Exclusive! 2 Days Desert Trip Marrakech to Fez via Ait Benhaddou

Introduction: Discovering Morocco’s Golden Sands and Mountain Peaks

This review explores an exclusive 2-day Marrakech to Fes tour that promises to take you through some of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes — from the towering Atlas Mountains to the shimmering dunes of Erg Chebbi. Although we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and the unique features make it a compelling option for travelers craving an authentic desert adventure.

What stands out most about this tour are the luxurious overnight desert camp experience, the professional guides who seem both knowledgeable and friendly, and the chance to sandboard and enjoy camel rides in the Sahara. The journey offers a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and relaxing moments in nature.

However, it’s important to note that the tour involves long hours of travel, which might be tiring for some. The drive through Morocco’s diverse landscapes is extensive but offers remarkable views that are worth the time for those eager to see the country’s contrasts up close.

This trip is ideal for curious travelers who want a comprehensive experience of Morocco’s high Atlas and desert regions without sacrificing comfort. If you’re looking for a well-organized adventure with a blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and memorable activities, this tour may be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Unique route: Only company offering this 2-day Marrakech to Fes desert and mountain experience.
• Authentic desert stay: Overnight in a desert camp with traditional Berber tents.
• Scenic journeys: Passing through Tizi-n-Tichka pass, Ziz Valley, and Berber villages.
• Activities: Camel rides, sandboarding, swimming pools, and sunrise views.
• Professional guides: Knowledgeable drivers who make the long drives enjoyable.
• Value: At $100 per person, it offers a good balance of adventure and comfort, especially considering the included activities and overnight stay.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Marrakech to Merzouga

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup from your Marrakech hotel. From there, you’ll start your ascent into the High Atlas Mountains, with a memorable drive through the Tizi-n-Tichka pass. This mountain pass, climbing up to 2260 meters, offers sweeping views and a landscape that shifts with each turn — from lush small villages to waterfalls and changing rock formations.

Traveling through Ouarzazate and the Valley of Roses provides a glimpse into Morocco’s diverse scenery, with bright floral scents and rugged terrain. The Dades Valley is next, where the landscape becomes even more dramatic. The guide, who seems to be well-versed and friendly based on reviews, will likely share insights into the region’s history and culture.

As you approach the dunes of Erg Chebbi, you’ll stop at a traditional Kasbah, where you can relax with a mint tea and take in the peaceful surroundings. Then comes the highlight: camels waiting to carry you across the desert sands. The camel ride lasts about an hour, and you’ll get your first taste of the Sahara’s vastness.

Arriving at the desert camp, you’ll settle into a Berber tent — a cozy, authentic experience that many reviews mention as a highlight. The night here is spent under the stars, with optional activities like sandboarding and enjoying a traditional dinner. The experience is both rustic and luxurious, with the chance to disconnect from the world for a night in the desert.

Day 2: Desert to Fes with Scenic Stops

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes — a moment many reviewers describe as breathtaking. After a quick Camel-back ride back to your hotel, you’ll enjoy breakfast and some rest before heading back on the road.

The second day features a different set of landscapes: the Ziz Valley and Gorge, the Middle Atlas Mountains, and Berber villages. The Ziz Valley, with its lush oases and winding river, offers a striking contrast to the sandy dunes. The drive through the Cedars Forest provides a chance to spot some local wildlife and learn about the Berber communities.

The journey concludes in Fes, where you’ll arrive in the afternoon. The long drive is considered a bit tiring — some reviews mention “immense distances” — but the views and cultural stops make it worthwhile. Plus, you’ll have plenty of chances to chat with your driver, who’s often praised for their helpfulness and knowledge.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Unique Route and Exclusive Offer

Being the only company offering this specific 2-day connection from Marrakech to Fes via the Sahara gives this experience a distinct edge. It’s ideal for travelers who want an immersive, less touristy journey that covers Morocco’s diverse terrains.

Authentic Desert Experience

Spending a night in a desert camp in Berber tents is a rare treat. Many reviews highlight how cozy and genuine this experience feels, especially with the inclusion of activities like camel rides and sandboarding. The chance to see the sunrise over dunes is a moment you’ll likely never forget.

Professional and Friendly Guides

From the reviews, guides and drivers seem to be a major plus. They are described as helpful, knowledgeable, and attentive to travelers’ needs, making the long hours of driving more comfortable and engaging.

Scenic Diversity

Travelers will love the variety in landscapes — from the towering Atlas peaks, lush oases, to endless desert sands. The route offers a visual feast, ideal for photography and simply soaking in Morocco’s natural beauty.

Practical Aspects & Value

Duration & Transportation

The tours involve approximately 9 hours on Day 1 and 8 hours on Day 2 of travel. While this is a significant amount of time in transit, the comfort of the minibus or minivan and the scenic stops help break up the journey. The group size is capped at 17 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Cost & What’s Included

At just $100 per person, this tour provides incredible value considering the inclusions: overnight in a desert camp, camel rides, sandboarding, breakfast, dinner, and transportation. The price reflects a balanced offering of comfort, adventure, and cultural insight.

What’s Not Included

Travelers should budget separately for lunches, drinks, and optional activities, as these are not included. Also, travel insurance is not covered, so it’s worth arranging that beforehand for peace of mind.

Considerations

The lengthy drives mean this tour is best suited for those with good physical fitness and patience for long road trips. The reviews note that the vast distances can be tiresome but also emphasize the spectacular scenery making it worthwhile.

What Reviewers Say

Many travelers appreciated the expert guidance and stunning views. One reviewer, Lorenzo, praised the organization and friendly staff, while also noting the immense distances covered — a reminder that this adventure isn’t for the faint-hearted. The desert scenery consistently earns high praise, with comments about its “beautiful” and “unforgettable” nature.

The overnight camp stands out as a major highlight, with travelers describing it as authentic and cozy, a chance to disconnect amid stunning dunes. The camel rides and sandboarding are often mentioned as fun, adding a playful element to the trip.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

This exclusive 2-day Marrakech to Fes trip offers an authentic taste of Morocco’s contrasting landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers eager to combine cultural stops, scenic drives, and a real desert adventure without sacrificing comfort. The inclusion of an overnight desert camp, active experiences like sandboarding and camel rides, and expert guides make it a memorable choice.

While the long hours of travel might challenge those with limited patience for road trips, the stunning vistas and unique experiences are well worth it. If you’re looking for a balanced, immersive journey that showcases Morocco’s natural beauty and cultural richness, this tour delivers on all fronts.

It’s especially suited for adventurous travelers, first-time visitors wanting a rundown, or anyone craving a night under the stars in the Sahara.

FAQs

How long is the total trip?
The tour spans approximately two days, with about 9 hours of travel on the first day and 8 hours on the second, including scenic stops and activities.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, you’ll travel in a comfortable minibus or minivan, with pickup from your Marrakech hotel included.

What activities are included?
Camel rides, sandboarding, and an overnight in a desert camp are part of the experience.

Is the desert camp stay authentic?
Yes, you’ll stay in traditional Berber tents, offering a genuine desert experience with modern comforts.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for the desert and mountains, sun protection, and perhaps a camera for photos of the stunning scenery.

Is this suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour’s physical demands mean it’s best suited for those in good physical condition.

This 2-day Marrakech to Fes desert trip offers a compelling blend of landscapes, activities, and cultural encounters. For those ready to embrace the drive and the dunes, it promises a memorable Moroccan adventure filled with breathtaking views and authentic experiences.