3-Day Merzouga to Fez Trip

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the vast desert landscape, discovering stunning sites such as Ouarzazate and the Erg Chebbi dunes during a comprehensive 3-day excursion from Merzouga to Fez.

Details of the 3-Day Trip

Day 1: Marrakech - Ait Ben Haddou - Ouarzazate - Dades Valley

We commence our adventure departing from Marrakech, with our destination being Ouarzazate. This approximately four-hour drive offers breathtaking views as we navigate through the Tizi n'Tichka pass, peaking over 2,000 metres above sea level.

Our first stop will be the iconic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a site known for its cinematic history, featuring in productions like Gladiator and The Kingdom of Heaven. After a brief exploration, we will proceed to Ouarzazate to appreciate the grandeur of the Kasbah of Taourirt.

Continuing the journey, we will traverse the Thousand Kasbahs Road toward Skoura, aiming to reach the Roses Valley about half an hour before dusk. Our day concludes in the serene Dades Valley, where our first night’s lodging awaits (there may be occasions where we stay in Skoura instead).

Day 2: Dades Valley - Todra Gorges - Merzouga

As dawn breaks over the Dades Gorges, we will enjoy breakfast before venturing into the stunning Todra Gorges. A chance to stroll through the gorges will reveal breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding valley.

We will then continue our path to Merzouga, passing through the renowned Jorf Palm Grove, celebrated for its exquisite dates. A lunch break is planned prior to reaching Erfoud, a small town known for its fossil remnants.

Upon concluding our visit to the fossils in Erfoud, we will head to Merzouga. Here, we will switch to camels for a memorable ride into the desert leading to our overnight camp. For those seeking a more adventurous route, a quad bike tour is available at an additional cost.

As evening falls, we will immerse ourselves in the enchanting tranquility of the desert, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner in Erg Chebbi beneath a blanket of stars—an experience that will linger in your memory.

Day 3: Rissani - Ziz Valley - Middle Atlas - Fez

Start the third day with the marvel of a desert sunrise. After soaking in the captivating hues of the early light against the dunes, we will freshen up and have breakfast at the camp prior to our camel trek.

Next, we will journey toward Fez, passing through historical regions such as Tafilalet and Rissani, the former capital of the Alaouite sultans and the birthplace of their enduring lineage.

Continuing along, we will navigate through Azrou and Ifrane, stopping at the nearby monkey forest to witness these charming creatures.

After spending time with the primates, we will resume our expedition, aiming to arrive in Fez around 6 pm, approximately an hour and fifteen minutes later. The journey can be undertaken by taxi with a driver fluent in English, Spanish, or French, based on availability.

Accommodation Choices

For the initial night, we will be located in the Dades Valley, where all guests will stay in comparable accommodations, including options such as Dar Essyaha, Hotel Babylon, Hotel Le Vieux Chateau, Kasbah Tifawen, or similar.

The second night is reserved for a haima camp in Merzouga (Azawad Luxury Desert Camp or a comparable alternative).

• Standard haimas accommodate up to 4 individuals and come equipped with a private bathroom.
• Superior haimas can hold up to 5 people, featuring a private bathroom. Air conditioning is available at an extra charge of 30 EUR per haima if required.

All haimas are for private use, ensuring that groups will not share accommodations with others. Be advised that during peak seasons, such as Easter or Christmas, standard haimas may utilize shared bathroom facilities.

The standard and superior camps are distinctly separated, offering variations in dining and aesthetic decor.

Each accommodation includes double rooms or alternatives for triples or family arrangements if preferred.

Pickup Information

For those residing within the Medina, please make your way to one of these designated meeting points:

• KFC Marrakech, located on Av. Mohammed V in the Medina
• Moulay El Yazid Mosque, situated at 23 Rue de La Kasbah
• Mohamed V School, Riad Laarouss
• Abdelmoumen School
• Bab Doukkala Pharmacy.

For guests staying outside the Medina, complimentary pickup from your hotel or riad is provided. Note that additional charges may apply for hotels located significantly outside Marrakech, ranging from 10 EUR to 40 EUR based on distance.