From the Medina of Fes to the Sahara Desert
From €170 / person (shared) • €280 private
Experience the real Moroccan desert in just 3 days: cedar forests, palm oases, camel treks, and sleeping under a million stars. Fast & authentic Sahara escape from Fes.
Duration
3 Days / 2 Nights
~900 km round-trip
Route
Fes → Ifrane → Midelt → Erfoud → Merzouga → Fes
Group Size
2-8 People
Personalized attention
Best Time
Oct - Apr
15-25°C (ideal temps)
Tour Highlights
Medina of Fes
Explore the world's oldest continuously inhabited city with ancient Islamic architecture, traditional souks, and rich cultural heritage. The spiritual heart of Morocco.
University of Al Quaraouiyine
Visit one of the world's oldest universities (859 AD) with stunning Islamic architectural design and scholarly significance – a remarkable testimony to Morocco's intellectual heritage.
Barbary Macaques in Cedar Forests
Spot and photograph wild Barbary macaques playfully roaming Ifrane and Azrou cedar forests – a fun, natural wildlife encounter in the "Moroccan Switzerland".
Ziz Valley Palm Groves & Oasis
Wind through the lush green Ziz Valley with endless date palm groves, fortified kasbahs, and scenic river views. A striking contrast to the approaching desert.
Erg Chebbi Dunes & Camel Trek
Mount camels and ride into vast golden dunes. Watch the magical sunset, then witness the peaceful sunrise – consistently rated as the trip's emotional peak.
Overnight in Traditional Desert Camp
Sleep under a million stars in a Berber tent with beds and blankets. Enjoy traditional tagine dinner, mint tea, Berber music and drums around the fire, and experience Sahara magic.
Detailed Itinerary
Fes → Ifrane → Midelt → Erfoud → Merzouga (~460–480 km, 8–9 hours)
Morning departure (usually 07:00–08:00) from your riad/hotel in Fes. Drive through the Middle Atlas mountains with a quick photo stop in Ifrane ("Moroccan Switzerland" – cedar forests, stone houses, possible Barbary macaques). Cross Col du Zad mountain pass (~2,200 m). Optional short walk in Azrou's cedar forest to see monkeys. Lunch in Midelt (famous for its apples; typical Moroccan tagine stop). Continue via Errachidia and the scenic Ziz Valley (palm groves, many kasbahs). Pass through Erfoud (fossil capital – short stop possible to see fossil shops). Arrive Merzouga late afternoon/early evening (~17:00–18:30). Check-in at hotel/auberge near the dunes (often with pool). Optional: short walk to watch sunset. Dinner at the hotel + overnight in standard room (not yet in desert camp). Meals: lunch, dinner included.
Merzouga Full Day – Erg Chebbi Dunes Experience
Morning: Breakfast at hotel. ~08:30–09:30 departure on camel trek into the dunes (usually 1–1.5 hours one way). Reach Berber desert camp (traditional or luxury depending on package). Drop luggage, short free time to climb dunes and take photos. Midday: Lunch at camp (tajine, salad, fruit, tea). Relax/siesta/sandboarding (if offered)/climb big dunes towards sunset viewpoint. Afternoon/Evening: Around 16:30–17:00 sunset camel ride back to highest dunes or walk. Watch spectacular sunset over Erg Chebbi. Return to camp. Dinner under the stars with Berber music, drums, and fire often included. Overnight in desert camp (private tent with beds, shared or private bathroom depending on luxury level). Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner included.
Merzouga → Rissani → Ziz Valley → Ifrane → Fes (~460–480 km, 8–9 hours)
Early wake-up (~06:00–06:30) for breathtaking sunrise over the dunes (walk or short camel ride to viewpoint). Breakfast at camp. ~07:30–08:00 camel ride or 4×4 transfer back to hotel/parking area. Quick shower/change if possible. Depart Merzouga (~08:30–09:30). Short stop in Rissani (old caravan town, optional visit to ksar/souk). Drive back through Ziz Valley → Errachidia → Midelt. Lunch in Midelt or Azrou. Return via Ifrane (possible quick stop). Arrive Fes late afternoon/evening (~17:30–20:00 depending on traffic & stops). Meals: breakfast, lunch included.
