3 DAYS TOUR FROM OUARZAZATE TO MERZOUGA & FES VIA DESERT

Day 1: Ouarzazate – Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Sahara

Your journey commences with a morning pick-up from your hotel or Ouarzazate Airport. The day begins with a cultural introduction to the city.

Visit the Atlas Film Studios, one of the largest and most renowned film studios in the world, where numerous international productions have been filmed. Continue to the Taourirt Kasbah, a former residence of influential regional leaders. Its earthen architecture, intricate passageways, and decorative details reflect centuries of southern Moroccan craftsmanship.

Departing Ouarzazate, travel southeast toward Skoura Oasis, where Kasbah Amridil stands amid extensive palm groves sustained by traditional irrigation systems. Proceed through the Valley of Roses, celebrated for its annual Rose Festival and its artisanal production of rose-based cosmetics.

The journey continues into the Dades Valley, where dramatic rock formations and canyon landscapes create remarkable panoramic views. After brief photo stops, continue to the Todra Gorges, where towering limestone cliffs rise sharply above the riverbed. Enjoy lunch and time to explore the canyon on foot.

By late afternoon, arrive in Merzouga at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, you will mount your camel for a guided trek into the Sahara. As the sun sets, the dunes transform into radiant shades of gold and amber.

Upon reaching your luxury desert camp, you will be welcomed with traditional mint tea. Dinner is served beneath the stars, followed by live Berber music and drumming around the campfire. Overnight in a private desert tent.

Day 2: Exploring the Merzouga Region

Rise early to witness the extraordinary sunrise over the dunes—an unforgettable moment as light gradually reshapes the desert landscape.

After breakfast, return by camel to the village, where your driver awaits. The day is devoted to discovering the Merzouga region in greater depth.

Begin with an off-road excursion to a former kohl (traditional eyeliner) mine, where you will learn about the area’s mineral heritage. Continue to visit nomadic families living in traditional handwoven tents. Sharing tea with them offers an authentic glimpse into their resilient desert lifestyle.

Next, visit Khamlia village, inhabited by descendants of sub-Saharan communities. Here, you will enjoy a live Gnawa music performance, characterized by rhythmic percussion and spiritual chanting deeply rooted in African tradition.

After lunch at a local restaurant, stroll through a palm grove before visiting Dayet Srji, often referred to as the Flamingo Lake, where migratory birds gather seasonally.

In the evening, enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation at a selected hotel near the dunes.

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Ziz Valley – Ifrane – Fes

After breakfast, depart Merzouga and begin your northward journey toward Fes.

The first stop is Rissani, historically the capital of the Tafilalet region and an important caravan trading center. If visiting on a market day, explore the vibrant souk where dates, spices, textiles, and livestock are traded in a lively and authentic setting.

Continue to Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops. Here, artisans transform ancient marine fossils into decorative pieces and marble creations.

Travel along the scenic Ziz Valley, where expansive palm groves stretch across the river basin. A panoramic viewpoint allows for exceptional photography.

Lunch may be enjoyed in Midelt, nestled between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas ranges. The journey continues through cedar forests near Azrou, home to Barbary macaques that inhabit the wooded slopes.

A final stop in Ifrane reveals a striking alpine atmosphere, with European-inspired architecture and a cool climate that has earned it the nickname “Moroccan Switzerland.”

By late afternoon, arrive in Fes. Drop-off at your hotel or Fes Airport concludes your three-day desert journey.