Discover the heart of the Moroccan Sahara on this 3 days tour from Errachidia to Fes. Follow the life-giving Ziz Valley towards the desert and immerse yourself in the Merzouga area. Gain insight into local life by visiting Berber nomad families, explore sites rich with ancient fossils, and find tranquility at the Hassi Labied oasis and seasonal Lake Sriji.
Experience the timeless allure of the Sahara with a camel trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset, leading to a magical night under the stars in a desert camp. Wake to a memorable sunrise before traveling north. Cross the scenic Middle Atlas, encounter wild Barbary macaques in the Azrou cedar forest, glimpse the alpine charm of Ifrane, and finally arrive in the imperial city of Fes.
Upon arrival at Errachidia’s Moulay Ali Cherif Airport (often in the evening based on typical flight schedules), you will be met by your driver/guide. You’ll then be transferred directly towards Merzouga, the gateway town to the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy the drive as the landscape begins to hint at the Sahara. Check into your hotel in Merzouga for an overnight stay, resting up for the desert adventures ahead.
After breakfast at your hotel, embark on an exciting 4×4 excursion to explore the diverse and fascinating landscape surrounding the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Visit the Hassi Labied oasis, observing its traditional irrigation canals and local agriculture.
Head towards the seasonal Lake Sriji (its presence depends on recent rainfall).
Continue to Khamlia village, home to descendants of Sub-Saharan Africans, where you can experience captivating Gnawa music and learn about its cultural significance.
Explore the M’ifis mines, discovering why the region is known not only for tourism but also for minerals and fossils.
A highlight is visiting a nomadic Berber family living in their traditional tent amidst the Sahara. Share a glass of mint tea, learn about their unique way of life, and gain insight into desert resilience.
Throughout the tour, stop at various panoramic viewpoints for incredible photos of the dunes and surrounding scenery.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll return to the village to prepare for the next stage of your adventure. Meet your camels and begin an unforgettable camel trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Pause atop a high dune to witness a spectacular sunset and perhaps try sandboarding. Continue to your Berber desert camp, where you’ll be welcomed with mint tea. Relax until dinnertime, then savor a traditional Moroccan meal. Enjoy Berber drumming music around a campfire under a breathtaking, star-filled sky before retiring to your comfortable nomadic tent for the night.
Wake early to witness the magical sunrise painting the dunes with shifting colours – an unforgettable desert experience. After a delicious breakfast and the opportunity to shower at the camp, you’ll return to the edge of the dunes (choose between riding the camels back or a 4WD transfer).
Begin your journey towards Fes, traveling alongside the impressive Ziz Valley, fed by Morocco’s second-longest river and lined with vast palm groves. Cross the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, enjoying the dramatic changes in landscape and incredible views. Stop for lunch at a restaurant en route.
In the afternoon, make a stop at the Cedar Forest near Azrou. Take a short walk and observe the playful Barbary macaques (wild monkeys) in their natural habitat. Continue to Ifrane, often referred to as “Morocco’s Little Switzerland” due to its unique alpine-style architecture and clean environment.
Finally, arrive in the historic imperial city of Fes in the late afternoon or early evening. Your driver will drop you off at your hotel or riad, concluding your memorable 3-day tour from Errachidia.
