Fes in 3 Days for Couples - Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas and cedar forests
In Collaboration with Touria Tours. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Welcome to Touria Tours. It is an honor for us to propose a large choice of guided trips to discover Morocco’s most sublime places. This private 3-day itinerary travels from Fes across the Middle Atlas to the Sahara dunes of Merzouga and returns to Fes, including comfortable transfers, accommodation, camel ride and desert camp overnight.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Touria Tours, inspired by the tour 3 Days Private Luxury Desert Tours From Fes to Marrakech. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas and cedar forests
- Explore Ifrane (the Moroccan 'Switzerland') and Midelt
- Sunset camel ride and overnight in an Erg Chebbi desert camp
- Visit historic Rissani and the Ziz Valley
Itinerary
Day 1
Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane, Azrou cedar forest and Midelt. Evening arrival in Merzouga with dinner and overnight at a desert hotel/auberge.
Pick up from accommodation or Fez–Saïss Airport (Fes)
Your private driver will meet you at your accommodation in Fes or Fez–Saïss Airport and load luggage for departure. Brief orientation and departure toward the Middle Atlas.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your exact pickup address and mobile contact the day before departure.
- Have a small daypack ready with essentials (water, sun hat, light jacket) — luggage will stay in the vehicle.
- If arriving at Fez–Saïss Airport, be ready in the arrivals hall at the agreed time to avoid delays.
Drive and short visit to Ifrane (Middle Atlas)
Drive through scenic Middle Atlas landscapes to Ifrane. Short stop to stretch legs and see the Alpine-style town often nicknamed 'Moroccan Switzerland'.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes for a short stroll around the town center.
- Temperature in the Middle Atlas can be cooler than Fes—bring a light layer.
- Allow time for photos near Ifrane’s main square and the tree-lined streets.
Cedar Forest visit (Azrou area)
Visit the cedar forests near Azrou to see the region’s cedar stands and, when present, Barbary macaques in their habitat.
Tips from local experts:
- Do not feed or approach wild macaques — keep a safe distance and secure loose items.
- Bring bottled water and sun protection for the short forest walk.
- Expect uneven ground in places; a short walk of 20–45 minutes is typical.
Lunch stop in Midelt
Lunch at a local restaurant in Midelt to sample regional dishes and rest before the longer drive to Merzouga.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance so the restaurant can accommodate them.
- Midelt is known for apples and mountain cuisine — ask your server about local specialties.
- Allow at least 45–60 minutes for a relaxed lunch and restroom break.
Drive to Merzouga and check in at auberge/hotel
Continue through Berber villages toward the edge of the Sahara. On arrival in Merzouga, check in at your chosen auberge or hotel; time to shower, use the pool (if available) and rest.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a longer drive (several hours) from Midelt to Merzouga; bring motion-sickness remedies if needed.
- Auberges typically offer pool access — pack swimwear if you wish to use it on arrival.
- Keep a copy of your accommodation confirmation and any special requests handy at check-in.
Dinner and overnight in Merzouga (Sahara hotel)
Enjoy dinner at your auberge/hotel and overnight in Merzouga preparing for the desert activities tomorrow.
Tips from local experts:
- Evening desert temperatures can drop—bring a warm layer for dinner outdoors.
- If you prefer a quieter table, request seating away from communal areas when you check in.
- Confirm wake-up time with the front desk if you want an early start for sunrise activities the next day.
Day 2
Full day exploring Merzouga dunes: morning dunes exploration, visit to a Berber family and Rissani, then evening camel trek and overnight in a desert camp with music and stories.
Morning exploration of the Merzouga dunes (Erg Chebbi)
Spend the morning exploring the sand landscapes around Merzouga, short dune walks and photo stops.
Tips from local experts:
- Morning hours are best for dune walks — wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.
- Bring a refillable water bottle; hydration is important in desert conditions.
- Protect camera equipment from sand using bags or zip-locks during windy periods.
Visit to a local Berber family and Rissani Kasbah (culture & lunch)
Cultural visit to a local Berber family to learn about traditions, followed by a visit to historic Rissani and a traditional lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress respectfully for family visits (shoulders and knees covered) and follow the host’s guidance for photography.
- Carry small cash in local currency for modest customary gifts or purchases in Rissani markets.
- Keep valuables secure while visiting busy souk areas in Rissani.
Afternoon rest at hotel / free time
Return to your accommodation for rest, pool time or a brief siesta before the evening camel trek.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this time to recharge devices and prepare a small overnight bag for the desert camp.
- If you need local currency or snacks, arrange with reception in the early afternoon.
- Set an alarm for departure time and confirm camel trek pickup at reception.
Camel trek to the dunes and sunset + overnight at a desert camp
Late-afternoon camel ride across the dunes to watch sunset. Continue to a traditional desert camp for dinner, local music and an overnight under the stars.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear long trousers and closed shoes for the camel ride; bring a warm layer for the cool desert night.
- Bring a small flashlight and basic toiletries for overnight at the camp.
- If you have back issues or pregnancy, notify us in advance — a camel ride may not be suitable.
Day 3
Sunrise in the dunes, return journey via Rissani and the Ziz Valley, lunch in a Berber village, short stops in the Middle Atlas and drop-off in Fes to conclude the tour.
Sunrise at the dunes and return by camel to Merzouga
Optional early-morning wake-up to see sunrise over the dunes, then camel ride back to the auberge/hotel for breakfast and check-out.
Tips from local experts:
- Sunrise is very early—confirm exact wake-up time with camp staff the previous evening.
- Carry a warm jacket; desert mornings can be chilly even in autumn.
- Keep a small daypack ready with sunscreen, water and any medications for the return drive.
Breakfast and check-out in Merzouga
Enjoy breakfast at the auberge/hotel, pack and prepare for departure toward the Middle Atlas and Fes.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm luggage is loaded into the vehicle before departure to avoid delays.
- If you need early morning coffee, request it the night before as services can be timed.
- Keep travel documents and a contact number for your driver readily accessible.
Drive and stop at Ziz Valley viewpoint
Drive through the Ziz Valley with a scheduled stop for photos and short exploration of Morocco’s largest palm-lined valley.
Tips from local experts:
- The viewpoint areas can be exposed — bring sun protection and bottled water.
- Watch your step near cliff edges and lookout points, especially for romantic photos at sunset/sunrise times.
- Keep an eye on personal belongings while stopping at popular viewpoints.
Lunch in a Berber village en route
Stop for an authentic lunch in a local village to meet residents and taste traditional home-cooked dishes.
Tips from local experts:
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting village homes.
- If you have food allergies, inform your guide before the meal so the host can accommodate.
- Carry small change if you wish to offer a small token of thanks to your hosts.
Short stop in Ifrane (refresh and stretch)
Brief stop back in the Middle Atlas to stretch, take photos and rest before the final leg to Fes.
Tips from local experts:
- Use restroom facilities at the stop; long drives follow the final break.
- Pick up any last-minute snacks or bottled water in town for the remainder of the trip.
- If you enjoyed local crafts, this is a convenient time to purchase souvenirs.
Return and drop-off in Fes (tour conclusion)
Arrive back in Fes and drop off at your accommodation or the Fez–Saïss Airport; tour concludes.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your preferred drop-off address in Fes at the start of the tour to ensure a smooth finish.
- Allow the driver a small gratuity if you were satisfied with the service (customary, optional).
- If you need onward transfer assistance, ask your driver or guide to recommend options in Fes.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 3 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 4 |
| Total Activities | 14 |
| Total Places | 14 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Outdoor, Meal, Hotel, Culture, Break, Experience, Neighborhood |
