3 Days Desert Trip From Fes Back To Fes

Thinking about a Moroccan adventure that combines mountain scenery, cultural encounters, and the awe of the Sahara? This 3-day Desert Trip from Fes is a popular choice, praised for its well-organized itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking desert landscapes. With a consistent perfect rating of 5.0 from dozens of travelers, it’s clear this tour leaves a memorable impression.

What we love about this experience is how it balances comfort with authenticity, offering a taste of Morocco’s diverse scenery—from mountain peaks to endless dunes. The chance to witness sunrise over the sands, explore Berber villages, and enjoy local music all make it a special journey. Plus, the tour is surprisingly affordable given the amount of incredible sights covered.

However, one thing to consider is the length of travel each day—an 8- to 14-hour schedule means long driving stretches, which can be tiring for some. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic road trips and cultural adventures rather than purely relaxed vacations.

This tour is perfect for those craving a comprehensive Moroccan experience, with a focus on the Sahara’s beauty combined with mountain charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Morocco explorer, it offers genuine value and unforgettable memories.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary that covers mountains, oasis towns, and desert dunes.
• Expert guides making history, culture, and landscapes come alive.
• Authentic Berber experience including traditional meals and music.
• Breathtaking sunrises over the dunes, often highlighted as a highlight.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and a small group size.
• Affordable price point relative to the scope of experiences.

An Authentic Moroccan Desert Journey: What to Expect

This 3-day tour offers a well-rounded look at Morocco’s diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and desert beauty. Starting from Fes, the journey quickly moves into the Middle Atlas Mountains, which are a stark contrast to the sands to come but just as captivating. The stops at Ifrane and Azrou aren’t just scenic—they’re filled with character. Ifrane’s Swiss-like architecture and cool mountain air offer a surprising change of pace, while Azrou’s macaque monkeys provide a delightful, candid wildlife encounter. One reviewer, Margo_C, pointed out her guide Mohammed’s patience and care, making her experience even more memorable.

Middle Atlas Mountains and Ifrane

The trip begins early, around 7:30 am, with pickup from your hotel or Riad. The drive through winding mountain roads reveals lush cedar forests and rocky slopes. Ifrane feels like a different world—European in style, calm, and impeccably clean. Travelers often mentioned how the guides make this part engaging, sharing stories about the French influence and local flora.

Azrou and Macaques

Next, you stop at Azrou, a small Berber village famous for its friendly Barbary macaques. Several reviews mention how special it is to see these wild monkeys in their natural environment, often approaching curious visitors. One guest noted, “The monkeys were so close, it felt like we were in a wildlife documentary.” It’s a moment that captures the charm of rural Morocco and its unexpected wildlife encounters.

Midelt and the Ziz Valley

After a satisfying lunch in Midelt (the “City of Apples”), the journey continues into the Ziz Valley. Recognized as Africa’s largest oasis, the valley’s iconic palms and mountains create a stunning landscape. The view here is often described as panoramic, with a mix of lush greenery and rugged terrain. With just 15 minutes allocated, this stop is brief but impactful, giving travelers a chance to soak in the scenery.

Approaching the Desert

As the afternoon progresses, the tour hits Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. A stop en route offers sweeping desert vistas—ideal for snapping photos of the expansive oasis with its vibrant palms. The evening in Merzouga is alive with local Saharan music, creating an authentic atmosphere that many reviewers describe as lively and welcoming. Staying overnight in a traditional Kasbah, guests enjoy a mix of comfortable accommodations and culture.

Day 2: Sahara Adventures and Berber Hospitality

The highlight for many is the experience of waking up early to see the sunrise over the dunes—a sight often described as breathtaking. Guests have shared that the early morning light turns the dunes a glowing gold, a moment that stays with travelers long after they leave.

Activities in Merzouga

The day offers a flexible schedule—whether you want to indulge in a camel trek to a remote desert camp or explore nearby towns like Rissani and the Tafilalt Oasis. One reviewer highlighted the camel ride as a magical experience, especially as the camels gently sway beneath you, giving a sense of true desert adventure.

