3 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga
This private 3-day desert tour from Fes is the classic Sahara escape. Drive through the Middle Atlas to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, spend two nights in a Merzouga desert camp with a camel trek, sunrise over the dunes and a full day exploring the desert, then return to Fes. Perfect if Fes is your base in Morocco.
Fes → Ifrane → Azrou → Ziz Valley → Merzouga (2 nights) → Rissani → Middle Atlas → Fes
Highlights
- Ifrane, the “Switzerland of Morocco”
- Azrou cedar forest and macaques
- Ziz Valley palm groves
- Sunset camel trek into Erg Chebbi
- Two nights in the Sahara
- 4×4 tour around the dunes
- Gnawa music in Khamlia village
- Nomad families and desert lakes
Itinerary
Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
Early pick-up in Fes. Through Ifrane and the cedar forests of Azrou, then the Ziz Valley, arriving at the edge of Erg Chebbi in the late afternoon for a camel trek to camp, dinner and a night under the stars.
A full day in the Merzouga desert
Sunrise over the dunes, then explore the desert by 4×4: nomad families, the Gnawa musicians of Khamlia, seasonal lakes and fossil sites. Free time to relax or try sandboarding, and a second night at camp with music around the fire.
Merzouga – Rissani – Middle Atlas – Fes
After breakfast, drive back north through the old market town of Rissani and the Middle Atlas mountains, arriving at your riad in Fes in the evening.
Included
- Private A/C vehicle
- Professional driver-guide
- Pick-up and drop-off in Fes
- 2 nights in a Merzouga desert camp
- Camel trek in Erg Chebbi
- 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners
- Sandboarding at camp
Not included
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Entrance fees
- Tips
Driving times
Day 2 is a full day in the desert with only short 4×4 trips. Times below are driving only. Stops for photos, visits and meals come on top.
| Day | Route | Distance | Driving time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Fes to Merzouga, via Ifrane and the Ziz Valley | about 470 km | about 8 hours |
| Day 3 | Merzouga back to Fes | about 470 km | about 8 hours |
Best time to go
The best months for this desert tour are March to May and September to November, when days are warm and nights at the camp are cool. In summer (June to August) midday in the Sahara is very hot, so camel rides are planned for sunset and sunrise. In winter (December to February) days are sunny and mild, but desert nights are cold, so bring a warm jacket.
Your Fes to Merzouga desert tour route
- Fes
- Ifrane
- Merzouga
- Rissani
- Fes
Fes to Merzouga desert tour FAQ
How far is Merzouga from Fes?
About 470 km, around 7 to 8 hours of driving with stops. That is why the 3-day tour gives you two nights in the desert: you arrive relaxed and have a full day in the dunes.
Can I do a 2-day desert tour from Fes?
It is possible, but with almost 15 hours of driving in two days you spend little time in the desert. We recommend 3 days as the minimum from Fes.
Can I end the tour in Marrakech instead of Fes?
Yes. Choose our 3-day Fes to Marrakech desert tour, which continues through the Todra Gorge, the Dades Valley and Aït Benhaddou to Marrakech.
What is the best season for a Sahara tour from Fes?
March to May and September to November are the most comfortable. Desert nights are cold from December to February, so pack warm layers.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes. Because the tour is private, we can adjust the pace and add extra stops for children. Tell us their ages when you book so we can plan the day around your family.
What should I pack for the desert?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun cream, a hat or scarf for the sun and wind, a small overnight bag for the camp, and a warm layer for the evening, as desert nights can be cool even after a hot day.
