The 3 day desert tour from Fes to Merzouga is one of the most rewarding journeys you can take in Morocco. In just three days, you cross the snow-capped Middle Atlas Mountains, wind through the golden Ziz Valley, and arrive at the towering Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga the gateway to the Sahara Desert.
Whether you are traveling from Fes, planning to end in Marrakech, or exploring Morocco from Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, or Tangier, this route delivers a breathtaking contrast of landscapes, culture, and pure Saharan silence that stays with you long after you return home.
What Is a 3 Day Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga?
A 3 day desert tour from Fes to Merzouga is a guided road journey from the ancient medina city of Fes to Merzouga, a small Saharan village in southeast Morocco on the edge of Erg Chebbi Morocco’s largest sand dune field. The tour covers three days and two nights, with one night spent inside the dunes at a traditional Berber desert camp. It includes camel trekking, a campfire dinner, and a Sahara sunrise.
Why This Route Is So Popular
Most Morocco desert tours depart from Marrakech and take three to four days. The Fes to Merzouga route is different shorter in overall travel time but richer in landscape variety. In a single drive, you go from the cedar forests of Azrou and the Alpine town of Ifrane to barren rocky hammadas, palm-lined river valleys, and the rolling orange sea of the Sahara Desert. The cultural contrast alone from the bustling medina of Fes to the silence of Erg Chebbi makes this one of the most varied journeys in all of North Africa.
Detailed 3 Day Itinerary — Fes to Merzouga Step by Step
Day 1 — Fes to Midelt via Ifrane, Atlas Mountains & Ziz Valley
Your guide picks you up early from your Fes accommodation, usually around 8:00 to 9:00 AM. The first stop is Ifrane, Morocco’s famously clean Alpine-style town sitting at 1,650 metres altitude. It looks so European that visitors regularly call it the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and photos here are outstanding.
Next comes Azrou and its surrounding cedar forest, home to free-roaming Barbary macaque monkeys. If you have never hand-fed a wild monkey, today is your chance. The road then climbs through the dramatic Middle Atlas Mountains empty, cinematic, and stunning before descending into the Ziz Valley, a long palm-grove canyon carved by the Ziz River.
Lunch is typically in Midelt, a quiet market town known for its apples and fossils. You arrive in Merzouga by late afternoon with time to settle in before the main event the following day.
Day 2 — Merzouga, Erg Chebbi Camel Trek, Sunset & Berber Desert Camp
Day two is the centrepiece of the entire journey. After a traditional Moroccan breakfast, the morning is free to explore Merzouga village, visit the Rissani market on market days, or arrange an optional 4×4 dune excursion.
In the late afternoon usually around 4 to 5 PM you mount your camel at the edge of Erg Chebbi and begin the trek into the dunes. The ride to camp takes roughly one hour. Watching the sun melt into the horizon from the top of a 150-metre dune is the kind of moment that turns a holiday into a memory you keep for the rest of your life.
Camp is set up deep inside the dunes. You sleep in a traditional Berber tent (standard camp) or a furnished luxury tent (glamping upgrade). Dinner is served around a campfire, followed by live Gnawa music and Berber drumming. The night sky here with zero light pollution is extraordinary. Bring your camera.
Day 3 — Sahara Sunrise, Rissani Market, Erfoud Fossils & Return to Fes or Marrakech
Wake before sunrise and climb a dune to watch the Sahara turn from deep blue to burning orange as the sun breaks the horizon. This is perhaps the single most photographed moment in all of Morocco travel, and you will understand why the moment you experience it.
After a light breakfast at camp, you ride the camel’s back and return to your hotel to shower and pack. Then the journey home begins, with stops at the historic Rissani market the largest traditional market in southeast Morocco and Erfoud, famous for its black marble and ammonite fossil workshops.
Your tour can return to Fes via the same scenic northern route, arriving around 8 PM. Or it can continue south-west to Marrakech via Ouarzazate, the Draa Valley, and the Kasbah Aït Benhaddou a UNESCO World Heritage Site and filming location for Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia.
