2 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga Sahara

Planning a trip to Morocco and wondering how to squeeze in the Sahara experience without sacrificing your itinerary? This 2 Days Tour from Fes to Merzouga Sahara offers a compact yet immersive desert adventure that hits many highlights—think camel treks, desert camps, and scenic stops—without the need for multiple days off. While it’s a whirlwind trip, it’s packed with memorable moments and insightful guides, making it a great option for travelers with limited time.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the professional guidance and friendly service. Reviewers repeatedly mention how knowledgeable and helpful the guides are, adding layers of stories and local tips that elevate the experience. Second, the stunning scenery, from Ifrane’s alpine charm to the sweeping dunes of Erg Chebbi, truly leaves an impression. Third, the value for money at just under $150 per person, including all major activities — a package that feels both affordable and comprehensive.

One potential consideration? The long hours of travel—the drive from Fes to Merzouga is substantial, roughly 7 hours each way, so it’s not suited for those seeking a leisurely pace or multi-day desert experiences. But if you’ve got a tight schedule and crave a taste of the Sahara, this tour delivers.

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Morocco’s diverse landscapes in a short timeframe, and those who appreciate guided tours that enhance their understanding with local insights. It also suits first-timers who want a structured experience with all the essentials covered.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Price: At around $150, the tour offers a solid value, covering transportation, meals, camp accommodation, and activities.
• Expert Guides: Reviewers highlight guides like Mustapha and Ahmed, praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience.
• Stunning Views: From Ifrane’s snowy charm to the Sahara’s golden dunes, the scenery is a major highlight.
• Authentic Experience: Camel trekking, campfire dinners, and Berber music create an immersive desert night.
• Efficient Itinerary: A well-organized schedule maximizes sightseeing and adventure in just two days.
• Limited Flexibility: Long travel hours mean less time at each stop, but the highlights are thoughtfully included.

The Breakdown of the 2-Day Fes to Merzouga Sahara Tour

Day 1: From Fes to the Sahara

The journey kicks off early at around 7:30 a.m., with a pickup from your hotel in Fes. This early start is perfect for maximizing your day, especially since the drive itself is part of the experience. The first stop in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco,” is a delightful surprise. Known for its Swiss-style architecture and winter snow if you’re visiting during colder months, Ifrane offers a charming break from the drive. It’s a photograph-worthy spot, and many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the chance to stretch their legs while soaking in the scenic vistas.

Next, your route takes you to Azrou’s cedar forest, home to the famous Barbary macaque monkeys. Here, you’ll see these playful primates in their natural habitat—a rare opportunity for wildlife lovers. Reviewers like one who enjoyed taking photos of the monkeys, emphasizing how authentic this moment felt, especially since the forest is included in the itinerary and perfectly timed for quick visits.

Continuing eastward, you’ll pass through Erfoud and Aoufous, towns known for fossils and dates. Erfoud even hosts an annual fossil festival, and if you’re lucky, you can visit a local fossil workshop, adding a unique local touch to your trip. Following this, you arrive at the Erg Chebbi dunes, the iconic Sahara landscape. Once here, the camels await for a trek into the dunes, designed to watch both the sunset and sunrise—an experience many reviewers describe as magical.

The camel ride lasts about an hour and a half, allowing you to enjoy the shifting sands and peaceful views. One reviewer loved doing sandboarding, which adds a fun twist to the traditional camel trek. After sunset, you’ll be welcomed to your desert camp for the night, where you’ll enjoy mint tea, traditional dinner, and Berber music around the campfire. The stargazing here is a highlight for many, with the clear desert sky offering a dazzling display of stars.

Day 2: Sunrise and Return to Fes

The next morning starts early with a classic desert sunrise—an unforgettable sight that many reviewers describe as one of life’s “beautiful moments.” After breakfast and a quick shower at the camp, you’ll return to the starting point either on camelback or via 4WD, depending on your preference.

