How to Get from Fes to Merzouga: Complete Travel Guide 2023

Introduction

Traveling from Fes to Merzouga is a journey through some of Morocco's most stunning landscapes, from the Middle Atlas mountains to the edge of the Sahara Desert. This comprehensive guide covers all transportation options, travel times, costs, and essential tips to help you plan your trip to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.

Distance and Travel Time

• Distance: Approximately 470 km (292 miles)
• Travel Time: 7-9 hours by road, depending on route and stops
• Best Time to Travel: September to November and March to May for pleasant weather

Transportation Options

1. Private Transfer

Overview: The most comfortable and flexible option for traveling from Fes to Merzouga.

Details:

• Duration: 7-8 hours (direct)
• Cost: 2000-3000 MAD ($200-$300) for a standard car (1-3 people)
• Booking: Can be arranged through hotels, travel agencies, or private drivers
• Route: Fes → Ifrane → Azrou → Midelt → Errachidia → Erfoud → Merzouga

Pros:

• Door-to-door service
• Flexible departure times
• Can make stops along the way
• Air-conditioned comfort
• Direct to your accommodation

Cons:

• Most expensive option
• Need to arrange in advance

2. Grand Taxi

Overview: Shared taxis are a common way to travel between cities in Morocco.

Details:

• Duration: 8-10 hours (with transfers)
• Cost: 300-400 MAD ($30-$40) per person
• Departure: Fes taxi stand near Bab Mahrouk
• Route: Typically requires changing taxis in Midelt or Errachidia

Pros:

• More affordable than private transfer
• Faster than buses
• Operate on flexible schedules

Cons:

• Can be crowded (6 passengers per car)
• Less comfortable for long distances
• May need to wait for the taxi to fill up
• Multiple transfers required

3. Bus (CTM or Supratours)

Overview: The most economical way to reach Merzouga from Fes.

CTM Bus:

• Departure: 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM daily from Fes CTM station
• Arrival: Rissani (nearest town to Merzouga)
• Duration: 9-10 hours
• Cost: 150-200 MAD ($15-$20)
• Booking: Recommended 1-2 days in advance

Supratours:

• Connects with train services from major cities
• Usually requires transfer in Errachidia

Pros:

• Most budget-friendly option
• Reliable schedules
• Air-conditioned coaches
• Luggage storage

Cons:

• Long journey time
• Limited legroom
• Drops you in Rissani (still need transport to Merzouga)
• Limited departure times

4. Organized Tour

Overview: Multi-day tours that include transportation, accommodation, and activities.

Options:

• 2-day/1-night desert tour
• 3-day/2-night desert experience
• Custom private tours

Inclusions:

• Round-trip transportation
• Accommodation (desert camp and/or hotel)
• Meals
• Camel trekking
• Guided activities

Cost:

• Group tours: 1000-2000 MAD ($100-$200) per person
• Private tours: 3000-5000 MAD ($300-$500) per person

Pros:

• All-inclusive experience
• No planning needed
• Local guides
• Opportunity to see more attractions

Cons:

• Less flexibility
• Fixed itinerary
• Can be more expensive than independent travel

5. Self-Drive

Overview: Renting a car gives you complete freedom to explore at your own pace.

Details:

• Rental Cost: 400-800 MAD ($40-$80) per day
• Fuel Cost: 300-400 MAD ($30-$40) one way
• Route: N13 via Ifrane, Midelt, and Errachidia
• Driving Time: 7-8 hours (without stops)

Pros:

• Complete flexibility
• Can stop wherever you want
• Comfort of your own vehicle
• Can explore off-the-beaten-path locations

Cons:

• Need to navigate Moroccan roads
• Limited parking in Merzouga
• Potential for getting lost
• Long driving hours

Route Options

1. Direct Route (Recommended)

Fes → Ifrane → Azrou → Midelt → Errachidia → Erfoud → Merzouga

• Distance: 470 km
• Travel Time: 7-8 hours
• Road Conditions: Mostly good quality, some mountain roads
• Highlights: Cedar forests, Ziz Valley, desert landscapes

2. Scenic Route via Imilchil

Fes → Ifrane → Azrou → Midelt → Imilchil → Tinghir → Merzouga

• Distance: 550 km
• Travel Time: 9-10 hours
• Road Conditions: More mountainous, some rough sections
• Highlights: Dades Gorge, Todgha Gorge, traditional villages

