Embark on a classic Moroccan adventure from the imperial city of Fez to the spectacular dunes of the Merzouga desert. This 3-day tour will take you through ever-changing landscapes, from cedar forests and mountain passes to palm-filled oases and the sand sea of Erg Chebbi.
Highlights
- A journey through the Middle and High Atlas Mountains.
- Stop in Ifrane, the "Switzerland of Morocco," and the cedar forests of Azrou.
- Panoramic views of the Ziz Valley.
- Sunset camel ride across the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
- A night at a traditional Berber camp in the desert.
- Sunrise over the dunes and a return journey through breathtaking landscapes.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Fez → Ifrane → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Merzouga
We begin our journey early in the morning from Fez, heading south. We'll cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in the charming town of Ifrane. We'll then pass through the cedar forests of Azrou, where we may spot wild Barbary macaques. After passing through Midelt, famous for its fossils and apples, we'll cross the Tizi n'Talghamt pass. We'll enjoy views of the impressive Ziz Valley before arriving in Merzouga in the afternoon. There, our camels await for an unforgettable ride across the dunes of Erg Chebbi. We'll spend the night at a desert camp.
Day 2: Merzouga → Rissani → Todra Gorge → Dades Valley
Wake up early to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, we'll return to Merzouga by camel. We'll continue our journey to Rissani, the region's former capital, and then on to the Todra Gorge, an impressive rock canyon ideal for a hike. In the afternoon, we'll arrive at the Dades Valley, where we'll have dinner and spend the night at a hotel or riad.
Day 3: Dades Valley → Ouarzazate → Aït Ben Haddou → Marrakech
After breakfast, we'll continue along the Route of a Thousand Kasbahs. We'll pass through the Valley of Roses and Ouarzazate. Our most memorable stop will be the Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, we'll cross the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka pass in the High Atlas to reach Marrakech in the late afternoon, where our tour ends.
What's Included?
- Pick-up from your accommodation in Fez and drop-off in Marrakech.
- Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- English-speaking driver/guide.
- 2 nights' accommodation (1 in the desert, 1 in the Dades Valley).
- Dinners and breakfasts according to the itinerary.
- Camel ride.
What's Not Included?
- Lunches and drinks.
- Entrance fees to monuments.
- Tips and personal expenses.
Why Choose This Tour?
This is one of our most popular tours, and for good reason. It's the most efficient way to connect the two imperial cities of Fez and Marrakech while experiencing the full adventure of the Sahara desert. The itinerary is perfectly balanced to show you the incredible diversity of Morocco's landscapes in just three days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the tour return to Fez? No, this is a one-way tour that starts in Fez and ends in Marrakech. It's a very popular route for travelers who want to see both cities as well as the desert.
What clothing should I bring? We recommend comfortable, layered clothing. You'll need lightweight clothes for the day and a warm jacket for cold desert nights. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat.
Are vegetarian options available? Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged. Please let us know at the time of booking.
