Leave Fes for two days of mountain passes, cedar forests and a private Berber camp on the Erg Chebbi dunes. Expect a sunset camel trek, a night under desert stars, and an early sunrise ride back across shifting sand.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn in Fes, a driver waits at a riad door and the road unfurls south toward the Atlas. The caravan of minivans climbs through cedar-scented passes, past Ifrane’s tidy chalets and into the tree-studded middle ranges where macaques bolder than their forest are. By late afternoon the asphalt gives way to ochre, and the Erg Chebbi dunes rise like a sudden sea of sand—soft ridgelines that push and pull with the wind.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to board a camel, manage short sand walks and tolerate long vehicle transfers
Wildlife
History
The route follows historic caravan arteries and passes through Ifrane, a French-era town from the 1930s; Rissani was an important Saharan trading post.
Conservation
The dune ecosystem is fragile—avoid walking on shifting dune faces unnecessarily, pack out waste, and choose camps that use local resources responsibly.
Reserve your spot on the Shared Group Luxury 2-Days Desert Trip from Fes to fes today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring 3L+ of water
Desert days are hot and humid evenings dry—carry at least three liters per person and refill before you leave towns.
Layer for large temperature swings
Temperatures can be 25°C+ by day and drop sharply overnight; pack a warm midlayer and light jacket.
Protect against sun and sand
Wide-brim hat, UV sunglasses and a buff or scarf will reduce glare and sand in your face during camel rides.
Respect wildlife and food
Do not feed the Barbary macaques in cedar forests—approaching them is risky and encourages aggressive behavior.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Support and protection for walking on uneven stone, gravel and sections of compacted sand.
Sun hat and UV sunglasses
Reduces glare and protects eyes during long camel rides and open-sky stops.
summer
Lightweight insulating layer
Useful for cold desert mornings and evenings at the camp.
winter
Small daypack with hydration
Keeps water, camera, passport and snacks organized during stops and treks.