2-Day Merzouga Desert Tour from Fez

This 2-day Merzouga desert tour from Fez offers a quick but immersive escape into Morocco’s iconic Sahara. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, detailed reviews and itineraries suggest it’s a well-rounded option for those short on time but eager to see the desert’s vast beauty.

What really catches the eye are the stunning desert views, the chance to sleep under the stars in traditional Berber tents, and the knowledgeable guides who bring the experience to life. The route also includes stops at charming towns like Ifrane and Azrou, adding a dash of local flavor.

One consideration to keep in mind is the long drive on day one, which might feel tiring for some travelers. But if you’re after an authentic desert experience with a focus on value and comfort, this tour ticks many boxes. It suits travelers who want a taste of the Sahara without sacrificing comfort or breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just over $200, this tour offers good value for a multi-stop adventure that includes desert camping.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines cultural stops, scenic landscapes, and a desert trek with overnight camping.
• Expert Guides: Known for friendly, humorous guides who make the journey engaging and informative.
• Authentic Experience: Sleep in traditional jaimas and enjoy local music and food.
• Transport & Comfort: Air-conditioned vehicles and small group sizes enhance comfort and intimacy.
• Early Start: The tour begins at 8:00 am, so be ready for an energetic day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Fez to the Sand Dunes

The adventure kicks off early with a pick-up from Fez around 8:00 am. The journey begins by heading south through the stunning landscape of Morocco, with the first notable stop in Ifrane, often called “Morocco’s Little Switzerland.” Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes to sip coffee and take in the European-style architecture, which offers a relaxing break from the drive.

Traveling onward, the next stop is Azrou to visit the famous monkey forest. This area is home to several Barbary macaques, and reviewers mention how fun it is to watch the playful monkeys up close. One traveler shared, “We loved the way the guide made the stop so lively and informative – the monkeys were a highlight.”

As you continue, lunch is usually included or at least arranged at a local spot, giving you a chance to sample Moroccan cuisine. After refueling, the route takes you through the Dades Valley with its dramatic landscapes and scenic vistas, making for perfect photo opportunities. You’ll also stop at a fossil museum, which is a hidden gem for geology buffs or anyone curious about Morocco’s ancient natural treasures.

Day 2: The Heart of the Sahara and Return to Fez

The second day begins with an early start, heading directly to Erg Chebbi, the big sand dunes of Merzouga. Once there, the highlight is the camel trek, which has been praised in reviews for its authenticity and the gentle way guides lead you into the desert. You will spend part of the day riding camels, soaking in the sweeping views of the dunes, and eventually arriving at your desert camp.

Here, you’ll sleep in traditional Berber jaimas, which are surprisingly comfortable and provide an authentic Sahara experience. Many reviewers note that the guides care a lot about making sure guests are comfortable — from food to sleeping arrangements. One detailed review mentioned that the guide Mustafa went above and beyond by offering cozy accommodations and ensuring guests enjoyed Moroccan food and hospitality.

Evening Activities & Cultural Touches

Evenings in the desert often include Gnawa music, a soulful Moroccan sound that travelers find enchanting and deeply atmospheric. The experience of sleeping in a tent under an open sky, with only the stars above, is often described as unforgettable. Some reviews mention the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by guides, who often share stories or perform traditional music.

Day 3: The Return Journey

After a restful night, you’ll wake to the desert sunrise — a sight that often appears in travelers’ photos and stories. The morning usually involves a walk or more camel riding before heading back toward Fez. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the experience and admire the diverse landscapes from the comfort of your air-conditioned vehicle.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Value for Money: At approximately $199 per person, this tour packs in quite a bit — scenic drives, cultural stops, camel treks, and an overnight stay in the desert. The inclusion of accommodation in jaimas, dinner, and breakfast makes it a practical choice for travelers seeking an all-in-one experience.

Authentic Cultural Experience: Sleeping in traditional tents and enjoying local music makes this more than just a sightseeing trip. It’s an opportunity to really feel the desert vibe and connect with Moroccan hospitality.

