Fez to Merzouga desert tour
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- Duration
- 2 days
- Tour category
- Morocco desert tours from Fes
- Languages
- English, French, Spanish
Tour highlights
- Depart Fes early for a scenic desert journey.
- Visit Ifrane, known as “The Little Switzerland of Morocco.”
- Explore Errachidia (the gateway to the Sahara) with its fascinating Ziz Oasis.
- Arrive in Erfoud, experience the vastness of the deser.
- Reach Merzouga, ride camels into the Fes to Merzouga Sahara desert.
- Watch the stunning sunset over the Merzouga sand dunes.
- Enjoy a traditional dinner with nomads music and stay overnight in a desert camp.
Route at a glance
2 days · Fes → Merzouga
- Fes Starting point
- Merzouga
About this tour
Morocco’s vast Sahara desert offers an experience unlike any other. For those with limited time, a 2-day desert trip from Fes to Merzouga sand dunes is the perfect way to explore the region.
This scenic route takes you through the charming towns of Ifrane, Midelt, Errachidia, and Erfoud, offering a unique chance to discover the diverse landscapes of Morocco. From the cool mountain air of Ifrane to the vast, golden sands of Merzouga, this journey is filled with history, culture, stunning natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences. Your Desert trip-Fes to Merzouga will leave you with lasting memories of Morocco’s enchanting desert.
Day by day itinerary
Print this itinerary-
Day 01
Day 1 of 17
Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane, Midelt, Errachidia and Erfoud:
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Day 02
Day 2 of 17
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.
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Day 03
Day 3 of 17
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.
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Day 04
Day 4 of 17
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.
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Day 05
Day 5 of 17
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.
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Day 06
Day 6 of 17
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.
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Day 07
Day 7 of 17
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.
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Day 08
Day 8 of 17
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.
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Day 09
Day 9 of 17
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.
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Day 10
Day 10 of 17
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.
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Day 11
Day 11 of 17
Merzouga to Fes: 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.
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Day 12
Day 12 of 17
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.
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Day 13
Day 13 of 17
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.
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Day 14
Day 14 of 17
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.
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Day 15
Day 15 of 17
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.
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Day 16
Day 16 of 17
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.
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Day 17
Day 17 of 17
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.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation in air conditioning vehicle - Van or 4wd
- Professional driver speaking your language
- Local experiences
Not included
- Tips and gratuities
- Lunches
