4-day tour from Fez to the Merzouga desert
- Duration: 4 days
- From: Fez
- Arrival: Fez
Majestic landmarks and sweeping golden dunes deep in the Sahara this is the essence of this 4-day journey from Fez to the desert. But the experience goes far beyond that. Along the way, you’ll uncover a variety of captivating sites, guided by our professional team and a knowledgeable local guide who will highlight the most fascinating aspects of each stop. This is an enriching and well-rounded tour, perfect for discovering some of Morocco’s most iconic and breathtaking destinations.
Services included
- Pick-up in Marrakech, at your hotel or at the agreed location
- 4x4 route, with a Spanish-speaking driver/guide
- Assistance and accompaniment throughout the excursion
- Camel ride to the tent camp
- Dinner at the tent camp
- Accommodation in a Berber tent
- Assistance at destination
Services not included
- Arrival and return flights
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Tickets to monuments
- Tips
- Schedule
Day 1
The journey begins in Fez, typically from the airport, though we can also arrange pickup from your hotel or another preferred location. Our Spanish-speaking driver will welcome you and take the wheel of a private, comfortable vehicle to start the adventure right away.
As we head south, the majestic Middle Atlas Mountains rise into view. These mountains, with peaks soaring above 3,000 meters, offer stunning landscapes and charming stops. Our first visit is to Ifrane, often nicknamed the “Moroccan Switzerland” due to its alpine-style architecture and lush surroundings that evoke a European atmosphere.
Next, we explore the nearby Ifrane National Park also known as Cedar Park or the Monkey Forest. Here, ancient cedar trees thrive alongside a large population of Barbary macaques, making this protected area both ecologically rich and emblematic of Morocco’s natural beauty.
Continuing our journey, we descend the southern side of the Middle Atlas and watch the terrain gradually transform into arid, desert landscapes. Following the Ziz Valley southward, we reach Erfoud a town famous for its fossil discoveries, including those of prehistoric dinosaurs.
Roughly 40 kilometers past Erfoud, the asphalt ends in Merzouga. There, we switch to camels for a ride into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. This two-hour journey through the golden sands offers an unforgettable introduction to the Sahara.
Upon arrival at our desert camp, we’ll be welcomed with traditional Berber tea. As night descends, the skies above reveal a blanket of stars, undimmed by city lights or clouds a magical backdrop for a restful night in our well-equipped Berber tents.
Summary of the day
- Pick up at Fez airport or at the agreed location
- Start of the road route from Fez to the desert :
- Ifrane
- Cedars National Park (Monkey Forest)
- Middle Atlas
- Erfoud
- Arrival in Merzouga and camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Dinner and overnight stay in a tent camp in the middle of the desert
Day 2
On the second day of this Fez to Merzouga desert tour, you’ll enjoy a series of truly memorable moments. The day begins with a magical sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes—a breathtaking display of light and serenity that few places on Earth can rival.
Following this serene start, you’ll have breakfast at the tent camp before heading to the village of Khamlia, often referred to as the “black village.” Here, you’ll experience the powerful Gnawa music tradition, performed by descendants of sub-Saharan African slaves. Their hypnotic rhythms and chants, now recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, reflect a deeply rooted cultural identity that resonates through every beat.
After this soulful performance, the adventure continues aboard 4×4 vehicles. We’ll drive along old rally tracks that once hosted stages of the legendary Paris-Dakar race. This thrilling route passes through now-abandoned French and Berber settlements, as well as former kohl mines that once supplied the cosmetics industry.
We’ll also stop at a panoramic viewpoint offering a sweeping vista of the Erg Chebbi dunes—an ideal moment to capture photos and appreciate the immense beauty of the Sahara.
Later, you’ll meet a community of semi-nomadic desert dwellers who still preserve many of their traditional practices despite modern changes. This cultural encounter offers a glimpse into their daily life and survival techniques in such a harsh environment.
At the end of the day, you’ll return to your tent camp in Merzouga for another included dinner and one more magical night under the starlit desert sky.
Summary of the day
- Sunrise in the dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Breakfast at the tent camp
- Visit to Khamlia and Gnawa music performance
- Paris-Dakar track route:
- Kohl mines
- Uninhabited French and Berber villages
- Panoramic view of the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Meeting with desert nomads
- Dinner and overnight stay in a desert tent camp
Day 3
The third day of this journey begins with the enchantment of waking up amidst the Sahara, in a one-of-a-kind desert camp where breakfast is provided. After two extraordinary days exploring the Erg Chebbi dunes, we’ll begin our return trip.
The route will largely follow the same path we took from Fez to the desert, but with fewer stops, allowing us to arrive back in Fez by the afternoon. This gives you some free time to enjoy a first impression of this imperial city, setting the stage for the more in-depth exploration planned for the next day.
In the evening, you’ll settle into a charming riad located in the heart of the medina, ideally positioned for visiting the city’s historical sites and vibrant souks.
Summary of the day
- Breakfast at the desert lodge
- Road route back to Fez
- Free afternoon in Fez
- Night in a riad in the medina
- Arrival in Marrakech and end of our services
Day 4
One of the great advantages of this 4-day tour from Fez to the desert is that it allows ample time to explore the wonders of this historic city, whose medina is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide for a cultural tour through its old town.
Your itinerary may include key landmarks such as the Karaouine Mosque and University—one of the oldest educational institutions in the world—Nejjarine Square and its fountain, the Bou Inania Madrasa, and many other hidden gems. As one of the largest medinas in North Africa, Fez is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own identity. Particularly worth visiting are the Tanners’ Quarter, the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), and the Royal Palace with its ornate bronze doors.
The tour will be customized to fit the group’s pace and, most importantly, your flight schedule—typically in the afternoon. At the arranged time, our driver will transfer you comfortably to the airport. This is where our services will end, though we part with the hope of welcoming you again on another journey, whether starting in Fez or exploring other Moroccan cities such as Marrakech, Tangier, or Casablanca.
Summary of the day
- Breakfast at a riad in Fez
- Guided tour of the city, with an official guide
- Airport transfer by private vehicle
- End of our services
- Photos
- Map
- FAQ
Morocco Turism offers an extensive selection of tours, from explorations of the imperial cities to thrilling journeys through the Sahara Desert. For more information, check out our tours page.
Tour durations vary, ranging from quick weekend escapes to extended trips of over a week. You can select the option that best fits your schedule and interests.
The cities you’ll visit depend on the tour you select, but options often include Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca, Chefchaouen, and more. Each tour features a detailed itinerary available on our website.
Definitely. Your safety is our highest priority. We partner with professional guides and skilled drivers to provide you with a secure and unforgettable travel experience.
Our tours feature a variety of accommodations, including boutique hotels and traditional riads. Each option is thoughtfully chosen to provide both comfort and an authentic Moroccan experience.
Yes, at Morocco Turism, we recognize that every traveler is different. Reach out to us to tailor your tour according to your preferences and specific interests.
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