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

When it comes to exploring Morocco’s iconic Sahara Desert, a guided tour like this one promises a blend of natural beauty, culture, and unforgettable moments. This 2-day journey from Fes offers travelers a chance to see the Middle Atlas Mountains, ride camels over majestic dunes, and spend a night under the stars in a traditional Berber tent.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the route takes you through a variety of landscapes, from cedar forests inhabited by playful monkeys to sprawling palm oasis in Ziz. Second, the guides—named Moho and Zaccaria—are praised for their kindness, friendliness, and helpfulness. Lastly, the opportunity to watch the sunrise over the dunes creates a truly magical memory.

That said, it’s a fairly full schedule, with about a 7-hour drive back to Fes at the end. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace may find the long drive tiring, especially after two nights of adventure. However, if you’re after authentic Sahara experiences and stunning scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly well-suited for those seeking a compact, value-packed desert escape from Fes with plenty of picture-worthy moments.

Key Points

• Authentic Sahara Experience: Ride camels to a desert camp and watch sunrise over the dunes.
• Diverse Landscapes: Cross cedar forests, mountain villages, and oasis-dotted plains.
• Friendly Guides: Guides Moho and Zaccaria are highly praised for their kindness and knowledge.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in air-conditioned 4WD vehicles or minibus with a professional driver.
• All-Inclusive Night: One night in a traditional Berber tent, with dinner and breakfast included.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups enhance intimacy and personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Fes through Ifrane and the Middle Atlas to Merzouga

Your adventure starts early in Fes, with a scenic drive that promises plenty of surprises along the way. The first notable stop is Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Built by the French in the 1930s, this town’s alpine-style architecture and clean streets provide a strange but charming contrast to Morocco’s bustling cities. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap some photos of the snowy-looking buildings and pine trees.

Next, the journey takes you through Azrou’s cedar forests, where a resident troop of monkeys is often seen lounging or scurrying among the branches. Travelers have shared that these monkeys add a fun, unexpected touch to the drive, making it more than just a scenery cruise. The landscape here is lush, with towering trees and mountain springs, giving you a real sense of Morocco’s natural diversity.

As you descend into the Middle Atlas, the scenery shifts to rocky outcrops, Berber villages, and winding mountain roads that make the drive engaging. Midelt is your halfway point for lunch, a town renowned for fossils and rocks—something to keep in mind if you’re into geology or mineral collecting.

The latter part of the day involves a drive through Ziz Valley, a vast oasis of palm trees that stretches for miles along the riverbed. This is a striking sight and offers a glimpse into the life of desert agriculture. As you approach Merzouga, the landscape begins to turn more arid, preparing you for the desert ahead.

Arrival in Merzouga and Desert Transfer

In the afternoon, you arrive at Rissani, a town that acts as a gateway to the dunes. Here, your guide takes you in a 4WD vehicle deeper into the desert, culminating in the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes. This part of the trip is where the real desert magic begins.

The camels are waiting, and the ride across the dunes is an experience in itself. Sitting atop a camel, you’ll enjoy a slow, rhythmic trek that allows you to truly absorb the vastness of the Sahara. One review mentions that the sunset camel ride is a highlight, providing breathtaking views of the shifting sands bathed in golden light.

Arriving at your desert camp, you’ll find a warm welcome with mint tea before settling into your tent. The accommodations vary from shared to private luxury tents, offering a cozy respite after a day of travel. Dinner under the stars is included, and many travelers comment on how special it is to dine in such an extraordinary setting.

Night in the Desert

Staying overnight in a Berber tent is a standout feature. The tents are equipped with comfortable bedding, and the camp provides a genuine taste of desert life. Visitors often rave about the clear night sky, perfect for stargazing, and the friendliness of the camp staff who serve the evening meal.

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Day 2: Sunrise and Return to Fes

The early morning starts with a dune walk to catch the sunrise—an experience described as “truly magical” by travelers. Watching the sun rise over the Sahara dunes, with shades of pink and orange, is a moment that many consider worth the early wake-up call.

