2 Days trip in a small group from FEZ to FEZ passing by MERZOUGA

A Complete Look at the 2-Day Fez to Merzouga Small Group Tour

Thinking of venturing into Morocco’s desert landscapes and scenic mountain views? This 2-day group tour from Fez to Merzouga promises an authentic experience, guided by a multilingual driver who shares the secrets of Morocco along the way. With a solid 5.0 rating from reviewers, it’s clear many travelers find it both fun and worthwhile.

What we love about this trip? First, the opportunity to see unique Moroccan towns like Ifrane, often called “the little Moroccan Swiss” for its charming, alpine-style architecture. Second, the close-up views of the cedar forests and the famous monkey valley in Azrou offer a playful and unforgettable wildlife encounter. Third, the desert experience itself—riding camels into the Sahara and spending a night under the stars in a Berber camp—is pure adventure.

However, a potential consideration is the relatively packed schedule and long travel hours, especially on the second day. For those seeking a more relaxed, unhurried pace, this might feel a bit brisk. Still, for those wanting a mix of scenic stops, cultural insights, and desert magic, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers craving a taste of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from mountains and forests to vast sandy dunes. If you’re comfortable with limited free time per stop and enjoy guided group experiences, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic Moroccan experience: From mountain villages to desert dunes, the tour offers authentic sights and moments.
• Expert guidance: A multilingual driver provides insightful commentary and local stories, enriching the journey.
• Stunning scenery: Expect panoramic mountain views, cedar forests, and expansive Sahara dunes.
• Comfortable transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle keeps travelers comfortable across long drives.
• Well-reviewed: Consistently high ratings reflect reliable organization and memorable experiences.
• Limited lunch options: Lunch is included in Midelt, but travelers should plan for additional food stops on the return.

An In-Depth Review of the Fez to Merzouga Tour

Starting from Fez: Early Morning Pickup and Introduction

The adventure begins at 8:00am, with pickup offered from designated points in Fez. This early start ensures you’ll make the most of the two days—crucial when covering such a diverse range of sights. The group size is small, capped at six travelers, which means more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions or get recommendations from your driver. The vehicle? An air-conditioned van, perfect for tackling Morocco’s varied climate and long drives.

Day 1: From Mountain Towns to the Edge of the Sahara

Stop at Ifrane National Park
The first stop is at Ifrane, often called “the Moroccan Switzerland.” Here, its quaint architecture – with chalet-style houses and well-maintained streets – makes it look like a European mountain town. With just a 30-minute visit, it’s enough time to stroll a bit, snap photos, and appreciate the cool, alpine atmosphere. Travelers mention its unique vibe, especially compared to other Moroccan cities.

Azrou Cedar Forest and Monkey Valley
Next, the journey continues to Azrou. This tiny town is famous for the cedar forests that host a lively population of Barbary macaques. Watching these monkeys lounge and play in their natural habitat is a highlight, especially for animal lovers. The 20-minute stop is short but sweet, allowing you a glimpse of Morocco’s wild side without a long hike.

Midelt for Lunch and Scenic Views
Midelt serves as the lunch stop and a chance to enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine—grilled meats and vegetables tagines—set against the backdrop of the majestic Atlas Mountains. The included lunch, with its hearty, home-style flavors, offers good value and a taste of local culinary craftsmanship. The landscape on the drive is stunning, with sweeping mountain vistas that make the long ride more enjoyable. Reviewers note that the driver is knowledgeable, sharing stories and insights about the mountains and local culture.

Ziz Valley Panoramic Stop
Post-lunch, a visit to the Ziz gas station allows for a quick rest and a chance to admire the lush Ziz Valley from a panoramic viewpoint. The green palms and flowing stream contrast beautifully with the arid surroundings elsewhere, offering fantastic photo opportunities. It’s a brief stop (about 25 minutes), but travelers often comment on the breathtaking scenery and the relaxing atmosphere.

Arriving at Merzouga: The Gateway to Sahara
The climax of the day is reaching Merzouga, a small desert town famous for its towering sand dunes. Many reviews highlight the excitement of riding a camel through the dunes at sunset—a true bucket-list moment. The overnight stay is at a Berber camp, where the local hosts welcome guests with traditional music, food, and storytelling under a star-studded sky. The camp experience is often praised for its comfort and authenticity, with travelers mentioning the welcoming staff and delicious food.

Day 2: Sahara Sunrise and Return Journey

Early Morning Sahara Sunrise
Waking before dawn is a must-do for this trip, as the sunrise over the dunes creates a surreal, almost otherworldly setting. Riding a camel back to the camp or hotel, you’ll enjoy the peaceful dawn light reflecting on the sand. Several reviewers note that this was a highlight, with one calling it “never-to-be-forgotten memories” thanks to the stunning view and the guide’s storytelling.