What’s Included & What’s Not in Your 3 Day Desert Tour from Fes
Included:
- Private or shared air-conditioned vehicle
- Licensed English-speaking driver and guide
- 1 night in a traditional Berber desert camp
- Camel trek to the camp and back
- Dinner at camp (traditional Moroccan tajine)
- Breakfast at camp
- Live music around the campfire
- All fuel and toll fees
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Fes
Not Included:
- Lunches (paid separately, approximately €5–12)
- Soft drinks or alcohol
- Entry fees to optional sites
- Guide and driver tips (€5–10 per day is recommended)
- Sandboarding rental (approximately €5 at camp)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
3 Day Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga Price Guide 2026
Shared Tour Pricing
A shared group tour is the most affordable way to experience the Fes to Merzouga route. You travel alongside three to ten other travelers in a comfortable shared vehicle. Prices range from €150 to €200 per person depending on the season and camp quality.
Private Tour Pricing
A private tour gives you exclusive use of the vehicle, a personal guide, and the freedom to stop wherever and whenever you like. Private 3 day desert tours from Fes range from €350 to €500 per group for one to eight people which often works out cheaper per person than booking shared spots for a couple or small family.
Luxury Camp Upgrade Costs
Standard desert camps include basic shared facilities and Berber tents with mattresses. Mid-range camps add private hot showers and real beds. Luxury glamping camps near Erg Chebbi include private en-suite bathrooms, linen bedding, gourmet Moroccan dining, and sometimes a plunge pool. Luxury upgrades typically add €30 to €80 per person on top of the tour price.
Price Comparison: Shared vs Private vs Luxury
|
Tour Type |
Price |
Group Size |
Camp |
Flexibility |
|
Shared Group |
€150–200/person |
4–10 people |
Standard Berber |
Fixed stops |
|
Private Tour |
€350–500/group |
1–8 people |
Standard or mid-range |
Custom stops |
|
Luxury Private |
€500–800/group |
1–8 people |
Glamping tents |
Fully customised |
Private vs Group Tour — Which Is Better for Your Fes to Merzouga Trip?
|
Factor |
Shared Group Tour |
Private Tour |
|
Price |
€150–200/person |
€350–500/group |
|
Flexibility |
Fixed schedule |
Stop whenever you want |
|
Comfort |
Shared vehicle |
Exclusive vehicle |
|
Pace |
Group pace |
Your own pace |
|
Best for |
Solo travelers, budget travelers |
Couples, families, small groups |
|
Social vibe |
Meet new people |
Intimate and private |
|
Camp tent |
Shared or semi-private |
Private tent guaranteed |
If you are a solo traveler or on a tight budget, the shared group tour is brilliant value you often meet fascinating people from around the world. For couples, families, or anyone who wants to linger at Ifrane or explore off-road desert tracks, a private desert tour from Fes is worth every extra euro.
Best Time to Do a 3 Day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes
Spring (March – May) — Best Season
Temperatures sit between 18–28°C. Wildflowers bloom in the Atlas Mountains. The dunes are at their most photogenic. Nights are comfortably cool with just a light layer needed at camp. Spring is widely regarded as the ideal season for the Fes to Merzouga route.
Autumn (September – November) — Best Season
Very similar conditions to spring warm days, cool nights, and manageable dune temperatures. October is arguably the single best month to experience the Sahara Desert from Fes.
Summer (June – August) — Avoid If Possible
Sahara temperatures can exceed 45°C in July and August. The dunes are almost too hot to walk on barefoot at midday. Summer is only recommended for experienced desert travelers who plan all outdoor activities at night or very early morning.
Winter (December – February) — Cold but Beautiful
Daytime temperatures are mild and clear at 15–22°C, but desert nights can drop near 0°C. Pack warm layers for camp. The Atlas Mountains may have snow which makes for extraordinary photos in Ifrane and Azrou.
