fes desert tours 3 days

If you’re dreaming of crossing the Moroccan desert off your bucket list, this three-day private tour from Fez promises an immersive experience filled with scenic drives, cultural encounters, and unforgettable sunsets. While not a typical group tour—it’s tailored just for your group—you’ll enjoy the flexibility to set your own pace and focus on what excites you most.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the personalized guidance and dedicated driver ensure comfort and insider knowledge. Second, the beautiful stops along the way—like Ifran and the cedar forests—offer more than just desert sights. Finally, camel riding at sunset over the dunes is an absolute highlight that you won’t want to miss. However, keep in mind that the driving time is substantial, often around 10 hours on the first day, so this trip is best suited for travelers prepared for a bit of a journey.

This experience is perfect for those who value authentic encounters, scenic landscapes, and a tailored itinerary. If you’re eager to explore both the Moroccan mountains and desert in one trip, and enjoy local culture without the stress of organization, this tour could be a fantastic fit.

Key Points

• Private tour offers personalized pacing and exclusive group experience
• All logistics like transportation and accommodation are taken care of
• Highlights include camel rides, Berber culture, and stunning desert scenery
• Includes several meals, making the trip more convenient
• Long driving days require travelers to be comfortable with extensive road time
• Tour guides receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness

This guided journey is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultures, all while staying comfortably within a private setting. Let’s explore each part of the itinerary to understand what makes this trip special—and what you might want to prepare for.

Day 1: From Fez to Merzouga via the Middle Atlas

The adventure kicks off early in the morning around 7:30 am, with your private driver picking you up in Fez. From there, the journey begins with a scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, a lush, green contrast to the desert. Expect to pass through small Berber villages, giving a glimpse into local life.

One of the standout stops is Ifran, often called “Moroccan Little Switzerland,” thanks to its cool air and charming alpine feel. Here, travelers love to stretch their legs and breathe the crisp mountain air. As one reviewer mentioned, “It’s a charming small city where you can enjoy the pure air and the fascinating mother nature,” so don’t forget your camera.

Next, the route leads to Azrou, famous for its cedar forests and the monkeys that frolic among the trees. If you’re a nature lover, this stop is a delight—many travelers comment on how seeing the monkeys in their natural habitat was a highlight.

After that, the drive continues through Midelt, where a traditional Moroccan lunch is included, giving you a taste of local cuisine. After lunch, the trip heads toward Erfoud and eventually Merzouga—the doorstep of the Sahara. The drive itself is a chance to unwind, enjoy window views, and soak in the changing scenery.

Day 2: Sahara Adventures and Berber Culture

Day two centers around Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. The morning begins with a visit to Khamlia, a village known for its Gnawa music—a spiritual, rhythmic sound that travelers find enthralling. Many reviews highlight the entertainment as a memorable cultural experience, with one mentioning “entertainment with their spiritual music of Gnawa.” You might also visit a nomad family living in tents, offering insights into traditional Berber lifestyles.

Next, the tour takes you to Dayte Sarji Lake—a seasonal attraction that hosts flamingos in springtime, adding a splash of color to your desert journey. Afterward, a leisurely lunch in Merzouga or nearby Hassi Labied provides recovery time before the highlight of the day: a camel trek into the dunes.

The camel ride, often about an hour long, is a quintessential Sahara experience. Several travelers mention how riding camels at sunset creates truly picture-perfect moments, with captions like “riding camels in the desert at sunset is a highlight.” Many appreciate that the camel ride is not rushed and that guides are attentive.

In the evening, you’ll typically settle into a desert camp where you can enjoy the starry night sky—this is a highlight for many, with some describing it as a surreal, peaceful experience.

Day 3: Sunrise and Return to Fez

The final day begins before dawn. Your camel driver will take you out to witness the spectacular sunrise over the dunes—a scene that many reviewers describe as breathtaking. Watching the shifting sands glow with the early morning light is often cited as one of the most memorable moments.

