Fes to Merzouga: How to Get to the Sahara from Fes
Through the Middle Atlas cedar forests to Erg Chebbi
Fes is the closest imperial city to Merzouga, which makes it a great starting or ending point for a Sahara trip. The road crosses the Middle Atlas, green cedar forests and the long palm-filled Ziz Valley before reaching the dunes.
Distance and driving time
The trip is roughly 450–480 km and takes about 7–8 hours of driving. Many travellers do it in one day and arrive in time for sunset in the dunes.
Stops on the way
Ifrane
Often called the "Switzerland of Morocco" because of its Alpine-style houses and clean streets. In winter it can snow here.
Cedar forest and Barbary macaques
Near Azrou the road passes through a cedar forest where wild Barbary macaques often come close to the road. Please do not feed them.
Midelt
A town at the foot of the Ayachi mountains, known for apples and fossils – a good lunch stop.
Ziz Valley
One of the most beautiful views of the trip: a long green ribbon of palm trees in a red canyon, with old earth villages along the river.
Erfoud and Rissani
Erfoud is famous for fossil workshops, and Rissani for its traditional market. Then the dunes of Erg Chebbi rise ahead.
Fes – Merzouga – Marrakech loop
A popular plan is to start in Fes, spend one or two nights in Merzouga, and continue to Marrakech via the Todra Gorge, Dades Valley and Ait Ben Haddou. Read our Marrakech to Merzouga route guide for the stops on that side.
What to do once you arrive
Ride a camel to camp at sunset, try a dune buggy or quad bikes, or explore with a 4x4 tour around Erg Chebbi. Discover all Merzouga activities.
Need a private driver from Fes? Send us a message and we will plan your route.