4-Day Desert Tour from Ouarzazate to Fes via Merzouga

Day 1: Ouarzazate – Skoura – Valley of Roses – Dades Valley – Todra Gorges

Your adventure begins with a morning pickup in Ouarzazate. Drive through the Skoura Oasis, where centuries-old kasbahs stand among palm groves. Continue to the Valley of Roses, stopping to see locally made rose products such as oils, perfumes, and cosmetics. From here, take a scenic off-road route to the Dades Valley for lunch and explore its dramatic gorges, rock formations, and terraced fields. The day ends at Todra Gorges, where you can admire the towering cliffs and enjoy a peaceful evening. Overnight near the gorges.

Day 2: Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert

After breakfast, take a short walk in Todra Gorges to fully appreciate the impressive canyon. Continue east through Tinghir and Tinjdad toward Erfoud, near the Sahara. En route, you can visit ancient irrigation systems and fossil workshops. Stop in Rissani, the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty, and enjoy a traditional lunch in a Berber village. In the late afternoon, arrive at Merzouga, where you embark on a camel trek to watch the sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Return to the desert camp for dinner and an overnight under the stars.

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Ziz Valley – Midelt

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, a breathtaking experience. After breakfast, leave the desert and drive through Rissani before entering the lush Ziz Valley, known for its vast palm groves and traditional kasbahs. Pass through the towns of Erfoud and Errachidia and climb toward the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Midelt for lunch. The road offers scenic views of cedar forests, mountain villages, and rocky plateaus. Overnight in Midelt or a nearby mountain lodge.

Day 4: Midelt – Ifrane – Azrou – Fes

After breakfast, cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Azrou to see the famous cedar forests and local Barbary macaques. Continue to Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland” for its Alpine-style architecture and green surroundings. From here, drive the final leg to Fes, arriving in the afternoon. Your tour concludes in Fes, where you can explore its medieval medina, vibrant souks, and cultural landmarks.