2 Days, 1 Night Luxury Desert Trip (Fes to Fes Or Marrakech)

A Detailed Look at the 2 Days, 1 Night Luxury Desert Trip from Fez or Marrakech

Planning a trip to Morocco and dreaming of the Sahara? This 2-day, 1-night luxury desert tour promises an unforgettable adventure, weaving together scenic landscapes, cultural glimpses, and a touch of desert glamour. With a mix of guided stops, comfortable accommodations, and memorable activities, it’s an option that appeals to those craving a taste of the desert’s allure—though some might find the “luxury” aspect not quite up to expectations.

What We Like About This Tour
First, the scenic journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the lush Ziz Valley to the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi, offers countless photo opportunities. Second, the guided stops at Ifrane (Morocco’s Switzerland) and Azrou’s cedar forests give travelers a chance to experience local flora and fauna, including playful Barbary macaques. Third, the camel trek at sunset and sunrise are genuinely magical moments that make this trip special.

However, there’s a caveat: some reviewers have noted that the “luxury” element might be more marketing than reality, with a few feeling disappointed about the quality of accommodations and the overall experience. Still, for those seeking an authentic desert adventure with comfort, this tour offers a good balance.

This tour suits travelers who want a structured, guided experience with scenic stops, the thrill of desert camping, and a manageable itinerary packed into just two days. It’s ideal for those new to Morocco or travelers short on time but eager to see both the mountains and Sahara in one trip.

Key Points

• Scenic landscapes abound, from mountain passes to desert dunes.
• Guided stops provide cultural insights and natural beauty.
• Camel rides at sunset and sunrise are highlights for many.
• Comfortable desert camp with private tents and attached bathrooms.
• Group size is limited to 50 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.
• Price point at around $151 per person offers decent value, though reviews suggest some feel it doesn’t fully match the “luxury” claim.

An In-Depth Review of the Desert Trip Experience

Starting Point: From Fez or Marrakech

The journey kicks off early morning, with a pickup from your hotel or riad—an easy way to kickstart the adventure without logistics stress. The tour’s flexibility with pickup locations is a plus, allowing travelers from either city to join comfortably. The air-conditioned vehicle is generally modern, making the long drive more bearable, especially since you’ll spend around 10 hours on the first day.

Traveling Through Morocco’s Diverse Terrain

The route itself is part of the charm. As you leave Fez or Marrakech behind, the scenery shifts from bustling medinas to the tranquil hills of the Middle Atlas Mountains. The highlight here is the stop in Ifrane, often called Morocco’s Switzerland, with its Swiss-style chalets and alpine vibe. It’s a picture-perfect moment to stretch your legs and snap some photos of the mountain views.

Next, you’ll visit the cedar forests of Azrou, where the playful Barbary macaques are a crowd favorite. This stop is particularly appreciated by travelers, who love seeing the monkeys in their natural environment—something you might not expect in Morocco. One reviewer noted, “The cedar forests and the macaques made for a super fun break,” highlighting how this adds a bit of wildlife charm to the trip.

Midelt and the Scenic Drive to the Desert

After a hearty lunch in Midelt, known as Morocco’s apple capital, the journey continues toward the Sahara. This leg covers approximately 10 hours, but it’s broken up with scenic stops and the anticipation of arriving at the dunes. The drive through the Ziz Valley is spectacular—palm groves, cliffs, and high-quality dates make this a feast for the eyes.

Reaching Erg Chebbi and the Desert Dunes

As you approach Merzouga, the landscape transforms from mountains and valleys to endless sand dunes. The Erg Chebbi dunes are the main spectacle here, and many find the view awe-inspiring. The sunset over the dunes is often a standout moment, with reviews praising the “breathtaking colors” and “unforgettable views.”

Camel Trek and Desert Camp

One of the tour’s most noticeable features is the camel trek to a traditional Berber camp. The experience is generally described as “magical,” with some reviewers mentioning the shadows lengthening as the sun dips behind the dunes. The camel ride typically lasts around 30-60 minutes—not quite the promised 90 minutes according to some reviews, which can be a disappointment for those expecting a longer ride.

The desert camp is designed to feel both authentic and comfortable. It boasts luxury private tents with attached bathrooms, a notable feature for those seeking a level of privacy and some comfort under the stars. However, some travelers have noted that the “luxury” aspect is more marketing than reality, mentioning that the tents and facilities are quite basic, and some could do with an upgrade.

