From Fes To Marrakech: 2-Days with Luxury Camp, Desert Tour

Traveling through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the bustling streets of Fès to the golden sands of the Sahara, is a journey like no other. This 2-day desert tour promises an unforgettable escape with a mix of scenic drives, cultural encounters, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the dunes. While it’s packed with highlights, it’s also a tour that demands some flexibility — especially when it comes to accommodation issues or language barriers — but overall, it offers tremendous value for those eager to experience Morocco’s desert magic.

What makes this tour stand out? It’s the chance to ride a camel into the dunes, sleep comfortably in a desert camp, and witness a Sahara sunrise all within just two days. We love the thoughtfully crafted itineraries that combine scenic routes like the Ziz Valley and UNESCO-listed Aït Benhaddou with authentic desert experiences. The luxury camp upgrade really enhances comfort, and the guide’s local knowledge brings the journey alive. However, some reviews mention logistical hiccups, like limited English-speaking staff or basic facilities, which are worth considering if you prefer a perfectly polished experience.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive Sahara experience without sacrificing comfort and are comfortable with some rustic elements. If you’re looking for an adventure that balances scenic beauty, cultural richness, and adventure, this trip is a solid pick — especially at the budget-friendly price point of around $114 per person.

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience with camel rides and camp under the stars
• Scenic drives through Morocco’s iconic landscapes like Ziz Valley and Aït Benhaddou
• Comfortable overnight options including a luxury desert camp with private tents
• Expert guides who help bring Morocco’s stories and scenery to life
• Flexible itinerary with options to finish in Marrakech or Fès
• Good value for the included activities, meals, and transport

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: Fès to the Middle Atlas

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Fès, where the group is introduced to your private guide. The drive immediately sets the tone for a varied day — expect a mix of scenic panoramas, cultural stops, and lively conversations.

First stop: Ifrane, often called the “Moroccan Switzerland,” with its chalet-style houses, leafy streets, and cool mountain air. It’s a stark contrast to the desert, offering a refreshing start and some great photo opportunities. From there, a short drive takes you into the cedar forests of Azrou. Here, the chance to see Barbary macaques up close is a highlight. Reviewers shared how these curious monkeys approach for treats, making it a fun and memorable encounter.

Next, the route takes you through Midelt, a town famed for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. Many travelers enjoy a hearty lunch here — some go for a spicy tagine or a camel burger — providing a taste of local flavors before heading into the more arid parts of the journey.

Scenic Drive Through Ziz Valley & Erfoud

The landscape shifts to the lush Ziz Valley, where palm groves line the riverbanks, creating a striking oasis amid desert rocks. This area is especially picturesque and a favorite for photography. As you enter Erfoud, known for its ancient fossil quarries, learn about the 400-million-year-old fossils that are a Moroccan treasure.

Traveling through these regions, you get a sense of the incredible diversity Morocco offers — from fertile valleys to rocky terrains. A few reviews pointed out the fossil sites are quite interesting, with one guest noting how the fossils are still being unearthed today.

The Dunes and the Desert Camp Experience

Arriving in Merzouga in the late afternoon, the real highlight begins. Drop your bags at your chosen camp — whether standard or luxury — and prepare for a camel ride. The 45-minute trek across the dunes is a highlight in itself. As you ride, you’ll see the dunes’ rolling shapes and feel the gentle sway of your camel, a quintessential Moroccan moment.

Many reviewers emphasize how spectacular the sunset is from the dunes’ higher vantage points. One guest described it as “fiery hues melting into the horizon,” a view that’s hard to match. The luxury camp offers plush tents with beds, private showers, and a cozy ambiance, elevating comfort after a day of travel.

At night, the camp comes alive with Berber music, storytelling, and hearty dinners cooked over open flames. Stargazing is a must — a few guests mentioned the clear desert skies provide a celestial show, especially when power outages temporarily darken the surroundings, allowing for a true starscape experience.

Sunrise & Return to Marrakech

Waking early for the desert sunrise offers a breathtaking view — the shifting sands and the distant Algerian border create a dramatic backdrop. Guests consistently mention how worth it the early wake-up is; the experience feels both peaceful and awe-inspiring.

After breakfast, you can choose your return route. Many opt for the scenic Road of 1,000 Kasbahs, passing Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ochre kasbahs and cinematic history. The drive through the High Atlas via the Tizi nTichka mountain pass provides stunning vistas and a fitting conclusion to the journey.

