Excursion Fez-Merzouga-Fès 2 days

Exploring the Fez-Merzouga-Fès 2-Day Desert Tour: A Practical Guide

If you’re dreaming of a Moroccan adventure that combines the charm of ancient cities with the magic of the Sahara, this Fez to Merzouga 2-day tour might just be your perfect escape. While we haven’t had the chance to personally experience it, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized, memorable journey. From the moment you’re picked up in Fez to the intriguing desert vistas, this trip offers a taste of true Moroccan culture and stunning scenery.

What’s great about this tour? First, it provides a focused desert experience that includes a night in the Sahara, an authentic encounter with Berber traditions, and scenic stops along the way. Second, the professional guidance—particularly the praise for driver Mohammed Jebbari—ensures travelers feel well taken care of. Third, the flexible booking with free cancellation gives peace of mind.

That said, a potential consideration is the long travel time—roughly a 12-hour round trip—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full-day journeys. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a compact Sahara experience, appreciate authentic local interactions, and enjoy scenic road trips.

Who is this tour best suited for?

Those eager to see Morocco’s desert in a short timeframe, fans of cultural exploration, and anyone who appreciates professional guides and comfortable transport will find this tour appealing. Keep in mind, it’s best for travelers with moderate physical fitness due to the long drive and outdoor stops.

Key Points

• Authentic Sahara Experience: Spend a night in Merzouga, experiencing desert life firsthand.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Berber villages and panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains.
• Comfortable Transport: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable driver.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Limited Physical Strain: Suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
• Excellent Reviews: High rating based on genuine traveler feedback, especially praising the guide.

What to Expect on the Itinerary

Day 1: From Fez to Merzouga

The journey starts early in the morning, with pickup directly from your accommodation in Fez. You’ll be driven in a private vehicle—likely a comfortable, air-conditioned car—by a driver fluent in English or French. The drive takes you through the scenic landscapes of Morocco, with your first stop at Fes el-Bali, the bustling medieval Medina. Here, you’ll get a quick 15-minute window to soak in the chaos, colors, and smells that define this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Next, the trip continues through Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its Alpine architecture, and Azrou, known for cedar forests and Barbary macaques. These stops offer a break from driving and opportunities for photos, especially at Azrou, where the wild monkeys are a charming sight.

Arriving in Merzouga in the late afternoon, you’ll settle into your desert bivouac—the traditional tented camp—where the magic of the Sahara begins. This part of the trip is designed for a relaxed evening, with opportunities to explore the dunes, enjoy the sunset, and perhaps even partake in a camel ride if available.

Day 2: From Merzouga Back to Fez

Waking up in the desert at dawn is a highlight—expect breathtaking views as the sun rises over endless sand dunes. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll return to the Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves and scenic vistas. The journey back offers more chances to enjoy the landscape, take photos, and reflect on your desert night.

The drive concludes in Fez late in the afternoon or early evening, giving you a full but manageable experience of Morocco’s diverse terrain.

Deep Dive into Stops and Experience Quality

Fes el-Bali is a highlight for many. Though just a 15-minute stop, it’s enough to get a sense of Morocco’s ancient urban fabric. The Medina’s medina—a labyrinth of narrow alleys, bustling souks, and historic architecture—is a feast for the senses, especially if you’re into vibrant street scenes.

Ifrane and Azrou serve as scenic, refreshing breaks. Ifrane’s Swiss-inspired architecture and Azrou’s cedar forests provide contrasting landscapes that highlight Morocco’s diverse topography. If you’re lucky, you might spot monkeys at Azrou, making for fun photo moments.

Merzouga is the star of the show. The desert’s vastness, shifting dunes, and the chance to live like a Berber for a night make this experience genuinely special. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, Mohammed Jebbari, was “very prepared and kind,” which hints at the quality of the service. Travelers have also praised the “amazing views,” emphasizing just how photogenic the Sahara is.

The Sahara night promises a chance to disconnect from the world, with stargazing opportunities and a peaceful environment. While some tours offer optional camel rides or entertainment, the core experience remains the awe-inspiring landscape.

Transportation & Group Size

This tour features a private vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The driver acts as both guide and chauffeur, making the long drive more engaging through commentary on Moroccan scenery and culture. Since it’s a private tour, your group size is limited to your party, providing a more personalized experience.

Timing is structured to maximize sightseeing while allowing a relaxed pace. The early morning pick-up begins around 8:00 AM, with the return scheduled to fit within an approximately 12-hour day. This means you’ll spend most of your day on the road, but with plenty of scenic stops.

Price & Value

At $291.68 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to experience Morocco’s desert without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. The price covers transportation, the desert night, and the guiding service. Given the reviews and what’s included, it’s a good value—especially considering the convenience of door-to-door pickup and the chance to see iconic sights with expert guidance.

While it’s a shorter trip, it’s packed with highlights, making it an efficient choice for travelers with limited time. For those wanting a deeper desert experience, combining this with other Morocco tours might be worthwhile.

Authenticity and Experience Insights

Reviewers consistently praised the guide, especially Mohammed Jebbari, for his preparedness and kindness. His local knowledge enhanced the trip, making stops more meaningful. Travelers also appreciated the stunning desert views and the chance to live out a bit of Berber life, even if just for one night.

Some noted that the long drive might be tiring, but the scenic variety and expert guidance made it worthwhile. The flexibility of the tour, with free cancellation, adds convenience for travelers who might need to adjust their plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day desert trip is perfect for those who want a brief but meaningful Sahara experience. It suits travelers who value professional guides, scenic drives, and authentic cultural experiences. The tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want to see Morocco’s iconic desert landscape without sacrificing comfort.

If you enjoy a well-organized itinerary with a local touch, and don’t mind a full day of travel, this tour offers a satisfying snapshot of Morocco’s desert life. It’s also suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the outdoor stops and long drive.

The Sum Up

This Fez-Merzouga-Fès tour offers an accessible, well-organized introduction to Morocco’s Sahara. Its highlights—an overnight in the desert, scenic drives, and expert guidance—make it a strong choice for travelers seeking a balance between comfort and authentic adventure. The high praise for guides like Mohammed Jebbari and the stunning desert vistas make this a memorable trip.

While the long travel hours might not suit everyone, the overall value and quality of experience are clear. It’s especially well-suited for those with limited time but a desire to see the desert’s grandeur and explore Berber culture firsthand.

For travelers looking for a convenient, authentic, and scenic desert escape, this tour hits the mark. Just pack your camera, some patience, and an appetite for adventure—Morocco’s desert awaits.

FAQ

How long does the tour take?
It lasts approximately 2 days, with a full day of traveling and scenic stops, including an overnight in Merzouga.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a private, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drive more pleasant.

What is the pickup time?
Pickups start early at around 8:00 AM, giving you a full day’s worth of sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as the activities mainly involve outdoor stops and a long drive.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

What do I see during the stops?
You’ll visit Fes el-Bali, scenic mountain villages, cedar forests at Azrou, and enjoy the desert landscapes of Merzouga.

Will I get to experience the desert night?
Absolutely, you’ll spend a night in a desert bivouac, with opportunities for sunset views and star gazing.

Are guides included?
The driver acts as your guide, and review mentions a knowledgeable guide, enhancing the experience.

How is the value for the price?
Given the inclusions, scenery, and guidance, it offers good value, especially for travelers short on time wanting a memorable desert experience.