If you are in Fes, you are closer to the Sahara than most travelers think. The golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga are about 470 km south, across the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas and the palm groves of the Ziz Valley. But should you go for 2, 3 or 4 days? Should you return to Fes or continue to Marrakech? Our local drivers explain the options for a desert tour from Fes to Merzouga, so you can choose the right one.
How Far Is Merzouga From Fes?
Merzouga is about 470 km from Fes, which is around 7 to 8 hours of driving with stops. That is shorter than from Marrakech, so from Fes you can reach the dunes on the first day and be on a camel at sunset.
The Route: What You See on the Way
- Ifrane: the “Switzerland of Morocco”, with alpine-style houses and clean streets.
- Azrou and the cedar forest: giant cedars and Barbary macaques living in the wild.
- Midelt: a mountain town at the foot of the High Atlas, a good stop for lunch.
- Ziz Valley and Ziz Gorges: a long green ribbon of palm trees in a red canyon.
- Erfoud and Rissani: fossils, dates and the old caravan market town, just before the dunes.
2 Days: Fes – Merzouga – Fes
- Day 1: Fes – Middle Atlas – Merzouga, camel ride at sunset and night in a desert camp
- Day 2: Sunrise over the dunes – Ziz Valley – back to Fes
The shortest Sahara trip in Morocco, and a great choice if your trip is based in Fes or the north. The two days are long on the road, but you get the full desert experience: sunset, camp night and sunrise. See our 2 Days Desert Tour From Fes To Merzouga.
3 Days: Fes to Marrakech via the Desert
- Day 1: Fes – Middle Atlas – Ziz Valley – Merzouga, camel ride and desert camp
- Day 2: Merzouga – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley
- Day 3: Dades – Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – Marrakech
If you continue your trip to Marrakech, this is the best way to travel between the two cities: you see the Sahara, the gorges and the kasbahs instead of a long direct drive. Our 3 Days Desert Tour From Fes To Marrakech follows this route. Read the full guide to the desert route between Marrakech and Fes.
4 Days: More Time in the Sahara
- Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
- Day 2: A full day exploring the desert around Merzouga
- Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Gorge
- Day 4: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – Marrakech
With a whole day in the desert, you can visit a nomad family, listen to Gnawa music in Khamlia and enjoy the dunes without rushing. See the 4 Days Travel Itinerary From Fes To Marrakech and our ideas for the best things to do in Merzouga.
Which Option Is Right for You?
| Option | Best for | Ends in |
|---|---|---|
| 2 days | Short on time, staying in Fes or the north | Fes |
| 3 days | Continuing to Marrakech | Marrakech |
| 4 days | More time in the desert, a slower pace | Marrakech |
Practical Tips
- Leave early: pick-up in Fes is usually in the morning, so you reach the dunes before sunset.
- Pack light: your main bag stays in the vehicle; take a small backpack to the camp. See our Sahara packing list.
- Choose your camp: standard or luxury, with a private bathroom. Read about desert camps in Merzouga.
- Winter: the Middle Atlas can have snow; your driver knows the roads and adapts the route.
- Visit Fes first: spend a day in the medina before or after the desert. See things to do in Fes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 2 days enough from Fes to the Sahara?
Yes. From Fes it is the shortest way to see the dunes, with one night in a desert camp. If you can add a day, the trip becomes more relaxed.
Is it better to start the desert trip in Fes or Marrakech?
Both work. From Fes the first day is shorter and you arrive in the dunes on day one. Choose based on where your trip starts and ends.
Can I do the desert tour from Fes and end in Marrakech?
Yes, this is one of the most popular routes. Our 3 and 4 day tours from Fes end in Marrakech.
Ready for your Sahara adventure?
Tell us your dates and whether you return to Fes or continue to Marrakech, and we will plan your private desert tour.
See tours from Fes Chat on WhatsApp