The Journey Begins: Fez to Merzouga

The call of the Sahara was too strong to resist, and so I found myself embarking on the Fez to Fez Desert Tour with a group of fellow thrill-seekers. Our journey began in the bustling city of Fez, where we were picked up bright and early by our driver, Aziz. His reputation preceded him, and he lived up to every bit of it. Aziz was not just a driver; he was a guide, a storyteller, and a friend. His knowledge of the region was unparalleled, and his driving skills were impeccable, making our journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains a breeze.

Our first stop was Ifrane, a town that felt more like a Swiss village than a Moroccan city. The cedar forests were a sight to behold, and the crisp mountain air was invigorating. As we continued our journey, we passed through the lush Ziz Valley, a stark contrast to the arid landscapes we were heading towards. The valley was a sea of green, dotted with palm trees and small villages, a reminder of the life that thrives even in the harshest of environments.

Into the Heart of the Sahara

Arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara, was like stepping into another world. The golden dunes stretched as far as the eye could see, and the silence of the desert was both eerie and calming. Our camels awaited us, and as we mounted them, I felt a familiar rush of adrenaline. The camel trek was a unique experience, the gentle sway of the camel’s gait lulling us into a meditative state as we made our way deeper into the desert.

As the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we arrived at our desert camp. The nomad tents were a welcome sight, and the promise of a Berber feast awaited us. Dinner under the starry sky was an experience I won’t soon forget. The food was a delightful mix of flavors, and the Berber folklore show around the fire pit was the perfect end to a day filled with adventure. As I lay in my tent that night, the cool desert breeze lulling me to sleep, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences that travel brings.

The Return Journey: Merzouga to Fez

The next morning, we rose early to catch the sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. The sight was nothing short of spectacular, the first rays of sunlight casting long shadows across the sand. After a hearty breakfast, we mounted our camels once more for the trek back to Merzouga. Aziz was waiting for us, ready to take us back to Fez.

The return journey was just as eventful as the trip to the desert. We stopped at Rissani, a town steeped in history, and visited the Zawiya Moulay Ali Ash-Sharif. The dramatic landscapes of the Ziz Valley were a sight to behold, and our lunch stop at Khasbah Dounia was a highlight. The food was incredible, a feast fit for a king, and a testament to the hospitality of the Moroccan people.

As we made our way back to Fez, I reflected on the past two days. The Sahara had been everything I had hoped for and more. The thrill of the adventure, the beauty of the landscapes, and the warmth of the people had made this a journey to remember. For those seeking a taste of the desert, the Fez to Fez Desert Tour is an experience not to be missed.