Is the 3 Day Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga Worth It?
for most travelers, yes emphatically. The Fes to Merzouga tour packs more landscape diversity into 72 hours than almost any other journey in the world. You go from a medieval Islamic medina to Alpine forest to Berber highland to ancient river valley to actual Saharan dunes. That is not an exaggeration.
The honest consideration is driving time. Fes to Merzouga is around 570 km each way, so you spend a meaningful part of Day 1 and Day 3 in the vehicle. For most travelers the scenery makes the hours pass quickly. If long car journeys don’t appeal, consider a 3 day desert tour from Marrakech instead the drive is somewhat shorter.
Pros:
- Incredible landscape diversity in three days
- Authentic Sahara Desert experience
- Best stargazing in Morocco
- Deep cultural immersion — Berber, Arabic, and Amazigh traditions
- Excellent value for money
- Unforgettable photography at every stop
Cons:
- Long driving days (8–9 hours each way)
- Extreme heat in summer months
- Cold desert nights in winter
- No mobile signal inside the dunes
What to Pack for the Sahara Desert Tour from Fes
Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable layers
- One warm fleece or jacket for evenings
- Scarf for sun protection and as a Berber headwrap
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Flip-flops for the camp
Accessories:
- High SPF sunscreen
- Sunglasses (strong desert glare)
- Lip balm
- Small day bag
Essentials:
- Water bottle — minimum 1.5 litres
- Personal medication
- Hand sanitiser
- Wet wipes (very useful at camp)
- Small amount of cash in Moroccan dirhams
Tech:
- Camera with a spare battery
- Portable power bank
- Offline maps downloaded before departure
- Headlamp or torch for moving around camp at night
Common Mistakes to Avoid on Your Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour
- Booking the cheapest option without checking camp quality. A very low-price tour may mean a basic mattress under a tarpaulin. Always ask for photos of the actual camp before you book. The difference between a standard and a mid-range camp is significant for your overnight experience.
- Ignoring the drive time. Fes to Merzouga is eight to nine hours. Some operators rush this to squeeze in more clients. A good tour treats the drive as part of the experience and the scenery through the Atlas makes the hours enjoyable. Ask about stops before booking.
- Not confirming your Fes pickup location. Fes medina has no direct vehicle access. Always confirm your exact pickup point the nearest accessible gate or car park when you make your booking.
- Visiting in peak summer without preparation. If you travel in July or August, talk to your operator in advance. Plan all outdoor activities for very early morning or evening. Heat management is essential in the Sahara at this time of year.
- Not bringing enough cash. You will want Moroccan dirhams for lunch stops, souvenirs at Rissani market, and tips. ATMs exist in Merzouga but are not always reliable. Withdraw cash in Fes or Midelt to be safe.
Who Is the 3 Day Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga Best For?
Couples: Private tours, luxury camps, and unforgettable sunset moments make this a genuinely romantic journey through the Sahara.
Families: Children love the camel ride, dune play, sandboarding, and stargazing. Book a private tour for flexibility with meal times and stops. Request tents with proper beds for younger children.
Solo Travelers: Shared group tours are ideal for solo visitors. You often leave with new friends from around the world and some of your best travel stories.
Adventure Seekers: Add sandboarding, 4×4 desert driving, or quad biking to turn this into a full adrenaline experience in the dunes.
Luxury Travelers: Premium glamping camps near Erg Chebbi offer plunge pools, gourmet Moroccan dining, and private dune access with full en-suite comfort.
Combining the Fes to Merzouga Tour with Other Moroccan Cities
The 3 day desert tour from Fes connects naturally with Morocco’s other great destinations.
If you want to end in Marrakech instead of returning to Fes, the route south-west through Ouarzazate and the Draa Valley is one of Morocco’s most scenic drives, taking in the Kasbah Aït Benhaddou along the way. This is the most popular variation of the tour.