Why Choose Morocco For Visitors?
Fast & authentic Sahara experience from Fes – reach impressive Erg Chebbi dunes in under a day and a half
Small groups (max 8–12 people) – more personal, relaxed atmosphere (private tour option available)
Diverse landscapes in a short time – Middle Atlas cedar forests with wild monkeys → lush Ziz Valley palm groves → vast golden dunes
Overnight in a traditional Berber desert camp – authentic tents with real beds, blankets, and optional ensuite facilities
Expert local drivers/guides – English-, French- or Spanish-speaking, knowledgeable about Berber culture and desert travel
Great value – camel trek, desert camp stay, most meals and transfers included with no hidden costs
What Our Guests Say
Luiz Roberto A
Brazil • Mar 2025
"Excellent experience! We closed a 12-day package. Professional guide, polite, kind. We felt safe all the time. I highly recommend!!"
Priya M
India • Feb 2024
"Madou is a gifted guide and storyteller. Upbeat, extremely enthusiastic, and very entertaining. I recommend him without reservation!"
Anina B
Worldwide • Sep 2023
"One of the most wonderful guides I have ever met! Travelling with him is pure pleasure. An awe inspiring experience."
100% Money-Back Guarantee
Not satisfied? Full refund within 7 days, no questions asked.
500+ Happy Customers
Trusted by travelers from 50+ countries worldwide with 4.9★ average rating.
Award-Winning Service
Recognized as one of Morocco's top-rated tour operators on TripAdvisor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Our tours are designed for all fitness levels. The camel trekking is gentle and suitable for families and elderly guests.
What's included in the price?
Professional guide, vehicle, accommodation, all meals, camel trekking, desert camp experience, and entrance fees to all sites.
What's the best time to visit?
October to April offers the most comfortable temperatures (15-25°C). Avoid May-September due to intense heat (40°C+).
Do you offer transportation from the airport?
Yes! We offer airport transfers for an additional fee. Contact us for details and pricing options.
What should I bring?
Lightweight clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), comfortable walking shoes, and any personal medications. We provide everything else.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes! We offer customizable packages. Contact us to discuss your specific interests and requirements.
What's Included in Your Tour
Included
- ✓ Air-conditioned 4x4/minivan transport
- ✓ English-speaking professional guide/driver
- ✓ 2 nights accommodation (1 hotel/kasbah, 1 desert camp)
- ✓ 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners (traditional Moroccan meals)
- ✓ Camel treks with sunset and sunrise rides
- ✓ Sandboarding on Erg Chebbi dunes
- ✓ Todra Gorges hiking exploration
- ✓ Fes medina exploration and sightseeing
- ✓ Berber cultural experiences and music performances
- ✓ All entrance fees and site guides
Practical Information
💰 What to Bring (Budget)
Cash for lunches and tips: €10-20/day per person. Most operators accept card, but cash is useful in remote areas.
🎒 What to Pack
Sunscreen, hat, light clothing, jacket (cold desert nights), comfortable walking shoes, personal medications.
📍 Distance Covered
Total: ~900 km round-trip. Long drives (8-10 hours on Days 1 & 3) with scenic stops throughout.
⏰ Daily Schedule
Early 7-8 AM departures. Days include 8-10 hour drives, 2-hour stops, meals, and evening camp activities.
Ready to Experience the Sahara from Fes?
Barbary macaques in cedar forests. Sunset over golden dunes. Berber music around the campfire. Sunrise magic over endless sand.
Spaces fill quickly, especially in peak season – secure your spot today!
📅 Next departures: Every Monday & Thursday • ⏱️ Book now for this week or next