3-day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes

This desert tour is for travelers who have limited time to visit Merzouga but still want to explore the Sahara Desert before returning to Fes!

Day 1: Fes to Erfoud via Azrou and the Ziz Valley

Today’s drive takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, a gateway to the South of Morocco. En route is Azrou, aptly named in Berber for the volcanic rocks on which it is built.  Azrou also hosts the area’s largest weekly souk or market.  Feed the Barbary macaques on your way through the area’s cedar forest. Traverse the Ziz Valley, where brown bluffs marry fertile green date palm tree groves. Evening arrival in Erfoud.

Day 2: Erfoud to Merzouga

Erfoud is the starting point for Sahara treks. Spend the morning exploring the old town of ErfoudMaadid, learn about the local fossils, or visit Rissani, a lively town with a Berber bazaar and frequent market days. Be sure to taste medfouna, a delicious local Berber specialty of stuffed or “buried” treasure of meat, onions, almonds, and spices. Not a meat-eater?  Don’t worry; the vegetation option is just as tasty. In the late afternoon, head into the Sahara Desert, either by 4×4 or with your private driver. The rocky flat landscape quickly gives way to rolling sand dunes. Choose a simple sunset camel trek, or if you are more adventurous, consider a night under the stars. The swaying gait of your camel among the quiet peacefulness of the desert is typically the most favorite experience in Morocco.

Day 3: Merzouga to Fes via Midelt – Ifrane

Wake up early for any sunrise photo opportunities amidst the golden sand dunes, then meet up with your driver. Midelt, known for mining and agriculture, is the mid-way point for today’s drive, where you may stop for lunch. Pass through Ifrane, a decidedly European town known as Morocco’s Switzerland and home to the Al-Akhawayn University.  Continue through Immouzer du Kandar is a popular weekend getaway and summering spot for many Moroccans wishing to leave the heat of Fes and Meknes. This area is well-known for its inhabitants’ cave dwellings.  Travers the fertile landscape and arrive in Fes.