Breakfast and Departure
Back at the hotel, breakfast is included—offering a well-deserved rest and refresh after the night in the desert. From here, the journey back begins, with a stop in Zaida, a small Berber town, for a local meal before heading toward Ifrane once more. The lunch stop isn’t included but is recommended for those craving more Moroccan cuisine during the return.

Relaxing Break at Ifrane
As the tour wraps up, a final stop at Ifrane offers the chance to relax, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, and soak in the calming atmosphere of this mountain retreat. Many reviews mention this as a peaceful way to end the trip before arriving back in Fez around 5 pm.

Deep Dive into the Experience: What You’ll Actually Get

The itinerary balances scenic views, cultural stops, and desert adventure. You’ll love the way the driver narrates stories about local legends and history, adding depth to each stop. The included accommodation in a Berber camp is often described as both authentic and surprisingly comfortable, with some reviews mentioning the quality of the tents and the warmth of the staff.

Transportation is a significant plus—getting around in a modern, air-conditioned van keeps the long drives manageable. The small group size guarantees personal attention, quick responses to questions, and a more intimate atmosphere compared to larger tours.

The price of $188.48 per person is quite reasonable considering the comprehensive itinerary, included meals, and overnight stay. When you factor in the value of the scenery, the cultural insights, and the experience of camel riding, it’s an attractive package that offers good bang for your buck.

The Value of Authenticity and Comfort

While reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, they also highlight the quality of the food, especially during the lunch in Midelt and the dinner in the camp. The scenic stops—Ifrane, Azrou, Ziz Valley—are well-chosen for their visual impact and cultural interest, making each moment worthwhile.

A Few Considerations

The itinerary is quite full, with long drives and limited time at each stop. If you prefer leisurely exploration or spontaneous adventures, this might feel rushed. Also, lunch is not included on the return journey from Zaida, so travelers should plan accordingly or bring snacks. The tour begins early and finishes around 5 pm in Fez, which is suitable for most but might be tight for those with tight travel schedules afterward.

Authenticity and Review Highlights

Multiple reviewers have expressed how guided stories and local tips made the experience more meaningful. One recounts that their driver, Abdou, was “the nicest guy ever,” speaking perfect English and sharing plenty of interesting anecdotes. The desert night was described as “amazing,” with some travelers noting the surprise comfort of the tents and the quality of the meals.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and adventure without too much hassle. It’s perfect if you’re keen on seeing Morocco’s mountain towns, forests, and dunes in a short timeframe. The small group format offers intimacy and personalized service, great for curious souls who enjoy storytelling and local insights.

If you’re after an authentic desert experience combined with cultural stops and don’t mind a packed schedule, this tour is a strong choice. It also suits first-timers to Morocco, offering a good overview without the need to plan independently.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Fez to Merzouga tour offers a well-rounded adventure, combining Morocco’s mountain, forest, and desert landscapes into a compact, memorable journey. The inclusion of authentic accommodation, scenic stops, and a knowledgeable guide makes it excellent value, especially for those seeking a taste of Morocco’s diverse scenery without the stress of planning every detail.

The tour’s highlights—like the monkey valley, the panoramic Ziz Valley, and the Sahara sunrise—are genuinely spectacular. The small group size and comfortable transport create a more personal experience, while reviews confirm the overall reliability and quality of the trip.

For travelers who thrive on authentic moments, stunning views, and insightful guides, this trip provides a compelling, hassle-free way to explore Morocco’s highlights. It’s best suited for adventurous, curious travelers eager to see a variety of landscapes and cultures in just two days.

FAQs

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from designated points in Fez, making it convenient to start your journey without worry.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate group.

Are meals included?
Breakfast and dinner are included, with lunch provided during the stop in Midelt. Additional meals outside of these are at your own expense.

How long is the drive between stops?
While exact durations aren’t specified, expect several hours of driving each day, with scenic stops along the way.

Is accommodation in the desert comfortable?
Yes, the Berber camp is described as surprisingly comfortable, with reviews mentioning good tents and friendly staff.

Can I see the Sahara dunes at sunrise?
Absolutely. Waking early to watch the sunrise over the dunes is a highly praised part of the experience.

Who is the driver/guide?
The driver, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, is multilingual and shares stories about each stop.

Are the scenic stops worth it?
Yes. Ifrane, Azrou, and Ziz Valley are all highlighted for their unique beauty and cultural interest.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $188.48 per person, offering good value considering the included activities and accommodation.

What should I bring on the trip?
Comfortable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, some snacks, and a camera are recommended to make the most of your stops and desert experience.

This tour offers a fantastic overview of Morocco’s natural beauty and cultural charm, all wrapped in a comfortable, guided package. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a memorable way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes—mountains, forests, and deserts—in just two days.