Embark on a three-day journey from the historic city of Fes to the majestic Sahara Desert. This adventure takes you through the changing landscapes of Morocco, from the cedar forests and alpine towns of the Middle Atlas to the dramatic gorges and palm groves of the south. The highlight is an unforgettable night in the Erg Chebbi dunes, complete with a camel trek and traditional Berber hospitality, before returning to Fes via the vibrant markets and scenic valleys.
Your adventure begins with a morning pickup from your accommodation in Fes. We leave the city behind as we climb into the Middle Atlas Mountains. Our first stop is the alpine town of Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” We continue to the cedar forests near Azrou, where you can observe the friendly Barbary apes in their natural habitat.
We pause for lunch in the town of Midelt, nestled between the Middle and High Atlas. In the afternoon, we descend towards the Sahara, following the Ziz Valley with its dramatic gorges and palm groves. Upon reaching the village of Merzouga, you will be greeted by your camels. We trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes to watch the sunset paint the sand in shades of orange and gold. Your night is spent in a traditional Berber desert camp, where you will enjoy dinner and live music around the campfire.
Today’s exploration delves deeper into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes and the surrounding rocky desert (hamada). Our first stop is the small village of Khamlia, a community with a unique history. Its inhabitants are descendants of former slaves from sub-Saharan Africa who have integrated into Berber culture, and they are renowned for their vibrant Gnaoua music. We will have the opportunity to listen to this captivating art form.
From there, our journey continues through remote areas like Mirdani and M’fis, where small settlements appear unexpectedly amidst the arid landscape. We will also have the chance to connect with local nomads, sharing a cup of tea and gaining insight into their traditional lifestyle. Our off-road route then leads us back towards Khamlia, an area known for having hosted the Dakar Rally in 2006.
Returning around midday, we enjoy a lunch of Berber pizza before heading back to the hotel for a period of rest. Later in the afternoon, we prepare for the highlight of the trip: a camel trek into the dunes. As night falls, we arrive at our desert camp, where the evening comes alive with the rhythm of Berber drums, music under the stars, and a delicious dinner.
An early start rewards you with a chance to stroll among the dunes surrounding the camp and witness a spectacular sunrise over the Sahara’s stunning landscape. Following this magical experience, a hearty breakfast awaits back at the camp. After refreshing with a shower, we begin our journey back to Fes.
The route includes a visit to the bustling Rissani Market, the region’s largest and most vibrant desert souk, where we can observe the local commerce and traditional crafts. Retracing our path through Erfoud and the picturesque Ziz Valley, our next stop for lunch is the town of Midelt, sometimes called the “apple city” of Morocco. The drive then continues across the Middle Atlas Mountains, with a brief rest stop in the alpine town of Ifrane. Approximately one and a half hours later, we arrive in Fes, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or Riad, marking the end of our three-day desert adventure.
