3-Day Tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert

• Explore the Middle Atlas Mountains and the scenic Ziz Valley.

• Visit Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.”

• Walk through the cedar forest near Azrou and see Barbary macaques.

• Discover Erfoud, famous for its fossils and marble workshops.

• Experience Rissani, a traditional market town and gateway to the desert.

• Embark on a camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes.

• Spend a night in a traditional desert camp under the stars.

• Enjoy the stunning sunrise over the Sahara dunes.

• Return journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Middle Atlas.

Day 1: Fes – Middle Atlas – Midelt

The journey begins early in the morning from the historic city of Fes, heading south towards the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop is in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture, tranquil gardens, and clean, orderly streets. A brief stroll around the town offers a chance to appreciate its unique charm and take in the fresh mountain air.

From Ifrane, the route continues to the cedar forest near Azrou, a peaceful woodland dotted with towering trees and lively Barbary macaques roaming freely. Walking among these ancient cedars provides a serene connection with nature and an opportunity to capture unforgettable photos. After exploring the forest, the drive moves onward to Midelt, a town nestled in the heart of the Middle Atlas, known for its cool climate, apple orchards, and mineral-rich surroundings. Here, you pause for a delicious lunch and a restful break before continuing your journey deeper into the southern landscapes.

In the afternoon, the road winds through the scenic Ziz Valley, a verdant corridor lined with palm groves and traditional Berber villages. Panoramic viewpoints along the way reveal stunning vistas of the valley and surrounding mountains. Evening is spent in Midelt, providing a comfortable night’s rest in preparation for the desert adventure ahead.

Day 2: Midelt – Erfoud – Merzouga

After breakfast, the journey resumes southward, descending from the high peaks of the Atlas Mountains into the arid and dramatic landscapes of eastern Morocco. The route passes through Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil-rich terrain and marble craftsmanship. Here, you can explore local workshops and gain insight into the region’s geological heritage.

Next, you reach Rissani, a vibrant market town that serves as the gateway to the Sahara. Stepping into its bustling streets offers a glimpse of traditional Moroccan life, with local traders, colorful souks, and historic architecture shaping the cultural backdrop. From Rissani, the road opens up to the vast expanses of the Erg Chebbi dunes, where the desert reveals its true majesty.

In the late afternoon, camels await to carry you into the heart of the dunes. The camel trek across the golden sands allows you to experience the timeless beauty of the Sahara as the sun sets over the undulating dunes. Arriving at a traditional desert camp, you settle into your private tent, enjoy a hearty Moroccan dinner, and spend the evening under a star-filled sky, accompanied by music and stories around the fire.

Day 3: Merzouga – Sunrise – Return to Fes

The final day begins with the serene spectacle of the sunrise over the Sahara. The early morning light casts a magical glow on the dunes, creating a perfect moment for photography and quiet reflection. After breakfast, you have the option to explore the desert further, whether visiting a nomad family, enjoying a short sandboarding session, or simply walking along the ridges of the dunes.

After bidding farewell to the desert, you ride your camel back to Merzouga, where the driver awaits to begin the journey back to Fes. The return route retraces the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Berber villages, lush valleys, and panoramic viewpoints. A stop for lunch and breaks along the way ensures a comfortable and enjoyable drive. By late evening, you arrive back in Fes, concluding a remarkable three-day expedition that blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the magic of the Moroccan desert.