Best Stops Along the Way

1. Ifrane (60 km from Fes)

   • Known as "Little Switzerland"
   • Perfect for a coffee break
   • See the stone lion monument

2. Cedar Forests of Azrou (85 km from Fes)

   • See wild Barbary macaques
   • Stretch your legs with a short walk
   • Visit the ancient cedar trees

3. Midelt (200 km from Fes)

   • Ideal lunch stop
   • Known for its apple orchards
   • Last major town before the desert

4. Ziz Valley (300 km from Fes)

   • Stunning oasis views
   • Great photo opportunities
   • Traditional ksour (fortified villages)

5. Errachidia (340 km from Fes)

   • Last city before Merzouga
   • Good for fuel and supplies
   • Blue Source of Meski nearby

6. Erfoud (400 km from Fes)

   • Known as the "Gateway to the Desert"
   • Famous for fossils and dates
   • Good place for an overnight stop

Travel Tips

Best Time to Travel

• Peak Season: March-May, September-November (pleasant temperatures)
• Summer: June-August (extremely hot in the desert)
• Winter: December-February (cold nights in the desert)

What to Pack

• Passport/ID
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Warm layers (desert nights can be cold)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera/phone with extra batteries
• Snacks and water
• Cash (many places don't accept cards)
• Portable charger

Safety Tips

• Keep valuables secure
• Stay hydrated
• Fill up on fuel when possible
• Have offline maps downloaded
• Share your itinerary with someone
• Avoid driving at night
• Be cautious of speed traps

Border Crossings

• If coming from Algeria, the nearest border is Figuig (not recommended for tourists)
• No border crossings to Mauritania near Merzouga

Arriving in Merzouga

From Rissani (if taking the bus)

• Distance: 35 km
• Transport Options:
  • Grand Taxi: 50-70 MAD per person
  • Private Taxi: 200-300 MAD
  • Hotel pickup: Many desert camps offer transfers

Where to Stay

• Luxury: Luxury Desert Camps (e.g., Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp)
• Mid-range: Kasbah hotels in Merzouga village
• Budget: Auberges and guesthouses

Things to Do in Merzouga

• Camel trekking at sunset/sunrise
• 4x4 desert excursions
• Visit to Khamlia (Gnawa village)
• Fossil hunting
• Stargazing in the desert

Sample Itineraries

1-Day Itinerary (Direct)

• 7:00 AM: Depart Fes
• 10:00 AM: Short stop in Ifrane
• 12:30 PM: Lunch in Midelt
• 3:00 PM: Ziz Valley viewpoint
• 5:00 PM: Arrive in Merzouga
• 6:00 PM: Sunset camel ride

2-Day Itinerary (Leisurely)

Day 1:

• 9:00 AM: Depart Fes
• 11:00 AM: Explore Ifrane and Azrou
• 1:30 PM: Lunch in Midelt
• 4:00 PM: Arrive in Erfoud, explore
• Overnight in Erfoud

Day 2:

• 9:00 AM: Drive to Merzouga
• 11:00 AM: Arrive in Merzouga
• Afternoon: Desert activities
• Evening: Overnight in desert camp

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the journey from Fes to Merzouga?

The journey typically takes 7-9 hours by road, depending on your mode of transportation and number of stops.

Is it safe to drive from Fes to Merzouga?

Yes, the route is generally safe. The roads are in good condition, but be cautious of:

• Mountain roads between Ifrane and Midelt
• Occasional livestock on the road
• Speed traps and police checkpoints

Do I need a 4x4 to get to Merzouga?

No, a regular car is sufficient as the main roads are paved. You'll only need a 4x4 if you plan to go off-road in the desert.

Can I get to Merzouga by public transport?

Yes, but it requires taking a bus to Rissani and then a taxi to Merzouga (about 35km).

What's the best way to book a desert tour?

You can book through:

• Reputable tour operators in Fes or Marrakech
• Your accommodation in Merzouga
• Trusted online platforms
• Local travel agencies

Conclusion

Traveling from Fes to Merzouga is an adventure through diverse landscapes, from the Middle Atlas mountains to the edge of the Sahara. Whether you choose a private transfer, bus, or organized tour, the journey is part of the experience. Plan ahead, pack appropriately, and get ready for an unforgettable desert experience in Merzouga.

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