From Fes: 2 Day Round Trip Via Merzouga Desert & Camel Trek

Exploring the Desert and Mountains: A 2-Day Fes Tour to Merzouga

This 2-day round trip from Fes to the Merzouga Desert offers an authentic taste of Morocco’s diverse landscapes. From mountain forests to vast sandy dunes, you’ll get a glimpse of the country’s natural beauty paired with cultural encounters. Although it’s a quick trip, it’s packed with memorable moments, making it perfect for travelers limited on time but eager for adventure.

What we love most? The scenic drives through the Middle Atlas Mountains, the chance to feed Barbary monkeys in cedar forests, and the breathtaking Sahara sunset from atop a camel. Plus, the delicious local food breaks and cozy desert camp make the experience feel genuine and well-rounded. One thing to keep in mind is that the journey is quite full; if you prefer a more leisurely pace, some stops might feel rushed.

This tour caters well to those seeking a snapshot of Morocco’s highlights without breaking the bank or needing multiple days away. It’s ideal for first-timers craving iconic sights, adventurous types eager to ride camels, or anyone wanting a taste of desert life wrapped up in friendly group or private settings.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic Sahara Experience: Includes camel rides, sunrise views, and an overnight desert camp.
Scenic Drive: Passes through cedar forests, Ziz Valley, and Middle Atlas Mountains, offering picturesque landscapes.
Cultural Stops: Visits to Berber villages and feeding Barbary monkeys enrich the trip.
Flexible Group Sizes: Small group options ensure a personalized feel, with up to 17 people.
Meals & Comfort: Includes breakfast, dinner, and shower facilities at Merzouga, offering good value.
Optional Sandboarding & Transport: Adds extra fun and flexibility, with transport available for those who prefer not to ride camels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Fes to Merzouga Experience

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

Day 1: From Fes to Merzouga — A Journey Filled with Stops

The adventure begins bright and early around 7:30 am, with pickup from your hotel or riad. The journey is not just a transfer but an experience in itself, with several carefully chosen stops that elevate the day from a simple drive to a scenic exploration.

Your first stop is Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” due to its alpine architecture and ski slopes. It’s a peculiar contrast to the Moroccan landscape, and it’s a great place for a quick photo and to stretch your legs. We loved the way the town’s European charm stands out amid the surrounding countryside, perfect for a short walk before heading into the mountains.

Next, the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains await. This is a highlight for many travelers, especially animal lovers. We found the resident Barbary monkeys quite playful — some guests mentioned feeding them, which adds a fun, interactive element to the stop. The lush greenery and towering trees create a peaceful atmosphere, making it a pleasant break from the road.

Lunch is in Midelt, a convenient spot that offers local Moroccan dishes. It’s a chance to enjoy traditional flavors and recharge before heading toward the desert. Afterward, the drive continues through the verdant Ziz Valley, famed for its dramatic cliffs and lush oases, perfect for pictures and a sense of Morocco’s diverse geography.

The final stop before arriving at Merzouga is Erfoud, a town known for its.Date production and fossils. Here, you might find the landscape turning more arid, signaling your approach to the Sahara. We appreciated the gradual shift from mountain greenery to desert sands.

Once in Merzouga, you’ll transfer to your hotel or guesthouse to drop off luggage before the highlight — the camel trek. The camels are waiting, and the 45-minute ride across the dunes at sunset promises incredible views. The moment when the sun dips into the horizon behind the towering dunes is truly magical, and many guests, including Maud who reviewed the tour, praised the “magnificent landscape” and the “incredible walk in the dunes at sunset.”

Dinner is served under the stars in traditional nomad tents, with local flavors that complement the scenery. Staying overnight in the desert camp offers a chance to truly disconnect and enjoy the silence of the sands.

Day 2: Sunrise and Return to Fes

Waking early is a small price to pay for the sunrise experience, which many describe as a highlight. Standing just behind the Algerian border, watching the sun emerge over the dunes, offers a sense of serenity and vastness that stays long after the trip ends.

After breakfast, the journey continues with a scenic drive back through the Ziz Valley and the surrounding landscapes. The return route offers plenty of opportunities to reflect on the quiet beauty of the desert and mountains.

