Alpha Morocco Tours

3 day trip from Fes to Merzouga in Morocco

Category

Cultural, Historical, Natural, Adventure, Relaxation

Group size

1-16

Type

  • Standard
  • Luxury
  • Mixed

Price

depend on many factors (*)

Rating

(4.6/5)
4.6/5

Transportation

Private

Table of Contents

3 day trip from Fes to Merzouga desert tour overview

Overview: Embark on a captivating 3-day journey from the cultural hub of Fes to the magical Sahara Desert, experiencing the breathtaking landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains, the ancient Berber traditions, and the mesmerizing beauty of the dunes. This adventure will immerse you in Morocco's natural wonders, cultural richness, and the unique charm of the desert.

Itinerary Highlights

This 3 day trip from Fes to Merzouga desert highlight a lot of activities such as:

  • Middle Atlas Mountain Drive: Traverse the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through charming towns like Ifrane and Azrou, where you’ll encounter the wild Barbary macaques.

  • Ziz Valley Panorama: Witness the stunning panoramic views of the Ziz Valley, with its fertile oasis and dramatic landscapes.

  • Merzouga Desert Exploration: Explore the fascinating Merzouga region, visiting nomadic Berber families, the Khamlia village with its Gnawa music, and the tranquil Merzouga Lake.

  • Erg Chebbi Dunes: Enjoy a breathtaking camel trek through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors, and spend a magical night under a canopy of stars.

3 day trip from Fes to Merzouga itinerary

3-Day Morocco Itinerary: A Cultural and Natural Exploration

Description: This 3-day Fes to Merzouga itinerary is a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion. From the rugged beauty of the mountains to the surreal landscape of the desert, you'll experience the diversity of Morocco's landscapes and connect with its rich cultural heritage.

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Medilt – Errachidia – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

  • Depart from Fes and journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.”

  • Explore the Cedar Forest in Azrou, home to the Barbary macaques.

  • Enjoy a lunch break in a small Berber village.

  • Drive through Medilt, feeling the shift towards the Sahara landscapes.

  • Stop for a panoramic view of the Ziz Valley.

  • Arrive in Merzouga, checking into your hotel and preparing for your desert adventures.

Day 2: Merzouga – Nomad Families – Rocky Desert – Merzouga Erg Chebbi Desert

  • Visit the seasonal lake of Merzouga, enjoying its breathtaking views.

  • Explore Khamlia village, known for its Gnawa music and traditional drumming.

  • Discover the village of M’fis and its fossil mines.

  • Venture across the stony desert, reaching a viewpoint overlooking the dunes and the Moroccan-Algerian border.

  • Meet nomadic Berber families, learning about their daily life and traditions.

  • Enjoy lunch with the nomads or under an acacia tree.

  • Embark on a camel trek into the dunes of Erg Chebbi, watching the sunset.

  • Spend the night in a desert camp, enjoying a bonfire, traditional music, and stargazing.

Day 3: Merzouga – Middle Atlas Mountains – Fes

  • Wake up early to witness the sunrise (this is optional).

  • Enjoy breakfast at the camp.

  • Return to Merzouga via camel.

  • Depart for Fes, driving through the Middle Atlas Mountains.

  • Enjoy scenic stops and a lunch break along the way.

  • Arrive in Fes, concluding your incredible desert adventure.

Apply for a customization

Contact us

    3 day trip from Fes to Merzouga desert: Highlights

    These highlights offer a glimpse into the unforgettable experiences that await you on this Moroccan adventure.

    • Middle Atlas Mountain Drive: Experience the diverse landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains, with stunning scenery, charming towns, and the chance to encounter wild Barbary macaques in the Cedar Forest.
    • Ziz Valley Panorama: Be captivated by the breathtaking views of the Ziz Valley, a fertile oasis contrasting with the dramatic desert landscape.
    • Nomad Encounter: Gain insights into the unique way of life of nomadic Berber families, learning about their traditions and experiencing their hospitality.
    • Gnawa Music in Khamlia Village: Immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms of Gnawa music, a traditional African percussion style, played by the locals of Khamlia village.
    • Sunset Camel Trek: Experience the magic of a camel trek through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors.
    • Starry Nights in the Desert: Sleep under a canopy of stars, enjoying a bonfire, traditional music, and the serenity of the Sahara desert.

    About the trip: 3 day trip from Fes to Merouga desert

    WHAT’S INCLUDED

    This 3 day trip from Fes to Merouga desert in Morocco tour includes:

    • Accommodation in hotels or riads.
    • Transport between destinations.
    • Guided tours of all major sites.
    • Vehicules with fuel.

    WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

    This 3 day trip from Fes to Merzouga desert in Morocco tour excludes:

    • Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and drinks..
    • Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
    • Entrance fees to all attractions
    • Tips for guides and drivers

    Map of 3 day trip from Fes to Merzouga desert

    Open in Maps

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When preparing for your trip to Morocco, keep in mind the time of year and the activities you intend to participate in. The following is a general packing list:

    • Comfortable walking shoes.
    • Lightweight clothing for the day and warmer clothing for the night.
    • A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
    • A scarf to shield yourself from the sun and sand.
    • A camera to record all of your memories (in allowed spaces).

    If you're traveling during the shoulder season (spring or autumn), bring a light jacket or sweater. Warmer gear, such as a coat and hat, will be required if you are traveling during the winter.

    Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit Morocco for stays of up to 90 days. However, it is always best to check with your local embassy or consulate for the latest visa requirements.

    Ait Ben Haddou is a fortified village in southern Morocco that has been used as a filming location for many movies and TV series, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Morocco.

    The Todgha Gorges is a high gorge in the High Atlas Mountains that is popular with rock climbers and hikers. The gorge is up to 300 meters deep and has walls that are up to 400 meters high.

    The Merzouga Desert is a sand desert in southeastern Morocco. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Morocco, and is known for its camel treks, sandboarding, and stargazing.

    A riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace. Riads are often converted into hotels and offer a unique and authentic Moroccan experience.

     

    Have some other questions? Visit our support page

    City overview: Marrakech, 3 day trip from Fes to Merzouga

    History of Marrakech

    Marrakech was founded in 1062 by the Almoravid dynasty, a Berber Muslim group that ruled much of North Africa and Spain in the 11th and 12th centuries. The city was built as a military stronghold and a trading center, and it quickly became an important city in the region.

    The Almoravids were succeeded by the Almohad dynasty in the 12th century. The Almohads were even more powerful than the Almoravids, and they expanded the city and built many impressive buildings, including the Koutoubia Mosque and the Ben Youssef Madrasa.

    Marrakech declined in importance after the fall of the Almohads in the 13th century. However, it was revived in the 16th century under the Saadian dynasty. The Saadians were a powerful Moroccan dynasty that ruled from the 16th to the 17th centuries. They made Marrakech their capital and built many beautiful palaces and mosques, including the Saadian Tombs.

    Marrakech continued to be an important city under the subsequent dynasties, the Alaouites and the French. The Alaouites are the current ruling dynasty of Morocco, and they have ruled the country since the 17th century. The French ruled Morocco from 1912 to 1956.

    Today, Marrakech is a popular tourist destination. It is known for its vibrant souks, its traditional Moroccan cuisine, and its lively cultural scene. The city is also a major economic center, and it is home to many businesses and industries.

    Here are some of the most important historical sites in Marrakech:


      • Jemaa el-Fna square: This is Marrakech’s heart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a busy square with kiosks offering food, souvenirs, and other items. Snake charmers, storytellers, and acrobats are also on stage.
      • Koutoubia Mosque: This is Marrakech’s largest mosque and a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. The minaret is one of the city’s most identifiable sights.
      • Ben Youssef Madrasa: This is a former Islamic college that has been converted into a museum. It is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, with elaborate tilework and carved cedarwood ceilings.
      • Saadian Tombs: The tombs of the Saadian dynasty, which ruled Morocco from the 16th to the 17th centuries, are known as the Saadian Tombs. The tombs are located in the medina and are a stunning example of Moroccan architecture.
      • Majorelle Gardens: A wonderful oasis of calm in the center of the metropolis. Jacques Majorelle, a French artist, designed the gardens in the early twentieth century.

    Culture of Marrakech

    • Language: The official language of Morocco is Arabic. However, French is also widely spoken, especially among the educated population. In Marrakech, you will also hear Berber, the language of the indigenous people of Morocco.
    • Architecture: The architecture of Marrakech is a blend of Moroccan, Arab, and Andalusian styles. The city’s most famous landmark is the Koutoubia Mosque, which is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture. Other notable architectural landmarks include the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the Saadian Tombs, and the Majorelle Gardens.
    • Food: Moroccan cuisine is a delicious blend of flavors from the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Middle East. Some of the most popular dishes include couscous, tagines, and harira soup.
    • Music and dance: Music and dance are an important part of Moroccan culture. Traditional Moroccan music is characterized by its use of drums, flutes, and strings. Some of the most popular dances include the gnawa, a trance dance, and the ahouach, a sword dance.
    • Handicrafts: Marrakech is known for its beautiful handicrafts, such as carpets, pottery, and leatherwork. You can find these handicrafts in the souks, the traditional markets of Marrakech.

    These are just a few of the key aspects of the culture of Marrakech. The city is a fascinating blend of cultures, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. This 6 days from Marrakech in Morocco tour will let you explore a bunch of this rich culture.

    Things to do in Marrakech

    Here are some of the best things to do in Marrakech:

    • Explore the medina: The medina is the old city of Marrakech and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, where you can find everything from traditional Moroccan shops to cafes and restaurants.
    • Visit the Jemaa el-Fna square: This is the heart of the medina and is a must-see for any visitor to Marrakech. The square is filled with stalls selling food, souvenirs, and other goods, and there are also snake charmers, storytellers, and acrobats performing.
    • See the Koutoubia Mosque: This is the largest mosque in Marrakech and is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture. The minaret is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.
    • Visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa: This is a former Islamic college that is now a museum. It is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and is worth seeing for its intricate tilework and carved cedarwood ceilings.
    • Go shopping in the souks: The souks are the traditional markets of Marrakech and are a great place to buy souvenirs, clothing, and other goods. Be sure to bargain!
    • Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Moroccan dishes, such as couscous and tagine. This is a great way to experience Moroccan culture and cuisine.
    • Visit the Majorelle Gardens: These are a beautiful oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city. The gardens were created by French artist Jacques Majorelle in the early 20th century.
    • Relax in a hammam: A hammam is a traditional Moroccan bathhouse. This is a great way to relax and to experience Moroccan culture.

    These are just a few of the many things to do in Marrakech. The city is a fascinating blend of cultures, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.