3 Days from Fes to Desert Merzouga
Description
Embark on a captivating 3-day tour from Marrakech to the Merzouga Desert, an adventure that takes you through Morocco’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. On Day 1, leave Marrakech early and journey across the majestic Atlas Mountains, stopping at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, famous for its ancient kasbahs, before reaching Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” After exploring the city, you’ll spend the night in a local hotel. On Day 2, continue your journey through the scenic Draa Valley and the desert towns, arriving in Merzouga. Here, embark on a camel trek across the towering Erg Chebbi dunes to your desert camp, where you’ll experience a traditional Berber dinner and stargazing. On Day 3, enjoy a magical sunrise over the dunes before returning to Merzouga by camel and starting your long journey back to Marrakech, filled with memories of Morocco’s breathtaking desert landscapes.
Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley
Your journey begins early as you depart Marrakech and head towards the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass through the stunning Tizi n’Tichka pass, where panoramic views of the mountains and traditional Berber villages await. Your first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, a famous kasbah known for its role in numerous films. After a guided tour, you’ll continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” From there, you’ll drive along the Dades Valley, famous for its picturesque landscape and dramatic canyons. You’ll spend the night in a charming guesthouse or hotel in the valley, surrounded by stunning views of the Atlas Mountains.
Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, you’ll continue your journey towards the desert. Passing through the Draa Valley, you’ll reach Rissani, a historic town, before finally arriving in Merzouga. Here, the adventure truly begins! Hop on camels for a trek across the famous Erg Chebbi dunes to your desert camp, where you’ll spend the night. The camel ride offers an unforgettable experience as you watch the golden sand dunes stretch into the horizon. At the camp, enjoy a traditional Berber dinner, relax around a campfire, and stargaze under the vast desert sky.
Day 3: Merzouga to Marrakech
Wake up early to watch the mesmerizing sunrise over the dunes, a moment you’ll remember forever. After a delicious breakfast, you’ll ride the camels back to Merzouga before beginning your long drive back to Marrakech. Along the way, you’ll retrace your route through the Draa Valley and the Atlas Mountains, stopping for rest and refreshments. After a full day of scenic travel, you’ll arrive back in Marrakech by the evening, completing this unforgettable desert adventure.