After breakfast, you’ll hop on the camels again to return to the 4WD vehicle. The drive back to Fes offers a chance to reflect on the vast beauty of the desert and the changing scenery, from dunes to oasis to mountain passes.

There’s time for comfort stops along the way, making the long return journey more manageable. The approximate 7-hour drive is a significant part of the experience—giving you a taste of Morocco’s diverse geography.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, a professional driver, all transfers, breakfast and dinner at the camp, and the camel ride to and from the desert camp. Spending a night in a desert camp is part of the package, providing a genuine desert stay experience.

Excluded are lunches and drinks, so it’s wise to carry some snacks and water. The cost is $300 per person, which offers good value considering the accommodation, transport, and experiences included. For those returning to Marrakech, an additional $50 fee applies, reflecting the extra logistics involved.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Considerations

From the glowing recommendations—like Leda’s review praising the guides’ kindness and helpfulness—it’s clear that this tour offers more than just sightseeing. The guides, Moho and Zaccaria, are highlighted for their friendly demeanor and informative approach, making the journey more personal and enjoyable.

Travelers also pointed out that the desert accommodations provided all the comforts needed, making the nights in the camp both authentic and cozy. The opportunity to stargaze in such a remote location is often described as awe-inspiring, and many note that the sunrise views are worth waking up for.

However, the long drive at the beginning and end of the trip means you’re on the road for quite a stretch—something to factor in if you prefer more relaxed schedules or have mobility considerations. Also, since food is not included for lunches, packing some snacks might be a good idea.

Perfect for Who?

This tour is most suited for travelers seeking a quick but immersive desert experience that combines scenic drives, cultural encounters, and authentic Sahara nights. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want a value-conscious option that covers key highlights without sacrificing quality.

It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate small group tours for a more intimate experience, and for travelers eager to see the desert’s stunning sunrise and sunset. If you’re interested in meeting fellow travelers from around the world, this tour’s reviews suggest a friendly, social atmosphere.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Fes to Sahara tour offers a compelling combination of Morocco’s natural beauty, cultural charm, and adventure. The itinerary’s highlights—riding camels, staying overnight in a desert camp, and watching sunrise over vast dunes—are truly memorable. The guides’ kindness and knowledge add depth to the experience, making it feel personal and authentic.

For travelers who want a balanced mix of comfort and adventure, and don’t mind a bit of driving, this tour delivers excellent value for the price. It’s especially suited for those new to Morocco’s deserts but longing for a genuine taste of Sahara life.

While the long travel hours may not suit everyone, the unique sights, friendly guides, and unforgettable desert nights make this an experience worth considering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to cross a big item off your bucket list, this tour creates lasting memories.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional driver, a camel ride, one night in a desert camp, and meals of breakfast and dinner.

Can I return to Marrakech after the tour?
Yes, the tour offers a return to either Fes or Marrakech, with an additional fee of $50 per person for those choosing to go to Marrakech.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring comfortable clothes for the mountain drive, warm layers for the desert night, sunscreen, sunglasses, and some snacks for the long drive. The desert camp provides basic comforts but pack any personal essentials.

How long is the drive from Fes to Merzouga?
The entire journey takes approximately 7 hours, with stops along the way for sightseeing and rest.

Are the desert tents comfortable?
Yes, the tents are equipped to ensure comfort, with options for shared, standard, or private luxury tents, and include bedding for a cozy night.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While it’s generally suitable for most travelers, the long drive and early wake-up calls mean it’s best suited for those in good health and able to handle the schedule.

How experienced are the guides?
Based on reviews, guides Moho and Zaccaria are highly praised for their kindness, friendliness, and helpfulness, making the journey both educational and enjoyable.

Is food included during the day?
Lunchtime is not included, so travelers should plan to bring or buy their own food during the trip.

This 2-day desert adventure from Fes offers an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich experience for those eager to witness Morocco’s desert magic firsthand. It balances adventure, comfort, and affordability, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a memorable desert escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: