Take an overnight excursion into the Merzouga Desert from Fez, passing through mountains, Berber villages, forests, and more, before arriving at the dunes by camel. Â
Day 1 Â
Depart Fes and pass through the winter ski resort of Ifrane, built by the French in the 1930s to resemble a Swiss village. Continue through the cedar forest of Azrou and look out for the resident monkeys before a drive across the Middle Atlas Mountains. Wind your way through the beautiful forests, mountain springs, jagged rocks, and Berber villages before your descent to the Sahara Desert. Stop for lunch half way in the town of Midelt, famous for its rocks and fossils. Then, continue towards Merzouga, taking in the panoramic views of a huge oasis of palm trees at Ziz along the way. Â
Upon arrival at Rissani, travel by 4WD vehicle into the desert, reaching Merzouga in the afternoon. Here, your guide will be waiting with the camels that will take you across the dunes to Erg Chebbi. Watch the sun set from the back on your camel on this 2-hour trek to a Berber camp. When you arrive at the desert shelter, your camels will be tethered as you are served a welcome mint tea. Enjoy dinner and relax as you look at the stars in the sky. Â
Day 2 Â
Wake early and walk across the dunes to watch the sunrise from just behind the Algerian border, approximately 50 kilometers from Merzouga. Ride your camel back across the desert sands, take a shower, and enjoy breakfast before the trip back to Rissani. Return to Fes, taking lots of comfort stops along the 7-hour journey.
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