- 3-4 Days
- Start: FES
- Kids under 13 : 50% off price
From Fes to Merzouga: Desert Tour & Sahara Adventure
HIGHLIGHTS
- Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains
- Visit Ifrane, ”The Switzerland of Morocco”
- Sunset camel trek in Erg Chebbi dunes
Included
- Good english speaker guide and driver
- Overnight at hotel / Riad (breakfast and dinner included)
- Camel trek and overnight in the desert
- Round trip
Excluded
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Alcoholic beverages
Itinerary
Day 1: Fes – Medilt – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
Scenic Drive Through the Middle Atlas Mountains
The adventure begins with an early morning departure from Fes, traveling through the picturesque ski town of Ifrane en route to the cedar forests of Azrou, known for its native Barbary macaque monkeys. Take advantage of fantastic photo opportunities in Morocco’s rural landscapes before stopping for lunch in the quaint Berber village of Zaida.
Traversing the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert
Continue the journey across the majestic Atlas Mountains, taking in stunning views around Medilt. Arrive in the desert city of Erfoud, catching first glimpses of the vast Tafilalet oasis marking the northern edge of the Sahara Desert. After a brief rest, proceed to the Saharan dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga.
Camel Trek and Overnight in a Berber Camp
In Merzouga, embark on a memorable camel ride across the rolling sand dunes as the sun sets over the Sahara. Spend the night in a traditional Berber camp, sleeping in an authentic nomad tent under a canopy of stars.
Day 2: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Tinghir – Todra Gorges – Dades – Ouarzazate
Sunrise Camel Ride and Berber Villages
Wake early to witness a breathtaking desert sunrise before returning to Merzouga by camel. After breakfast and refreshing at the hotel, set out towards Ouarzazate, visiting fascinating Berber villages nestled within the towering cliffs of the Todra Gorge along the way.
Journey Through the Valley of Roses to Ouarzazate
The road continues through the lush Dades Valley, famous for its roses, and the verdant palmeraie of Skoura oasis. Arrive in the historic city of Ouarzazate, a popular filming location for movies and TV shows, in the late afternoon.
Day 3: Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Tizi-N-Tichka Pass – Marrakech
Explore the Ancient Ksar of Ait Benhaddou
The final day begins with a short drive from Ouarzazate to the nearby ancient ksar (fortified village) of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic backdrop for films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Wander the earthen alleyways of this striking medieval mudbrick citadel.
Crossing the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech
Depart Ait Benhaddou and wind up into the High Atlas Mountains, traversing the Tizi-N-Tichka Pass at an elevation of 2,260 meters. Take in sweeping vistas of the valleys, peaks and traditional Berber villages dotting the mountainsides during the scenic drive.
Arrive in Marrakech, the Red City
Descend from the mountains in the late afternoon to reach the vibrant city of Marrakech, where the 3 day desert adventure concludes with drop-off at your accommodation. Reflect on an unforgettable journey filled with remarkable landscapes, cultural encounters and memories to last a lifetime.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Extended Sahara Desert experience from Fes
- Visit to Ziz Valley and its palm groves
Included
- Good english speaker guide and driver
- Overnight at hotel / Riad (breakfast and dinner included)
- Camel trek and overnight in the desert
- Round trip
Excluded
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Alcoholic beverages
Itinerary
Day 1: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou – Erfoud – Merzouga
Scenic Drive Through the Middle Atlas Mountains
The tour begins with a picturesque drive from Fez to Merzouga, winding through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains and its verdant cedar forests. During the journey, we will make stops at two notable locations:
- Ifrane: Often referred to as the “Moroccan Switzerland,” Ifrane is renowned for its unique architecture and its status as a premier ski destination in the country.
- Azrou: This town is recognized as one of the most prominent Berber communities in Morocco, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Traversing the Ziz Valley and Gorges
As we continue our journey, we will traverse the breathtaking Ziz Valley and Gorges, making additional stops in the charming towns of Midelt and Erfoud. From Erfoud, we will embark on a remote route leading to Merzouga, where we will spend the night in a comfortable hotel situated near the majestic desert sands.
Day 2: Exploring the Erg Chebbi Dunes
Immersive 4×4 Desert Adventure
On the second day, you will have the extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Eastern Sahara. The day’s highlights include an exhilarating 4×4 desert adventure, during which we will visit authentic Bedouin communities and traverse the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes.
Experiencing Traditional Gnawa Music in Khamlia
A special highlight of the day will be our visit to the village of Khamlia, home to the Gnawa people, who are descendants of African captives. Here, you will have the chance to experience their captivating traditional music, which is an integral part of their cultural identity.
Camel Ride and Overnight Stay in a Berber Village
As the sun begins to set, we will ride camels back to the hotel before continuing on to a Berber village nestled deep within the sand dunes. In this enchanting setting, we will enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night under the stars, immersing ourselves in the authentic atmosphere of the Sahara.
Day 3: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Ouarzazate
Witnessing a Breathtaking Desert Sunrise
The day begins with an early wake-up call to witness a truly breathtaking desert sunrise. After this unforgettable experience, we will ride camels back to the hotel for a hearty breakfast and a refreshing shower before setting off towards Ouarzazate.
Exploring the Historical Cities of Rissani and Tafilalet
During our journey, we will make notable stops at Rissani and Tafilalet, two cities that played significant roles in the history of the Alaouite dynasty. Rissani is the birthplace of the dynasty, while Tafilalet served as their seat of power.
Marveling at the Todra Gorges and Dades Valley
As we continue our journey, we will make our way to the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges and the picturesque Dades Valley. Here, we will take a moment to marvel at the stunning views from a hilltop overlooking these natural wonders.
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech
Visiting the World-Famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
The final day of our tour begins with a morning departure from Ouarzazate to visit the world-renowned Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has served as a backdrop for numerous films, including the epic Gladiator. We will take the time to explore the fascinating ruins of this ancient fortified village, immersing ourselves in its rich history.
Crossing the High Atlas Mountains and Berber Villages
As we make our way back to Marrakech, we will pass through the charming Berber villages of Amerzgane, Agouim, and Ighrem. The route will take us across the impressive Tizi n’Tichka pass, which stands at a breathtaking 2,260 meters high in the Atlas Mountains.
Concluding the Tour in Marrakech
After crossing the pass, we will stop for a delicious lunch in the Berber village of Tadart before continuing on to Marrakech, where our unforgettable 4-day Sahara Desert tour will come to an end. With a wealth of new experiences, stunning landscapes, and cultural immersion, this journey is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