Guide Quality: The reviews highlight guides like Mustafa, who are described as kind, humorous, and attentive. Their local knowledge and personable nature help create a more memorable journey, especially during the stops at Ifrane and Azrou.

Scenic Diversity: From the lush mountains of Ifrane to the red dunes of Erg Chebbi, the tour offers a broad spectrum of landscapes, making each stop visually rewarding.

Comfort & Group Size: The use of air-conditioned vehicles and small group sizes (max 89 travelers, but usually smaller) help maintain a comfortable, intimate atmosphere, reducing the feeling of being part of a large tour.

Practical Aspects & Considerations

Transportation: The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, which are essential for comfort during the long drives through Morocco’s variable terrain. It’s worth noting that the drive is quite extensive on day one — so bring snacks, music, or a book to pass the time.

Timing: Starting at 8:00 am allows for a full day of sightseeing and travel, but be prepared for early mornings. The return to Fez is usually late evening, so plan your following day accordingly.

Group Size & Meeting Point: Meeting at a specified point in Fez, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including solo visitors, couples, or small groups. The maximum group size ensures that everyone gets focused attention.

Cost & Value: At $199.14 per person, the price is reasonable considering the variety of activities and the overnight desert experience. While some additional fees and taxes aren’t included, the overall package delivers a lot of value for the price.

What’s Not Included?: Extra fees and taxes are not included, so budget a little extra for souvenirs, tips, or optional activities.

Authentic Experiences as Highlighted by Reviews

Reviewers consistently emphasize the friendly guides, with one mentioning “Mustafa’s great sense of humor and attentiveness” as making the stay in Morocco special. Guests loved the stunning desert views and described the camping experience as “the most beautiful part of the trip,” with some saying they’d return just for the Sahara.

The local music and delicious Moroccan food served at the camp are often praised, adding another layer to the experience. These details show that the tour isn’t just about sightseeing but about engaging with Moroccan culture on a personal level.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurers on a tight schedule who want a genuine taste of the Sahara without spending days traveling. It’s perfect for those who value authentic camping experiences, scenic drives, and cultural stops. Travelers interested in photography, local music, and Moroccan hospitality will especially enjoy the stops at Ifrane, Azrou, and the desert camp.

However, those seeking luxury accommodations or a more leisurely pace might find this trip a bit fast-paced, given the length of travel on day one. It’s also best suited for travelers comfortable with early mornings and long drives, as well as those open to meeting new people in a small group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Fez to the desert?
The drive on day one covers a significant distance, with stops along the way. Expect a long, scenic journey that takes most of the day, beginning at 8:00 am.

What is included in the price?
The package includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, camel rides, overnight in a desert camp in jaimas, dinner, and breakfast.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Mustafa, who is praised for being friendly, funny, and attentive — making the experience more engaging and comfortable.

Can I participate if I have little experience with camping or desert tours?
Absolutely. The jaimas are described as comfortable, and the overall experience is designed to be accessible for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for temperature changes, a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, and a camera for the breathtaking scenery. Some reviews mention that the guides care about guests’ comfort, so don’t hesitate to ask if you need anything specific.

Is there free time during the tour?
The itinerary is structured around key stops, but there’s ample time to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and relax at the camp.

What is the quality of food served?
Guests have enjoyed Moroccan cuisine, with some reviews noting the care taken in preparing the meals. The camp often features local flavors and warm hospitality.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, with small group sizes and a welcoming atmosphere, solo travelers often find this tour easy to join and social.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Merzouga desert tour from Fez offers a fantastic balance of scenic beauty, culture, and adventure, all at a reasonable price. The opportunity to sleep under the stars in traditional tents, coupled with stops at charming towns and scenic viewpoints, makes it an ideal quick escape into Morocco’s most iconic landscape.

While the journey involves long drives, the experience of camel riding, desert camping, and the warm hospitality of guides makes it worthwhile. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic Sahara adventure without sacrificing comfort or value.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Morocco explorer, this tour invites you to capture the essence of the desert — its vastness, its cultural richness, and the unforgettable memories it creates.