Arriving in Marrakech at dusk, you’ll have the option to explore the vibrant medina or relax after your desert adventure. The tour’s flexible finish means you can choose to stay in Marrakech or return to Fès, depending on your plans.

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What We Loved About This Tour

Authentic Moroccan moments: From camel rides to Berber dinners, this trip immerses you in local culture. The folklore performances and music are genuinely engaging.

Stunning scenery: The contrast between lush valleys, rocky landscapes, and endless dunes makes for fantastic viewing and photos. Reviewers mention how the sunset and sunrise views are genuinely memorable.

Comfortable options: The luxury camp upgrade provides a more relaxed experience, with proper beds, private bathrooms, and personalized service, which many travelers appreciated.

Expert guidance: Many reviews praise guides like Mehdi and Akhim for their helpfulness, local knowledge, and attentiveness, which significantly enhances the experience.

Value for money: At just $114, including meals, camel rides, and transport, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck — especially considering the scenic and cultural richness.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

Despite the many positives, some guests noted minor issues. A few mentioned facilities in the standard camp are quite basic, with shared bathrooms and limited amenities. The luxury camp aims to address this with private tents and better services, but availability may vary.

Language barriers appeared in some reviews, with limited English-speaking staff, which could impact communication or clarity during some parts of the stay. Also, one guest pointed out that dinner does not include water, so bringing cash for extra drinks is wise.

Finally, basic maintenance issues like a non-flushing toilet or non-working air conditioning in some rooms have been reported, though these seem to be relatively minor inconveniences in the grand scheme of the experience.

Practical Info: What You Need to Know

• The tour includes hotel or riad pickup and drop-off, with air-conditioned transport.
• You’ll be accompanied by a professional driver-guide with onboard WiFi.
• The stay at the desert camp is for one night, with options for standard or luxury accommodations.
• Camel rides and activities like sandboarding are included.
• Meals are provided during the trip — breakfasts and dinners — but lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.
• To prepare, bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, cash, and a copy of your passport or ID.
• The tour offers flexible booking, with the option to reserve now and pay later, plus free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This adventure appeals most to travelers craving an authentic desert experience without sacrificing comfort. It’s suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural interactions, and stunning landscapes — all at an accessible price. If you’re comfortable with rustic amenities and some basic facilities, you’ll find this trip both enjoyable and memorable.

However, if you prefer ultra-luxury accommodations or highly polished services, the standard camp might feel a bit basic. Still, the luxury upgrade aims to bridge that gap, making the experience more comfortable for sensitive travelers.

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers, culture lovers, and photo enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of Morocco’s Sahara and mountains in just two days.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel or riad pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, a professional guide, WiFi onboard, one night at a desert camp (standard or luxury), meals (breakfasts and dinners), camel rides, sandboarding, luggage service, and Berber music performances.

Can I choose my desert camp option?
Yes, you can select between a standard camp with shared facilities or a luxury camp with private tents and better amenities.

Is there free time during the trip?
The itinerary is structured with scheduled stops and activities, but there may be some free moments, especially during meals or at the camp.

How long is the camel ride?
The camel trek lasts approximately 45 minutes, allowing enough time to enjoy the dunes and scenery.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, cash for extras, and a copy of your passport or ID.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfasts and dinners are provided. Lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal in Erfoud or Midelt.

What’s the best time to go?
While specific dates aren’t mentioned, Morocco’s desert is enjoyable year-round, though mornings and evenings can be cooler outside of summer.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves some walking, camel riding, and outdoor exposure, so travelers should be comfortable with these activities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, provided children are comfortable with outdoor activities and long drives. Always check with the provider regarding age restrictions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Fès to Marrakech Sahara desert tour offers an accessible yet rich adventure into Morocco’s iconic landscapes. With scenic drives, cultural stops, and the chance to sleep under the stars in comfort, it balances adventure with relaxation. The inclusion of a luxury camp upgrade makes it appealing for travelers seeking a bit more comfort after a day in the dunes.

While some minor issues with facilities and communication have been noted, the overall experience remains highly positive, especially for those wanting authentic Moroccan moments paired with stunning scenery. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and great value make this tour a compelling choice for a quick desert escape.

If you’re a traveler eager for scenic landscapes, cultural insights, and memorable desert moments, this trip will deliver more than enough to justify its reputation as a top-rated Moroccan adventure. Just pack your camera, some cash, and your sense of adventure — the Sahara awaits.

You can check availability for your dates here: