3-Day Ouarzazate to Fes Desert Tour via Merzouga
About This Tour
This private 3-day Morocco journey begins in Ouarzazate and finishes in Fes. Along the route, you will experience Ouarzazate, Todra Gorges, Merzouga, Erg Chebbi, Erfoud, and more. The itinerary is designed to balance long scenic drives with meaningful stops, authentic local experiences, and time to enjoy the destination rather than simply pass through it. With Sahara Star Tours, the experience is arranged as a private trip with air-conditioned transport, local support, and an itinerary that can be tailored to your travel style. This route is ideal for travelers who want to combine Morocco's landscapes and cultural heritage with a genuine Sahara experience.
Highlights:
- Merzouga Sahara and Erg Chebbi dunes
- Desert camel trekking at sunset
- Overnight in a desert camp with dinner and breakfast
- Fes medina and historic cultural sites
- Ouarzazate
- Todra Gorges
Program Itinerary
Ouarzazate – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Dunes – Camel trekking – overnight in a luxury camp
Your driver will pick you up from your accommodation or the airport in Ouarzazate early in the morning, next drive through the Todra Valley, the course of Todra River has carved out a grand canyon through the mountains -Making a high red cliff-sided canyon. You can wander in the gorges and appreciate the beauty of the landscape. After that you drive through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad. Enjoy free time for lunch on the way. In the afternoon, you reach the Sahara desert of Merzouga. Where you switch to camels and cross the sandy desert. A stop will be made for you to enjoy the desert sunset on top of a high dune. Next continue to the desert luxury camp, where you can enjoy the Berber drumming while dancing around the campfire, under a vast star-filled sky. Dinner and overnight in the camp
Explore Merzouga – Nomads – Khamlia (Gnaoua village) – Merzouga Lake – Erg Chebbi – Palm Grove
After breakfast, you dedicate the day to exploring the Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi). The area offers sand dunes, a seasonal wild lake, fossil sites, small mines, and beautiful oases—ideal for light outdoor activities. You start with an off-road drive to an old kohl (eyeliner) mine, next visit nomads in their woven tents and learn about their way of life over a cup of Berber tea. Next, continue to Khamlia to enjoy Gnaoua music and dance; many residents have roots in Mali, Sudan, and Niger. Enjoy free time for lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, stroll through a palm grove and drive a few kilometers to the wild lake of Merzouga (often called the flamingos’ lake). Later, switch to camels to cross the dunes, stopping on a high dune for sunset, next continue to the luxury camp. Enjoy Berber drumming around the campfire under a sky full of stars. Dinner and overnight in the camp.
Merzouga Dunes – Erfoud – Midelt – Cedar Forest – Ifrane – Fes
On the last day of your desert tour. Wake up early morning to contemplate the desert sunrise in the middle of the desert. Free time for breakfast, next you return on camels to Merzouga where the driver awaits. Next, you leave the desert to visit Rissani town, the ancient capital of Tafilalet. Rissani still a major trading center in the region, with a large souk lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. After a stroll in Rissani souk, you continue to Erfoud where you visit one of the workshops of fossilized marble After that you drive along the Ziz river, you stop for a panoramic view of the Ziz Valley. Enjoy free time for lunch in Midelt. Next, you continue to Cedar Forest, where the Barbary Macaques live. You can feed them while walking through the forest. After that you visit Ifrane, famous for its low temperature, snow and the alpine-style houses -It is often called the Switzerland of Morocco. Finally, you are dropped off at the airport or your accommodation in Fes.
Expedition Media Gallery
A visual glimpse of the spectacular landscapes awaiting you.
Inclusions & Trip Details
What's Included
- Private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan
- Experienced local driver/guide and private transfers
- Fuel, road tolls and standard vehicle operating costs
- Accommodation in selected riads/hotels as specified in the itinerary
- Breakfasts and included dinners according to the itinerary
- Desert camel trek and access to the desert camp
Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
- Flights and airport services not explicitly listed
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Tips and gratuities
Interactive Route Map
Explore your complete journey route on this interactive map. Select any destination marker to discover what awaits you on each day.
Route Milestones
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private or shared tour?
This is a private experience: the vehicle, driver, and itinerary are reserved for your group. The route and pace can be adjusted around your travel preferences.
How long is the camel ride, and is there an alternative?
The camel trek usually lasts around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the camp and the day’s route. A 4×4 transfer can be arranged instead, and ATVs may be available at an additional cost.
Is the desert camp tent private?
The luxury desert camp accommodation described for this itinerary uses private tents with private bathrooms and hot running water, subject to the camp booked.
Where are pickup and drop-off provided?
Pickup is arranged from your accommodation, airport, or agreed meeting point in Ouarzazate, depending on the itinerary. The tour finishes in Fes; the exact drop-off is confirmed when you book.
What type of vehicle is used?
Transportation is provided in a private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan. For larger groups, a minibus can be arranged. Vehicle type and group capacity are confirmed before travel.
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Yes. Share your dietary preferences when booking so the riads, hotels, and desert camp can prepare suitable meals. Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and other common requirements can be discussed in advance.
Is this itinerary suitable for all ages?
Yes, although some days include long drives of up to about 7 hours. Regular stops are planned, and travelers who prefer shorter driving days can request a longer or customized itinerary.
When is the best time to take this tour?
Spring and autumn generally offer comfortable conditions across Morocco. Winter can also be excellent for the southern desert, while mountain areas may be colder; your route can be adapted to the season.
