the best 3-day desert tour from Fes and explore the captivating landscapes of Morocco. This unforgettable journey takes you from the imperial city of Fes to the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. Along the way, discover the alpine charm of Ifrane, meet the wild monkeys of the Cedar Forest, cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, and experience a magical camel trek through the Sahara Desert.
Your desert journey begins with pickup from your accommodation in Fes. We drive through the picturesque Middle Atlas, starting with a stop in Ifrane, often dubbed the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its unique European-style architecture and ski resorts. Here, you can see the famous Lion Statue carved during the French colonial era.
Continuing through the forested town of Azrou, we explore the Cedar Forest, home to the friendly Barbary macaques. Our journey leads us through the mineral-rich town of Midelt, where we stop for lunch, before descending into the lush Ziz Valley, dotted with palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
As the scenery shifts from green valleys to the golden sands of the desert, we reach the gateway of the Sahara: Merzouga. You’ll be welcomed with traditional mint tea at your desert accommodation and have free time to enjoy the serene desert atmosphere before dinner and overnight stay.
After breakfast, we begin a full day of adventure in the Sahara of Erg Chebbi. Our first stop is the village of Khamlia, where you’ll meet the Gnawa people. Originally from Mali and other sub-Saharan regions, the Gnawa are known for their hypnotic spiritual music and warm hospitality.
Next, we visit the ancient Mifis mines, once rich with kohl and salt, and meet nomadic Berber families living near the Morocco–Algeria border. You’ll get a rare glimpse into their resilient desert lifestyle.
In the late afternoon, your camel trekking adventure begins. Cross the rolling dunes of Erg Chebbi on camelback, stopping to watch the sunset over the dunes—a magical moment in the vast Sahara. At the desert camp, enjoy a traditional dinner, followed by Berber drum music and storytelling around the campfire beneath the dazzling Milky Way.
Today begins with an early rise to witness the spectacular desert sunrise. After breakfast, we leave Merzouga and travel back through the eastern desert towns.
Our first stop is Rissani, once the ancient capital of the Tafilalt region and an important center for trans-Saharan trade. Here, you’ll explore the traditional Moroccan souk, rich with spices, textiles, and local life.
We continue to Erfoud, known for its fascinating fossils. You’ll visit a fossil workshop or museum to learn about the ancient marine life that once covered this land millions of years ago during the Devonian period.
Our scenic drive back to Fes includes multiple stops to stretch and take in the mountainous landscapes, returning you to your accommodation in the late afternoon. Your memorable 3-day Fes to Merzouga desert tour concludes here.
Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains
Camel trekking and overnight in the Erg Chebbi dunes
Explore Gnawa music, fossils, and nomadic life
Discover traditional markets in Rissani
Authentic Berber culture and cuisine