Night Under the Stars

Camping under the desert sky is a highlight, with many reviewers sharing that the stars are vivid and the atmosphere peaceful. Although dinner is included, the quality and variety can vary, and some found it a bit underwhelming; others appreciated the chance to disconnect and enjoy the solitude of the desert.

Sunrise and Return Trip

The next morning begins with a sunrise over the dunes, which is truly spectacular. Many mention that this moment alone justifies the trip. After breakfast, a camel ride back to camp offers a peaceful way to start the day’s journey home.

The return route takes you through Boumalne Dades, famous for its stunning landscapes, and stops at Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate—sites with cinematic appeal and traditional Berber architecture. These stops are not long, but they add a visual richness to the trip, and travelers can take photos or stretch their legs.

Return to Fez or Marrakech

The last leg is a drive back, with brief stops along the way, arriving in your original city comfortably by evening. The long day is packed but offers a full view of Morocco’s diverse scenery, from mountains and valleys to desert plains.

Practical Considerations and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, which are generally reliable and comfortable, especially considering the long hours on the road. The group size can be up to 50 travelers, making it a lively experience but still manageable for most.

Duration and Pacing

The 2-day schedule means a lot of miles. While the trip is well-organized, the first day can feel quite long, especially with the drive through varied terrains. The focus is on sightseeing and comfort, but be prepared for a full day of travel.

Accommodation and Comfort

The desert camp promises “luxury tents,” though reviews suggest that this might be subjective. The tents are private and with attached bathrooms, which is a plus, but don’t expect luxury hotel standards. Some travelers felt the overall quality didn’t quite match the “luxury” branding.

Price and Value

At roughly $151 per person, the tour offers a decent price for a guided, all-inclusive experience with activities, meals, and accommodation. However, the value depends on expectations—those seeking true luxury might be disappointed, but those after an authentic desert experience with comfort should find it reasonable.

Booking and Timing

Most travelers book about 39 days in advance, indicating steady interest. The start time of 7:30 am is early but necessary given the extensive itinerary.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-timers wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Morocco’s landscapes in a short time. It suits those who enjoy guided experiences, scenic drives, and camel rides. If you’re okay with a comfortable, but not overly luxurious, camp experience and don’t mind the long travel hours, you’ll find this tour a rewarding adventure.

Who Might Want to Skip or Adjust?

If you’re expecting high-end luxury accommodations in the desert, this might not meet your standards. The long drive can be tiring, especially if you prefer more relaxed pacing. Budget travelers seeking the lowest price might also find better deals elsewhere, but they should temper expectations about the inclusions.

Final Verdict

This 2-day desert trip from Fez or Marrakech offers a well-rounded experience of Morocco’s mountain scenery and Sahara’s majestic dunes, with significant highlights like sunset views and camel trekking. While the “luxury” label may be somewhat overstated, the combination of scenic stops, cultural insights, and the unforgettable desert camp makes it a solid choice for those eager to see Morocco’s diverse landscapes in a short span.

For travelers who value authentic moments, spectacular views, and an organized itinerary, this tour provides notable value. It’s especially suited for those new to Morocco or those with limited time who want a taste of the Sahara without sacrificing comfort.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $151.49 per person?
The tour covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, dinner, camel trekking, and a luxury private tent with attached bathrooms at the desert camp.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level since there are some walking and camel riding activities involved.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund.

What if I don’t want to participate in all activities?
Since the tour is guided and structured, you can choose to skip certain stops or activities if you prefer, but check with the tour provider for specific flexibility.

Are the accommodations in the desert camp truly luxurious?
Reviews suggest that while the tents are private with attached bathrooms, the “luxury” aspect is relative; some guests felt accommodations were basic.

How long is the camel ride to the camp?
The camel trek to the desert camp is approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on conditions, with some guests wishing it had been longer.

Is there free time at the desert camp?
The itinerary is tightly scheduled, but you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the desert atmosphere after sunset and before sunrise—great for photos and relaxing under the stars.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this desert adventure. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, cultural stops, or a memorable night under desert skies, it’s a tour that covers the essentials—just keep your expectations aligned with the reality of the “luxury” branding.