After several days in the north of the country, it’s time to cross the Middle Atlas and head south toward the Moroccan desert. Therefore, you will have an early breakfast at the riad in Fez before setting off again with our driver in a private vehicle.
The first stop will be the town of Ifrane, one of the most unique places in all of Morocco due to its alpine appearance, characterized by gabled buildings and surrounded by a lush, green landscape. For this reason, it is known as the “Switzerland of Africa,” receiving abundant rain and snow in winter.
Near Ifrane and Azrou lies the National Park known as the Monkey Forest or Cedar Forest. Both monkeys and cedars are abundant here, forming a perfectly balanced ecosystem, though not without threats.
In fact, these primates (Barbary macaques) are at risk of extinction and find shelter beneath the branches of these centuries-old conifers, which are iconic representatives of Moroccan flora.
We will then cross the Middle Atlas and travel through the Ziz Valley, named after the river that flows through it. The landscape changes significantly, becoming more arid but still featuring large palm groves.
Surrounded by this landscape, we will travel many kilometers until we reach Erfoud, famous for its dinosaur fossils and prehistoric animals.
Shortly after, we will arrive in Merzouga, a small town that gives its name to the surrounding desert. Here, we will park the vehicle and ride camels (one per person) for an excursion through the Erg Chebbi dunes, the largest in Morocco.
Our destination will be a Berber tent camp, where we will be welcomed with tea, dinner, and a restful night under the spectacular starry sky of the desert.