3 days tour from Fez to Merzouga

Day 1: Fez to Merzouga

Morning:

• Depart from Fez (around 8:00 AM): Start your journey early to maximize your day.

• Stop in Ifrane (1.5 hours from Fez): Visit "Little Switzerland" for a short walk and enjoy the clean air and beautiful European-style architecture. Take some time to explore the parks and cedar forests nearby.

• Azrou Cedar Forest: Continue to Azrou and stop to see the famous Barbary macaques in the cedar forest. It's a great spot for a quick photo and to stretch your legs.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Midelt: Stop in Midelt, a town known for its apple orchards, for a traditional Moroccan lunch.

• Ziz Valley: After lunch, continue your journey through the stunning Ziz Valley, famous for its vast palm groves and panoramic views. Take a brief stop at one of the viewpoints to admire the scenery.

• Arrival in Merzouga (early evening): Arrive in Merzouga and check into your desert camp or hotel.

Evening:

• Camel Ride & Sunset: Experience a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to catch the sunset. The vast golden sand dunes offer a surreal experience.

• Dinner & Overnight in a Desert Camp: Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under the stars and spend the night in a desert camp, experiencing the peaceful ambiance of the Sahara.

Day 2: Explore Merzouga and Surroundings

Morning:

• Sunrise Over the Dunes: Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes. It’s a breathtaking experience with the changing colors of the sand.

• Breakfast at the Camp: Return to the camp for a hearty breakfast.

• 4x4 Tour or ATV Ride: Explore the surrounding areas of Merzouga, including visits to the Gnawa village of Khamlia to enjoy traditional music and visit the nearby Mifis mines.

Afternoon:

• Visit Nomadic Families: Learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Berber nomads by visiting a local family in their tent.

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a meal in Merzouga or at your accommodation.

• Relaxation & Optional Activities: Spend the afternoon relaxing or enjoy optional activities like sandboarding or a visit to the Merzouga Lake if there is water (seasonal).

Evening:

• Dinner & Overnight in Merzouga: Have dinner and spend another night at your desert camp or a local hotel. If you wish, you can also opt for a night under the stars on the dunes.

Day 3: Merzouga to Fez

Morning:

• Breakfast & Departure: After breakfast, start your journey back to Fez.

• Stop in Rissani: Visit the traditional market in Rissani if it's a market day. Explore the ancient ruins of Sijilmasa and experience a slice of Moroccan history.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Midelt: Stop again in Midelt for lunch, breaking up the long drive.

• Stop in Zaida or Timahdite: A brief stop for tea or coffee and to stretch your legs.

Evening:

• Arrival in Fez (late evening): Arrive back in Fez by evening. You can either choose to relax at your accommodation or explore Fez by night.