From Fez: 2-Days Desert Tour to Marrakech via Merzouga

Introducing the 2-Day Desert Tour from Fez to Marrakech via Merzouga

If you’re dreaming of crossing the Moroccan desert from Fez to Marrakech, this 2-day tour to Merzouga offers an authentic taste of Sahara life. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what to expect.

What truly stands out are the camel treks that take you through rolling dunes, the luxury desert camp experience, and the chance to enjoy traditional Berber folklore under the star-filled sky. Plus, the scenic stops along the way—like Ifrane’s mountain charm and the lush Ziz Valley—add depth to the journey.

One thing to keep in mind is the long travel time—about 7-9 hours each way—which might feel tiring for some. But for those craving an adventure-packed desert escape with cultural highlights, this tour hits the mark nicely.

This experience fits best for travelers who want a short, immersive desert getaway without the logistics of planning every detail. It’s ideal if you’re looking to combine sightseeing, cultural encounters, and a taste of Morocco’s rugged beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Sahara Experience: Camel rides, starry camp nights, and Berber shows make this a memorable desert adventure.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle and professional driver ensure a smooth journey despite the long hours.
• Cultural Stops: Ifrane, Midelt, and Ziz Valley enrich the trip with scenic and local flavor.
• Affordable Price: At $115 per person, the tour offers good value considering the activities and overnight stay.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and safe driving.
• Early Wake-Ups for Sunrise: Expect stunning views of the Sahara dunes at dawn, a highlight for many.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Day 1: From Fez to Merzouga — A Scenic Colourful Journey

The adventure begins with a hotel pick-up in Fez, where your driver—often praised for professionalism—takes you on a roughly 7-9 hour trip. The route is carefully crafted to break up the long drive with memorable stops.

First stop: Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine architecture and picturesque setting. Here, you’ll enjoy the fresh mountain air and get the chance to feed the Barbary monkeys in the cedar forests. This stop isn’t just for photos; it’s a soothing start that contrasts sharply with the desert ahead.

Next, the journey continues to Midelt, where many travelers take the opportunity to stretch their legs and grab lunch. While lunch isn’t included, reviews mention buffet restaurants costing around 120 DH (~$12), which are convenient for a quick, satisfying meal.

As you leave the mountains behind, you’ll pass through Ziz Valley, famed for its lush greenery and winding river. The views here are breathtaking and give you a fleeting taste of Morocco’s diverse landscapes.

A brief stop in Erfoud introduces you to the edge of the Sahara proper. From there, your group heads toward Merzouga, the golden star of the trip. Here, luggage is transferred via jeep, and you’ll suit up for the highlight—a camel trek into the dunes.

The highlight of Day 1: Riding your camel at sunset, with a guide leading you through the shifting sands. As you arrive at the luxury desert camp, you’ll settle into spacious tents with private bathrooms, according to reviews. Then comes dinner under the stars, accompanied by a Berber folklore show around the campfire.

Day 2: Witnessing Sunrise and Returning to Marrakech

Early morning in the Sahara is a sight many find unforgettable. You’ll wake before dawn to watch the sunrise over the dunes, a moment praised consistently in reviews as “breathtaking.” After breakfast, you’ll begin the journey back to Marrakech, with a lunch stop at your own expense.

The return drive offers more scenic vistas, but the long hours mean you’ll want to rest when possible. The reviews emphasize the comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle and the skill of the driver, with some noting the importance of seat belts at checkpoints.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Camel Trekking and Desert Camp

The camel rides are often cited as the most memorable part of the experience. Usually lasting around 45 minutes, they give you an authentic Sahara feel. Reviewers describe the ride as “calm and peaceful,” with one mentioning the sunset camel trek as a highlight.

The luxury desert camp offers spacious tents, private bathrooms, and a cozy setting to enjoy dinner and folklore shows. While the water temperature in showers isn’t hot enough for some, reviews confirm the accommodations are clean and comfortable considering the remote location.

Scenic Stops and Cultural Encounters

The journey isn’t just about the desert; it’s also about the diverse stops along the way. Ifrane’s mountain charm, Midelt’s mountain villages, and the verdant Ziz Valley all add layers to your Moroccan experience. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who shared local insights, making each stop both scenic and educational.

Value for Money

At $115 per person, this tour offers a lot—transport, guided stops, camel trek, overnight in a luxury camp, and meals. For travelers with limited time, it packs a punch, combining adventure, culture, and scenery. Some reviews note the cost-effectiveness, especially considering the included activities and overnight stay.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes air-conditioned transport, which is vital given the long hours behind the wheel. While the group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest it’s comfortable enough for personal interaction without feeling crowded.

Timing and Duration

Prepare for an early start and a long day. The trip to Merzouga takes most of Day 1, with plenty of stops for scenic and cultural appreciation. The overnight stay provides a true desert experience, with breakfast included before heading back.

What to Bring

Travelers recommend bringing water, sunscreen, and a scarf—especially for the camel rides and desert mornings. The reviews also advise wearing comfortable clothing suitable for temperature changes and roughly 45-minute camel rides.

Payment and Cancellation

You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering flexibility. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if plans change.

Authentic Experiences Drawn from Reviews

A reviewer named Silvia described the tents as spacious and well-kept, with private bathrooms, and appreciated the well-organized logistics, like luggage transport by jeep. She mentioned the long bus ride but found the stops for toilets and lunch convenient, with clean facilities and buffet options.

Pedro praised the driver Pedro (or possibly a guide), citing him as “amazing,” which underscores how a friendly, knowledgeable guide can elevate the experience. The scenic views and authentic cultural show made the trip memorable for many.

Tarek’s review simply states “Tarek is the best,” hinting that guides often leave a lasting impression, especially when they’re well-informed and attentive.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Fez to Marrakech desert tour offers a compelling blend of scenic drives, cultural stops, and Sahara adventures. Its value for money is evident, especially considering the overnight stay in a luxury desert camp and the included camel rides, meals, and folklore show.

It’s ideal for travelers who want a short yet immersive desert experience without the hassle of planning every detail. The tour’s well-reviewed guides and stunning vistas make it a worthwhile choice for those craving adventure and authenticity in Morocco.

While the long hours may not suit everyone, the overall experience—dunes, camels, starry skies, and Moroccan hospitality— makes this journey memorable.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, which helps make the long drive more pleasant.

What’s included in the price? The package includes transportation, a professional driver, breakfast and dinner at Merzouga, a night in a luxury desert camp, and camel rides at sunset and sunrise.

Are there any extras I should budget for? Lunch is not included, and some reviews suggest budgeting around 120 DH (~$12). Optional activities like quad bikes are available at extra cost.

How long are the camel rides? The camel trek lasts approximately 45 minutes, taking you through dunes at sunset and dawn.

What is the accommodation like? Expect spacious tents with private bathrooms, well-maintained and comfortable considering the desert setting.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, many travelers find the group setting friendly and manageable.

What should I pack? Bring water, sunscreen, a scarf, comfortable clothing, and camera gear to capture the stunning scenery.

How early do I need to wake up for sunrise? You should be prepared to wake before dawn, as sunrise over the dunes is a highlight.

Are meals included? Dinner and breakfast are included at the desert camp; lunch is at your own expense during the return journey.

This tour combines the thrill of desert adventure with cultural richness and scenic beauty, making it a solid choice for those eager to see Morocco’s iconic Sahara in just a short time.

You can check availability for your dates here: