Overnight Desert Tours from Fez to Fez

Planning a trip to Morocco and dreaming of crossing the Sahara? This overnight desert tour from Fez to Merzouga promises a compact yet immersive escape into the country’s iconic dunes, with plenty of scenic stops along the way. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What really stands out are the comfortable transportation in a well-maintained vehicle, the knowledgeable guides like Mustafa and Abdul, and the unique experience of sleeping under the stars in a private desert tent. The tour offers a great balance of adventure and comfort, especially considering the price point of around $199 per person. On the downside, some travelers note that the lunch is not included, so planning for snacks or a meal on the way is wise.

Ideal for those who want a short but memorable desert experience without the hassle of planning, this tour is perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time who still crave an authentic Sahara adventure. If you’re after a well-organized trip with reliable guides and scenic stops, this experience deserves serious consideration.

Key Points

• Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation ensures ease during long drives.
• Small group sizes (max 15 travelers) foster intimacy and personalized attention.
• Authentic desert experience includes camel rides and sleeping in private tents between dunes.
• Knowledgeable guides like Mustafa and Abdul are praised for friendliness and insights.
• Scenic stops through the Middle Atlas Mountains and Berber villages add cultural and natural flavor.
• Flexible drop-off options include Fez or Marrakech, adding convenience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Day 1: From Fez to the Desert

The journey begins around 8 AM, with pickup from your accommodation. You’ll hop into a spacious, air-conditioned mini van, which is a relief for the long drive ahead. The route crosses the Middle Atlas Mountains, known for their cedar forests and cool climate, offering a stark contrast to the desert ahead.

A highlight of this segment is passing through Ifrane, often called the “Moroccan Switzerland,” thanks to its European-style architecture and reputation as a ski destination. This city adds a touch of charm and is worth a brief stop for photos and a quick walk. You’ll also visit Azrou, one of Morocco’s renowned Berber towns, where traditional life persists amidst scenic surroundings.

The drive continues through lush rivers and palm groves, which are especially noticeable in the Middle Atlas region. These flourishing belts of greenery are surprisingly lush, considering the desert destination ahead. It’s a visual reminder of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and the importance of water sources in sustaining life.

Arrival at Merzouga and Camel Ride

Once in Merzouga, the real adventure begins with a camel ride to your private tent, perched between the towering dunes. The guides often have great rapport with travelers, and reviews highlight their friendliness and knowledge. Expect to be riding a traditional camel, a quintessential Sahara experience, with some riders noting the gentle rhythm makes it easy even for first-timers.

The Desert Camp Experience

Your tent, shared with other guests, is described as comfortable, with hot showers and bathroom facilities nearby. While “private” tents are mentioned, they are shared with other travelers, so don’t expect total seclusion, but privacy is generally respected.

Spending the night under a blanket of stars is often the highlight for many, with reviews praising the authenticity and magic of sleeping in the desert. One reviewer mentions, “We slept under a blanket of stars,” and describes the experience as peaceful and memorable. Guides are usually on hand for storytelling or stargazing tips, adding to the atmosphere.

Day 2: Returning or Continuing Your Journey

Depending on your plans, the tour drops you either back in Fez or in Marrakech. This flexible option means you can tailor your trip to fit your broader Morocco itinerary. Keep in mind that the return journey is long, so comfort in transportation and the scenic stops along the way are key to making the most of it.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Dinner and breakfast, which saves on meal planning.
• Air-conditioned vehicle for the entire trip.
• Camel ride and overnight tent stay.

Not included:

• Lunch, so travelers should prepare snacks or eat at stops along the way. Some reviews mention the driver’s good choices for lunch breaks, which adds convenience.

The Value of This Experience

At just over $200, this tour packs in a lot of value. It combines the scenic drive, cultural stops, and authentic desert camping into a manageable two-day trip. Travelers consistently praise the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Mustafa and Abdul, which significantly enhances the experience. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd and can enjoy a more personalized journey.

While some travelers mention that the lunch options are limited, the overall arrangement — including comfortable transportation, guided stops, and desert activities — makes this a worthwhile choice. Plus, the free cancellation policy provides flexibility, especially if weather conditions change.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a taste of the Sahara without the commitment of a multi-day trek. It’s perfect for those who value good guides, scenic stops, and authentic desert nights under the stars. If you’re short on time, this is a great way to tick the Sahara off your bucket list.

Those traveling with family or friends will find this trip manageable and enjoyable. But if you’re looking for an ultra-private or luxury camping experience, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a balanced, well-organized adventure, this tour hits many marks.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Fez to Merzouga?
The drive takes approximately 8 hours, with multiple scenic stops along the way.

What should I bring for the desert camp night?
Most accommodations provide blankets and hot showers, but bring your own toiletries, warm clothes for the evening, and any personal essentials.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Given the small group size and moderate activity level, most travelers say it’s suitable for families, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

Are meals included?
Dinner and breakfast are included. Lunch is not, so plan accordingly for snacks or stopovers.

How many people are in each group?
The tour typically hosts a maximum of 15 travelers, fostering a more personal experience.

Can I choose to be dropped off in Marrakech?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to be dropped off either in Fez or Marrakech.

What are the guides like?
Multiple reviews praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and excellent storytelling skills. Mustafa and Abdul are often mentioned as standout guides.

Is the camel ride comfortable?
Most travelers find the camel ride gentle and manageable, even for first-timers.

What’s the experience of sleeping in the desert?
Many describe it as magical — sleeping under a blanket of stars, surrounded by dunes, with the quiet of the desert all around.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if the experience is canceled due to poor weather.

This overnight desert tour from Fez to Merzouga offers a well-rounded introduction to Morocco’s iconic Sahara. It combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and a genuine desert camping experience—all at a reasonable price. The guides are praised for their warmth and expertise, making the journey both comfortable and rich in local insight.

While it’s not a luxury safari, it’s a fantastic option for travelers craving authentic landscapes, memorable nights under the stars, and the adventure of a camel trek. The inclusion of breakfast, dinner, and transportation simplifies planning, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery and soaking up the desert vibe.

Ideal for first-timers, small groups, or those short on time, this tour provides a satisfying Sahara experience without overwhelming your schedule or budget. Be sure to prepare for a long drive, and bring your sense of adventure—this trip will leave you with stories to tell and memories to cherish.