♦ 7:00 AM – Departure from Fes
Your desert trip from Fes to Merzouga begins early. Depart from Fes at 7 AM to enjoy the day ahead. Prepare to be mesmerized by Morocco’s ever-changing landscapes, as you leave behind the narrow streets of Fes and enter open, vast terrain.
♦ 9:00 AM – Stop at Ifrane: The Little Switzerland of Morocco
Around 1.5 hours from Fes, you’ll arrive in Ifrane. Known as “The Little Switzerland of Morocco,” this mountain town surprises with its alpine-style architecture. Take a quick stroll through its lush parks, enjoy a coffee in a cozy cafe, and visit Al Akhawayn University, an elegant liberal arts school.
♦ 10:30 AM – Continue to Midelt
Drive toward Midelt, a town marking the transition from the fertile Middle Atlas Mountains to the expansive desert. The rocky mountains and valleys create a picturesque route. Stop for a short break to stretch your legs and enjoy a traditional snack.
♦ 12:00 PM – Lunch in Midelt: Traditional Moroccan Cuisine
In Midelt, enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch. Choose from hearty tagine, slow-cooked lamb, or chicken with seasonal vegetables. Midelt’s fertile surroundings also offer fresh fruits and nuts. After lunch, take some time to explore the vibrant local market.
♦ 1:30 PM – Depart for Errachidia
Continue toward Errachidia. The terrain gradually shifts from lush to more barren desert landscapes. The 2-hour journey passes by the Ziz River, a vital watercourse flowing through the desert and sustaining the nearby oases.
♦ 4:00 PM – Brief Stop in Errachidia
Errachidia, the gateway to the Sahara, is known for its Berber culture and historical significance. Take a brief stop to witness the beautiful views overlooking its breathtaking palm grooves oasis.
♦ 5:00 PM – Arrival at Erfoud
By 5 PM, you’ll arrive in Erfoud, the next stop on your desert adventure. Erfoud provides a first taste of the vastness of the Sahara. If interested, stop to visit the fossil markets that highlight the town’s paleontological heritage.
♦ 6:00 PM – Entering the Desert: Merzouga
From Erfoud, drive a short distance to Merzouga, located at the base of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, your true desert adventure begins. Arrive just before sunset, the perfect time to start your camel trek into the dunes.
As you ride your camel, feel the crisp desert air against your skin. Watch the shifting sands reflect the golden hues of the setting sun. It’s an unforgettable moment, giving you a sense of the vastness and serenity of the Fes to Merzouga Sahara desert.
♦ 7:30 PM – Arrive at Your Desert Camp
Arrive at your Berber-style desert camp in Merzouga after a short trek. The desert night comes alive with the sounds of the crackling campfire and the twinkling stars above. Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars, featuring local dishes like couscous and tajine. Spend the night in the heart of the desert, connecting with the timeless Berber traditions in this mystical land.

♦ 5:30 AM – Sunrise in the Sahara
Start your day early, as the magic of the desert is best experienced at sunrise. A camel ride back to the top of the dunes offers the perfect vantage point to witness the sun rise over the endless sand, creating a peaceful and awe-inspiring moment in the Fes to Merzouga Sahara desert.
♦ 7:00 AM – Return to the Camp for Breakfast
After soaking in the early morning beauty, return to camp for a traditional Moroccan breakfast. Enjoy mint tea, fresh bread, jams, and fruit to energize for the journey ahead.
♦ 8:00 AM – Depart Merzouga
It’s time to begin your journey back to Fes. As you leave, the desert remains vast and silent. The road home offers fresh perspectives on your desert trip-Fes to Merzouga sand dunes, giving you time to reflect on the incredible landscapes you’ve experienced.
♦ 10:00 AM – Stop in Rissani for a Historical Detour
Instead of heading straight back to the main highway, make a detour to Rissani. Known as the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty, Rissani is famous for its centuries-old ksar and bustling market. A short visit here offers insight into the life of Morocco’s desert towns, where time-honored traditions still thrive.
♦ 12:00 PM – Scenic Drive Back via Errachidia
From Rissani, drive back toward Errachidia, retracing your path through the stunning desert landscape. The scenery continues to amaze as golden dunes transform into rugged rock formations, leading to lush oases that dot the region.
♦ 2:00 PM – Lunch in Midelt
Take a well-deserved break for lunch in Midelt. This is an opportunity to reflect on your desert trip-Fes to Merzouga sand dunes while enjoying a relaxing meal surrounded by the beautiful Middle Atlas Mountains.
♦ 5:00 PM – Arrival in Fes
After a full day of travel, you’ll arrive back in Fes by late afternoon, around 4 PM. Your Fes to Merzouga Sahara desert journey ends, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the incredible landscapes and rich experiences encountered along the way.