Two days from Fes to the dunes of Merzouga and back, through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas and the Ziz Valley.
The Desert Gateway is the fastest way to experience the Sahara from Fes. The road crosses the Middle Atlas through Ifrane and the cedar forests near Azrou, climbs past Midelt and follows the palm groves of the Ziz Valley down to the desert.
You arrive in Merzouga in time for a camel trek at sunset and a night in a desert camp, returning to Fes the next day. If you have more time, we recommend our four-day route, which ends in Marrakech.
Route: Fes, Ifrane, Azrou, Midelt, Ziz Valley, Erfoud, Merzouga
Early departure from Fes to Ifrane and the cedar forest near Azrou, where you may spot Barbary macaques. Continue over the Middle Atlas to Midelt and down through the Ziz gorges and palm groves to Erfoud and Merzouga. Camel trek into the dunes at sunset, dinner and night in camp.
Sunrise over the dunes and breakfast at camp. Return north through the Ziz Valley and the Middle Atlas, arriving in Fes in the evening.
Distances and driving times are approximate and depend on road conditions and stops. Every route can be adapted.
Small-group tours use comfortable hotels, guesthouses and desert camps on the route. Room types (shared or private) and the exact properties are confirmed when you enquire.
It is a short trip with two long driving days. It suits travellers with limited time; for a more relaxed pace choose a 3 or 4-day route.
Yes, with at least three days. See our 4-day Sahara and Imperial Heritage journey.
Marrakech, Ait Ben Haddou, Skoura, Dades Valley, Todra Gorge, Merzouga, Ziz Valley, Ifrane, Fes
Marrakech, Ait Ben Haddou, the Dades and Todra gorges, two nights in a luxury Sahara camp, the Middle Atlas and Fes.
Price on request View Journey: Private Morocco Discovery
Marrakech, Tizi n'Tichka, Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Dades Valley, Todra Gorge, Merzouga
The classic Marrakech to Merzouga desert journey: Ait Ben Haddou, the Todra Gorge and a night among the dunes.
Price on request View Journey: Sahara Golden Horizons
Marrakech, Ait Ben Haddou, Dades Valley, Todra Gorge, Merzouga, N'Kob, Ouarzazate
Ait Ben Haddou, the Dades and Todra gorges and a desert night, with a comfortable return in two stages.
Price on request View Journey: Beyond the Atlas
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