On the second day of our desert tour from Fes to Merzouga, we are off to explore the wondrous city of Fes, which is often hailed as the Mecca of the West and the Athena of Africa. It is the second most populous city in the country, after Casablanca, with an estimated population of 1 million. As one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, Fes has a long and rich history and is the former capital of the country. It is divided into three distinct parts: Fez el Bali, the oldest part, which is surrounded by a large wall and is home to over 9000 narrow streets and alleys; Fez-Jdid, the new Fes, which includes the Mellah Jewish quarter; and the Ville Nouvelle, the newest section of Fes, established during the French occupation. Fez el Bali is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its medina is the largest in the world. It is in its winding streets and alleys that the oldest university in the world, the University of Al-Karaouine, can be found. Established in 859 AD, it is still operational to this day. To visit Fes is to enter a realm of exotic wonder, a place where history and culture come together to create a truly unique atmosphere.

After a delectable breakfast, we will start our tour from Fes to Merzouga by setting out on an exciting journey to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Nestled between Morocco’s rolling hills, the UNESCO World Heritage Site has been revered for its well-preserved mosaics and detailed architecture. We then travel to the imperial city of Meknes, once known as Miknasa and the home of the Berber tribe in the 10th century. Furthering our exploration, we make our way to Morocco’s current capital, Rabat. We have the opportunity to explore the majestic Mohammed V Mausoleum and the impressive Hassan Tower, and take a peaceful break at the charming Kasbah of Oudaias. This journey is sure to be an unforgettable experience, full of exotic wonders and historic treasures.

This morning, we embark on a journey to explore the enchanting Hassan II Mosque, a majestic structure that exhibits the pinnacle of Islamic craftsmanship. We embrace the opportunity to discover the essential role Casablanca has played in Morocco’s history. In the early afternoon, we board the train to embark on our four-hour journey to Marrakech. This remarkable ride gives us the chance to contemplate the historic North and prepares us for an entirely different encounter with Morocco. Upon our arrival, we avail ourselves of the opportunity to explore the renowned Djemaa el Fna Square, a place that is steeped in history and lore. It was once the site where Sultans used to showcase the heads of their enemies, yet now it is a hot spot of amusement for both Moroccans and tourists, full of food vendors, snake charmers, water-sellers, roaming musicians, and daring acrobats. It truly is an exotic and magical place. Overnight in a Riad.

Today is your chance to experience the exotic city of Marrakech in all its glory. With an official guide, you can take an optional private Guided Tour of Marrakech Medina and discover its hidden secrets. Your journey will bring you to the majestic Koutubia Mosque, the bustling souks of the medina, the captivating Ali Ben Youssef Koranic School, the grand Saadian Palace, the breathtaking Bahia Palace, and the refreshing Majorelle Gardens. To top it off, you can enjoy a night in a traditional Riad in the Medina, for a truly authentic Marrakchi experience. Don’t miss this chance to explore the wonders of Marrakech and create unforgettable memories. Overnight in your Riad and you continue the Tour from Fes to Merzouga the next day.

At the break of dawn, we will continue our Tour from Fes to Merzouga to explore the gorgeous High Atlas mountains, beginning in Marrakech. As we ascend up the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka pass (altitude 2260m), we’ll pause and admire the beautiful panoramic vistas that the mountain range has to offer. During our travels, we will visit an Argan oil cooperative and relish a delicious lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, we will explore the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site, Ait Ben Haddou. As the sun sets, we will make our way to Ouarzazate for dinner and spend the night in a traditional residence, allowing us to soak in the exotic atmosphere and culture of the region.

After savoring a sumptuous breakfast, we set out on a remarkable journey from Dades Gorges to the majestic Erg Chebbi Sahara desert in Merzouga. As we pass through the picturesque Berber villages of Tinjdad, Jorf and Erfoud, we will be able to feel the beginning of Tafilalet’s Saharan oasis. After taking a few moments to relax in Merzouga, we will ride on camelback into the heart of the desert, where we will spend the night in a nomad Berber camp. As the sun sets and the stars come out, the rhythmic sounds of drums fill the air, creating an exotic and dreamlike atmosphere. We will have the opportunity to snap some incredible photos of the sun setting and rising over the dunes. After taking in the extraordinary sights of the sunset, we will retire to our nomad tents for the night.

We will embark on a journey to explore the spectacular landscape of the Erg Chebbi dunes and the many tiny villages that lie along the way, such as Hassi Labied, Merdani, Khamlia, and M’fis. As we make our way to the village of Kamlia, we will likely come across locals with their desert foxes, and may even spot some desert reptiles and mammals. In Khamlia, known as the village of black people who were once slaves coming from Sudan, you can expect to be welcomed with a cup of Berber whiskey while being serenaded with spiritual Gnawa music. Leaving Khamlia, our next stop will be at the golden dunes near the Algerian border, where we will take a picnic lunch under the shade of a tree before continuing on to visit a Nomad family. Here, you will be introduced to the members of the family and learn about their way of life while sipping on a nice cup of tea. Afterward, you will have the chance to explore the sites of black volcanic rocks. As we make our way back to Merzouga, we will make one final stop near Yasmina Lac, if there is water present. Here you will be captivated by the view of the dunes and the nearby lake, and may even take the time to dip your toes in its waters (during springtime). After this, we will make our way back to Merzouga and spend the night at a hotel near the dunes. Don’t miss this wonderful Tour from Fes to Merzouga and explore the beauty of the Sahara Desert of Morocco.

After a refreshing shower and a delicious breakfast, we will continue our Tour from Fes to Merzouga by driving back to Fes, winding through the majestic Middle Atlas Mountains. Along our route, we will take in the breathtaking beauty of the Ziz Valley, the historic Medilt, the picturesque Azrou, a majestic cedar forest, and the picturesque city of Ifrane. As the sun sets in the evening, we will arrive in Fes, amidst a magical dreamland of sight and sound.

According to your flight information, we are delighted to be the ones to help you on your journey and transfer you to the airport; a perfect way to end your Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga. We are beyond thankful to you for visiting such a beautiful country and for entrusting us as your reliable and trustworthy travel partner.