Day 1: Fez – Atlas Mountains – Merzouga
Today we depart from Fez heading to Merzouga to immerse ourselves in the magic of the Sahara. This three-day journey takes us through the Middle Atlas, starting with a stop in Ifrane, a picturesque alpine-style town known as the “Moroccan Switzerland.” We continue to Azrou and the Cedar Forest, where wild monkeys can often be seen climbing among the trees.
Next, we travel to Midelt, a city famous for its minerals and delicious apples, where we will pause for lunch. Later, we cross the Ziz Valley en route to Errachidia, Erfoud, and Rissani. By late afternoon, we arrive in Merzouga, where we will settle into a riad or hotel and enjoy a traditional dinner.
Day 2: Merzouga Desert Adventure
After breakfast, our desert expedition begins. We will spend approximately four hours exploring the surroundings of Merzouga. Our first stop is the village of Khamlia, famous for its Gnawa music. Next, we will visit nomadic families near the border, where we will have lunch and learn about their way of life.
We will also explore ancient mines and visit the area known as the “Black Sahara,” characterized by its volcanic terrain. In the afternoon, we embark on a camel trek to a well-equipped Berber camp. Amid the dunes, we will witness an unforgettable sunset. The day concludes with a traditional dinner and drum music around the campfire.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Ifrane – Fez
On the final day, we return to the hotel by camel or 4×4, where we can shower, have breakfast, and enjoy the desert sunrise.
Afterward, we head to Rissani, the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty, before continuing to Erfoud to visit fossil workshops and its lively souk. Later, we cross the Middle Atlas again, stopping in Midelt for lunch. Finally, we return to Ifrane and the Cedar Forest before arriving back in Fez, marking the end of this unforgettable 3-day Merzouga desert excursion.
