Merzouga Express
An exciting 3-day adventure from Fez to the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga, and back to Fez. This journey will take you through some of Morocco’s most stunning landscapes, from the green valleys and Gorges of Ziz to the vast expanses of the Sahara Desert. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure, ensuring a memorable experience in the heart of Morocco.
Tour Details
Duration
3 days
Arrival
Fez
Departure
Fez
Season
All year
Group Size
exclusive
Itinerary
- In the morning, you’ll be picked up and set off towards the south of Morocco via Ifrane, with a stop in Azrou to visit the cedar forest and see the Atlas monkeys.
- You’ll continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-N-Talghoumlt pass, which is 2600 meters above sea level. There will be a lunch stop in Midelt before reaching the Ziz Valley and the Tafilalet Oasis, which is rich with date palms.
- In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, specifically the “Erg Chebbi” dunes. Upon arrival in the desert, you’ll have dinner and spend the night in a riad.
- After breakfast, we’ll depart for an excursion into the desert, starting with a visit to the village of Khamlia, where we’ll follow the tracks used in the “Paris-Dakar Rally” and visit desert nomads, sharing tea with them.
- We’ll visit the village of the “black people,” so called because of the slave trade that brought people from Sudan. After lunch, we’ll switch from our 4×4 vehicle to animal traction.
- The camels will take us deeper into the desert dunes to witness an unforgettable sunset.
- Tonight will be special as we’ll sleep in nomadic tents (jaimas) among the dunes, just like the Berbers. To end the day, we’ll have another wonderful experience: enjoying a Berber dinner, music, and a starry sky like you’ve never seen before.
- Dinner and overnight stay in an unforgettable jaima.
- We recommend getting up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes. After this breathtaking experience, we’ll return by camel to the village for a refreshing hot shower at the lodge.
- We depart from Merzouga towards Rissani, the first imperial city of Morocco, where we can admire its unique market. This market is a gathering place for the desert’s nomadic tribes to resupply. Of particular interest is its donkey parking area.
- On the way to Erfoud, we’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the Ziz Valley with its palm groves and gorges.
- After crossing the Tizi-n-Talghomt pass, we’ll reach Midelt for lunch.
- We then continue our journey through the cedar forest, with a mandatory stop to see the monkeys in their natural habitat.
- Before arriving in Fez, the cultural capital of Morocco, we’ll pass through Ifrane, known as the Moroccan Switzerland.
- Upon arrival in Fez, our services conclude.
Tour Highlights
- Visit to the cedar forest in Azrou to see the Atlas monkeys in their natural habitat.
- Exploration of the Ziz Valley and the Tafilalet Oasis, with its lush date palm groves.
- Camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes, witnessing a breathtaking desert sunset.
- Noche en una jaima tradicional bereber bajo un cielo estrellado en el desierto.
- Cultural visit to the village of Khamlia, with an opportunity to meet desert nomads and experience traditional music.
- Stop at Rissani's unique market, including its fascinating donkey parking area.
What is included / not included
- Transfer to and from the Airport
- Accommodation throughout the tour with breakfast and/or dinner
- Private vehicle with a English-speaking driver throughout the journey
- Fuel, tolls, and all associated expenses
- Administrative fees
- Dinner in the desert
- Camel ride to reach the heart of the desert (one per person)
- Sandboarding in the desert
- One night in tents (Berber camp) in the desert, on a half-board basis
- Flight tickets
- Lunch menus
- Entrance fees to monuments & museums
- Dinner in Fez
Overview
This tour offers a rich journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. Starting from Fez, you will travel through Ifrane, often called the “Moroccan Switzerland,” and make a stop in Azrou to visit the cedar forest, home to the Atlas monkeys. You’ll cross the Middle Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi-N-Talghoumlt pass before arriving at the stunning Ziz Valley and Tafilalet Oasis, famous for its lush date palms.
In Merzouga, at the edge of the Sahara, you’ll experience the breathtaking Erg Chebbi dunes. A visit to the village of Khamlia will introduce you to the local culture, followed by an adventure through desert tracks and interactions with nomadic communities. Later, you’ll set out on a camel trek deep into the dunes, where you can witness an unforgettable sunset before spending a magical night in a traditional berber tent under the starry desert sky.
As the tour continues, you’ll visit Rissani, the first imperial city of Morocco, exploring its vibrant market and unique donkey parking area. The journey back will offer more scenic views of the Ziz Valley and a return through the cedar forests before concluding in Fez, Morocco’s cultural capital.
Essential Information
Travelers must come prepared with the right equipment to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some recommendations for the equipment that you should bring with you:
- Clothing: Morocco has diverse climates, so it’s important to pack clothing suitable for different weather conditions. Lightweight and breathable clothing is ideal for coastal areas, while warmer layers are necessary for cooler temperatures in the mountains and desert. We recommend bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection against the sun.
- Footwear: Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are a must, especially for exploring cities with uneven streets and for desert excursions. Sandals or flip-flops are great for relaxing on the beach or evenings.
- Travel Adaptors: Morocco uses European-style two-pin plugs, so travelers from other regions should bring appropriate travel adaptors to charge their electronic devices.
- Travel Documents: Having valid passports with at least six months of remaining validity is crucial. Additionally, it’s advisable to carry printed copies of travel itineraries, hotel reservations, and any other important documents.
- Medications and First Aid Kit: Travelers should bring any necessary medications they may require during the trip. It’s also wise to carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and any specific medications or treatments their healthcare provider recommends.
- Money and Travel Essentials: It’s advisable to carry a mix of cash (local currency, Moroccan Dirhams) and a credit/debit card for convenience. A secure money belt or pouch can keep valuables and essential documents safe.
- Daypack or Backpack: A small daypack or backpack is handy for carrying essentials during day trips and excursions.
We prioritize providing accommodations that enhance the travel experience and reflect each destination’s unique character. Here is an overview of the accommodation options:
- Merzouga: To fully enjoy the Sahara Desert experience, you will spend a night in a traditional Berber camp. These desert camps offer comfortable tents with beds, blankets, and basic amenities, providing an authentic desert experience under the starlit sky.
Throughout the tour, we prioritize selecting accommodations that offer cleanliness, comfort, and a welcoming ambiance. Our team ensures that the chosen accommodations meet high-quality standards and provide excellent service to enhance the travel experience.
Please note that specific accommodations may vary depending on availability and your client’s preferences. We work closely with reputable and trusted hotel partners to provide the best possible accommodation options that meet the needs and expectations of our clients during their journey.
We provide reliable and well-maintained transportation options that cater to the specific requirements of each leg of the journey. Here is an overview of the transportation arrangements:
- Arrival and Departure Transfers: Upon arrival at the Fez airport, you will be greeted by our professional driver, who will warmly welcome and assist with the transfer to the hotel. At the end of the tour, clients will be transported back to the Tánger airport for their departure.
- Private Vehicle: You will travel in comfortable, air-conditioned personal vehicles throughout the tour. These vehicles are spacious enough to accommodate your clients and their luggage comfortably. Our skilled and experienced drivers know the routes and will ensure a safe and smooth journey.
- Sightseeing and Excursions: For sightseeing and excursions at each destination, you will have the convenience of private transportation. Whether exploring the medinas, visiting attractions, or venturing into the desert, our vehicles will provide comfort and flexibility.
- Desert Experience: In Merzouga, you will have an unforgettable experience of riding camels or quads to traverse the mesmerizing Sahara Desert. The necessary transportation for this excursion will be arranged, ensuring safety and enjoyment during the desert adventure.
We prioritize your client’s comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout their journey. Our transportation arrangements are planned to ensure punctuality and efficiency, allowing your clients to relax and enjoy the tour without worrying about logistics.
Please note that the specific type of vehicle used may vary depending on the group size and availability. However, we always strive to provide the most suitable and comfortable transportation options to meet the needs of our clients.
While lunch is not included in the tour price, we understand the importance of offering guidance and recommendations to ensure your clients enjoy satisfying meals throughout their journey. Here is an overview of the meals provided:
- Breakfast: Each day, you will enjoy a delicious and nourishing breakfast at their accommodation. Breakfast typically includes freshly baked bread, pastries, cereals, fruits, yogurt, eggs, and local specialties. This morning meal will energize your clients for the day’s activities and exploration.
- Lunch: is not included in the tour price; our clients can explore local eateries and street food or choose their preferred dining experiences during the day. Our knowledgeable guides happily recommend authentic and affordable lunch options showcasing regional cuisine.
- Dinners: In the evenings, you can savor traditional Moroccan cuisine and international dishes at carefully selected restaurants or the dining facilities in their accommodations. These dinners showcase Moroccan gastronomy’s diverse flavors and spices, offering dishes such as tagines, couscous, grilled meats, aromatic stews, flavorful salads, and delectable desserts. Our clients can indulge in a culinary journey highlighting Morocco’s unique flavors and cultural heritage.
We understand that individual preferences and dietary restrictions may vary among our clients. Our team is committed to accommodating specific nutritional needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Please inform us in advance, and we will make the necessary arrangements to ensure your clients have suitable meal options.
Here is a general overview of the weather conditions you can expect:
- Fez: Fez has a Mediterranean climate similar to Tánger and Chefchaouen. Summers are warm, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Winters are mild to cool, with temperatures averaging between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Like Tánger and Chefchaouen, winter is light and breathable clothing suitable for summer, while a jacket or sweater is recommended for more relaxed periods.
- Merzouga: This desert region in the southeast of Morocco experiences a hot desert climate. Summers are sweltering, often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the day. Spring and autumn are warm and pleasant, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Winters are mild during the day but can get cold at night, with temperatures dropping to around 5 °C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses is essential to protect against the intense desert heat. Having a warm layer for evenings and winter visits is also advisable.
- Midelt: Located in the Middle Atlas Mountains, Midelt experiences a semi-arid climate. Summers are warm, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures of around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Winters can be chilly, with temperatures averaging between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F). It is recommended to bring layered clothing, including a jacket or sweater, especially during the cooler months.
It’s important to note that weather conditions can vary, and it’s advisable to check the specific forecast for each destination and travel period.
We recommend our clients pack comfortable clothing, including layers, to accommodate changing temperatures throughout the day and evening. Additionally, bringing sunscreen, a hat, and other sun protection items is always a good idea when visiting warmer regions like Merzouga.
Visa requirements for traveling to Morocco vary depending on your nationality. Here are some general guidelines:
- Visa Exemptions: Citizens of several countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many European Union countries, do not require a visa to enter Morocco for tourism if their stay is less than 90 days. Upon arrival, they will receive a stamp in their passport, allowing them to stay in the country for the specified period.
- Visa on Arrival: Some nationalities, such as citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several European Union countries, can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport or other designated ports of entry. The visa is usually valid for up to 90 days.
- Visa in Advance: Citizens of certain countries must obtain a visa from a Moroccan embassy or consulate before traveling. It applies to nationals of countries such as China, India, Russia, and several African countries. It’s essential to check the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your home country for specific visa requirements and application procedures.
When applying for a visa, you may be required to provide supporting documents such as a valid passport, a completed application form, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, and a return or onward ticket. Applying for the visa well before your planned travel dates is recommended to allow for processing time.
It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, so it’s advisable to check with the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country or consult with a travel agent for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding visa requirements for your nationality.
