This 3-day desert journey from Fes to the Sahara and back offers an immersive experience of Morocco’s diverse landscapes. Travel through cedar forests where Barbary apes roam, descend into the palm-filled Ziz Valley, and spend two nights in the Merzouga desert. Connect with nomadic families, enjoy Gnawa music in Khamlia, and sleep under the stars in a traditional Berber camp. This is the Sahara at its most authentic.
After breakfast at 8:00 AM, we depart Fes and begin our journey south. The first stop is Ifrane, often called the Switzerland of Morocco. Its alpine architecture offers a surprising contrast to the landscapes ahead.
The route continues through hills covered with cork oak and giant cedar forests. Here, troops of wild Barbary apes make their home. A stop allows time for photos and the chance to feed these playful primates.
We cross a tranquil pass in the Middle Atlas Mountains. The first glimpses of impressive southern architecture begin to appear. Lunch awaits in Midelt, passing through a plain that hints at the desert ahead. The dramatic peaks of the High Atlas create a spectacular backdrop throughout the meal.
Crossing Tizi-n-Talghemt, we descend into a desert plain along the Ziz Valley. Thousands of palm trees line the route. Heading south toward Erfoud, an oasis with over six million palm trees, we pass numerous ksours—fortified villages that dot the landscape.
This marks our transition to the true desert. Upon reaching Merzouga village, a warm welcome with mint tea awaits. After some relaxation, you have the opportunity to hike into the sand dunes and catch your first Sahara sunset.
If time allows, we may explore the non-touristic Rissani Souk. This market offers a glimpse into real local life, with traditional items and authentic trading. The first night is spent in a hotel next to the dunes in Merzouga Erg Chebbi.
Today’s exploration takes us deeper into the Erg Chebbi dunes and the surrounding rocky desert. Our first visit is to Khamlia, a small village with a rich history. Once home to former slaves from sub-Saharan countries, its residents have now embraced Berber culture while preserving their musical heritage.
Here, they share their vibrant Gnaoua music. Time is allotted to listen and enjoy this unique art form. The journey continues through unexpected places like Mirdani and M’fis. Small villages and houses dot the dry landscapes far from Merzouga town, offering a glimpse into remote desert life.
We connect with nomadic families living in the “Hamadas,” the rocky desert plains. Sharing a cup of tea, we learn about their traditional lifestyle and the challenges of desert existence. Afterwards, we off-road back toward Khamlia, an area known for hosting the Dakar Rally in 2006.
Arriving around noon, a lunch of Berber pizza is served. We return to the hotel for a brief rest before preparing for the evening’s adventure. Later, we embark on a camel trek into the dunes. The caravan carries us to a desert camp, where the night unfolds with Berber drums, music, and a delicious dinner under the stars.
An early morning wake-up calls you to the dunes surrounding the camp. Another breathtaking sunrise unfolds amidst the desert’s stunning backdrop. The soft light transforms the sand into waves of gold and orange.
After this magical moment, a delicious breakfast awaits at the camp. Following breakfast, time is allowed for a refreshing shower before we begin our journey back to Fes.
The route includes a visit to Rissani Market, the largest and liveliest desert souk. This bustling market offers insights into local daily life, traditional shopping, and authentic crafts. It’s a photographer’s dream and a cultural immersion in one.
Continuing through Erfoud and along the picturesque Ziz Valley, we make our way north. Our next stop is Midelt, known as the apple city of Morocco. Lunch is taken here before we continue our journey.
The drive then crosses the Middle Atlas Mountains once more. A brief stop in Ifrane allows for rest and a final look at its unique architecture. After approximately one and a half hours, we arrive in Fes. You are dropped off at your hotel or Riad, marking the conclusion of your 3-day desert tour from Fes to the Erg Chebbi Merzouga desert.
