3 Days from Fes to Merzouga Desert

Morning – Departure from Fes

Our journey begins in Fes. We will pick you up from your accommodation in the morning. From there, we drive south toward the Middle Atlas mountains.

First Stop – Ifrane, the Switzerland of Morocco

Our first major stop is the charming town of Ifrane, known as the Switzerland of Morocco. Unlike any other Moroccan town, Ifrane has alpine style architecture, red tiled roofs, and clean tree lined streets. It was built by the French in the 1930s as a mountain resort. The town is especially beautiful in winter when snow covers the roofs.

You will have time to take photos and see the famous stone lion, a symbol of the town carved into the rock.

Continuing through the Middle Atlas

From Ifrane, we continue through the stunning Middle Atlas mountains. The landscape is green and forested, completely different from the desert you will see tomorrow. We pass through the Cedar Forest, one of the largest remaining cedar forests in Morocco.

Here, you will have the opportunity to see wild Barbary macaques. These tailless monkeys are friendly but wild. You can observe them from a safe distance and even offer them nuts if you wish. They are accustomed to visitors but should be treated with respect.

Afternoon – Journey toward the Desert

As we continue south, the landscape begins to change. The green mountains give way to rocky plateaus and then to the first hints of the desert. We pass through the Ziz Valley, a dramatic oasis of thousands of palm trees stretching along the river.

We make several stops for panoramic views and photographs. The Ziz Gorges offer breathtaking views of the valley below.

Evening – Arrival in Merzouga

We arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon. Merzouga is the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes, some of the highest sand dunes in Morocco.

You will transfer from your vehicle to a camel for a sunset trek into the dunes. Each person receives their own camel. Your experienced guide will lead you across the golden sand.

Sunset in the Desert

The camel ride is timed so that you arrive at a high dune just as the sun begins to set. Watch as the sun paints the dunes in shades of orange, purple, and gold. This is one of the most beautiful moments of the entire journey.

Night in a Berber Camp

After sunset, you will continue to the Berber camp. You will be welcomed with mint tea. The camp consists of comfortable tents with mattresses, blankets, and pillows. Shared bathroom facilities are available.

You will enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner. After dinner, your hosts will play live Berber music around the campfire. The rhythmic drumming and singing create a magical atmosphere under the starry sky.

Early Morning – Sunrise in the Desert

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the golden dunes. This is a truly unique experience you will never forget. The first light touches the highest dunes, then slowly spreads across the sand.

After sunrise, you will return to the camp for breakfast.

Morning – Visit to Rissani

After breakfast, you will ride your camel back to Merzouga village (or take a 4x4 transfer if you prefer). From there, we drive to Rissani, the ancient capital of Morocco.

Rissani was the home of the Alaouite dynasty, the current ruling family of Morocco. The town is known for its traditional souk, held several days a week. You will have the opportunity to explore the local market, where you will find:

• Spices of all colors and aromas
• Fresh vegetables and fruits
• Traditional Berber rugs and textiles
• Handmade pottery and metalwork
• Livestock market (on certain days)

The souk of Rissani is authentic and not tourist oriented. This is where local Berber and nomadic families come to trade. It is a fascinating glimpse into real desert life.

You will also visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, the founder of the Alaouite dynasty. The mausoleum is an important pilgrimage site for Moroccans.

Lunch in Rissani

You will have free time for lunch in Rissani. The town is famous for its local specialty, madfouna, often called Berber pizza. This is a round bread stuffed with meat, onions, and spices, baked in a traditional oven. It is delicious and not to be missed.

Afternoon – Free Time or Optional Activities

After lunch, you return to Merzouga. You have the afternoon free to relax or choose optional activities. Options include:

• Another camel ride into the dunes (short ride)
• Quad biking on the sand dunes
• Visit to Khamlia village to hear Gnawa music
• Visit to a traditional Berber family in their home
• Sandboarding down the high dunes

Late Afternoon – Second Camel Ride into the Dunes

In the late afternoon, you will mount your camels again for another trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. This second ride will take you to a different area of the dunes, possibly higher and more remote than the first night.

Second Night in the Desert

You will spend a second night in the Berber camp. Tonight you will feel more comfortable, knowing the rhythm of the desert. Enjoy another delicious dinner and another evening of Berber music under the stars.

Early Morning – Final Sunrise and Return

Wake up early one more time to see the sunrise over the dunes. This will be your final morning in the Sahara.

After sunrise, you will enjoy breakfast at the camp. Then you will ride your camel back to Merzouga village (or take a 4x4 transfer).

Morning – Departure from Merzouga

You will meet your driver in Merzouga and begin the journey back to Fes. The return route retraces much of the same path, but the light is different, and the views feel new.

We make stops along the way for photographs and rest breaks. The Ziz Valley looks stunning in the morning light.

Midday – Lunch Stop

You will have time for lunch at a local restaurant along the route. Your driver can recommend good options.

Afternoon – Crossing the Middle Atlas

As you approach the Middle Atlas, the landscape changes from desert to rocky plateaus to green cedar forest. You may see Barbary macaques again.

Late Afternoon – Arrival in Fes

You will arrive back in Fes in the late afternoon or early evening. Your driver will drop you off at your accommodation.

Your 3 day desert adventure from Fes to Merzouga concludes here.