From Fes: 3-Day Merzouga Tour with Camel Ride & luxury camp

Exploring the 3-Day Merzouga Tour from Fes: A Detailed Review

If you’re dreaming of wide-open desert landscapes, riding camels across towering dunes, and sleeping under a blanket of stars, the 3-Day Merzouga Tour from Fes promises just that. This guided experience, offered by STE Morocco Customized Tours, packs a lot into three days—covering scenic mountain villages, lively nomad camps, and the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes. While we haven’t done this trip personally, we’ve pieced together all the details to help you decide if it’s worth the investment.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure, culture, and comfort. Visitors rave about the stunning desert views that are unforgettable, the chance to meet nomads and Berber communities, and the option to stay in a luxury tent under the stars. Plus, the stops in charming towns like Ifrane and Midelt provide a refreshing break from desert sands—think lush forests and mountain scenery.

One thing to consider is the cost—at $229 per person, it’s quite competitive for a three-day, all-inclusive experience. However, some travelers note that meals outside the camp are not included, so you might want to budget for lunch or extra snacks. This tour tends to suit those who crave an authentic yet comfortable desert adventure combined with cultural insights and beautiful landscapes.

If you’re looking for a mix of scenic beauty, cultural encounters, and a touch of luxury, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided trips that handle logistics and want a smooth, memorable experience without sacrificing authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience with camel rides and campfire shows
• Visit iconic towns like Ifrane, Midelt, and Erfoud
• Stay in luxury or standard tents under the stars
• Includes transportation and guided visits, making logistics easy
• Cultural insights with nomad visits and Berber music
• Value-friendly price at $229 per person, with flexible booking options

The Journey Begins: From Fes to the Desert

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your Fes accommodation, setting the scene for a journey through some of Morocco’s most varied landscapes. The drive itself is part of the experience—traveling through the Middle Atlas Mountains, you’ll enjoy lush forests and cool mountain air. A highlight here is the stop in Ifrane, famously called the “Switzerland of Morocco,” known for its alpine-style architecture and ski resorts. It’s a quirky, picturesque start to your trip, and many reviews mention how well-organized the stops are, with guides like Aziz and Hamza making everyone feel welcomed and informed.

Next, you’ll venture into a cedar forest, where you’ll probably meet the Barbary monkeys—a delightful surprise. Visitors often enjoy feeding these curious creatures, which adds a playful touch to the journey. The tour’s inclusion of such stops creates a more immersive experience, breaking up the drive and offering photo-worthy moments. Then, a short stop in Midelt provides a chance to grab lunch and enjoy local cuisine before heading further east into the Ziz Valley, renowned for its lush greenery and scenic vistas.

Your arrival in Erfoud, the town famous for its dates and fossils, marks the approach to the desert. Many guests appreciate the visit here for the opportunity to buy local dates and souvenirs, adding a tangible connection to the region. After this, the drive concludes with the final stretch into Merzouga, where the vast Erg Chebbi dunes await.

Into the Dunes: Camel Ride and Desert Camp

The heart of this tour lies in the desert experience. Once in Merzouga, you’ll transfer from the vehicle to your camel, which is the classic way to explore the dunes. The camel trek is usually around an hour, giving you ample time to get a sense of the landscape and enjoy the breathtaking views. Many reviewers, like Aina Benejam, highlight how beautiful the sunset is during the ride—an unforgettable moment that captures the magic of the Sahara.

Arriving at the nomad camp, you’ll settle in for the night in either a luxury or standard tent, depending on your booking. The camp offers a cozy, authentic atmosphere, with the chance to relax under a star-studded sky. The evening features a Berber music show, which many guests find enchanting and culturally enriching, as local musicians perform traditional tunes around the campfire. Dinner is usually a hearty Moroccan meal, with some guests mentioning Berber pizza as a highlight.

The campfire gatherings are often praised for their warmth and storytelling, making this a highlight for those seeking genuine cultural experiences. After a night in your tent—whether plush or simple—you’ll wake early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a moment many describe as “breathtaking” and worth the early wake-up call.

Activities and Cultural Encounters

During your time in the desert, you’ll also visit nomads living in tents, sharing a cup of tea and learning about their traditional lifestyle. Reviewers like Aina Benejam mention how attentive guides took them to nomadic families and explained their day-to-day life, offering insights you wouldn’t get on your own. This aspect of the trip adds depth and authenticity, breaking down stereotypes and fostering real connections.

Further, you’ll have the chance to visit Gnawa villages, where music originated from Soudan. Guests often enjoy watching live performances, which are both lively and soulful. The tour also includes fossil mining, a fun activity for those curious about geology and local craftsmanship.

Optional activities such as sandboarding are sometimes offered, adding a fun adrenaline rush to the desert adventure. These details, although not included in every package, can often be arranged locally, giving you flexibility to tailor your experience.

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Practical Details and Logistics

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your Fes hotel or Riad, which simplifies planning. Transport is by air-conditioned bus or coach, comfortable even on the longer drives, and well-suited for groups. The total duration is three days, with the trip organized so you get maximum exposure without feeling rushed.

One of the big pluses is the flexible booking policy: you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later. This allows you to secure your place without immediate financial commitment, which is handy if you’re still finalizing your plans.

While lunch and personal expenses are not included, the tour’s price generally covers meals at the camp, dinner, and breakfasts, making it a good value considering the transportation, activities, and overnight stays. Guests find the guides—like Hamza and Aziz—professional, attentive, and eager to share their knowledge and love for the region.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 3-Day Merzouga Tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation. It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking a comfortable yet authentic desert experience that includes the iconic camel trek and a stay in a luxury tent under the stars. The tour’s stops in Ifrane, Midelt, and Erfoud make it well-rounded, providing scenic diversity and regional insights.

If you’re after a well-organized trip that handles all transportation and logistical details, this tour delivers. The reviews highlight how breathtaking the views are, and the opportunity to meet nomads and enjoy traditional music adds a heartfelt touch. The price point makes it accessible for many budgets, especially with flexible booking options.

However, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so you may want to budget extra or plan for snacks. Plus, those sensitive to cold should prepare for chilly desert nights, especially in winter months.

This tour is an excellent choice for those craving a memorable desert adventure with a mix of cultural richness, natural beauty, and comfortable accommodations. It’s suited for travelers who want a guided experience that takes care of the details, leaving you free to soak in the stunning landscapes and authentic atmosphere.

FAQ

How do I get picked up for the tour?
The tour provides pickup and drop-off at your hotel or Riad in Fes, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

What transportation is used during the trip?
Traveling is by air-conditioned bus or coach, which ensures comfort during the longer drives between towns and to the desert.

Are meals included?
Dinner and breakfast at the camp are included, but lunch is not, so plan accordingly for additional snacks or meals in towns like Midelt.

Can I opt for a luxury tent?
Yes, the overnight stay in the desert camp can be in a luxury or standard tent, depending on your booking choice.

Is there entertainment at the camp?
Absolutely—many guests enjoy the Berber music show around the campfire, which adds a cultural dimension to the desert night.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While generally appropriate, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems due to the nature of the camel ride and camp setup.

This 3-day adventure offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and relaxed comfort. Whether you’re captivated by the dunes, eager to meet nomads, or just looking for a once-in-a-lifetime desert experience, this tour from Fes is a compelling choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: