3 Days Tour From Fes to Merzouga
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Overview
This 3-day Fes to Merzouga desert tour includes the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, packing in cedar forests, mountain passes, historical kasbahs, and desert life along the way.
You’ll travel through “Little Switzerland”, Ifrane, and the Azrou forest, ride camels into a camp in the Sahara, visit Gnawa musicians and nomad families, then return to Fes via the lush Ziz valley.
Duration
3 Days / 2 Nights
Departure
08:30
from Fes
Return
~18:00
to Fes
Starting Price
From €170
per guest
Best Highlights of 3 Days Tour From Fes to Merzouga
Here is a list of the top highlights of a 3 days tour from Fes to Merzouga:
- Fes to the Atlas: A picturesque route through cedar forests.
- Photo stops in mountain passes and Ziz Valley palm groves
- Sunset camel ride into Merzouga dunes and a night in a desert camp.
- Traditional music experience in Khamlia (Gnawa village)
- Visit to seasonal Lake Sirji and historic Mifis mines (when accessible)
- Encounters with local nomad families to learn about desert life
- Return via Midelt, cedar forests, and Ifrane back to Fes
Detailed itinerary for the 3-day Fes to Merzouga desert tour
Below is the detailed itinerary for the 3-day Fes to Merzouga desert tour:
Day 1: Drive From Fes to Merzouga
Starting the 3 days Fes to Merzouga desert tour, we leave Fes in the morning and drive toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. Our first stop is Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland of Morocco” for its clean streets and Alpine-style buildings.
Next, we visit the Azrou Cedar Forest. You can walk among the tall cedar trees and see the Barbary apes that live here. It’s a good place to stretch your legs and take photos of the forest scenery.
Afterward, we head to Midelt for lunch. This small town is located between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, and is known for its apple orchards and quiet mountain atmosphere.
The drive continues through the Ziz Valley, passing Erfoud, known for fossils, and Rissani, a lively market town. By late afternoon, we reach Merzouga.
Here, you’ll ride camels across the Erg Chebbi dunes as the sun sets. Dinner is served at the desert camp, and the night is spent under the desert sky.
Day 2: 4x4 Desert Excursion in Merzouga
The day begins early with sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast at the camp, we ride camels (or 4×4 if you prefer) back to Merzouga.
We then drive to Khamlia village, where you can listen to traditional Gnawa music. The performances here combine African, Arab, and Berber influences.
Next, we visit Lake Sirji, a seasonal lake that attracts flamingos during certain months. You’ll also have a chance to explore nearby Mifis mines, a historical area for mining activities.
Later, we meet local nomadic families to learn their lifestyle and how they adapt to the desert. By mid-afternoon, we return to Merzouga. The day ends with an overnight stay at a local hotel or riad.
Day 3: Drive From Merzouga Desert to Fes
The last day starts with a sunrise over the desert dunes, followed by breakfast at your hotel or riad. After packing, we leave Merzouga and drive through the Ziz Valley. The valley is lined with palm groves, small villages, and ancient kasbahs, making it a good spot for photos.
We stop in Midelt or nearby Zaida for lunch, enjoying the mountain views and local cuisine. The route continues through the Azrou cedar forests, where you can see Barbary apes again and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Finally, we pass through Ifrane, with its European-style houses and tidy streets, before reaching Fes in the late afternoon.
Tour Includes & Excludes
What’s Included?
- Comfortable transportation in A/C vehicles (4x4, minivan or minibus)
- Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your hotel or riad in Fes
- One night at a good hotel or traditional riad of your selected category.
- One night at your preferred desert camp in Merzouga
- An experienced English-speaking driver and guide
- A guided camel trek through the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes
- Daily breakfasts and dinners
What’s Excluded?
- Lunches and drinks
- Other personal expenses, like purchases, monument entry fees, tips, and additional activities.
Tour Pricing
All packages include private transportation, driver/guide, camel trek, and the same itinerary. What changes is your room/tent category and camp amenities.
Standard Tour
Great value for travelers prioritizing experience over amenities.
- ✦ Comfortable hotels/riads (private room)
- ✦ Standard desert camp (shared bathroom facilities)
From €170
per guest
Luxury Tour
Ideal for honeymooners or anyone wanting more space/comfort.
- Upscale hotels/riads
- Luxury desert camp with ensuite bathroom, larger private tents, upgraded dining
From €215
per guest
Mixed Tour
A smart balance of comfort and cost.
- ✦ Standard hotels/riads (private room)
- ✦A well-equipped luxury desert camp.
From €195
per guest
Pricing Note: The price shown is based on a group of 7 guests; final quotes vary by group size, travel dates/season, and room/tent category. Request a tailored offer.
Know Before You Go
- Drive times (approx.): Day 1 ~7–8h · Day 2 ~3–4h local touring · Day 3 ~7–8h (excluding photo and meal stops).
- Meals: We accommodate vegetarian and special dietary requirements. Please inform us during booking.
- Weather & seasons: Atlas areas can be cool or snowy in winter; desert summers are very hot and dry with cooler nights—pack layers.
- Camel trek: Plan on 45–90 minutes each way for the main ride; sunrise/sunset rides may be shorter. A 4×4 transfer is usually possible if preferred.
- Cash & ATMs: Bring MAD cash for tips, snacks, and small purchases.
- Merzouga Lake & wildlife: Lake Sirji and flamingos are seasonal - sightings aren’t guaranteed, but when water levels are right, it’s a beautiful bonus stop.
- Things to pack: Closed walking shoes, light layers plus a warm jacket, hat, scarf/buff, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, reusable water bottle, and a power bank.
FAQs Answered
Can we end the tour in Marrakech instead of Fes?
You can certainly end the tour in Marrakech. This is a very popular option known as the 3-day Fes to Marrakech desert tour.
What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
You’ll stay one night in a well-equipped desert camp with private tents and another night in a hotel or riad in Merzouga with more amenities.
Is Merzouga safe?
Yes, Merzouga is safe for travelers. The locals are friendly, and the area is well-prepared for tourism. Just keep your belongings secure and follow basic safety precautions.
Book Now & Pay Later
We typically reply within 24 hours.
How to book?
Message us with your dates, group size, and preferred package. A small deposit (via PayPal, Wise, or bank transfer) is required to confirm your tour.
The remaining balance is paid in cash at pick-up (GBP, EUR, USD, or MAD are accepted).
Cancellation policy
You get a full refund if you cancel ≥15 days before the tour starts.
For full details, please check our booking policies page.
Related Fes Desert Tours
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Important Note: We can customize our tours from Fes to your exact preferences and needs. Whenever you’re ready, contact us, and we’ll plan a perfect itinerary for you.