Travelers starting from Casablanca or Rabat can drive or take the train to Fes first both journeys are under four hours and begin the desert tour the following morning. From Tangier, the train or overnight bus to Fes connects the northern coast to the desert in one smooth itinerary.
Meknes is only 60 km from Fes and makes a natural half-day add-on before or after your desert tour. Its imperial ruins, Bab Mansour gate, and Moulay Ismail Mausoleum are among Morocco’s finest historic sites.
Read More:
- 3 Day Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech
- Desert Tours from Marrakech
- Desert Tours from Casablanca
- Rabat Cultural Tours
- Meknes Day Trips
- Tangier to Sahara Desert Itinerary
FAQ — 3 Day Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga
How long is the drive from Fes to Merzouga?
The drive from Fes to Merzouga is approximately 8–9 hours covering around 570 km. The route crosses the Middle Atlas Mountains and the Ziz Valley with scenic stops in Ifrane and Midelt. Your licensed guide makes the journey comfortable and informative rather than a straightforward highway transfer.
Is camel riding safe on a Fes to Merzouga desert tour?
Yes, camel trekking in Merzouga is safe for most travelers. Berber guides lead the camels on foot throughout the ride and give you clear instructions before you depart. Travelers with back problems, recent surgery, or during pregnancy should inform their guide in advance so an alternative can be arranged.
Are showers available in Merzouga desert camps?
Standard desert camps have basic shared toilet facilities. Mid-range camps include simple hot showers. Luxury glamping camps near Erg Chebbi offer private en-suite bathrooms with hot running water. Always confirm the specific camp facilities before you book.
Can I go from Fes to Marrakech via the Sahara Desert?
Yes, and this is one of Morocco’s most popular travel itineraries. After your night in the Sahara, the tour continues south-west through Rissani, Erfoud, Ouarzazate, the Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, and the Draa Valley, arriving in Marrakech on Day 3. Ask us about the Fes to Marrakech via Desert tour.
What is the best month for a Sahara Desert tour from Fes?
March to May and September to November are the best months. Daytime temperatures are 20–30°C, nights are comfortable, and the light on the dunes is beautiful in spring and autumn. October is widely considered the single best month. Avoid July and August if heat is a concern.
How much does a 3 day desert tour from Fes cost?
Shared group tours cost between €150–€200 per person. Private tours for one to eight people range from €350–€500 per group. Luxury glamping camp upgrades add €30–€80 per person. Contact Tilila Travel for a custom quote based on your dates and group size.
Is the 3 day desert tour suitable for children?
Yes, the Fes to Merzouga tour is family-friendly and children genuinely love it. The camel ride, dune play, and Berber campfire experience are highlights for young travelers. Book a private tour for flexibility with meal times, and request tents with proper beds for younger children.
Why Book with a Local Morocco Tour Operator Like Tilila Travel?
Most online tour platforms are middlemen. They take your booking, add a commission, and pass you to a local operator anyway. Booking directly with a licensed local Morocco tour operator means lower prices, a real person to contact before and during your trip, and a guide who cares about your experience rather than a profit margin.
At Tilila Travel, our guides are born and raised in Morocco. Many have family roots in the Amazigh (Berber) communities of the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara. They do not just drive the route they tell you what those mountains meant to their grandparents, explain the history of the fossils in Erfoud, and introduce you to the Gnawa musical tradition you hear around the campfire as something alive and meaningful, not a tourist performance.
We are licensed by the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism, operate fully insured vehicles, and serve travelers departing from Fes, Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, and Tangier. Every review we have earned reflects a real traveler and a real experience.
Book Your 3 Day Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga
Ready to experience the Sahara Desert? Whether you want a budget-friendly shared tour or a fully private luxury desert escape, we will build the right itinerary around your dates, group size, and budget.
Get in touch today:
- Fill in our booking request form on tililatravel.com/contact
- Message us directly on WhatsApp for a same-day response
- Request a custom itinerary if you want to combine the desert with Marrakech, Casablanca, or other cities
- Book early for peak season dates in October and April spots fill fast
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