Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour & Back in 2 Days

Discover the Magic of the Moroccan Sahara on a 2-Day Fes to Merzouga Tour

If you’re craving an escape from city life and want to experience the Sahara’s vastness, this Fes to Merzouga desert tour promises a memorable adventure. It’s designed for those who love authentic experiences, scenic drives, and cozy nights under the stars—all wrapped into a compact, budget-friendly package.

While some travelers have voiced concerns about long drives and language barriers, many appreciate the small group size, the inclusion of camel rides, and the chance to sleep in a traditional Berber tent. It’s perfect for adventure seekers with a sense of patience and an appreciation for Morocco’s stunning landscapes.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves a significant amount of driving—around 11 hours on the first day—so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind long journeys and prioritize the experience over quick travel. If you’re looking for a good value, intimate experience with memorable desert moments, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Maximum of 7 travelers for a more personal experience
• All-Inclusive: Transfers, meals, camel rides, and desert camping are covered
• Scenic Route: Drive through Middle Atlas Mountains, cedar forests, and iconic sand dunes
• Authentic Stay: Sleep overnight in a Berber tent amid the dunes, with dinner and breakfast included
• Additional Rides: An extra 4×4 desert ride after sunrise adds to the adventure
• Timing: Departure at 7:30 am from Marrakesh; ideal for those wanting a structured experience

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Fes to Merzouga Tour

Day 1: From Fez to the Sahara’s Edge

Your journey begins early, with a pickup at your hotel or Riad around 7 am. From there, you’ll traverse Morocco’s diverse landscapes, starting with the Middle Atlas Mountains. This mountain range is breathtaking, with rolling peaks and lush forests. A stop in Ifrane — dubbed Morocco’s Switzerland — offers a chance to see the chalet-style architecture and enjoy a quick look at its charming streets.

Next, the route takes you through cedar forests near Azrou, where wild macaque monkeys are often seen in their natural habitat. Several reviewers mention this stop as a highlight, with one noting: “The monkeys were eager to share our lunch,” giving a sense of how close and natural the experience can be.

As you continue south, the landscape shifts dramatically. The Atlas Mountains give way to arid plains and golden dunes, culminating in Rissani, the gateway to the Sahara. Here, the vast Erg Chebbi dunes rise dramatically—some up to 50 meters high—and stretch into the horizon.

The highlight of the day? A 90-minute camel trek at sunset. Many travelers describe this as the most magical part, watching the shifting shadows and glowing dunes. One reviewer described it as “an unforgettable experience, riding through the sands as the sun dipped below the horizon.”

Your night will be spent in a traditional Berber tent, set between the dunes. Dinner is served under a canopy of stars, accompanied by local music, creating a truly immersive atmosphere. Reviewers often mention the cozy, authentic feel of these tents, making the desert nights an experience in themselves.

Day 2: Sunrise, Camel Ride, and Return Journey

Early mornings are often the most revered part of desert trips, and this tour is no exception. You’ll wake early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the dunes—a moment many say is well worth the long night. During your camel ride back to the camp, you’ll notice how the changing shadows and light highlight the dunes’ contours, making for incredible photo opportunities.

After breakfast, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the return trip to Fez, passing back through the Mighty Middle Atlas Mountains. This scenic drive offers a different perspective on the Moroccan landscape, with reviews mentioning lush forests, streams, and mountain vistas.

One reviewer summarized: “The journey was long, but the desert experience made it worthwhile,” acknowledging the drive’s length but emphasizing the unforgettable nature of the desert stay.

What’s Included and Not

This tour strikes a good balance by including most essentials: round-trip transfers, meals, camel rides, bottled water, and a 4×4 ride after sunrise. You’ll enjoy dinner and breakfast, which many reviewers found to be adequate, though the quality and quantity of breakfast received some mixed feedback — with some calling it “hard bread and poor coffee.”

One important note is that lunch isn’t included, so packing snacks or planning for meals at your own expense might be wise if you’re hungry.

Considerations and Tips

• The long drive on day one is a common concern among travelers. Some reviews mention that the 11-hour journey feels long, especially for those not used to extensive road trips.
• Language barriers could be an issue; the driver/guide predominantly spoke French, and the tour was booked in Spanish by some travelers, which might impact communication.
• The small group size is a definite plus, allowing for more personalized attention, but it also means a more intimate, sometimes unpredictable experience.
• Packing essentials include comfortable clothes for the drive, layers for temperature changes, and a camera to capture the stunning desert scenery.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who are helpful and passionate about sharing Morocco’s landscapes and culture. Even if language barriers exist, their enthusiasm tends to shine through.

One traveler expressed that the desert dunes are truly breathtaking, though they felt the long drive was a bit too much for the short time spent at the dunes. Conversely, others called the experience “marvelous” and “a must-do,” especially for those who love scenic road trips coupled with authentic desert nights.

The stay in a Berber tent is often praised for its simplicity and charm, with the starry night sky being a frequent highlight. However, a few mention that the breakfast could be better — some found the bread hard and the coffee unremarkable, but appreciated the overall experience more than the food.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day Fes to Merzouga desert tour offers a true taste of Morocco’s Sahara, balancing adventure with genuine culture. The inclusion of camel rides, desert camping, and the stunning sunrise give it an authentic flavor many travelers seek.

It’s especially suited for adventure lovers, photography fans, and those eager to experience the desert’s silence and vastness without breaking the bank. The small group setting fosters a cozy atmosphere, but be prepared for a long travel day—this isn’t a quick jaunt, but a full-on adventure.

For travelers who prioritize comfort and quick trips, this might feel a bit rushed. However, if you’re after value, authentic scenery, and memorable nights under the stars, this tour hits the mark. The feedback from many who’ve taken this trip highlights its stunning views and the knowledgeable guide support as key positives, making it an experience worth considering for your Moroccan itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 7:30 am from Marrakesh, with pickups arranged from your hotel or Riad in Fez.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a long day of travel on the first day. Good mobility and patience for long drives are recommended.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, dinner, breakfast, bottled water, camel ride, and a 4×4 desert ride after sunrise.

Are meals provided?
Yes, dinner at the desert camp and breakfast are included. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

How long is the camel ride?
The camel trek lasts about an hour, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenic dunes and sunset.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, which offers flexibility if plans change.

Is there any special equipment I should bring?
Comfortable clothing, layers for temperature changes, and a camera are recommended. Many find the desert night chilly, so pack accordingly.

What are the main drawbacks?
Long travel hours and potential language barriers are common concerns, but most find the desert experience worth the effort.

In summary, this Fes to Merzouga tour offers a solid combination of scenic drives, culture, and desert adventure—all at an accessible price point. Whether you’re after stunning landscapes, a night under the stars, or just a break from city life, it’s a journey that delivers on many fronts. Just be ready for the drive and check your expectations about meal quality and language comfort, and you’ll likely come away with unforgettable memories.