General Tour Description
Our 3-day tour from Fez to the Sahara desert in Merzouga with return to Fez is the ideal option for travelers who are in northern Morocco and want to experience the magic of the desert in a closed circuit without having to travel to Marrakech. Starting and returning to historic Fez, the journey crosses the diverse landscapes of the Middle Atlas, passing through cedar forests and picturesque villages. You'll descend towards the desert through the impressive Ziz Valley with its vast palm groves and oases, and pass through cities like Erfoud and Rissani. The highlight is the arrival in Merzouga and immersion in the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, including a memorable camel ride to see the sunset and a magical night in a Berber camp under a starry sky. The third day takes you back to Fez via a similar route, completing the circuit.
This tour is perfect for those seeking an intense desert experience in just a few days, with the convenience of starting and ending in the same imperial city.
Detailed Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Fez - Ifrane - Azrou - Midelt - Errachidia - Ziz Valley - Erfoud - Rissani - Merzouga
We begin the tour by picking you up from your accommodation in Fez. Today's journey is mainly driving, crossing a great variety of landscapes. We'll travel through the Middle Atlas mountains, passing through the alpine city of Ifrane and the cedar forest of Azrou, where we can see Barbary macaques. We'll continue to Midelt for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, we'll follow the impressive Ziz Valley, with panoramic stops to admire the extensive palm grove. We'll pass through Errachidia, Erfoud, and Rissani before reaching Merzouga at the end of the day. Dinner and accommodation in a hotel or Riad in Merzouga or in the dunes.
Day 2: Merzouga (Desert Exploration and Surroundings) - Desert Camp
This day we'll dedicate to exploring the Merzouga area and the Erg Chebbi desert. You'll have activity options such as visiting a nomadic family to learn about their way of life, listening to Gnawa music in the village of Khamlia, or visiting the fossil mines. After lunch (not included), in the afternoon, you'll prepare for the most anticipated experience: the camel ride to the camp in the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. You'll enjoy a spectacular sunset, a traditional Berber dinner, music around the campfire, and a magical night sleeping in a nomadic tent under millions of stars.
Day 3: Desert (Sunrise) - Merzouga - Midelt - Ifrane - Fez
Wake up early to climb a dune and witness an unforgettable sunrise over the desert. After breakfast at the camp, you'll return by camel or 4x4 vehicle to Merzouga. We'll begin the journey back to Fez. The route takes us back through Rissani, Erfoud, and the Ziz Valley, until reaching Midelt. After lunch (not included), we'll continue through the Middle Atlas mountains, passing by the cedar forest and the city of Ifrane. We'll arrive in Fez in the afternoon, with transfer to your accommodation, concluding this circular tour.
Included and Excluded Services
Included
- Private transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle or Minivan.
- Professional Spanish-speaking driver/guide throughout the tour.
- Vehicle fuel.
- Pick-up from your Riad/Hotel in Marrakech and return transfer at the end of the tour.
- Accommodation in hotel/riad in the Dades Valley (includes dinner and breakfast).
- Accommodation in Berber camp in Merzouga desert (standard or luxury, includes dinner and breakfast).
- Camel ride (one per person) to and from the desert camp.
- Traditional Berber music at the camp.
- Free time to explore sites such as Ait Ben Haddou, Todra Gorges, etc.
Excluded
- Airline tickets.
- Lunches during the tour.
- Drinks during meals and at accommodations.
- Entrance fees to monuments or historical sites (e.g., Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou if applicable).
- Tips for staff (driver, guide, camp staff).
- Personal expenses.
Route Map (Fez - Desert - Fez Route)
"A perfect circular journey from Fez to immerse yourself in the immensity of the Sahara and return with unforgettable memories under the starry desert sky."
Ready to experience the magic of the desert from Fez?
This circular tour is perfect for those staying in northern Morocco.
Inquire or Book Now!
