2-Day from Fez to Merzouga: Overnight at Luxury Desert Camp

Planning a short but memorable escape into Morocco’s Sahara? This 2-day tour from Fez to Merzouga offers a taste of desert life, stunning scenery, and authentic Berber culture. While it’s a quick jaunt, it packs in plenty of highlights, making it perfect for travelers looking for an immersive yet manageable desert adventure.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines scenic variety—from the ancient Medina of Fez to the wilderness of the Middle Atlas Mountains, topped off with a night under the stars in Erg Chebbi. The guides seem well-informed, adding a layer of local color and insight that makes the journey feel personal. Plus, the overnight camp experience in a luxury desert bivouac feels both cozy and adventurous, offering a genuine desert night experience.

One minor consideration is that the tour is quite packed, especially with a 6-hour drive on the first day, so if you’re prone to travel fatigue or prefer a more leisurely pace, it’s worth planning your rest accordingly. Also, as with many desert trips, the weather can vary—hot during the day and chilly at night—so packing appropriately is essential.

This tour is ideal for those who want an authentic Sahara experience without dedicating several days, perfect for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Morocco’s iconic dunes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided trips with knowledgeable drivers and want a taste of luxury in their desert camp.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blends cultural, scenic, and adventure elements.
• Comfortable transport ensures smooth travel across diverse terrains.
• Authentic desert night with star gazing and local cuisine at a luxury camp.
• Expert guides bring familiarity and local insight, enhancing the experience.
• Limited group size (max 5 travelers) creates a more personalized journey.
• Value for money is notable given the inclusions like camel rides and quality accommodations.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Fez Medina

The tour kicks off early from your Fez accommodation, with pickup arranged directly from your hotel. This means you won’t need to worry about logistics—your guide, Hicham, and the team handle everything. We hear from past travelers that Hicham is not only knowledgeable but also friendly, making the journey more engaging. The departure at 8:00 am allows for a relaxed start, but keep in mind that the day will be filled with driving and sightseeing.

Crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains

The first notable stop is Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its alpine-style architecture and snowy winters. This 15-minute break is enough to stretch your legs, and you’ll appreciate the fresh mountain air. Then you’ll head into the Azrou Cedar Forest, where you might spot wild monkeys—a charming touch that adds to the outdoor adventure.

Driving through the forest and the rugged Middle Atlas Mountains stands out as a highlight. The landscape transitions from lush greenery to rocky terrains, giving you a sense of Morocco’s geographic diversity. Past travelers mention the scenery here as “pretty forests and springs,” offering a peaceful interlude before heading into the desert.

Midelt and the Fossil Capital

Midelt is a natural pause for lunch, and this town’s fame as a fossil and rock hub makes it an interesting stop. While the tour doesn’t specify a specific restaurant, the time allocated suggests you’ll get a taste of local cuisine or at least a quick refresh before the final stretch. This provides a nice break from the long drive and a chance to see a different side of Morocco’s geological richness.

Approaching Merzouga

As you near your destination, the landscape opens up into expansive desert views. Arriving in Merzouga around early afternoon, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking vistas of palm-filled oases set against towering dunes. Past reviews praise the “wide view of vast oasis with palm trees” as truly stunning.

The Camel Ride and Desert Camp

After a mint tea break, the real fun begins—camel riding into the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Expect to spend about an hour atop a camel, with the sunset providing the perfect backdrop. Several reviewers mention that guides are attentive and friendly, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride. The camels are secured at the camp, allowing you to relax and enjoy the desert silence.

The desert camp itself is described as a luxurious bivouac, blending traditional Berber tents with comfort. Guests rave about the starry night sky—“falling asleep to a blanket of stars” is a common phrase—and the authenticity of the setting. Dinner is included, offering local flavors, and many mention the camp’s cozy atmosphere and the chance to truly connect with desert life.

Second Day: Sunrise and Local Exploration

The next morning begins with a camel trek to catch the sunrise—a highlight according to travelers who describe it as breathtaking, with a “majestic Lawrence of Arabia feeling.” After breakfast, you’ll visit Rissani’s vibrant souk and mausoleums, giving a glimpse into local traditions and history. Erfoud, known for fossils and date palms, wraps up your desert adventure with a final scenic stop.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses modern vehicles or 4x4s, ensuring comfort across varied terrain. With a maximum group size of five, the experience feels intimate, and guides can offer personalized attention. The driver’s role is crucial here; Hicham and other guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the long drives more enjoyable.

Price and Value

At $420.85 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded mix of scenery, culture, and comfort. Including camel rides, overnight stay, meals, and transport, most travelers find the cost reasonable given the quality of experience. The camp’s luxurious aspect adds a touch of indulgence to the adventure, making it a worthwhile investment.

What’s Not Included

Personal expenses, drinks, tips, and optional upgrades aren’t covered, so budget accordingly. The tour’s focus is on the core experience, so additional spending on souvenirs or extra activities is at your discretion.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Morocco’s desert within a short time frame. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable drivers and are comfortable with a packed schedule. Adventure seekers will love the camel trek and starry night, while culture buffs will enjoy the stops in Rissani and Erfoud.

Practical Tips

• Pack layers; desert temperatures can swing from hot days to cool evenings.
• Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for daytime exploration.
• A camera with a good zoom will help capture the stunning dunes and mountain vistas.
• Confirm your pickup details and be ready at your hotel by 8:00 am.
• Be prepared for a full day of travel and sightseeing—rest well the night before.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Fez to Merzouga tour offers a balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and authentic desert nights. The experience is elevated by attentive guides, comfortable transport, and a starry night in the Sahara that many travelers will cherish. It’s a solid choice for those who want a taste of Morocco’s iconic dunes without committing to a longer trip or multiple overnight stays.

While the itinerary is packed, the value for money and quality of the highlights make it worthwhile. It’s especially fitting for adventurous travelers eager to see the Sahara’s vastness, experience local Berber hospitality, and capture unforgettable memories under millions of stars.

FAQ

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, making logistics hassle-free.

What kind of transportation is used?
The trip features modern tourism cars or 4x4s, ensuring a comfortable ride through Morroco’s diverse landscapes.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to a maximum of five travelers, creating a more personal and flexible experience.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay overnight in a luxury desert camp, which offers traditional Berber tents with added comfort, dinner, and breakfast.

Are meals included?
Dinner and breakfast at the camp are included, but any additional drinks or lunches are not covered.

How long is the camel ride?
The camel ride into the dunes lasts about an hour, providing ample opportunity for photos and enjoying the scenery.

Can I see stars at the camp?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight the incredible stargazing in the clear desert night sky, a highlight for most guests.

What should I pack?
Bring layers for temperature changes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and your camera. If you plan to explore or take photos, a portable charger is also helpful.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult, but consider their comfort with long drives and outdoor activities.

This 2-day desert journey from Fez to Merzouga delivers an authentic taste of Morocco’s Sahara, blending adventure with cultural richness, all wrapped up in a memorable overnight experience under the stars.