Fes: 2-day desert trip with return to Fez or Marrakech.

Planning a two-day journey into Morocco’s iconic Sahara desert sounds like a dream for many travelers, and this tour offers a good mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic experiences. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

We love the way this experience combines scenic drives through Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes, the chance to see the cedar forests of Azrou, and the unforgettable night in a traditional desert camp. The inclusion of English and French-speaking guides ensures you’ll have plenty of local insight, and the cost—around $115 per person—seems to offer solid value for such a compact adventure.

One thing to consider is that the tour isn’t tailored for those with mobility issues or very young children, given the nature of desert activities and long drives. This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a taste of Moroccan desert culture and stunning scenery, especially if you’re comfortable with spending some time on a comfortable vehicle and enjoying outdoor nights under the stars.

Key Points

• Authentic Sahara experience including a night in a desert camp with Berber hospitality
• Includes scenic stops like Ifrane, Azrou, and Ziz Valley for photo opportunities and local culture
• Good value for the price with meals, overnight stay, and activities included
• Comfortable transportation with a driver fluent in English and French
• An early start and long day—be prepared for a full schedule
• Not suitable for small children, mobility impairments, or those with back problems

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Moroccan Adventure in Just Two Days

If you’re looking for a quick but meaningful escape from Fes that takes you into the heart of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, this tour could be a great match. It hits many of the highlights travelers crave: mountain scenery, desert dunes, and Berber hospitality—all packed into just 48 hours.

The Scenic Journey Begins

Starting early from Fes, the tour sets the tone with a visit to Ifrane, often called the “Moroccan Switzerland” for its Alpine-style architecture and crisp air. It’s a charming stop that instantly transports you out of the bustling city into a more tranquil, almost fairy-tale-like setting. Reviewers highlight the town’s cleanliness and quaint atmosphere as a highlight (“the welcome, helpfulness, and kindness of the guides and desert people were awesome,” says one).

Next, the trip heads to Azrou, a place famous for its cedar forests. Here, travelers often get lucky with sightings of Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey species in Africa. One review mentions how “the cedar forests and, if you’re lucky, spotting some Barbary macaques” made the stop particularly memorable. You might find yourself snapping photos of playful monkeys or wandering among towering trees.

The Major Scenic Stops

Driving through the Ziz Valley is another highlight. The views of lush palm groves and the winding Ziz River are breathtaking—perfect for photography or just soaking in the landscape. The reviews describe the scenery as “scenic” and the drive as “enjoyable,” with plenty of opportunities to stop and appreciate the environment.

Erfoud introduces you to Morocco’s fossil-rich landscapes, with many workshops and quarries where you can see fascinating stone and fossil specimens. Its role as a gateway into the Sahara is emphasized in the reviews, with travelers appreciating the sense of entering a different world.

The Sahara and Desert Camp

Arriving in Merzouga in the evening, you’ll switch gears from road trip to desert adventure. The highlight here is the camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes. One reviewer recalls how “the night in the desert camp was beautiful and really luxurious.” While the camp is rustic, it offers a cozy, authentic feel, with Berber music around the campfire and a hearty dinner.

The sunrise over the dunes is often described as the most memorable moment—watching the sun turn the sands golden is truly special. The reviews mention how “Mohammed’s sandboarding lesson” was a fun surprise, especially for those nervous about the activity but eager to try. The experience of sleeping under the stars—possibly the best part for many—feels surprisingly comfortable, considering the remote location.

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Day Two: From Sahara to Marrakech or Fes

Waking early for the dunes’ sunrise provides a quiet, almost meditative moment before breakfast. Then, your journey continues north or south, depending on your plan. The drive back offers scenic views of Morocco’s varied geography: gorges, Kasbahs, and desert plains.

Travelers say the second day is equally stunning, with stops in Tinejdad, Tinghir, and Ouarzazate—regions known for their dramatic landscapes and cultural sites. The drive to Marrakech or Fes is long but scenic, giving plenty of chances for quick photo stops and stories along the way.

Comfort, Value, and Practicalities

The tour provides a comfortable vehicle with air conditioning and a driver fluent in both English and French, which makes navigation and explanations much easier. Meals are included—dinner at the camp, breakfast—and the cost covers fuel and the overnight stay. Extras like lunch, drinks, or outdoor activities (such as quad biking) are paid separately, a good thing to keep in mind for planning.

Reviewers appreciated the value for money, noting that the luxury of the camp and the authentic cultural touches made the price worthwhile. One reviewer from Germany called the desert camp “really luxury,” indicating that the accommodations, while simple, are cozy and well-maintained.

What’s Not Included and Who Should Think Twice

While the tour offers a solid experience, some aspects might be less appealing depending on your preferences. For example, lunch and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for meals or snacks. Also, the activities like quad biking cost extra if you decide to spice up your desert experience.

The tour isn’t suitable for very young children, those with mobility issues, or people with back problems, mainly because of the long drives and uneven terrain in the desert. Also, the tour involves an early start and an active schedule, which might not suit travelers seeking a more relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In terms of value, this 2-day trip offers a well-rounded introduction to Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from mountain forests to desert dunes. The inclusion of a night in a desert camp makes it more than just a scenic drive—it’s an immersive cultural experience. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Mohammed, and the stunning scenery, which is what makes this trip stand out.

If you’re after an authentic desert adventure that fits into a short timeframe, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers, solo explorers, or couples looking for a quick yet meaningful experience. The scenic stops, cultural insights, and the chance to sleep under the stars combine to create a memorable two days in Morocco.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Fes to Merzouga?
The journey starts early and takes most of the day, with stops along the way for sightseeing and breaks. It’s a full-day trip, so prepare for several hours in the vehicle.

Is the desert camp comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention that the tents are clean and cozy, with bathrooms that match some built structures in quality. It’s rustic but comfortable enough for a memorable night under the stars.

What activities are included?
The main activity is the camel trek across the dunes. Other activities, like quad biking, are available but paid separately.

Can I choose to return to Marrakech instead of Fes?
Yes. The tour offers the option to return to either Fes or Marrakech at the end of the trip.

Are meals included?
Breakfast and dinner at the desert camp are included. Lunch is not, so you should plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, or those with mobility issues or back problems.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak English and French, making communication easy for most travelers.

What is the price point for this trip?
At around $115 per person, it’s a reasonable price considering the overnight stay, transportation, and activities included.

How flexible are the booking and cancellation policies?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Words

This 2-day desert trip from Fes offers a compact, authentic taste of Morocco’s varied landscapes and cultures. The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and an overnight in a Sahara camp makes it an ideal choice for those with limited time but eager to experience the magic of Morocco’s desert.

Travelers who value good guides, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural touches will find this tour well worth the price. While it may be intense and not suitable for everyone, those looking for a memorable adventure that balances comfort with authenticity are likely to come away excited and inspired.

If you’re seeking a cost-effective way to see the Sahara and enjoy some of Morocco’s most beautiful sights in just two days, this tour deserves serious consideration.

You can check availability for your dates here: