From Fez: Round-Trip Overnight Merzouga Desert Tour

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Introduction

Taking a trip from Fez to the Sahara’s golden dunes offers a taste of Morocco’s vast beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. This two-day tour promises a scenic journey with stops at iconic spots, culminating in the unforgettable experience of sleeping under the stars in Merzouga.

What we love about this tour is the mix of comfort and authenticity—from cozy transportation and knowledgeable drivers to genuine local encounters and mesmerizing desert sunsets. Plus, the chance to enjoy camel rides at sunset and sunrise makes it truly special.

One possible consideration is the long travel time — with some reviews mentioning the journey can feel lengthy — but the stops along the way help break up the trip. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to see the Sahara without sacrificing comfort or authentic cultural moments.

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Key Points

Comfortable transportation with air conditioning makes the long hours more bearable.
Authentic experiences, including camel trekking, Berber shows, and desert camping, bring the Sahara to life.
Scenic stops like Ifrane, cedar forests, and Ziz Valley offer diverse Moroccan landscapes.
Knowledgeable guides and drivers enhance the experience, sharing insights and local stories.
Value for money considering the included activities, meals, and overnight in desert tents.
Authentic local interactions, such as visiting families in Immouzar and enjoying Berber folklore.

Looking for more options in Fes? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Breaking Down the Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1: From Fez to Merzouga

The journey begins early, with a pickup around 7:30 AM from your hotel or riad. This isn’t just a drive — it’s a curated experience with several notable stops.

First, you’ll visit Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland,” thanks to its alpine-style architecture and ski slopes. It’s a charming contrast to the desert ahead, and a great spot for photos. From there, the tour moves into the Middle Atlas Mountains, where you’ll stop at cedar forests. Here, you’ll likely see Barbary monkeys playing and feeding, providing a fun and rare wildlife sight.

Next, a stop at Midelt offers a chance for a lunch break. The town is a familiar stop for many Morocco travelers, nestled between mountains and the desert, offering a taste of local cuisine and atmosphere.

Following lunch, the journey continues through the lush Ziz Valley, famous for its date palms and fertile lands. As you wind through this stunning landscape, you’ll get glimpses of traditional Berber villages and vibrant scenery. The last stop before the desert is Erfoud, a city known for its fossil industry, where you can stretch your legs and stretch your curiosity.

Arriving in Merzouga, the group transfers to the hotel to leave luggage and prepare for the highlight: camel trekking. Riding for about 45 minutes, you’ll travel across the dunes at sunset, a truly breathtaking time of day, with the sky painted in warm hues.

Once at the desert camp, you’ll settle into luxury or traditional tents, and enjoy a dinner under the stars accompanied by a lively Berber folklore show, blending music, dance, and storytelling. Several reviews highlight the camp’s friendly, attentive staff and the chance to disconnect from modern life.

Day 2: From Merzouga back to Fez

Wake early for the Erg Chebbi sunrise, a spectacle that makes the long morning worth it. The camel trek back to the camp offers a last panoramic moment in the dunes before breakfast and a shower.

The return trip includes a visit to Rissani, known for its vibrant markets and the Zawiya Moulay Ali Ash-Sharif. Travelers often comment on the impressive scenery of the Ziz Valley once again, illustrating Morocco’s diverse landscapes.

A stop in Immouzar to visit a family living in a cave offers an authentic glimpse into local life, with some reviews noting the kindness and openness of hosts. The journey concludes with a drop-off back in Fez, leaving you with unforgettable desert memories.

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What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour offers excellent value considering its all-inclusive approach: comfortable air-conditioned transport, professional driver, meals, camel treks, and overnight desert camp. Its reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Soufiane, Abdoul, and others. Many travelers appreciated the attentiveness and knowledge shared throughout the trip, making each stop meaningful.

However, some guests mention the long hours of travel — it’s a sizable distance from Fez to the desert — so be prepared for a full day on the road. The tour’s logistics and timing appear well-managed, with most travelers praising the smooth organization, but it’s worth planning for the fatigue that can come with such an adventure.

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Accommodation & Meals

Guests rave about the desert camp, often citing the luxury tents with private bathrooms and showers. The included dinners and breakfasts are generally well-received, offering hearty, traditional Moroccan fare after a day of exploring. One reviewer noted that water at the camp is paid separately, so it’s a good idea to bring some extra or be prepared for small additional costs.

Guides & Experience Quality

The guides aren’t just drivers but storytellers and local hosts. Reviews mention guides like Soufiane, Imad, Tarek, and Hussain, praising their friendliness, professionalism, and multilingual abilities. They seem genuinely invested in making sure guests enjoy each moment, whether it’s explaining local history or helping with photo opportunities.

Authenticity & Cultural Touches

Several reviews highlight the Berber folklore show, which adds a genuine cultural flavor to the desert night. Visiting families in Immouzar and engaging with local life enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing, fostering a deeper connection to Moroccan culture.

Visualize the Experience

Imagine riding a camel at sunset, feeling the cool desert breeze as the sky transitions from fiery orange to deep indigo. You’ll sleep in tents that strike a perfect balance between comfort and authenticity, with soft beds and clean bathrooms. Waking early to watch the sunrise over the dunes is a moment many find truly magical — the vast emptiness stretching to the horizon, the cool morning air, and the quiet beauty of the desert come alive.

Who’s It Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who want a taste of the Sahara without sacrificing comfort. It suits those interested in cultural experiences, like the folklore show and local family visits. It’s also perfect for travelers looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic Moroccan hospitality.

However, if you’re prone to travel fatigue or dislike long drives, be prepared for some lengthy hours in the vehicle. The early mornings and late evenings on camelback might also not appeal to everyone, but for most, these are memorable highlights.

The Sum Up

This round-trip overnight Merzouga desert tour from Fez offers a compelling combination of scenic landscapes, culture, and authentic desert adventures. From the lush valleys and cedar forests to the glittering dunes and starry nights, it’s a journey that captures Morocco’s diverse beauty. The included activities and well-rated guides ensure a smoothly run experience, making it a great value for those eager to see the Sahara.

Travelers looking for a comfortable yet authentic desert adventure will find this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate good organization, engaging storytelling, and a taste of Berber culture. The overnight camp experience, combined with camel rides and scenic stops, creates memories sure to last a lifetime.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Fez to Merzouga?
The journey is quite extensive, with stops along the way. While the drive is long, it’s broken up by interesting sights and breaks, making it more manageable.

What’s included in the tour price?
The tour includes comfortable transportation with A/C, a professional driver, meals (breakfast and dinner at the camp), camel rides at sunset and sunrise, and an overnight stay in a desert camp.

Are the tents comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention luxury camp options with tents that have private bathrooms, showers, and beds, providing a good balance of comfort and desert authenticity.

Is there free water at the camp?
No, water at the camp is paid separately, but most travelers find the experience worth it and bring some extra if needed.

Who are the guides?
Guides such as Soufiane, Abdoul, and Tarek are praised for their friendliness and professionalism, often providing explanations and assistance in multiple languages.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a scarf or shawl for the desert. Extra water and small personal items are also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most reviews highlight adult travelers, the camel rides and outdoor activities can be enjoyable for older children, but always check with the tour provider about age restrictions or recommendations.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Morocco’s Sahara, making it ideal for those who want memorable desert adventures with a comfortable touch. Whether it’s your first time crossing the dunes or a return visit, it promises a meaningful, scenic, and culturally engaging experience.