3 DAYS TOUR FROM FES TOUR MERZOUGA DESERT

1. 
   

   What is the 3-day tour from Fes to Merzouga?

The 3-day desert tour from Fes to Merzouga is a guided road journey from the ancient medina of Fes to Merzouga, a small Saharan village in southeast Morocco on the edge of Erg Chebbi, Morocco’s largest sand dune field. The tour covers three days and two nights, with overnight stays inside the dunes at a traditional Berber desert camp, including camel trekking, a campfire dinner, and a Sahara sunrise.

2. What is included in the 3-day Fes to Merzouga desert tour?

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Fes, a private air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking driver/guide, 2 nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast (1 night at a hotel/auberge near the dunes + 1 night in a desert camp), a camel trek at Erg Chebbi, and a 4×4 desert excursion on Day 2.

3. What is NOT included in the 3-day Fes to Merzouga tour?

Lunches, personal drinks, optional activities such as quad biking or ATV rides, and local guide entrance fees at sites along the route are not included and are paid directly on the day.

4. How far is Fes from Merzouga?

The journey from Fes to the Merzouga desert covers a distance of approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles). The drive takes around 8 hours including scenic stops.

5. What time does the tour depart from Fes?

The meeting point for the 3-day tour is at 8:30 AM at any location within Fes. In winter, an earlier departure may be arranged to ensure you arrive at the Erg Chebbi dunes in time for the sunset camel ride.

6. What places will I visit on Day 1 of the Fes to Merzouga tour?

On Day 1, you depart early from Fes heading south, stopping first in Ifrane — known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” You then continue to Azrou to see Barbary monkeys in the cedar forest, stop in Midelt for lunch, cross the Ziz Gorges near Errachidia, and admire a panoramic view of the Ziz Valley before arriving at the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga for dinner and your first overnight stay.

7. What activities are available on Day 2 in the Merzouga desert?

Day 2 is dedicated to exploring the Merzouga region. Activities include a 4×4 off-road desert tour to visit ancient eyeliner mines, black volcanic rock formations, a nomad family living in a tent, the Khamlia village famous for its Gnaoua spiritual music, and the seasonal flamingo lake (Dayet Srji). In the afternoon, you take a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to watch the sunset, followed by a second overnight stay at the desert camp under the stars.

8. What happens on Day 3 before returning to Fes?

On Day 3, you rise early for a dune walk to watch the sunrise. After breakfast at the camp, you retrace the route through the scenic Ziz Valley with a lunch stop in Midelt before arriving back in Fes by evening.

9. How many nights are spent in the Sahara desert on this tour?

This tour includes 2 nights in the Merzouga desert area, giving you much more time to explore the Sahara compared to standard 1-night tours. With two whole nights, you have ample time to soak up the unique desert atmosphere, go on 4×4 adventures, try sandboarding, or simply relax and enjoy the peacefulness of the dunes.

10. What type of accommodation is provided in the desert?

Standard desert camps have basic shared toilet facilities. Mid-range camps include simple hot showers. Luxury glamping camps near Erg Chebbi offer private en-suite bathrooms with hot running water. Always confirm specific camp facilities before booking. We offer Basic, Medium, and Luxury lodge options to suit all budgets.

11. Is camel trekking safe? What if I don’t want to ride a camel?

Camel trekking in Merzouga is safe for most travelers. Berber guides lead the camels on foot and provide clear instructions before departure. Travelers with back problems, recent surgery, or who are pregnant should inform their guide in advance so an alternative, such as a 4×4 transfer to the camp, can be arranged.

12. What is the best time of year to do the 3-day Fes to Merzouga tour?

March to May and September to November are the best months, with daytime temperatures of 20–30°C, comfortable nights, and beautiful light on the dunes. October is widely considered the single best month. Avoid July and August if heat is a concern, as Sahara temperatures can exceed 45°C.

13. Is this tour suitable for families and children?

Yes, the Fes to Merzouga tour is family-friendly and children genuinely love it. The camel ride, dune play, and Berber campfire experience are highlights for young travelers. Booking a private tour offers flexibility with meal times, and tents with proper beds can be requested for younger children.

14. Is there WiFi at the desert camp in Merzouga?

Some camps do offer complimentary WiFi; however, due to the remote location of the camps, the wireless connection can be slow and intermittent. We recommend using this time to disconnect and enjoy the magic of the Sahara.

15. What should I pack for the 3-day Fes to Merzouga desert tour?

Always pack sunscreen (for any season), sunglasses, a cap or hat, long sleeves, and good walking shoes. In winter, bring warm clothes as desert nights can drop near 0°C. A small first-aid kit is also recommended. Don’t forget a camera, the sunsets and starry skies at Erg Chebbi are unforgettable.