One Way Trip from Fez to Merzouga (With visits )

Experience the Scenic Trip from Fez to Merzouga: A Detailed Review

Traveling from Fez to Merzouga offers an adventure through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from mountain ranges to desert vistas. This one-way tour by 3t Travel promises not just transportation but a chance to witness some of Morocco’s most iconic sights with comfortable stops along the way. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and detailed information paint a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience: the leisurely yet thorough exploration of key scenic spots, the comfort of climate-controlled transport, and the inclusion of a lunch break in a charming town. One thing to keep in mind is that the journey is long, so patience and readiness for a full day are essential. This tour is ideal for travelers eager to maximize their trip with thoughtful stops while traveling between two major points.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport with hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics.
• Stops in Ifrane, Azrou, and Midelt highlight Morocco’s mountain beauty and cultural richness.
• A lunch break in Midelt provides a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors.
• Panoramic views of Ziz Gorges and Oasis make for memorable photo opportunities.
• Affordable price for a full-day scenic experience that covers multiple highlights.
• Ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness who want a scenic, guided transfer.

Overview of the Journey and Its Highlights

The trip from Fez to Merzouga is designed to be as scenic and enriching as possible within a roughly 9-hour window. It isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about experiencing Morocco’s diverse landscapes.

Starting in Fez and Passing Ifrane

The journey kicks off early in the morning with hotel pickup, setting a relaxed tone for the day. About an hour into the trip, you’ll arrive in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its chalet-style architecture and snowy slopes in winter. Reviewers mention the beauty of this town, with one noting the “winter ski resort that resembles a Swiss village.” It’s an excellent spot for some quick photos and to appreciate the unique European feel in Morocco.

Azrou and the Cedar Forest

Next, the route takes you through Azrou, famous for its cedar forests and wild monkeys. The drive through the forest area is a highlight for many travelers, with one review noting the presence of monkeys and the scenic drive across the Middle Atlas Mountains. It’s a refreshing contrast to Morocco’s more arid regions and offers a glimpse of rural life surrounded by nature.

Midelt and Lunch Break

Midelt, roughly halfway through, is a town renowned for fossils and rocks. The tour schedule dedicates about an hour here, giving you time for lunch. Many travelers appreciate this pause to stretch legs, enjoy local cuisine, and take in views of the huge oasis of palm trees nearby. One reviewer called the lunch “well planned” and appreciated the chance to relax amid stunning scenery before tackling the final stretch.

Panoramic Views and the Desert Approach

After lunch, the route continues through the jagged Atlas landscapes, springs, and Berber villages. The ascent offers picture-perfect vistas, especially the panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Ziz Gorges and Oasis, which is a favorite with those who love taking photos. The views are often described as “spectacular,” with travelers noting that the landscapes change dramatically from lush forests to the arid desert terrain.

Arrival in Merzouga

The journey concludes in Merzouga in the late afternoon, ready for the next part of your Moroccan adventure. While this tour doesn’t include the desert activities themselves, arriving in Merzouga sets you up perfectly for the iconic Sahara experience ahead.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are professional drivers, hotel pickup and drop-off, and comfortable, climate-controlled transport. This ensures you travel in relative comfort, especially given the long hours on the road. The $40 per person fee is quite reasonable considering the stops and scenic views included.

Not included are food and drinks, so you might want to carry some snacks or plan to enjoy the lunch in Midelt as your main meal. Reviewers appreciated the thoughtful planning around the food, especially since the lunch break is a highlight for relaxation and local flavor.

Transport and Group Size

The journey is operated by a small group (maximum of 15 travelers), which often results in a more personal experience and less waiting time. The vehicle used is air-conditioned, which is essential given the Moroccan climate, especially during warmer months.

Timing and Practical Details

The tour departs at 8:00 AM, giving you a full day to explore the scenery and enjoy the stops. Pickup from hotels in Fez is included, simplifying your logistics. The entire trip lasts about 9 hours, so prepare for a full day of sightseeing and travel.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

One reviewer, Annie from January 2025, noted that the journey itself was “très beau” (very beautiful), although she experienced some issues with her driver misjudging the hotel upon arrival—a reminder that small hiccups can happen even on well-reviewed tours. Conversely, Annamar from April 2023 praised the “well-planned stops” and the “friendly, attentive” driver, emphasizing how the landscape views and comfortable vehicle made the experience worthwhile.

Analyzing the Value

At just $40, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see Morocco’s diverse scenery without the hassle of self-driving or multiple separate bookings. The inclusion of hotel pickup, lunch, and scenic stops boosts its value, especially for travelers who prefer a guided, comfortable journey with opportunities for photos and local flavor.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience is suited for travelers who want a comprehensive scenic route without the stress of navigation, especially those eager to see Morocco’s mountains and desert landscapes in one day. It’s ideal for adventurers with moderate fitness levels who are comfortable spending several hours on a bus. The stops into Ifrane and Azrou are particularly interesting for nature lovers and those interested in Moroccan towns and local culture.

If you’re eager to get a taste of Morocco’s varied geography and want to maximize your travel time with minimal hassle, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Final Thoughts

This journey from Fez to Merzouga provides more than just a transfer—it’s an onboard sightseeing experience filled with stunning panoramas, cultural highlights, and well-planned stops. The reasonable price point, combined with the scenic variety and comfortable transport, makes it a compelling choice for those making their way towards the Sahara.

While the journey is long, the stops in Ifrane, Azrou, and Midelt break up the travel nicely and enrich your understanding of Morocco’s diverse landscapes. Expect breathtaking views, friendly drivers, and a chance to capture some memorable photos.

If you’re after an efficient, scenic, and value-packed way to travel from Fez to Merzouga, this tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and cultural insight that’s hard to beat.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 8:00 AM, with hotel pickup included, so you’ll start your day early to maximize sightseeing.

Is the vehicle climate-controlled?
Yes, the transport is by air-conditioned vehicle, which helps keep you comfortable during the roughly 9-hour trip.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the price, but there is a lunch stop in Midelt where you can enjoy local cuisine.

How many people travel on this tour?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, making it a small-group experience that tends to feel more personal and less rushed.

Does the tour include pickup and drop-off?
Yes, hotel pickup in Fez and drop-off in Merzouga are both included, simplifying your logistics.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

This detailed review highlights what makes this Fez to Merzouga trip a worthwhile experience, especially for those seeking scenic beauty combined with comfort and convenience.