Fes desert tours offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of Morocco’s stunning landscapes. Travelers have the chance to explore the captivating Sahara Desert, with its golden dunes and starry nights, providing a unique adventure that blends natural beauty with cultural immersion. These tours allow visitors to experience the magic of the desert while also discovering the rich history and traditions of the region.
During a two-day Fes desert tour, participants can expect to embark on a thrilling ride through diverse terrains, from the bustling city to the serene desert. The itinerary typically includes camel trekking, overnight camping in traditional Berber tents, and witnessing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the dunes. This journey not only showcases the awe-inspiring beauty of the Sahara but also gives travelers a glimpse into the nomadic way of life that has existed for centuries in this remarkable part of the world.
• Overnight accommodation
• Lunch
A typical Fes desert tour spans two days, offering travelers an immersive experience of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The journey begins early in the morning, usually around 7 am, as we depart from Fes and embark on a southeastern route towards Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert.
The first day of the tour takes us through the Middle Atlas mountain range, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty and unique ecosystems. The initial stop on this adventure is often Ifrane, a charming town nicknamed “the Switzerland of Morocco” due to its Alpine-style architecture and cooler climate. Here, we can take a short break to enjoy a cup of coffee and admire the town’s European-inspired esthetics.
Continuing the journey, the next significant stop is typically Azrou, home to the famous cedar forest. This area is known for its population of Barbary macaques, offering us a chance to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. It’s important to note that while feeding the monkeys can be an exciting experience, it’s customary to offer a small tip to the local guides who provide nuts and dried fruits for this purpose.
As the tour progresses, the landscape begins to change dramatically, transitioning from lush forests to more arid terrain. The route takes us through several Berber villages, providing glimpses into traditional Moroccan life. A lunch stop is often made in Midelt, known as the “apple capital” of Morocco. This break allows us to refuel and prepare for the afternoon’s journey.
The afternoon drive continues through the Ziz Valley, an impressive oasis stretching for miles. A popular photo stop is made at a viewpoint just north of Aufous, offering panoramic views of the vast palm groves below. This striking contrast between the desert landscape and the lush oasis serves as a testament to the region’s unique geography.
As the day progresses, the scenery becomes increasingly desert-like, signaling our approach to Merzouga. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, we are typically welcomed with a refreshing glass of mint tea, a gesture of Moroccan hospitality. After a short rest, the highlight of the day begins – a camel trek into the Sahara Desert.
The camel ride usually lasts about an hour and a half, taking us deep into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. This experience offers a unique perspective on the vastness and beauty of the Sahara. As the sun begins to set, the dunes take on a golden hue, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that many consider a highlight of their Fes desert tour.
The day concludes at a desert camp, where we spend the night in traditional Berber tents. These camps often offer a mix of comfort and authenticity, with some providing amenities such as private bathrooms and hot showers. The evening typically includes a delicious dinner featuring Moroccan cuisine, followed by traditional Berber music and drumming around a campfire. This immersive experience allows us to connect with the desert’s timeless atmosphere and the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The second day of the Fes desert tour begins early, with many travelers choosing to wake before sunrise. Watching the sun rise over the Sahara dunes is an unforgettable experience, painting the desert in a spectrum of colors and offering a serene start to the day.
After witnessing the sunrise, we typically return to our camp by camel for breakfast. This morning camel ride offers a different perspective on the desert landscape, with the changing light revealing new textures and colors in the sand.
Following breakfast, the journey back to Fes begins. The return route often includes several interesting stops, allowing us to further explore the region’s cultural and natural attractions. One such stop is often made in Rissani, a historic town known for its traditional market. Here, we can experience the bustling atmosphere of a Moroccan souk and perhaps purchase some local products or souvenirs.
The drive back to Fes takes us through the dramatic scenery of the Ziz Valley once again, offering another opportunity to admire this remarkable oasis. A lunch stop is typically made in a Berber village, providing a chance to taste more local cuisine and interact with residents.
As we continue northward, the landscape gradually transitions back to the more verdant scenery of the Middle Atlas. A popular stop on the return journey is often made at Ifrane, allowing us to stretch our legs and perhaps enjoy a coffee in this picturesque town.
The Fes desert tour usually concludes in the evening with drop-off at accommodations in Fes. This two-day journey offers a condensed yet comprehensive experience of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the historic city of Fes to the majestic Sahara Desert.
It’s worth noting that while this itinerary provides a rich experience, some travelers might find the long hours of driving challenging. The journey from Fes to Merzouga typically takes around 8-9 hours, with stops along the way. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are options to extend the tour over three or more days, allowing for longer stays at key locations and reducing daily travel times.
For instance, a three-day itinerary might include an overnight stay in the Middle Atlas region, perhaps in Midelt or the Ziz Valley. This extended version allows for a more in-depth exploration of the cedar forests, additional time to observe the Barbary macaques, and a more leisurely journey through the changing landscapes.
Alternatively, some tour operators offer the option to fly to Errachidia, a city closer to the desert, and start the desert portion of the tour from there. This option significantly reduces driving time and might be preferable for those with limited time or those who wish to avoid long car journeys.
Regardless of the specific itinerary chosen, a Fes desert tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural wonders of the Sahara Desert while also gaining insights into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage. From the historic medina of Fes to the timeless dunes of Erg Chebbi, this journey showcases the diverse beauty of Morocco and provides memories that last a lifetime.
It’s important for travelers to be prepared for the desert environment. The Sahara can be extremely hot during the day and surprisingly cold at night, so packing appropriate clothing is essential. Sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are also crucial for daytime activities. For the overnight stay in the desert, warm layers are recommended as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset.
While the Fes desert tour is generally well-organized and comfortable, it’s worth noting that parts of the journey involve travel over rough terrain. The final approach to the desert camp, for instance, often requires a transfer to 4×4 vehicles capable of navigating the sand dunes. This adds an element of adventure to the trip but may not be suitable for all travelers.
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