From Fes: 2-Day Desert Tour with Return to Fes or Marrakech

Planning a trip to Morocco and craving the adventure of the Sahara without breaking the bank? This 2-day tour from Fes offers a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and the classic desert experience—ideal for those short on time but eager for authentic Moroccan magic.

What we love about this trip? First, the chance to see the cedar forests and spot Barbary macaque monkeys—a surprising highlight for many. Second, the camel trek across the dunes, which offers that iconic Sahara moment everyone dreams of. Third, the stunning desert sunrise that’s worth waking up early for—an unforgettable sight. That said, a potential snag is the long travel times, especially if you’re heading back to Marrakech, which can take around 10 hours.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a snapshot of the Sahara without dedicating days to it, and those comfortable with spending plenty of time in transit. If you’re after a relaxed pace with luxury camp options or a more immersive desert stay, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s a fantastic choice for adventurers looking for value and genuine Moroccan charm.

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Key Points

Authentic desert experience in a traditional camp with options for private or shared tents
Scenic drives through the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, with stops in Ifrane and Azrou
Cultural stops in Ifrane and Midelt, plus a visit to the Ziz Oasis and Ziz Valley
Wildlife encounters with Barbary macaques in Azrou Cedar Forest
Breathtaking desert sunrises and camel rides across Erg Chebbi dunes
Long but scenic journey with multiple photo and refreshment stops along the route

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The Itinerary: What to Expect

Looking for more options in Fes? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: From Fes to the Sahara

Your adventure kicks off early at 7:45 AM, with a prompt pickup from your hotel or nearby meeting point in Fes. The journey south takes you through some of Morocco’s most gorgeous landscapes, so even the long drive offers plenty of visual rewards.

The first stop is Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco”. Here, you’ll get a taste of European-style architecture, clean streets, and a peaceful vibe that’s a stark contrast to the bustling medinas. Many reviews mention how charming and well-kept Ifrane is, making it a perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap some photos, especially of the iconic stone lion statue.

Next, you’ll head to the Azrou Cedar Forest, home to playful Barbary macaques. Travelers often mention the fun interactions with the monkeys—though caution is advised, as they’re wild animals. This stop provides a chance for some light-hearted moments and great photos, with the crisp mountain air adding to the experience.

Afterward, the route takes you across lush landscapes, rocky cliffs, and Berber villages. A lunch break in Midelt is usually suggested (though not included), allowing you to taste local dishes or opt for a quick rest. The drive continues down the Ziz River into the Ziz Valley, lined with date palms and ancient villages, perfect for scenic photos.

As afternoon turns to evening, you arrive at Merzouga, on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Depending on timing, you might relax at a local Kasbah before beginning your camel trek. The ride across the sands, lasting around 20 minutes, gets you to the desert camp while the sunset paints the dunes in golden hues—a moment many reviews highlight as a true highlight.

Night in the Desert

Your accommodation at the desert camp can be a shared tent, private standard, or luxury. The tents are surprisingly comfortable, with some reviews noting how well-equipped they are, including private bathrooms in the luxury option. You’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, often cooked by locals, with plenty of opportunities to relax around the campfire, listen to Saharan music, and gaze at the stars.

Day 2: Sunrise and Return

Early risers will love the desert sunrise—a truly surreal experience. Many mention how waking early to watch the sun emerge over the dunes is worth the effort, with some even describing it as “incredible” and “breathtaking.” After a quick walk and breakfast, you’ll start the scenic drive back to Fes or Marrakech, passing through iconic spots like the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs”, Berber villages, and the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.

The return journey can be lengthy—around 10 hours if heading to Marrakech—so be prepared for a lot of time in transit. However, many guides and drivers go out of their way to make the drive comfortable, stopping for breaks, scenic photos, and local insights.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides transportation in a comfortable 4WD or minibus, with a professional driver—many reviewers praise their guides for their knowledge and friendliness. You’ll get breakfast and dinner at the camp, along with the unforgettable camel ride across the dunes and a night in a desert tent.

Extras such as lunch, drinks, and water are not included, so packing snacks or buying supplies along the way is advisable. Some add-on activities like quad biking are available but paid separately.

There's plenty more to explore in Fes

Considerations on Value and Comfort

Although the tour is considered good value, some reviews point out that the long drive can be taxing, especially if you’re heading all the way back to Marrakech. The quality of the camp and food generally exceeds expectations, with many travelers mentioning the delicious traditional meals and surprisingly comfortable tents.

Authenticity and Highlights

Several travelers comment on how the trip offers authentic moments—like the friendly interactions with locals, Berber music around the campfire, and the chance to see Morocco’s varied landscapes. Guides like Hacem, Mohand, and Yassine are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the long hours on the road more bearable.

You’ll also love the wildlife encounters in Azrou and the spectacular views during mountain drives. Many reviews detail how drivers often stop for scenic photos or to try local foods, adding a personal touch to the journey.

Photos and Memories

Expect plenty of opportunities for picture-perfect moments—from the monkeys in cedar forests to the sunrise over dunes. Many reviewers highlight the campfire nights with music and star-gazing as a top highlight.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 2-day Sahara trip is a solid choice for those wanting a taste of desert life in a relatively short time frame. You’ll get the essentials—camel rides, sunset vistas, and a night under the stars—plus scenic drives through Morocco’s stunning mountains and valleys.

The price reflects the value of the experience, especially considering the comfortable tents, delicious food, and expert guides. It’s perfect for adventurers eager for iconic Moroccan sights, but perhaps less suited for those seeking a more luxurious or leisurely pace, due to the long travel times.

For solo travelers, couples, or small groups, the tour offers a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The experienced drivers and guides seem genuinely committed to making your journey special, often going above and beyond to add personal touches and local insights.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Fes to Merzouga?
The journey takes about 7 hours, with frequent stops for photos, breaks, and sightseeing, making it more manageable and enjoyable.

Can I choose to stay in a luxury camp?
Yes, upgrade options to a luxury camp are available and paid per person, offering more comfort and private facilities.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring warm clothes for the desert night, especially in winter, and comfortable shoes for walking. A small personal fan might help during the hot summer months.

Is the desert camp far from major cities?
Yes, the drive from Marrakech to Merzouga can be around 10 hours, so expect a significant journey if you choose the Marrakech return option.

Are meals included?
Breakfast and dinner at the camp are included, but lunches are not, so plan accordingly. Drinks and water are also an extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While generally suitable for most, the long drives and sand dune walking may pose challenges for very young children or seniors; check with the tour provider for specific concerns.

What are the transportation arrangements?
A 4WD or minibus with air conditioning will take you through Morocco’s scenic routes, with experienced drivers and guides ensuring a smooth ride.

Will I have Wi-Fi or cell service?
Expect limited or no connectivity in the desert and rural stops, so plan to share your itinerary with loved ones beforehand.

Final Words

This 2-day Fes desert tour offers an excellent snapshot of Moroccan desert life and landscape. It’s a well-organized, value-for-money option, especially if you want to experience the Sahara without spending multiple days on the road. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable tents, and unforgettable scenery, it appeals to adventurers eager for authentic moments.

While the long drives and busy schedule might not suit everyone, the stunning desert vistas, wildlife encounters, and genuine Berber hospitality make this trip a memorable highlight of Morocco. Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of culture, scenery, and adventure—without the fuss of over-touristed areas or overly commercialized experiences.