Lunch is again a restful pause before heading back to Fes, where the tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation or a nearby accessible point. The overall journey is around 2 days, but the experiences and sights make it feel much longer and more rewarding.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For a fair price of $81 per person, the tour covers plenty of essentials. Comfortable, air-conditioned transport ensures a smooth ride, with a multilingual driver who keeps the journey lively and informative. The inclusion of breakfast, dinner, and shower facilities at Merzouga means you’re well taken care of after those long travel days.

In addition, the camel trek, sandboarding, and the overnight desert camp offer authentic experiences that are worth the cost. Travelers particularly loved the “incredible” stay at the Sandfish campground, describing their evening walk in the dunes at sunset, dinner, and fire-side chats as unforgettable.

What’s not included are lunches, drinks, and personal items. This allows you to explore local eateries or pick up souvenirs at your discretion. The tour’s flexibility is enhanced by the option to reserve and pay later, offering peace of mind and adaptable planning.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transportation and Group Size

The tour can be arranged as a private or group experience, with a maximum of 17 people. This setup balances intimacy with the social aspect of group travel. The vehicle is well-equipped with air conditioning, making the long drives comfortable even on hot days.

There's plenty more to explore in Marrakesh

Timing and Flexibility

Start times are typically around 7:30 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing. The tour is designed to be easy-going, so even those unfamiliar with camel riding can opt for 4X4 transport to the campsite if preferred. The itinerary’s pacing allows travelers to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

One of the most praised aspects is the chance to witness sunrise over the dunes — a moment many travelers mention as a highlight. The camel ride itself is described as a “magnificent experience,” and for those who wish, sandboarding adds a playful element.

The stops at Berber villages and cedar forests aren’t just sightseeing points; they’re opportunities to connect with local culture and see Morocco’s diverse landscapes firsthand. The feeding of Barbary monkeys, as Maud noted, added a touch of fun and interaction that many travelers cherish.

The desert camp, with its cozy tents and starry skies, creates an ambiance that’s both adventurous and peaceful. Guests consistently mention the incredible setting, the delicious food, and the warm hospitality from guides like Imad14, who earned praise for making the journey memorable.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

Pack comfortable shoes for walking and exploring, especially for the cedar forest and desert walks.
Bring a sun hat and sunscreen, as outdoor exposure can be intense.
Layer your clothes; temperatures can vary from mountain coolness to desert heat.
Reserve early — the tour’s popularity and flexible booking options make it a good choice for planning ahead.
Opt for the camel ride if you’re seeking the quintessential Sahara experience, but remember, transportation options are available if camel riding isn’t your thing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Morocco’s diverse landscapes. It suits those who appreciate scenic drives, cultural stops, and the magic of desert sunsets. Travelers eager for adventure — from camel riding to sandboarding — will find plenty to enjoy. If your goal is a comfortable, yet authentic experience that balances sightseeing with culture, this tour checks all the boxes.

It’s also an excellent option for travelers on a budget, with a solid price point that covers most essentials. The small-group size enhances the experience by adding a friendly, personalized touch, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be easy-going and suitable for all ages. If riding camels isn’t preferred, transportation is available via 4X4 to reach the campsite.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and light, breathable clothes are recommended based on the outdoor nature of the trip.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast and dinner, with the option to enjoy local Moroccan cuisine at stops along the way.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility to confirm your plans closer to your travel date.

How many people are in each group?
Up to 17 participants, ensuring a balance between social interaction and comfort.

What’s the highlight of the trip?
Most travelers mention the sunrise over the dunes and the desert camp experience as unforgettable moments.

Is camel riding mandatory?
While it’s a key feature, those who prefer not to ride can opt for a 4X4 transport to the camp.

This 2-day Fes to Merzouga tour offers a well-balanced blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and adventure. It’s a fantastic way to experience Morocco’s stunning desert and mountain landscapes without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you’re craving a taste of the Sahara, this trip delivers memorable moments at a fair price, making it a worthwhile addition to your Moroccan itinerary.