The drive back to Fes takes about 7 hours, with scenic stops along the way for photography and breaks. These pauses allow you to stretch tired legs and enjoy additional vistas, making the long journey more comfortable. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or the airport, bringing your 2-day Moroccan desert adventure to a close.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers most essential elements: dinner, breakfast, the desert camp experience, and camel treks. These inclusions are key to understanding the value—you’re paying for a comprehensive experience rather than just transportation. The desert camp is particularly appreciated; reviewers note the comfort and authenticity of the overnight stay, with some mentioning Berber music and starry nights as standout moments.

However, lunches and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy them during stops. This flexibility is helpful if you prefer specific foods or want to control your hydration.

Transport and Group Size

Transportation is typically with a private or semi-private vehicle, ensuring comfort during the long drive. The tour limits group size to a maximum of 8 travelers, which helps maintain a personal and relaxed atmosphere, according to reviews. This small-group setting makes it easier to ask questions and engage with your guide, often a highlight for travelers who value local insights.

Practical Tips for Your Sahara Adventure

• Start early: The 7:30 a.m. pickup maximizes your sightseeing window.
• Bring layers: Ifrane can be snowy or cold, while the desert is hot during the day and chilly at night.
• Camera ready: The scenic stops and sunset/sunrise are picture-perfect.
• Book in advance: The tour is popular and often booked 13 days ahead, so secure your spot early.
• Be prepared for long drives: While the destinations are worth it, the journey can be tiring. Use the stops to refresh.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Reviewers consistently praise guide Mustapha and Ahmed for their friendliness and knowledge. One shared how Mustapha was “very patient and accommodating,” making the long drive more enjoyable. Many also appreciated the extra bits—like the opportunity to take photos of the monkeys or enjoy local music and dancing at the camp—adding layers of cultural richness.

The scenery, especially the dunes and the star-studded desert night, receives high praise. One reviewer called it “a beautiful moment in life,” capturing the emotional impact of witnessing the sunrise over the dunes.

Does this Tour Offer Great Value?

Absolutely. For under $150, you get transportation, guided stops, meals, an overnight desert camp, and unforgettable scenery. It’s a well-rounded package perfect for those who want the essentials of the Sahara without the commitment of a multi-day tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers with limited time who want a highlight reel of Morocco’s Sahara. It suits first-timers looking for a guided experience that covers major sights with professional guides. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife sightings, and a taste of desert life—plus, it suits people comfortable with a packed schedule and long travel hours.

FAQs

Is pickup offered from my hotel? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Fes at around 7:30 a.m.

How long is the drive from Fes to Merzouga? The drive takes approximately 7 hours, with scenic stops along the way to break up the journey.

What activities are included? The tour features camel trekking, overnight camping in the desert camp, and stops at Ifrane, Azrou’s cedar forest, and Erfoud.

Are meals included? Dinner and breakfast are included, but lunches and drinks are not.

Can I do sandboarding? Yes, sandboarding is available if you’re interested, adding extra fun during your camel trek.

How many people are in the group? The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the desert camp comfortable? Reviewers mention the camp offers a cozy and authentic experience, with opportunities to enjoy Berber music and see starry skies.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Fes to Merzouga Sahara tour offers a practical and memorable way to experience Morocco’s iconic desert. It balances scenic stops, cultural moments, and adventure, all wrapped into a well-priced package. While the long drive might not suit every traveler, those eager for an authentic Sahara experience without a multi-day commitment will find plenty to love here.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights, scenic beauty, and the thrill of camel rides and starry nights. For a quick escape into the Sahara’s vastness, this tour delivers a comprehensive taste of Morocco’s most famous landscape in just two days.

Whether you’re seeking your first desert adventure or just want a snapshot of the Sahara’s magic, this tour provides a solid foundation—complete with expert guides, stunning views, and authentic experiences—making it a worthwhile addition to your Moroccan journey.