Fes to Fes 3 days Merzouga desert tour

Exploring Morocco’s Desert and Mountains: A 3-Day Fes to Merzouga Tour Review

If you’re dreaming of crossing the Moroccan landscape from the ancient city of Fez to the shimmering dunes of Merzouga, a well-reviewed 3-day tour promises a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and unforgettable desert moments. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the glowing feedback, detailed itineraries, and consistent praise suggest it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances adventure with comfort.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning route that takes you through mountain forests, Berber villages, and sprawling oases. Second, the expert guides, especially Hicham, who seem to elevate the experience with their knowledge and friendliness. And third, the authentic desert activities like camel trekking and watching the sunset over dunes.

Of course, a potential consideration is the long driving hours—about 7 hours on the return day—so travelers should be prepared for some time in transit. But for those who love varied landscapes and cultural stops, this tour offers a fantastic value. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see Morocco’s natural and historic gems while enjoying the comfort of private transport.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 3-day itinerary combining mountains, desert, and historic towns.
• Small-group experience with private transportation for a more personalized journey.
• Authentic cultural stops, from Rissani’s old caravan routes to Berber villages.
• Stunning scenery en route, including cedar forests, Middle Atlas Mountains, and the Sahara dunes.
• Highly praised guides, particularly Hicham, known for their knowledge and professionalism.
• Value-packed experience, including camel rides, breakfast, dinner, and mineral water, with flexibility on cancellations.

The Route and Its Highlights

Day 1: Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane, Azrou, and Midelt

Your adventure begins in Fez, a city steeped in history and bustling markets. Departting early, you’ll cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing Ifrane—the so-called “Little Switzerland”—built by the French in the 1930s. This quaint ski resort is a refreshing contrast to Morocco’s other landscapes, with its alpine-style chalets and clean streets. Travelers mention the scenery here as “beautiful” and “unexpected,” especially if you’ve only seen images of desert landscapes.

Next, you’ll enter the cedar forests of Azrou, home to Barbary macaques—an unexpected wildlife highlight that many find charming. As you descend into the arid but lush Midelt, known for its fossils and rocks, you’ll get a taste of Morocco’s geological diversity. Midelt serves as a restful lunch stop, giving you time to stretch and enjoy local cuisine.

The afternoon is dedicated to scenic drives along Ziz Valley, famous for its vast palm oasis and dramatic cliffs. Travelers appreciate the panoramic views, often citing the landscape as “breathtaking,” and mention the smooth, private transport that makes the long drive pleasant. After crossing the desert gateway of Rissani, the journey continues into the dunes of Merzouga, where the vast Sahara awaits.

Day 2: Desert Adventures and Camel Trekking

Waking up in Merzouga, you’ll be greeted by the sight of golden dunes—an iconic Moroccan landscape. The morning begins with breakfast overlooking the sands, and many reviews highlight the “beautiful” setting. You’ll then head to Rissani, a city that once served as a key caravan stop for traders heading toward Timbuktu. According to travelers, visiting Rissani reveals both historical significance and local life, with a visit to Moulay Ali Charif’s mausoleum adding a spiritual dimension.

The highlight of the day, however, is the camel trek into the dunes. Guided by experienced handlers, you’ll ride on camels with well-behaved animals that make the experience accessible for most. Many travelers note that the camel ride offers “breathtaking views” and a chance to truly connect with the desert landscape. Watching the sunset over the dunes is often described as “magical,” and the few hours spent in this environment are considered the tour’s most memorable moment.

Evening activities often include traditional music and a dinner under the stars, though the details depend on the tour operator. The reviews emphasize the professionalism of guides like Hicham, who go beyond just logistics to enrich the experience with stories and tips about the local culture.

Day 3: Return to Fez via Rissani, Midelt, and Ifrane

After a relaxed breakfast, it’s time to head back north. The return journey covers approximately seven hours, with comfort stops along the way. Many travelers appreciate that the return trip is broken up by visits to scenic spots and small towns, making the long day more manageable. You’ll pass through the same mountain scenery and desert landscapes, providing a chance to reflect on the trip.

Reviewers mention the “comfortable, spotless” vehicle and the friendly guidance of Hicham, who helps keep spirits high during the lengthy drive. The journey ends back in Fez, completing an immersive experience that touches on Morocco’s mountains, desert, and ancient cities.

What We Loved About This Tour

1. The Mix of Landscapes: From the lush cedar forests of Azrou to the stark beauty of the Sahara dunes, the route offers incredible variety. Travelers often comment on how these contrasting scenes make each day feel like a new adventure.

2. The Guided Expertise: Guides like Hicham stand out for their friendliness and knowledge. Reviewers note that he took them to “the best spots for food and pictures,” and his professionalism made the experience “exceptional.” Expect insightful commentary about local culture and history, which adds depth to the trip.

3. The Authentic Desert Experience: Camel riding at sunset, gazing over the dunes, and spending a night in a desert camp are genuinely special. Many reviews mention the “breathtaking” view of the sands and the peacefulness of the night under the stars.

4. The Value for Money: For around $452 per person, the tour includes private transportation, two breakfasts, two dinners, camel rides, and visits to key cultural sites. With these included, it offers a good balance of comfort, adventure, and culture.

5. Flexibility and Convenience: The tour’s private setup means it’s tailored to your group, and the mobile ticket option offers easy access. Plus, free cancellation up to 24 hours before makes planning less stressful.

Practical Details & Considerations

The transportation is a major plus, with air-conditioned vehicles ensuring comfort on the long drives. The tour’s duration—about three days—strikes a good balance between seeing Morocco’s highlights without feeling rushed. Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the professional drivers and spotless vehicles, which contribute significantly to overall comfort.

Meals are included in the form of breakfast and dinner, offering a taste of local cuisine. However, the tour explicitly notes that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to budget for that or plan to bring snacks. Many travelers mention the convenience of mineral water provided in the vehicle during stops.

Group size is not specified, but the emphasis on private transportation suggests a small-group or private experience, which tends to lead to more personalized service. This setup is perfect if you prefer a relaxed, tailored journey rather than a large tour bus experience.

The long return drive might be tiring for some, but the stops along the way — scenic viewpoints, small towns, and cultural sites — help break up the journey.

Authentic Experiences That Elevate the Journey

Reviewers consistently praise guides like Hicham for their knowledge and friendliness. Their local insights turn simple visits into memorable moments, whether it’s the story of Rissani’s importance in caravan trade or tips for photography in the dunes.

The camel trek is often described as “breathtaking” and “unmissable,” providing a genuine connection to the desert environment. Many guests fondly recall the sunset over the dunes, a highlight that makes the entire trip worth it.

Spending the night in a desert camp, many say, is more than just a photo op — it’s an immersive experience that captures the silence and vastness of the Sahara. The advantage of staying overnight, rather than just passing through, is highlighted by travelers who found this part of the tour “the most memorable.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 3-day journey suits travelers who want an authentic Morocco experience with a good mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and desert adventure. It’s ideal for adventurers craving variety without sacrificing comfort. The private nature of the tour makes it perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a personalized experience.

If you’re looking for a well-organized trip that balances sightseeing with leisure, and you’re comfortable with some long drives, this tour offers excellent value. The knowledgeable guides, especially Hicham, can turn a simple desert trip into a memorable cultural exploration.

FAQ – Practical Questions

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour offers private transportation and is designed to be accessible. However, be prepared for some long drives and the physical activity involved in camel trekking.

Does the tour include meals?
Yes, you will receive two breakfasts and two dinners, providing a taste of local Moroccan cuisine. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

What is the typical group size?
The tour offers private transportation, so it’s mainly tailored to your group, whether it’s a family, couple, or small party.

Are there any age restrictions?
The data doesn’t specify age limits, but the activities—like camel riding—are generally suitable for most ages, provided participants are comfortable with outdoor activities.

How long is the drive back to Fez?
The return trip takes about 7 hours, with stops for comfort and sightseeing along the way to break up the journey.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing for varied weather, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, and some cash for optional expenses or tips.

Is the desert stay included?
While the tour covers the desert visit and camel ride, the specifics about overnight desert accommodation aren’t detailed. Expect to spend a night in a desert camp, as this is a typical part of such tours.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What’s the main highlight of this trip?
The camel trek at sunset and the panoramic desert vistas seem to be the most praised features, often described as “breathtaking” and “unforgettable.”

In essence, this Fes to Merzouga tour offers a well-rounded, culturally rich, and visually stunning Moroccan adventure. It’s a great choice for those wanting a mix of mountains, history, and desert magic—all wrapped into a compact, thoughtfully organized package. Whether you’re capturing photos, learning about local Berber culture, or just enjoying the vast silence of the dunes, this trip provides a meaningful and manageable way to see Morocco’s diverse scenery.