From Fes: 2-Day Desert Trip to Merzouga-All-Inclusive

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From Fes: 2-Day Desert Trip to Merzouga-All-Inclusive — A Journey Into Morocco’s Sahara

Traveling through Morocco’s diverse landscapes can be a whirlwind, and a 2-day trip from Fes to Merzouga offers an ideal way to experience the Sahara’s vastness without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. This tour, rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on traveler reviews, combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and the thrill of desert life. Whether you’re craving stunning views, knowledgeable guides, or a break from city life, this trip offers a lot.

What we love about this tour is the way it balances adventure with relaxation — from the picturesque drives through mountain and desert scenery to the quiet magic of a night spent under the stars. We also appreciate the inclusion of a guided camel ride, which adds an authentic touch to the Sahara experience. The cozy desert camp with traditional Berber music makes for a memorable overnight stay. Finally, the tour’s flexibility and the attentive service from the driver and guides make it feel personalized.

One potential consideration is the long travel time — around 7 hours each way. If you’re not a fan of lengthy drives, this might feel a bit tiring, but the scenery and stops along the way help break up the journey. It’s best suited for those eager to explore Morocco’s desert and natural beauty in a compact timeframe, especially if you prefer all-inclusive packages that handle logistics.

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers, cultural explorers, or travelers short on time but still wanting a genuine Sahara experience. If you’re looking for a hassle-free, well-organized trip that offers stunning views and authentic moments, this could be just what you need.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Sahara Experience: Includes a guided camel ride through Erg Chebbi dunes.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major scenic stops like Azrou, Midelt, Erfoud, and Ziz Valley.
All-Inclusive Comfort: Accommodation, dinner, breakfast, and transport are covered.
Knowledgeable Guides: The driver and desert guides are attentive and well-informed.
Long but Rewarding Journey: About 7 hours each way, with scenic stops to break up the drive.
Authentic Cultural Touches: Experience Berber music around the campfire and stay in traditional tents.

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

A Full Breakdown of the 2-Day Sahara Trip

Day 1: From Fes to Merzouga — A Scenic Adventure

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your Fes accommodation, with transportation in a comfortable 4×4 or minibus. The journey is approximately 7 hours, but don’t worry—this isn’t just a lengthy drive. It’s a chance to witness Morocco’s diverse terrain and small towns transforming along the way.

First stop: Ifran, often called the “Swiss of Morocco,” where you’ll enjoy crisp mountain air and scenic views, a perfect photo opp. Next, you’ll head to Azrou, a charming town known for its cedar forests and monkey residents. Here, travelers have noted how the local guides are attentive — one reviewer specifically appreciated Reda, the driver, who helped organize their entire trip and was very considerate of their family’s needs, including their young son.

As you continue south, you’ll break for lunch, giving you a chance to sample Moroccan cuisine and stretch your legs. Post-lunch, the journey leads to Ziz Valley, famous for its breathtaking gorges and palm-lined riverbanks. The views here are so impressive, many travelers comment on how the scenery makes the long drive worthwhile.

Next, you’ll visit Erfoud, a small town known for fossils unique to the region. This stop provides a glimpse into local geology and history, adding an educational element to your trip. The route then takes you across the black desert — a striking landscape that preludes the Sahara. Your final destination is Merzouga, where the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi await.

In the late afternoon, you’ll enjoy a guided camel ride at sunset, a highlight many reviewers mention as a magical experience. The dunes glow as the sun dips, perfect for photos or just taking in the tranquil silence. The night in your luxurious desert tent includes dinner around a campfire accompanied by traditional Berber music, creating an authentic desert ambiance.

Day 2: From Merzouga Back to Fes — And More Scenic Views

Waking early, you’ll be treated to the Sahara sunrise — a spectacle that many travelers describe as unforgettable. After breakfast amid the dunes, you’ll hop onto a camel once more to enjoy the final ride back to Merzouga. The views of the sand formations painted by the morning light are fantastic, and you’ll appreciate the opportunity to experience the desert in different lights.

The return journey retraces your route through Erfoud, the Ziz Valley, and Midelt — giving you another chance to enjoy Morocco’s stunning landscapes. The drive back is about 7 hours, but many find it relaxing, especially with the scenic stops and the comfort of the included transport.

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Accommodation and Inclusions

Staying overnight in a desert camp with traditional Berber tents offers a cozy, authentic experience. Dinner and breakfast are included, giving you a taste of local cuisine and hospitality. The tour also covers fees, tolls, and fuel, making it a seamless experience without hidden costs.

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What’s Not Included?

Drinks, lunch, and additional beverages aren’t included, so travelers should budget for those extras. It’s worth bringing snacks or drinks for the road, especially if you’re sensitive to long hours of travel.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the $369 price tag, this tour packs in a lot: scenic drives, authentic desert activities, and comfortable accommodation. The inclusion of guided camel rides and local guides adds value, as they enrich the experience with insider knowledge. The flexibility to reserve and pay later also makes it easier to plan.

Many travelers, like the reviewer who called it “the best of our trip to Morocco,” praise Maroc Chauffeur tour for their attentive service. The driver, Reda, received particular mention for his helpfulness and kindness, which can truly make or break a trip.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring layers: desert temperatures can vary from hot during the day to chilly at night.
Be prepared for a long day of travel; comfortable seats and snacks may make the ride more pleasant.
Photography lovers will appreciate the sunset camel ride and early morning sunrise.
Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as the desert experience attracts many visitors.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This all-inclusive trip is ideal if you want a convenient, well-organized Sahara adventure without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule, eager to see Morocco’s desert landscapes and enjoy authentic experiences like camel riding and Berber music. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a mix of scenic beauty and culture will find this tour appealing.

If you’re after a budget-friendly option that still offers comfort and memorable moments, this tour delivers. However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or dislike long drives, you might prefer other options or longer stays.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Fes to Merzouga?
The journey takes about 7 hours each way, with scenic stops along the route to enjoy the views and stretch.

What does the tour include?
It covers pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or Riad, transportation in a 4×4 or minibus, fuel and tolls, a knowledgeable driver, guided camel rides, and one night in a desert camp with breakfast and dinner.

Are meals included?
Dinner and breakfast are included. Lunch and beverages are not, so plan to bring extra snacks or buy local food during stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the accommodation authentic?
Yes, the night is spent in traditional Berber tents, offering an authentic desert experience with a touch of comfort.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Based on reviews, guides are attentive to families’ needs, and the experience can be very family-friendly. Just consider the long travel time and plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day all-inclusive desert trip from Fes to Merzouga offers a well-rounded taste of Morocco’s Sahara, combining scenic drives, authentic cultural experiences, and comfortable overnight stays. The inclusion of guided camel rides, professional guides like Reda, and the chance to witness sunset and sunrise in the dunes make it a memorable adventure.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a hassle-free way to explore Morocco’s desert without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The value for money is clear when considering the included accommodations, transportation, and unique experiences.

While the long hours of travel might be challenging for some, the stunning scenery and cultural insights make it more than worth it. If you’re eager to tick off the Sahara from your Moroccan itinerary in a manageable, enjoyable way, this tour is an excellent choice.

Whether this is your first desert visit or a treasured addition to your Moroccan journey, you’ll likely come away with unforgettable memories and a new appreciation for the vastness and beauty of the Sahara.