Overview
Experience the authentic magic of the Sahara on this 3-day tour from Fez returning to the same city. Cross the Middle Atlas, enjoy two nights in the desert with full time to explore the Merzouga region, visit nomadic communities, and live the true Berber culture of the Sahara.
Itinerary
Day 1: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
Morning Departure from Fez
08:00 – Pickup at your accommodation in Fez. Early departure heading south.
First Stop: Ifrane - 09:30 – Stop in Ifrane, known as the "Switzerland of Morocco" - Unique alpine architecture in Morocco - Photos at the famous stone lion
Cedar Forests of Azrou - 10:30 – Visit to the cedar forests of Azrou - Observation of wild monkeys (Barbary macaques) - Walk among centuries-old cedar trees
Lunch in Midelt - 13:00 – Lunch in Midelt, known as the city of apples - Crossing the Middle Atlas with spectacular landscapes
Ziz Valley - 15:00 – Journey through the impressive Ziz Valley - Panoramic stops for photography - Palm oases and traditional Berber villages
Arrival in Merzouga - 17:00 – Arrival in Merzouga, at the edge of Erg Chebbi - Preparation for the desert experience
Sunset Camel Trek - 17:30 – Camel trek to the Berber camp - Spectacular sunset over the golden dunes - Magical photography on the highest dunes
Night in the Camp - 19:30 – Traditional Berber dinner under the stars - Traditional music around the campfire - Night in comfortable tent in the heart of the Sahara
Day 2: Merzouga – Desert Excursion – Merzouga
Sunrise on the Dunes - 06:00 – Optional sunrise on the highest dunes - Magical colors of the Saharan dawn - Breakfast at the camp with desert views
Full Day of Exploration
Nomadic Villages - 10:00 – Visit to nomadic families living in the desert - Learn about their traditional lifestyle - Mint tea in an authentic tent
Rissani Market - 12:00 – Exploration of the traditional market of Rissani - Former capital of Tafilalet - Local products, spices, and Berber crafts
Fossil Mines in Erfoud - 14:30 – Visit to the famous fossil mines of Erfoud - Learn about the extraction and carving process - Opportunity to acquire authentic fossils
Merzouga Lake (seasonal) - 16:00 – Visit to Merzouga Lake if there's water - Birdwatching (pink flamingos in season) - Contrasting landscape of water in the desert
Second Night - 19:00 – Optional: Second night in camp or accommodation in hotel/riad with pool - Dinner and relaxation after a full day of exploration
Day 3: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Azrou – Ifrane – Fez
Morning Departure - 08:00 – Breakfast and early departure to Fez - Last glimpse of the majestic Sahara dunes
Return Journey - Panoramic stops in the Ziz Valley - Visit to Berber villages along the way - Lunch en route (Midelt or Azrou)
Middle Atlas Landscapes - Gradual change from desert to mountain landscape - Photography of Morocco's natural contrasts - Stops at strategic viewpoints
Arrival in Fez - 19:00 – Arrival in Fez in the evening - Transfer to your accommodation
Why choose this tour?
This 3-day tour returning to Fez is perfect for those who want a complete Sahara experience without changing their base city. It offers sufficient time to explore the Merzouga region in depth, experience authentic Berber culture, and enjoy multiple desert experiences beyond the typical camel ride.
Ideal for: - Travelers based in Fez who don't want to change accommodations - Those seeking deep immersion in desert culture - Families wanting to explore the Sahara with time and comfort - Photographers interested in capturing the diversity of the Moroccan desert
