Overview
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the alpine-like streets of Ifrane to the mesmerizing golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. This carefully crafted 3-day tour offers an immersive experience into the heart of Moroccan culture, natural beauty, and desert magic.
- Duration: 3 days/2 nights
- Start: Marrakech
- End: Fes
- Tour Style: Private
Highlights of the 3 Day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes
- Discover the "Switzerland of Morocco" in Ifrane's unique alpine setting
- Interact with Barbary Macaques in the stunning cedar forests
- Experience a magical camel ride across the Sahara's golden dunes
- Enjoy an overnight stay in a luxurious desert camp under starlit skies
- Learn about nomadic life and traditional Berber culture
- Explore the historic town of Rissani and its vibrant traditional market
- Witness breathtaking sunrise and sunset in the Sahara Desert
Why private 3 Day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes
This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. In just three days, you’ll traverse diverse landscapes, from mountain forests to desert plains, experiencing Morocco’s incredible geographical diversity. You’ll have opportunities to interact with local communities, learn about traditional lifestyles, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
itinerary
Our meticulously planned journey takes you through some of Morocco’s most captivating regions. Each day is carefully curated to provide a mix of scenic drives, cultural encounters, and unique experiences. From the moment you depart Fes to your return, every mile is an opportunity for discovery and wonder.
Day 1: Fes ⇢ Merzouga Sahara
Your Moroccan adventure begins with an early morning departure from Fes. We’ll journey through the picturesque Imouzzer region, arriving in Ifrane, a town that feels more like a European alpine village than a Moroccan landscape. Here, you’ll marvel at the Swiss-inspired architecture and cool climate that earned it the nickname “Switzerland of Morocco”.
Next, we’ll explore the cedar forests, home to playful Barbary Macaques. You’ll have the opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. After a delightful lunch in Midelt, we’ll continue our journey through the stunning Ziz Valley, with its dramatic landscapes and winding river.
As the afternoon unfolds, we’ll reach the magnificent Merzouga Desert. Here, you’ll switch to camels and embark on an enchanting ride across the sandy terrain. A magical sunset awaits you atop a high dune, offering breathtaking views of the Sahara. In the evening, you’ll stay at a luxurious desert camp, enjoying traditional Berber music, dancing around the campfire, and gazing at the star-filled sky.
Travel distance: Approximately 470 KM
Places to see: Ifrane, Cedar Forest, Midelt, Ziz Valley, Merzouga
Highlights: Alpine landscapes, Barbary Macaques, desert sunset, Berber camp
Day 2: Merzouga Region Exploration
Rise early to witness the spectacular desert sunrise – a truly unforgettable experience. After breakfast, we’ll explore the fascinating Merzouga region, revealing its hidden treasures. Our off-road adventure begins with a visit to an ancient eyeliner mine, followed by an intimate encounter with nomadic families in their traditional hand-woven tents.
We’ll then visit Khamlia village, known for its vibrant Gnaoua music and dance performances. The village’s inhabitants, originating from sub-Saharan countries like Mali and Sudan, will offer insights into their unique cultural heritage. A leisurely stroll through the palm grove and a visit to the wild Merzouga Lake (known as the Flamingos Lake) will complete your day of exploration.
Travel distance: Approximately 50 KM
Places to see: Nomad tents, Khamlia Village, Palm Grove, Merzouga Lake
Highlights: Nomadic culture, Gnaoua music, desert wildlife, local interactions
Day 3: Merzouga ⇢ Fes
Another early morning sunrise greets you, offering a final magical moment in the desert. After breakfast and a camel ride back to Merzouga, we’ll journey towards Rissani, the ancient capital of Tafilalet. Explore its vibrant traditional market, which comes alive on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
Our next stop is Erfoud, where you’ll visit a workshop specializing in fossilized marble, gaining insights into the region’s geological heritage. We’ll then drive along the scenic Ziz River, stopping for panoramic views of the Ziz Valley. Passing through the cedar forests and the charming town of Ifrane, we’ll finally return to Fes, concluding an incredible three-day adventure.
