Day 1: Fes – Midelt – Todgha Gorges
Your 3-day journey from Fes to the Sahara Desert begins after breakfast as we head south towards the spectacular Todgha Gorges. The road takes us through the Middle Atlas Mountains, offering a beautiful mix of landscapes, from green valleys to rocky plateaus.
Our first stop is in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its clean streets and Alpine-style architecture. Next, we continue to the cedar forests of Azrou, where you can see and photograph the wild Barbary macaque monkeys that inhabit the area. This is one of the few places in Morocco where these fascinating creatures can be seen up close.
We then travel through the charming Berber village of Zaida, where we stop for lunch and taste traditional Moroccan dishes. Afterward, we cross the Atlas Mountains, enjoying panoramic views of valleys, rivers, and small towns such as Midelt and Rich. From here, we turn off towards Imilchil, known for its lakes and the famous “Festival of Engagement.”
As we descend from the mountains, the scenery shifts dramatically from forested slopes to the arid landscapes of southern Morocco. By evening, we arrive at Todgha Gorges, one of the most breathtaking natural sites in the country. The towering cliffs rise up to 300 meters high, with a narrow river running between them — a perfect spot for a walk or some photos before dinner. You’ll spend the night in a traditional riad or hotel surrounded by the beauty of the canyon.
Day 2: Todgha Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga
After breakfast, we leave the gorges behind and begin our journey deeper into the desert region. The road takes us through several Berber villages, including Tinjdad and Jorf, where you’ll see traditional irrigation systems that have sustained oases for centuries.
We continue to Erfoud, known as the gateway to the Sahara and famous for its fossil workshops and the nearby Tafilalt Oasis — one of Morocco’s largest. From here, the desert scenery becomes more pronounced as we approach Merzouga, the doorway to the golden Erg Chebbi dunes.
Upon arrival, your camels will be waiting to take you on a peaceful trek across the vast dunes. The rhythmic movement of the camels and the silence of the Sahara create a magical and unforgettable experience. As the sun begins to set, we’ll stop atop a high dune to watch the sky turn brilliant shades of orange and red — a moment that perfectly captures the spirit of the desert.
After sunset, you’ll reach your Berber desert camp, where dinner is served under the stars. Enjoy a night of traditional music and drumming around the campfire, then rest in your comfortable tent surrounded by the tranquility of the Sahara night.
Day 3: Merzouga – Fes
Wake up early to witness a magnificent Sahara sunrise over the dunes — a highlight of the trip. After breakfast and a refreshing shower back in Merzouga, we begin our return journey to Fes.
The drive retraces parts of our earlier route, passing through the Middle Atlas Mountains once again. You’ll have several opportunities to stop for photos and short breaks, soaking in the last views of Morocco’s diverse landscapes.
We arrive in Fes by the late afternoon, marking the end of your unforgettable 3-day desert adventure from Fes to Merzouga and back.
Price Includes:
✅ 1 night in hotel/riad with dinner & breakfast
✅ 1 night in a Berber desert camp with dinner & breakfast
✅ 3-day tour in an air-conditioned 4×4 Land Cruiser
✅ Professional English-speaking driver/guide
✅ Fuel throughout the journey
✅ 2-hour camel trekking in the dunes
✅ 4×4 desert excursion around Erg Chebbi