Authentic Berber & Desert Experience 3 Days from Fes

Itinerary

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Erfoud – Rissani – Merzouga

Our private tour begins with a scenic drive into the Middle Atlas Mountains. We’ll make a stop in the town of Ifrane, known for its alpine-style architecture, followed by a visit to the cedar forest of Azrou, home to the native Barbary apes.

We’ll then continue through the Tiz N’Talghemt mountain pass and the dramatic landscapes of the Ziz Gorge—where we’ll stop for photos and mint tea—before arriving in Midelt. The journey continues through the Ziz Valley to Erfoud and then to Rissani, an ancient oasis town. By late afternoon, we’ll reach the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga. Dinner and overnight stay in a small, family-run riad at the edge of the desert.

Day 2: Merzouga Desert Exploration & Camel Trek

Today is dedicated to discovering the culture and landscape of the Sahara. We’ll begin by visiting the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnawa music and Afro-Moroccan heritage. You’ll also meet local nomadic families and experience the unique rhythm of desert life.

For lunch, we’ll enjoy a traditional Berber pizza in Rissani, the former capital of the Tafilalt region. In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Merzouga and begin a camel trek across the dunes. After watching the sunset from the saddle, we’ll arrive at our desert camp where we’ll enjoy a traditional tagine dinner and spend the night under the stars in Berber tents.

Day 3: Merzouga – Midelt – Azrou – Fes

After breakfast, we’ll leave the Sahara behind and begin our journey back to Fes. Along the way, we’ll stop in Azrou for a walk through the cedar forest—home again to the Barbary macaques. After a lunch break in Midelt, known for its minerals and apple orchards, we’ll continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains and return to Fes in the evening, where our 3-day desert tour ends.