2 Day Private Fez Desert Tour to Merzouga

Travelers looking to explore Morocco’s landscapes beyond the hustle of Fez will find this 2-day private desert tour to Merzouga offers a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural encounters, and memorable desert moments. The tour is highly rated for its professional guides, breathtaking views, and authentic experiences.

What we love about this tour is how it combines beautifully curated stops—like Ifrane’s cute stone lion landmark and cedar forests filled with playful monkeys—with the thrill of camel rides into the desert. The fact that it’s private means you get a personalized experience, with the flexibility to soak in each stop at your own pace.

One thing to consider is that the overall journey is quite long—so if you’re not a fan of long drives, it’s worth planning for some rest or snacks along the way. Nonetheless, this trip suits those craving a genuine and immersive look at Moroccan landscapes, especially if you’re eager to see the desert, mountains, and forests in one go.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable driver and local guides
• Stunning scenery from Ifrane to the Atlas mountains and Merzouga desert
• Authentic cultural moments, like desert Berber dinners and interactions at cedar forests
• Comfortable transportation, with air-conditioned private vehicles
• Value for money, considering the variety of sights and experiences packed into two days
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour is a fantastic option for travelers who want a comprehensive Moroccan adventure without the hassle of organizing multiple parts of the trip themselves. The private transport means you aren’t stuck with a large group, and your driver is likely to be friendly and professional—as confirmed by reviews praising guides like Mostapha and Jamal for their kindness and expertise.

The pricing of around $229 per person reflects the value of this experience, considering the diverse stops and the inclusion of overnight accommodations. Your guide will take care of logistics, allowing you to focus on the incredible scenery and cultural moments without stress.

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: The Journey Begins in Fez

The tour starts bright and early with hotel or riad pickup in Fez. From there, the first stop is the charming Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its French-inspired architecture and pristine greenery. Here, the stone lion landmark sits proudly on a lush patch of grass, making for a perfect photo op. It’s a quick glimpse into Morocco’s varied architecture and climate.

Next, the focus shifts to Cedar Goro, a highlight for animal lovers. This area is famous for its monkeys, who are surprisingly friendly and allow close interaction—feeding them is a popular activity, and a great opportunity to snap some memorable photos. Reviewers mention that standing beneath the ancient 800-year-old cedar tree is a special moment, with many noting how playful and curious the monkeys are, adding a fun and authentic wildlife encounter.

From the cedar forests, the trip continues into the Atlas Mountains, where panoramic views and fresh mountain air are abundant. Travelers can expect plenty of stops along the way for photos and to appreciate the changing landscape—it’s a feast for the eyes.

For lunch, a local restaurant in Midelt offers traditional Moroccan fare, giving you a taste of regional cuisine amid stunning mountain scenery.

Arrival in Merzouga and Desert Experience

Arriving in Merzouga, your luggage is stored at the hotel before the adventure continues. The highlight of your stay is a camel trek at sunset, guided by local Berber guides. The gentle sway of camels against the orange glow of sunset creates a truly magical scene.

You’ll arrive at nomad tents, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under a starry sky. Reviewers mention that the desert atmosphere is both peaceful and awe-inspiring, with many appreciating the chance to disconnect from modern life and experience authentic desert hospitality.

Day 2: Return to Fez

The second day offers a relaxed start, with the option to enjoy more desert views or simply relax in the morning. The return journey kicks off, heading back to Fez with plenty of scenic stops along the way, including possibly revisiting favorite spots or taking on new viewpoints. The drive takes around two hours, but the overall travel time is longer due to the entire route.

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is in an air-conditioned private vehicle, which is a significant plus for comfort, especially considering the long distances covered. The vehicle’s reliability and the professionalism of drivers like Mostapha and Jamal have been praised, making the journey smooth and pleasant even on long stretches.

Since this is a private tour, you won’t be sharing the vehicle with strangers, which means more flexibility in stops, timing, and overall experience. This setup is perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a more personalized adventure.

Authentic Experiences & Local Insights

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the chance to engage with Morocco’s landscapes and cultures genuinely. The cedar forest encounter is more than just sightseeing; it’s interactive, with monkeys that are surprisingly friendly. The desert stay isn’t a staged tourist trap—reviewers mention the Berber dinner under the stars as a highlight, offering real local food and storytelling.

Your guides, including those praised in reviews, add value with their knowledge and friendly demeanor. They often go beyond the basics, sharing little stories or pointing out details that enrich the trip—such as the history of cedar trees or the significance of the desert in Berber culture.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently highlight the professionalism and kindness of drivers like Mostapha and Jamal. One reviewer noted that Jamal was “very professional and kind,” which made the long drive more enjoyable. Others loved the breathtaking landscapes and described the journeys as “very rich in scenery,” with some comparing the desert experience to scenes from film.

Many reviews mention the long journey but emphasize that it’s worth it, with travelers saying the landscapes are “so beautiful” and “unlike anything else.” The guides’ friendly attitude and local knowledge elevate the experience, turning a long drive into a series of memorable moments.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For $229.71, you get a packed itinerary that hits many of Morocco’s most iconic natural and cultural sights. The private setup ensures a comfortable experience, and the variety of stops means you won’t just be sitting in a van—expect to explore forests, mountains, and deserts.

The tour’s value is especially apparent in the diversity of experiences: wildlife interaction, mountain panoramas, desert sunset, and authentic Berber hospitality. If you’re keen on experiencing Morocco’s varied landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour is a smart choice.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value authentic local encounters, panoramic scenery, and comfortable transportation. It is ideal for those short on time but eager to see a broad range of Morocco’s natural beauty. It’s also perfect if you enjoy wildlife and cultural interactions, and if you prefer a private, flexible itinerary over group tours.

Families, couples, and small groups will find this a well-rounded adventure that feels intimate but offers plenty of memorable moments.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private Fez to Merzouga tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of Morocco’s most stunning landscapes and cultural highlights. The private transport, coupled with engaging guides, means you can travel comfortably while soaking in the scenery. The stops at cedar forests, mountain viewpoints, and the desert itself provide a diverse, authentic experience that’s perfect for curious travelers.

The value is clear—especially considering the inclusivity of meals, overnight stay, and personalized service. While the long drives might challenge those who dislike lengthy journeys, the scenery and experiences make it worthwhile.

If you’re eager for a genuine Moroccan adventure that balances scenic beauty, wildlife interactions, and desert magic, this tour delivers a memorable voyage. It’s best suited for those who want to see a wide part of Morocco in just a couple of days without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total journey?
The tour lasts around two days, with the drive from Fez to Merzouga taking most of that time. Expect scenic stops and breaks along the way.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the trip is in an air-conditioned private vehicle, which provides a comfortable ride, especially on long stretches.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews mention guides like Mostapha and Jamal, who are praised for their professionalism, kindness, and local knowledge.

What should I bring for the camel ride?
While not specified, it’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing, sun protection, and closed shoes, as you’ll be on camels in open desert areas.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.

Is food included?
Dinner is included, but lunch and other meals are at your own expense.

What’s the accommodation like?
The overnight is at a hotel in Merzouga, with luggage storage provided before heading into the desert.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers seeking a balanced mix of nature, culture, and adventure, and who prefer private, flexible arrangements.

Will I see much wildlife?
Yes, especially at Cedar Goro, where the monkeys are friendly and interactive, making for a fun wildlife experience.

This 2-day private tour covers a lot of ground and offers a genuine taste of Morocco’s diverse scenery and traditions. If you’re looking for an adventure that’s well-organized, authentic, and packed with picture-perfect moments, it’s worth considering.