2 days Sahara tour with overnight in luxury desert camp

Planning a trip to Morocco and dreaming of the Sahara might seem overwhelming, but this 2-day tour from Fez promises a well-structured, immersive experience. With a maximum group size of nine, it’s designed to give you a taste of desert life, along with comfortable accommodations and plenty of authentic moments.

What we love most about this tour? First, the personalized small-group vibe makes everything feel more intimate and relaxed. Second, the customizable stops like the cedar forest and fossil sites add a special touch, blending adventure with some educational fun. Third, the luxury desert camp stands out as an incredible highlight—glamping in the dunes with delicious food, live Berber music, and star-gazing.

The only thing to keep in mind is the long travel day on the first day, which is packed with stops and can feel a bit rushed if you’re expecting a quick trip. But with the promise of an unforgettable sunset, camel ride, and peaceful night in the desert, most travelers find it well worth it.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, lovers of stunning landscapes, and those wanting a taste of Moroccan culture in a short time. If you’re seeking a balance of comfort, adventure, and authentic desert magic, this experience is a fantastic pick.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 9) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Includes camel ride and overnight luxury camp, offering genuine Sahara immersion.
• Stops at cedar forests and fossil sites add unique regional insights.
• Sunrise over the dunes is a highlight, perfect for early risers.
• Includes all fees, dinner, breakfast, and transfers, providing good value.
• Not including lunch allows flexibility for your own preferences.
• Age range 12-60 makes it accessible for most travelers within this bracket.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Sahara Tour

How the Itinerary Unfolds

The journey begins bright and early at around 7 am in Fez. You’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, heading southeast through some of Morocco’s most scenic regions. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the Middle and Higher Atlas mountains, along with memorable stops at key sites.

First stop: Azrou Cedar Forest. This 15-minute pause is not just a photo op—it’s a chance to see Barbary macaques up close, often mischievous and friendly. As one reviewer noted, this stop is optional, but many found it a fun way to kick off the day amid lush greenery before heading into the desert’s sands.

Next: Fossils at Erfoud. Known for its fossils and marble, Erfoud is a treasure trove for fossil lovers or anyone curious about Morocco’s prehistoric past. While this stop is optional, it adds a unique layer to your trip, and a quick 10-minute look can be surprisingly engaging—especially if you’re into geology or history.

From Erfoud, the landscape begins shifting as you approach Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. The scenery becomes more arid, with the dunes slowly coming into view, signaling your transition from lush greenery to the iconic sandy expanse.

Lunchtime in Merzouga. After a delicious Moroccan meal, the journey continues along the Ziz Valley, renowned for its lushness and panoramic views. Here, you’ll stop at various points to soak in the desert vistas and the rugged beauty of this region.

Final stops: Rissani and the desert camp. Rissani, historic home of the Alaouite dynasty, offers a glimpse into Morocco’s royal roots. Then, you finally arrive at your luxurious desert camp—an oasis of comfort amid the dunes. This contrast of luxury and wilderness is what makes this tour unforgettable.

The Dunes and Camel Ride

One of the trip’s standout moments is the camel ride. Your guide will help you saddle up and lead you into the dunes—what better way to connect with Sahara life? The ride itself takes approximately 20-30 minutes, providing ample time to take photos and enjoy the serenity of the desert.

From the feedback, it’s clear that riding a camel here is a highlight—“riding your very own camel in the Sahara” was described as a memorable experience by many travelers, with the dunes providing a perfect backdrop for photos and quiet reflection.

The Desert Camp Experience

The real magic happens overnight. Staying in a luxury desert camp means you’ll sleep in a well-appointed tent with comforts that go beyond typical camping—think plush bedding, cozy decor, and a private setting under thousands of stars.

In the evening, the camp hosts a lively local music session, with live Berber tunes adding an authentic touch. You’ll enjoy a Moroccan dinner, often served as a communal experience, with fresh tagines and traditional dishes. Some reviewers mention the camp’s beautiful setting and the friendly, attentive staff, making it feel like a special retreat.