Travel distance: Approximately 460 KM
Places to see: Rissani, Erfoud, Ziz Valley, Ifrane
Highlights: Traditional market, fossil workshops, valley panoramas, return journey
Gallery
Inclusive and Exclusive of the tour
Inclusive
- Pick-up at your Hotel or Riad.
- Comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4, van/minibus.
- Driver/guide speaking English
- Exciting camel trekking
- Experience through the Erg Chebbi dunes
- 2 Dinners
- 2 Breakfasts
Exclusive
- Lunches
- Beverages
- Entrance fees, when needed
- Tips (optional)
- Anything not in inclusive
Price of 3 Day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes
Map of the tour
Book this tour now
Know Before You Go
When making your reservation, please be sure to communicate any dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences. Rest assured, we are committed to accommodating your specific meal preferences during your trip to ensure an enjoyable dining experience.
Throughout the desert tour, your guide will recommend lunch stops at local restaurants offering fresh, healthy options. However, if you have a particular restaurant in mind, feel free to inform your guide, and they will gladly assist in making it part of your journey.
For those seeking an added thrill, consider exciting activities like quad biking or buggy driving in the stunning Erg Chebbi Dunes. If you’re interested in these exhilarating desert experiences, just let your guide know, and they’ll help arrange the perfect adventure to enhance your trip.
To make the most of your desert experience, consider upgrading to our 5-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. This extended itinerary includes an extra night in Dades Gorges and another night in Ouarzazate, allowing you more time to explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Morocco. This tour breaks up the longer drive and offers a more relaxed pace, making it an ideal choice for those looking to fully experience the journey.
If you’re limited on time, a 4-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga might be a great option. This 4-day desert tour offers a perfect balance of exploration and adventure, giving you ample time to explore the Merzouga desert and its surroundings.
For those with only three days to spare, our 3-day desert tour from Marrakech provides a faster yet fulfilling experience. Please note, however, that this option includes just one night in the desert, ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience Morocco’s desert landscapes without the extended driving.
If you have an even tighter schedule, the 2-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is an excellent choice. Although shorter, it still provides a glimpse into the magic of the desert, with the highlights of Merzouga and the Sahara dunes.
No matter your choice, our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable desert adventure tailored to your interests and schedule.
Food Alergies
Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions you may have. We provide helpful information for vegans and vegetarians and will do our utmost to accommodate your needs, ensuring this information is communicated to your driver and hotels.
However, please be aware of the following considerations: We cannot guarantee the absence of allergen traces in containers, bags, or kitchens, as Morocco’s food standards may differ from those in your country. If any member of your tour has severe allergies, it is advisable to bring appropriate food items. Additionally, we cannot control potential insect encounters.
We recommend exercising extra caution in any uncertain situations.
FaQ
What type of vehicles are used for the trip ?
What a great inquiry! “Private desert trips” require comfortable transportation. For groups bigger than 8, we employ Land Cruiser TXs, Ford 8-seater vans, Mercedes Bens Sprinter minibuses, and a variety of other comfortable vehicles.What a great inquiry! “Private desert trips” require comfortable transportation. For groups bigger than 8, we employ Land Cruiser TXs, Ford 8-seater vans, Mercedes Bens Sprinter minibuses, and a variety of other comfortable vehicles.
How far in advance should we book this tour ?
Making your vacation plans as soon as you can is encouraged because the early bird gets the worm.
How to pay for the tour ?
Initially, we ask that a small deposit be given to our account via PayPal during the booking procedure. Second, the balance must be paid in cash and should be handed to our driver/guide on the first day of the tour in euros, dollars, or the equivalent in dirhams.
How do i take my luggage to the camp?
At the start of your camel trek, a 4×4 vehicle will convey your luggage. As a result, your bags will be there when you arrive at the camp.
Is it possible to have vegetarian food or vegan food?
Serving vegan or vegetarian food is possible. On the first day of your trip, please email me or let your driver/guide know as soon as you can.
I don’t want to ride camels to the camp, how i do I reach the camp?
If you don’t want to ride a camel, we can transport you to the camp in a 4 × 4 vehicle.
