Fes desert tours 2 days

Exploring the 2-Day Fez Desert Tour: A Practical and Authentic Moroccan Adventure

This 2-day Fez desert tour offers a window into Morocco’s diverse landscapes, combining mountain scenery, lush forests, and the stunning sands of Erg Chebbi. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and thoughtful design suggest it’s a well-rounded way to experience Morocco’s natural beauty in a short time.

What stands out most about this tour are the careful planning that balances sightseeing with comfort, the knowledgeable driver guide who makes the journey engaging, and the chance to witness the sunrise over the dunes—a truly unforgettable highlight. We also appreciate the flexible pickup and drop-off options, making it convenient for travelers staying in Fez.

However, it’s important to note that this is a private tour with no included meals or overnight accommodation, so travelers should plan accordingly. Those who love scenic drives, authentic desert experiences, and local culture will find this trip ideal. If you’re after a quick yet comprehensive taste of Morocco’s desert, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• Authentic Desert Experience: Witness the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes and catch a breathtaking sunrise.
• Comfortable, Private Transportation: Travel in a private vehicle with a professional, English-speaking driver.
• Beautiful Scenic Stops: Visit Ifrane, “Switzerland of Morocco,” and the cedar forests of Azrou.
• Culturally Rich Stops: Enjoy lunch in Midelt and admire mountain views along the way.
• Flexible, Convenient: Includes pickup and drop-off, with a day starting early at 7:30 am.
• Good Value for a 2-Day Tour: For about $290, you get a mix of nature, culture, and adventure, though meals and accommodations are separate.

A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Fez Desert Tour

The Journey Begins: From Fez to the Middle Atlas

The adventure kicks off early in the morning, with pickup from your hotel or airport—a major convenience for travelers with tight schedules or arriving at odd hours. The drive from Fez is approximately a day-long adventure, so sitting back and enjoying the scenery is part of the experience.

The first stop is in Fes el-Bali, Morocco’s ancient medina, where you might get a quick glimpse of the city’s vibrant alleyways before heading out. From there, the journey takes a scenic turn towards Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” This town’s Swiss-inspired architecture and cool mountain air provide a refreshing break from the desert heat, and it’s a great spot for photos or just stretching your legs.

Next, the route continues to Azrou, famous for its Cedar Forest—home to playful monkeys that often steal the show in visitor photos. As one reviewer pointed out, “you can enjoy the views of the monkeys,” making this a memorable and authentic stop. The lush greenery and mountain air add a surprising contrast to the desert landscapes ahead.

Midelt and the Mountain Passes

From Azrou, the tour heads toward Midelt, a small town nestled between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas mountains. This is where most travelers will enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch—an authentic pause that lets you sample local flavors. Depending on your guide, you might find the restaurant offering regional specialties, which adds flavor to the journey beyond just the scenery.

After lunch, the drive continues through Tizi N Talghamt and on to Errachidia, with stunning views of mountain passes, rocky outcrops, and terraced fields. This part of the drive is particularly praised for its breathtaking vistas, making the long hours in the car feel worthwhile.

Arrival at Erg Chebbi Dunes

The final leg takes you into the Sahara’s iconic dunes of Erg Chebbi. The vast, rolling sands are a sight that sticks with travelers long after the trip ends. Many reviews highlight the sunset and sunrise over the dunes as the tour’s climatic moments—an experience that’s genuinely worth the early wake-up call.

Morning: Sunrise and Camel Ride

Day 2 begins before dawn, with an early wake-up to chase the sunrise atop the dunes. This is often cited as the most breathtaking part of the trip—the way the dunes glow as the sun rises over the horizon. After sunrise, you’ll enjoy breakfast in a nomadic tent, an experience that provides a taste of traditional desert life.

Following breakfast, most travelers will have time for a camel ride back to the vehicle, adding a fun and immersive element to the desert scenery. It’s a classic Morocco experience, and one that’s widely appreciated for the chance to view the dunes from a different perspective.

Return to Fez

After a relaxed morning, the journey back to Fez begins. The drive home includes plenty of opportunities to reflect on the trip, enjoy the changing landscapes, and maybe even doze off if you’re tired. The driver will drop you off at your accommodation or airport, making the whole experience straightforward and hassle-free.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers private transportation and a professional English-speaking driver, which means you’re traveling comfortably without the chaos of larger group tours. Pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics simple.

The price of $289.79 per person seems reasonable considering the scope of the trip—covering a lot of ground and offering scenic stops, cultural insights, and the desert highlight. However, keep in mind that meals and accommodation are not included, so budget for these separately. The cost doesn’t cover any personal items, so you’ll want to bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and a hat.

What Travelers Say

A reviewer described the tour as a “Breath-taking experience,” highlighting the guide’s professionalism and the “amazing” drive that made the desert trip memorable. The driver, Amine, was praised for his helpfulness, making the long journey more engaging and comfortable.

Another key insight from reviews is the knowledgeable guidance and the stunning views, which really elevate the experience. This suggests that the driver-guide isn’t just there to drive but also to enhance your understanding of the landscapes and Morocco’s culture.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 2-day adventure is perfect for travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of Morocco’s natural beauty. It’s especially suitable for those interested in scenic drives, desert landscapes, and mountain scenery. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences without the hassle of planning each detail, this tour makes it easy.

It’s also a good fit for independent travelers who want everything organized and guided, but who still enjoy having some free time at the dunes for photos or quiet reflection. Keep in mind, if you’re after luxury accommodations or meal inclusions, you might want to look elsewhere or plan additional arrangements.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Fes desert tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally rich introduction to Morocco’s desert and mountain landscapes. Priced reasonably for what you get, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a taste of adventure with minimal hassle.

The highlights—like the sunrise over Erg Chebbi, the scenic mountain passes, and the knowledgeable guide—are what really make this trip stand out. The flexibility with pickups and the private transport add to its value, making it a practical and memorable option for curious travelers.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of nature, culture, and adventure in just two days, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who prioritize comfort, authentic scenery, and a touch of Moroccan magic without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation with a professional English-speaking driver is included, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, so be ready early for pickup at your hotel or accommodation.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you will have the chance to enjoy lunch in Midelt and breakfast in the desert.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Since the tour involves some walking and camel rides, it’s best suited for travelers in good health. Check with the provider if you need specific accommodations.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering personalized attention and flexibility.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like water, sunscreen, a hat, and camera gear. Personal items are not included, so pack accordingly.

What about accommodations?
Overnight stays in the desert are not included. You’ll return to Fez in the evening after the sunrise experience.

To sum it up, this 2-day Fez desert tour provides a practical, immersive, and scenic way to explore Morocco’s desert and mountain scenery. With excellent reviews highlighting the expert guidance and stunning vistas, it’s a valuable choice for those seeking an unforgettable Moroccan adventure—without overcomplicating the logistics. Just pack your sense of adventure and a camera, and you’re set for a memorable journey.