Sunrise and Breakfast in the Dunes

Waking before dawn is a must—the sunrise from the dunes is cited as one of the best moments of this trip. The early morning light paints the sands in warm hues, a calming and awe-inspiring sight. After the sunrise, breakfast awaits in the camp, a satisfying start before heading back.

The Return Journey

The trip back to Fez on day two is just as scenic, with a different perspective on the landscape as the sun moves across the sky. The route takes you through Errachidia and the Ziz Valley once more, giving you more chances to appreciate Morocco’s diverse terrain.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $357.90 per person, this experience packs a lot in—delivering transportation, guided stops, camel riding, and a two-night stay in a luxury camp. Many reviews steer towards the notion that the quality of accommodation, food, and guide expertise makes it a worthwhile investment.

Travelers often highlight their guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with some reviews specifically praising guides like Yousef and Hassan for their professionalism and humor. This adds a layer of trust, knowing you’re in good hands while exploring unfamiliar territory.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour features an air-conditioned vehicle, comfortable for the long drive, with a small group limit (max 9 travelers). This small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and flexibility—something larger tours often lack.

Stops and Scenic Highlights

Each stop is thoughtfully chosen to break up the drive and maximize your Moroccan experience. From lush cedar forests and fossil sites to the breathtaking dunes of Merzouga, each location adds a different flavor to your desert adventure.

Food and Accommodation

Dinner and breakfast are included, with many reviewers mentioning the quality of Moroccan cuisine served at the camp. While lunches are not included, this allows for personal choice—some travelers prefer to explore local eateries or bring snacks.

Timing and Flexibility

The tour runs approximately 2 days, with early starts and late finishes, fitting nicely into a longer Moroccan itinerary. The flexibility of pickup and the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours before start enhance its appeal.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

According to travelers, the desert camp is often described as “gorgeous” and the food as “delicious,” sometimes including live music that creates a festive atmosphere in the dunes.

Many mention the guides’ local knowledge, especially emphasizing guides like Youssef and Hassan for their friendliness, humor, and storytelling. One reviewer praised Yousef for his perfect English and accommodating attitude, making the trip feel very personalized.

The sunrise over the dunes emerges as a universally praised highlight, with people describing it as “maybe the best sunrise of my life” and “incredible.” The mornings in the desert are quiet, with an almost meditative quality that travelers cherish.

A Few Considerations

Some reviews mention the long travel day on the first day, especially if you’re coming from Fez, but most agree that the scenery and experiences along the way make it worthwhile. Also, since the tour is geared towards ages 12-60, it’s suitable for families and active travelers, but less so for very young children or seniors with mobility issues.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This Sahara experience is perfect for adventurers who love scenic drives and desert landscapes, as well as those craving an overnight in a luxurious setting amidst the dunes. It’s an excellent option for anyone wanting a short but immersive desert escape that balances comfort with authentic Moroccan culture. Travel groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a well-organized, small-group journey will find this tour particularly appealing.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire trip, ensuring comfort during the long drive.

What’s the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of nine travelers, which helps create a more intimate and flexible experience.

Are meals included?
Dinner and breakfast are included in the price. Lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to explore local options or pack snacks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for daytime, warm layers for the desert night, sun protection, and camera gear are recommended.

Can I do this tour if I don’t have much experience riding camels?
Camel rides are suitable for most, but if you have mobility concerns, it’s best to mention this when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s designed for ages 12-60, so it’s best suited for active and healthy travelers within this range.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of poor weather, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or full refund if needed.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Sahara tour from Fez offers a compelling blend of scenic drives, cultural stops, and the iconic desert experience of riding camels and sleeping under the stars in a luxury camp. The small-group setting keeps things personal and relaxed, while the thoughtfully chosen stops along the way add depth to the journey.

The highlight? Waking early to see the sunrise over endless dunes, followed by a night filled with Moroccan music and delicious food. If you’re after an affordable, well-organized desert adventure that balances adventure, comfort, and authentic charm, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Ideal for those short on time but eager for a genuine Sahara experience, this trip will leave you with memories of stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and the magic of Morocco’s sands.