on many factors:
To get a booking confirmation you will need to make a few small deposits. The balance can be paid on arrival.
What to Pack:
Travel INSURANCE: Travel insurance covering medical, trip cancellation, and lost luggage is recommended.
Local Guides & Drivers: Our guides and drivers are experienced and knowledgeable of the local ingredients, history and culture, speak English, French and other languages! They are not only drivers they are also storytellers, cultural ambassadors and confidants.
Luggage: A small daypack is recommended for overnight stays (especially desert camps). Your primary luggage will be locked in the vehicle.
Weather & Conditions: Morocco’s weather can be changeable hot days, cold nights especially in the mountains and desert. Make sure you consider the seasonal conditions before heading on the trip.
Responsible Travel: We promote respect for local traditions and culture. Our Tours are all about Sustainable and real Moroccan experience.
Private Moroccan Tours is available 24/7. So please do not hesitate to contact our team of experienced and friendly human beings who are always available to help you create your own Moroccan experience according to your area of interest and schedule. With great insight into the beautiful country of Morocco, its culture, nature and tourism we are dedicated to offering you a memorable experience. There is the small deposit needed to secure your Moroccan trip, please do keep in mind that!