Cultural Encounters

In Khamlia village, known for its Gnawa music, you might find yourself clapping along with locals, experiencing a slice of Saharan culture. Many guests appreciated the personal stories shared by guides about the Berber traditions and desert life, making the journey more meaningful.

Berber Night in the Dunes

The night at the desert camp is a highlight—sitting around a campfire, enjoying traditional Moroccan meals like Madfona, and listening to the hypnotic sounds of desert music. One guest noted, “The hospitality was incredible; it felt like a family welcoming us into their home.” The clear desert sky often results in incredible stargazing, another feature highly praised in reviews.

Day 3: Sunrise and Return to Fes

The final morning begins with a desert sunrise—many describe it as one of the most stunning sights in Morocco. Waking early to catch the hues shifting across the dunes is typically worth the loss of sleep.

After breakfast and a quick wash, it’s time to head back to Fes. The return drive takes approximately 8 hours, but the scenery along the way—mountains, oases, and local villages—makes this a scenic journey rather than just transit.

Practical Notes

• The return journey is smooth, thanks to the air-conditioned minivan and professional driver.
• The tour ends back at the initial meeting point, making it easy to plan your onward travels.
• One review mentioned how the driver always ensured safety, and the small group size (max 17 travelers) facilitated a comfortable experience.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour offers two nights’ accommodation, camel rides, dinner and breakfast, and a professional guide. The price of around $197.73 per person is quite reasonable when considering the scope—covering mountains, desert, cultural stops, and authentic experiences.

Lunches and drinks aren’t included, so budget accordingly. Travelers often find the meals in Midelt and Merzouga to be hearty and flavorful, giving good value for money.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a balanced, immersive Moroccan adventure that highlights the country’s landscapes and cultures, this trip is a stellar choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and desert nights under the stars. The knowledgeable guides and authentic accommodations ensure a genuine experience.

Travelers who appreciate sunrise views and cultural storytelling** will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s ideal for a first trip to Morocco or for those wanting to add a desert adventure to their existing itinerary.

The Sum Up

This 3-day desert trip from Fes offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Morocco’s diverse scenery. The combination of mountain vistas, Berber villages, and Sahara dunes provides a rich experience that’s both visually stunning and culturally meaningful. The tour’s affordability, expert guides, and opportunity to witness some of the most breathtaking sunrises make it a compelling choice.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic road trips, cultural exchanges, and the magic of the desert night sky. The thoughtful itinerary and small group size ensure a personal and immersive journey.

While the long drives might be tiring for some, the unforgettable sights and warm hospitality make this a rewarding adventure. If you’re looking for a carefully curated, value-packed Moroccan desert experience, this tour is a fantastic pick.

FAQs

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Fontaine Batha in Fes, with pickup around 7:30 am, making it easy to meet your guide directly from your accommodation.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as long as they’re comfortable with long drives and outdoor activities like camel rides. The tour is designed for a wide audience, including families and solo travelers.

How many people are in each group?
The tour limits group size to a maximum of 17 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Dinner and breakfast are included in the package. Lunch and drinks are not, so you might want to bring some snacks or budget extra for meals along the way.

What are the main highlights inside the desert?
Expect a camel trek to a Berber camp, a chance to see a desert sunrise, and enjoy traditional meals with local Berber hosts. Many guests also love the chance to listen to Gnawa music in Khamlia village.

How long does the drive back to Fes take?
The return journey takes approximately 8 hours, but scenic views and well-planned stops make the trip more pleasant.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, layers for varying temperatures, sun protection, and any personal items needed for overnight stays in desert camps.

Is the accommodation in the desert camp comfortable?
Most reviews describe the desert nights as authentic and memorable, with traditional Berber camps offering basic but cozy accommodations. Some guests mention the hospitality and traditional meals as highlights.

Can I customize activities during the trip?
Yes, the tour offers options like exploring historical towns, relaxing in palm groves, or participating in camel rides—discuss with your guide what interests you most.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this Moroccan desert adventure. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, cultural encounters, or just a unique getaway, this tour delivers a truly remarkable experience.