After breakfast at the camp, you’ll cross back through the dunes, heading towards Fez with several stops along the way. The return journey, approximately six hours, offers more chances to enjoy the Moroccan scenery and perhaps discuss the trip highlights with your driver.

Travelers consistently mention that the logistics are well-managed, with your driver taking care of all the navigation and stops, so you can relax and focus on enjoying each moment.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers favor guides like Aziz and Yassine for their knowledge and friendliness. One recounted, “Aziz was knowledgeable, friendly, and an excellent driver,” emphasizing not only the comfort but also the added value of a guide who shares insights along the way.

Many comment on the stunning scenery—from mountain vistas to the sweeping dunes. A traveler noted, “It was hot, but with lots of stops, knowledge, and drinks, the time flew by,” highlighting how the tour balances sightseeing with comfort.

Safety seems to be a common theme; several reviews mention feeling secure, especially for solo women travelers. One review specifically praised the friendly personnel and safety, adding that there are even female-only tour options—a thoughtful detail for those with specific safety concerns.

At $337.88 per person, this private 3-day tour offers a comprehensive Morocco experience—covering mountains, desert, and cultural sites—without the hassle of organizing transport or accommodations. Included meals and the convenience of a private driver make it an appealing option for travelers wanting a worry-free adventure.

The long driving hours might seem daunting, but the scenery and stops break up the journey nicely. The personalized nature allows for flexibility—perhaps to take extra photos, ask your guide questions, or relax at your own pace.

The camel rides and desert camping are authentic and well-organized, making them accessible even for those new to desert adventures. Plus, the review mentioning “a luxury trip” suggests that the accommodations and activities are thoughtfully curated.

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a private, flexible experience with an emphasis on culture and scenic beauty. It suits those comfortable with long drives and eager to explore both mountains and deserts in a short amount of time.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner and appreciate local insights and personalized service, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s also suitable for solo travelers keen on safety and authentic experiences, especially given the positive comments about guides and security.

This 3-day private tour from Fez offers an excellent balance of scenery, culture, and relaxation. You’ll appreciate the personalized attention, the stunning landscapes, and the cultural insights provided by knowledgeable guides like Aziz. The camel ride at sunset and the starry desert night are undeniably special moments that make this trip worth considering.

While the extensive travel time might be a challenge for some, the careful organization and inclusion of meals, stops, and activities help make it feel like a curated adventure rather than just a long drive. It’s a great choice for those who want to experience Morocco’s diverse terrain without the stress of planning every detail on their own.

Overall, if you’re after a comfortable, authentic, and memorable desert trip, this tour offers good value and a chance to see some of Morocco’s most iconic sights in just three days.

How long is the driving each day?
On the first day, expect around 10 hours of driving, with several scenic stops along the way. The return trip on the last day takes about 6 hours.

Are meals included?
Yes, several meals are included, which helps streamline the trip and ensures you experience local cuisine without extra planning.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The reviews mention feeling safe and well-guided, with options suitable for women traveling alone.

What is the camel ride like?
The camel trek lasts about an hour, taking you into the dunes for sunset views. Guides are attentive, and many travelers say it’s a highlight of the trip.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can influence the pace and focus—your driver and guide will be there to accommodate your preferences.

Are accommodations included?
While the review doesn’t specify details, it mentions that logistics are handled, and desert camps are part of the experience, offering an authentic overnight stay.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunblock, and camera. Prepare for hot days and cooler nights in the desert.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance, the payment is non-refundable.

Who is the tour provider?
Fuma Tour Travel – Day Tours, known for their friendly staff and well-organized trips.

This private 3-day tour from Fez combines adventure, culture, and comfort—a fantastic way to experience Morocco’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail yourself. Whether you’re seeking stunning desert vistas or authentic Berber encounters, this trip is tailored to deliver a memorable Moroccan escape.