Fès: 2 Days Desert Trip to Merzouga (1 Night), Marrakech

If you’re dreaming of drifting across golden dunes, watching a desert sunset from atop a camel, and spending a night under a blanket of stars, this two-day tour from Fès might just catch your eye. While it promises a blend of natural beauty, cultural stops, and a dash of luxury, it’s worth noting that it’s not without its quirks—reviewers highlight both the highlights and a few organizational challenges.

What makes this experience appealing? For starters, the chance to ride a camel at sunset in Merzouga, stay overnight in a luxury tent, and witness Morocco’s diverse landscapes are definite pluses. The journey also features some striking stops, like the Valley of the Roses and the Tizi n’ Tichka pass, offering excellent photo opportunities and cultural insights. However, potential travelers should consider the mixed reviews about the organization, especially regarding the logistics and comfort during long travel hours.

This tour suits those eager to tick Morocco’s desert off their bucket list, especially if you’re happy to embrace some adventure and minor inconveniences along the way. It’s particularly good if you value authentic scenery, cultural stops, and a taste of desert luxury—all for a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Stunning desert sunset atop a camel is a highlight.
• Overnight stay in luxury tents with dinner and music.
• Visiting scenic stops like the Valley of the Roses and Tizi n’ Tichka.
• Long travel hours (up to 10 hours in a van) may be tiring.
• Mixed reviews on organization and comfort, especially during transit.
• Affordable price point offers decent value considering the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the 2-Day Desert Tour from Fès

Starting the Journey: From Fès to the Middle Atlas Mountains

The adventure begins with hotel pickup, which is generally included. You’ll be transported in a comfortable vehicle—likely a van—with a driver who might speak several languages (English, French, Spanish, Arabic). As we understand from reviews, the driver’s friendliness and vehicle comfort are appreciated, but some travelers note that the organization of the return journey can be chaotic, with sorting into vehicles happening at the last minute and long waits for drivers.

The first leg takes you through the Middle Atlas mountains, a scenic drive that’s worth paying attention to. We loved the way the landscape transitions from the historic city of Fès into lush, green areas before climbing into the mountains. Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland,” is a picturesque stop that adds a touch of European charm to the trip.

Cedre Gouraud Forest: Monkeys and Nature

Next, you’ll likely encounter the Cedre Gouraud Forest, where magot monkeys frolic in the trees. It’s a unique photo opportunity and a chance to see Morocco’s natural side. As one reviewer put it, “The walk service to the camp with the dromedaries is excellent,” and it’s a fun way to break up the drive.

Lunch Break in Zaida and the Road to Merzouga

Lunch is typically in Zaida, where options may vary in quality and cleanliness. Some travelers found the restaurants “very dirty and overly expensive,” so packing snacks or planning for a quick meal might be wise. The focus here is on breaking the long drive and preparing for the desert adventure ahead.

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Reaching Merzouga and the Camel Ride at Sunset

Once you arrive in Merzouga, the real highlight begins. Riding a camel at sunset across the dunes offers breathtaking views, perfect for pictures. Several reviews mention the camel ride as “excellent,” and it’s easy to understand why—there’s something magical about the feel of the sandy terrain beneath you, with the sun casting long shadows over the dunes.

The guides and Bedouins running these rides are generally friendly, although you should carry cash in Moroccan dirhams if you want to buy souvenirs or tips, as some reviews mention. The camp staff usually provide a warm welcome, with traditional dinners, music, and dancing, making the night an authentic cultural experience.

The Nights in the Desert: Luxury or Basic?

This tour advertises a “luxury tent camp,” but reviews reveal a more mixed reality. Some travelers enjoyed a very nice room, while others found the tents cold and without hot water. One reviewer noted that air conditioning came at an extra cost, which could be disappointing if you expected comfort included.

The dinner, often traditional Moroccan fare, is part of the experience, and the campfire music adds a lively touch. Just be prepared for some disorganization, as the camp’s management can be a little chaotic—people have reported being asked to pay for extras or being moved around without clear instructions.

Early Morning Sunrise and Departure

Waking up early for the sunrise is a popular highlight. The views are unforgettable, with the dunes bathed in pink and orange hues. Breakfast is usually provided in the camp, giving you a final taste of desert life before heading back.

The Long Road to Marrakech – Scenic Stops and Challenges

On the second day, after breakfast, your journey continues. The Valley of the Roses is a major stop, offering stunning scenery and a chance to explore a rose water cooperative. Here, you can take photos of endless fields of roses and learn about local production—an authentic slice of Moroccan village life.

Driving through the Tizi n’ Tichka pass, at 2,260 meters, provides sweeping mountain vistas. The views are spectacular and well worth the long drive. However, some reviewers mention that the long hours—up to 10 in the van—can be quite taxing, especially without much room to stretch or proper air conditioning. The restaurants along the route are often described as “very dirty and overpriced,” so packing snacks or bringing your own is advisable.

Arrival in Marrakech

Expect to reach Marrakech in the late afternoon or evening, ready to explore Morocco’s vibrant city after this desert adventure. The trip ends with hotel drop-off, which generally runs smoothly.

Is This Tour Worth It?

The value of this trip depends on what you’re after. For around $169, it offers a reasonable way to see some of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes and enjoy a desert night with traditional flair. The included highlights—camel rides, desert camp experience, Valley of the Roses—are genuinely memorable.

However, the logistical issues—long hours in crowded vans, variable camp comfort, and some disorganization—could detract from the overall experience. If you’re flexible, love scenic drives, and want a taste of desert life without breaking the bank, this tour can deliver.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Budget travelers looking for an affordable desert experience.
• First-timers eager to see Morocco’s scenic valleys and dunes.
• Adventurous souls okay with long travel hours and minor organizational hiccups.
• Cultural explorers interested in traditional Moroccan hospitality and landscape photography.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day trip from Fès to Merzouga offers a solid overview of Morocco’s desert and mountain scenery, packed into a relatively short tour. The camel ride at sunset and a night in a desert camp are definite highlights, creating memories you’ll cherish. Keep in mind that some logistical elements may be less polished—long van rides, variable tent comfort, and occasional disorganization.

If you value authentic experiences, scenic stops like the Valley of the Roses, and are comfortable with a bit of adventure, this tour provides good value for the price. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable Moroccan desert experience without a hefty price tag.

FAQs

What is included in this tour?
Transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, one dinner, and one breakfast are included. The camel ride and overnight desert stay are part of the experience.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, lunches and drinks are not included. You might also need cash in Moroccan dirhams for souvenirs or tips at the camp.

How long is the travel time?
Expect around 10 hours in the van across the two days, with some reviews mentioning a lack of space to stretch and limited air conditioning.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, sunscreen, cash, a sun hat, and water are recommended. Pack snacks if you’re concerned about food quality en route.

Is the camp experience comfortable?
It varies. Some travelers enjoyed a very nice room, while others found tents cold with no hot water. Air conditioning might cost extra.

Can I expect a well-organized tour?
Reviews suggest mixed experiences. Some found the organization chaotic, especially during the return journey and during vehicle sorting.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It depends. The long van rides may be tiring for young children or elderly travelers, and the camp facilities may vary in comfort.

This tour offers an authentic slice of Moroccan desert life, with its scenic views and cultural stops outweighing some logistical bumps. Perfect for adventurous, flexible travelers wanting a taste of the Sahara at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: