This immersive 3-day round-trip from Fes is a deep dive into the Sahara Desert and Berber culture. this itinerary allows you to experience the magic of Merzouga with a full day dedicated to authentic encounters—from Gnawa music to tea with nomads—before completing the scenic loop back to Fes. It’s the perfect choice for those based in Fes who want a comprehensive desert experience without the long transfer to another city.
Your 3-day desert tour begins with a pick-up from your Fes accommodation. We journey south, crossing the Saiss plains to the charming town of Ifrane, renowned for its unique alpine architecture. We continue into the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in the Cedar Forest near Azrou to observe and photograph the playful Barbary macaques.
After lunch in Midelt, we descend into the dramatic Ziz Valley, a stunning oasis of palm groves and ancient kasbahs. The landscape transforms as we approach the Sahara, arriving at a comfortable resort on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga for the evening.
After breakfast, we dive into the heart of desert culture. We visit the village of Khamlia to be captivated by a live performance of spiritual Gnawa music. We then venture off-road to a nomadic settlement, where you’ll share mint tea in a traditional Berber tent and learn about their way of life, often including a lunch of Berber pizza.
In the late afternoon, the classic Sahara experience awaits: a camel trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes to witness a spectacular sunset. You’ll arrive at a well-appointed desert camp, where you’ll be greeted with mint tea. The evening features a delicious dinner and a magical musical performance under a canopy of stars.
We depart the desert after breakfast. Our first stop is the historic town of Rissani, where you can explore its bustling traditional souk (on Sundays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays) and feel the pulse of this ancient trading post. We then visit a fossil workshop in Erfoud before beginning our return journey.
We’ll stop for a final panoramic view of the Ziz Valley and have lunch in Midelt. Traveling back through the Cedar Forest for one last glimpse of the macaques and a brief stop in Ifrane, we will arrive back in Fes in the evening, where your desert loop tour concludes.
At Ibra Travel Tours, we take pride in crafting unforgettable Moroccan experiences. However, if our standard tours don’t perfectly match your dreams—we’ll create one that does!
✉ Simply contact us, share your vision, and we’ll design a custom itinerary tailored to your interests, pace, and budget. Your satisfaction is our priority, and Morocco’s magic should be explored your way.
Reach out anytime—we’re here to make your perfect adventure a reality!
The best time to visit Morocco generally depends on the region you plan to explore. For most of the country, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing in cities like Marrakech and Fes, as well as hiking in the Atlas Mountains. Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot, especially in the desert and inland cities, while winter (November to March) can be cool, with snow in the mountains and occasional rain.
The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). You cannot legally import or export Dirhams, so you’ll need to exchange money upon arrival. ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns, and credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, though cash is preferred for smaller purchases and in souks (markets). It’s a good idea to carry small denominations of Dirhams for tips and street vendors.
Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. For women, this typically means covering shoulders and knees, and avoiding overly revealing clothing. Loose-fitting trousers, long skirts, and tops with sleeves are good choices. Men should also opt for modest attire. In more touristy areas and hotels, dress codes can be more relaxed, but it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
It is generally not recommended to drink tap water in Morocco. While many locals drink it, visitors may be more susceptible to stomach upsets due to different bacteria. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive, and it’s best to use it for drinking, brushing teeth, and even rinsing fruit.
While many Moroccans involved in tourism speak English, knowing a few basic phrases in Moroccan Arabic (Darija) or French can greatly enhance your experience:
My trip to Morocco with Ibra Travel Tours was absolutely incredible from start to finish. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert, every detail was meticulously planned. Our guide, Youssef, was not only incredibly knowledgeable about Moroccan history and culture but also had a fantastic sense of humor, making every moment enjoyable. The accommodations were excellent, and the experiences – like riding camels at sunset and stargazing in the desert – were truly once-in-a-lifetime. If you’re looking for an authentic and seamless Moroccan experience, Ibra Travel Tours is the agency to choose!”
I cannot recommend Ibra Travel Tours enough! As a solo female traveler, safety and reliable organization were my top priorities, and Ibra Travel exceeded all expectations. They customized an itinerary that perfectly matched my interests, including visits to ancient Fes, the blue city of Chefchaouen, and a breathtaking journey through the Atlas Mountains. The drivers were professional and punctual, and the local insights provided by their team were invaluable. It felt like I was traveling with friends rather than just an agency. Thank you, Ibra Travel, for an amazing Moroccan adventure!”
Our family vacation with Ibra Travel Tours was simply spectacular. We had a diverse group, including young children and grandparents, and Ibra Travel managed to create an itinerary that kept everyone engaged and happy. The desert camp was luxurious, the cooking class in Marrakech was a highlight, and the flexibility they offered for spontaneous stops was much appreciated. Their deep understanding of Morocco, combined with their commitment to guest satisfaction, made our trip stress-free and full of wonderful memories. We’re already dreaming of our next trip back with Ibra Travel Tours!
