Discover the magic of the Sahara on this action-packed 4-day desert loop from Fes. This adventure is designed to showcase Morocco’s most stunning scenery through a series of unforgettable experiences. Your journey includes a sunset camel trek, an overnight stay in a traditional desert camp, and an exhilarating 4×4 drive across the Merzouga dunes. By starting and ending in the imperial city of Fes, this itinerary offers the perfect, self-contained Moroccan desert adventure.
✔️ Encounter wild Barbary macaques in the Azrou cedar forest.
✔️ Ride a camel to a breathtaking sunset over the golden Erg Chebbi dunes.
✔️ Dine under the stars to the rhythm of live Berber drum music.
✔️ Sleep in a traditional camp for a magical night in the Sahara.
✔️ Explore the desert by 4×4 and share mint tea with a local nomadic family.
✔️ Journey through the lush, palm-filled oasis of the Ziz Valley.
Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Fes. You’ll drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland,” and the cedar forests of Azrou, where you may spot wild monkeys. Continuing through the Ziz Valley, you’ll pass palm groves and traditional mud-brick villages before reaching Merzouga. Here, you’ll switch to camels for a sunset trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Spend the night in a luxury desert camp, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner and live Berber music under the stars.
After breakfast, today is dedicated to exploring the wonders surrounding Merzouga. At 9 am, we will set off in a 4×4 to visit the village of Khamlia, where you’ll immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms of Gnawa music, a spiritual tradition with deep historical roots. We will then visit a desert oasis before sharing a mint tea with a nomadic family, gaining insight into their timeless way of life. After lunch back in Merzouga, you’ll trade the vehicle for a camel, embarking on a classic trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. The day culminates with an incredible night at a Sahara desert camp, dining under a canopy of brilliant stars.
Your day begins with an unforgettable Saharan sunrise, as you watch the first light of dawn cast a breathtaking sea of colors across the silent dunes. After this magical moment, you’ll return for breakfast and a refreshing shower at your lodging in Merzouga. Our journey then continues west towards the magnificent Todra Gorges. We’ll venture into this towering canyon, where sheer red rock walls create a dramatic, narrow passage. Here, you’ll have free time to hike, relax by the cool river, and savor a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, we will drive through the scenic Dades Valley, renowned for its stunning rock formations and lush kasbahs, to settle in for the night.
After a final desert breakfast, our journey back to Fes begins. We’ll trace our way through the stunning Ziz Valley, a lush corridor of palm groves, pausing at a scenic overlook for tea and one last panoramic view. As we head north towards Midelt, you’ll see landscapes where nomadic communities live in traditional goat-hair tents. Following a break for lunch, our route takes us into the cool cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Here, we’ll stop to watch the playful wild Barbary macaques. A final, charming coffee break in Ifrane, known as Morocco’s “Little Switzerland,” precedes our arrival in Fes in the late afternoon, where your unforgettable 4-day desert adventure comes to a close.
Pack light, comfortable clothing, a warm jacket (nights can be cold), sunscreen, sunglasses, a scarf for sand protection, and sturdy shoes. A camera is a must for capturing the stunning landscapes!
Yes, luxury desert camps offer private tents with ensuite bathrooms, including showers and toilets.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but camel riding is optional. Private vehicle transport ensures comfort for all ages.
You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 SUV or minivan (depending on group size), ensuring a smooth ride through Morocco’s diverse landscapes.
Yes! Solo travelers are welcome. You can either book a private tour or join a shared group tour (subject to availability).
Wi-Fi is not available in the desert camp, but you may have limited mobile reception near Merzouga. This is a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty.
Desert tours run in most weather conditions, but in rare cases of extreme sandstorms, camel treks may be adjusted for safety. Your guide will ensure alternative arrangements.
Yes! Most desert camps and guesthouses can accommodate dietary restrictions if notified in advance.
Absolutely! You can upgrade to an extra night in the desert, add a quad biking excursion, or include a visit to a local Berber family (additional cost applies).
It’s recommended to bring 300-500 MAD (~$30-$50) for lunches, souvenirs, and tips. ATMs are scarce in the desert, so withdraw cash in Fes or Marrakech.
Experience the magic of Morocco’s Sahara on this 4-day journey from Fes. Whether it’s the golden dunes, ancient kasbahs, or starry desert nights, this tour promises unforgettable memories.
