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

Planning a trip from Fez to Morocco’s Sahara often feels like a logistical puzzle—getting there independently involves navigating remote roads, limited transportation options, and hefty planning. That’s where a guided tour can make all the difference. This 2-day journey from Fez to Merzouga, operated by 3t Travel, promises an authentic desert experience with comfortable transport, stunning scenery, and memorable activities.

Our review focuses on the real value of this tour—what it includes, what you’ll love, and what you should keep in mind. We’ll highlight the specific highlights like the camel trek, Berber tents, and the impressive mountain scenery, alongside practical details such as the group size, cost, and itinerary flow.

Three things we love about this experience:

• The smooth, air-conditioned transport that takes the stress out of the long drive.
• The opportunity to see both the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara dunes in one trip.
• The chance to spend a night under the stars in a traditional Berber tent.

One possible drawback:

• The journey is quite long, so if you’re sensitive to long drives, be prepared for a full day on the road with some stops.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a hassle-free, immersive desert adventure from Fez—perfect if you’re short on time but craving a genuine Sahara experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from Fez with a professional guide.
• Includes camel rides and desert camping—a true highlight for many travelers.
• Perfect for first-timers seeking an authentic Moroccan desert experience.
• Long journey, but broken up nicely with interesting stops.
• Affordable price point considering the included activities and overnight stay.
• Limited group size (max 15 travelers) ensures a more personal experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Fez to the Sahara

Start with Ifrane, the Moroccan Switzerland
Leaving Fez at 8:00 am, the tour begins with a drive into the Atlas Mountains. One of the standout stops here is Ifrane, a town that looks like it belongs in Europe—think Swiss chalets and clean streets. Built by the French in the 1930s, it’s a bit of an oddity in Morocco but a lovely spot to stretch your legs, enjoy the crisp mountain air, and savor the unique architecture. Expect a quick 3-hour drive with a scenic route that winds past cedar forests, springs, and Berber villages.

Azrou’s cedar forest and monkeys
A highlight here, according to reviews, is the cedar forest at Azrou, where you can see wild Barbary macaques hanging out in the trees. It’s a fun, unexpected encounter that adds a dash of wild Morocco to your morning. As one reviewer noted, “feeding the monkeys was a memorable part of the trip,” and the forest offers great photo opportunities.

Midelt, the fossil hub
Midway through the drive, you’ll stop for lunch in Midelt—famous for its fossils and rocks. This is your chance to stretch, refuel, and get a taste of local life. The town’s reputation for geology makes it a cool stop for anyone interested in natural treasures, although most visitors say the stop is mainly for food and bathroom breaks rather than sightseeing.

Approaching the desert
In the late afternoon, approximately around 5 pm, the scenery shifts dramatically. The landscape transitions from lush forests to the vast, sandy expanse of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. This marks the beginning of the Sahara adventure, and you’ll be greeted by your guide and camels ready for a sunset trek.

Camel trek and desert camp experience

Riding camels across the dunes is the centerpiece of this trip. Expect about two hours on camelback, with plenty of chances to snap photos of the rolling sand dunes and catch the sunset from a high vantage point—an experience many reviewers describe as “absolutely breathtaking.” One guest remarked, “Watching the sunset from the dunes was magical, and the camel ride itself was surprisingly comfortable.”

Overnight in a Berber tent
Arriving at the desert camp, you’ll settle into a traditional Berber-style tent. Amenities are basic but sufficient, with a shared meal and the chance to stargaze after dinner. One guest appreciated the “stargazing experience—watching the night sky in the middle of the desert is truly unforgettable.” The staff is friendly, and many reviews praise the organization and authenticity of the camp.

Day 2: Sunrise & Return

Early morning desert walk
The next morning, you can wake early to see the sunrise over the dunes, often cited as a highlight (“a once-in-a-lifetime view,” as one reviewer put it). After a quick climb to a vantage point just behind the borders of Algeria, you’ll take the camels back to Merzouga, then enjoy breakfast and a shower in town.

Drive to Rissani and back to Fez
From Merzouga, you’ll go to Rissani—an important historical town—before boarding the minivan for the return journey. En route, there are stops for rest and lunch, maintaining the balance between long drives and relaxing breaks. The drive back takes around 6 hours, with some reviewers noting that it’s a lengthy trip but broken up well.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Breakfast and dinner during the overnight stay, offering simple but hearty Moroccan fare.
• Overnight in desert camp, with meals and a traditional Berber tent.
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan, ensuring comfort during the long drive.
• Camel rides for the desert crossing.
• Sandboarding—a fun addition to the desert activities.

Not included:

• Drinks and lunches outside the provided meals.
• Any extras like souvenirs or additional activities not listed.

Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently mention the guides’ knowledge and friendliness—many appreciated Hassan’s expertise and ability to make the long drive engaging. One reviewer said, “Hassan had a lot of knowledge about everything we saw, and the meals he arranged were good,” highlighting the importance of a good guide.

The desert camp experience gets high praise for its organization and authenticity. “The staff was very helpful, and staying in a Berber tent is a unique experience,” one guest shared. However, some noted that winter guests might find the tents cold, so packing warm clothes is advised.

The long journey does draw mixed reviews; some find it a bit tiresome, while others enjoy the scenic stops and the chance to see diverse Moroccan landscapes. Several travelers said the drive is worth it, citing the stunning views, the chance to feed monkeys, and the overall value for the price of $120.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: The tour departs at 8:00 am, so early risers will want to be ready for a full day of travel and sightseeing.
• Group size: Limited to 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
• Physical fitness: Moderate fitness level recommended—camel rides and walking in the dunes are involved but manageable for most.
• Language: Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with reviews highlighting their professionalism.
• Cost: At $120 per person, the tour offers good value considering the transport, overnight stay, and activities included.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 2-day Fez to Merzouga desert tour offers a well-rounded Moroccan desert experience without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s especially appealing if you value comfort (air-con transport), authenticity (tent stay), and scenic variety (mountains, dunes, oasis).

Travelers who enjoy a balance of adventure and ease will find this trip satisfying, with highlights like sunset dunes, starry nights, and feeding monkeys en route. The guided approach means no worries about navigation or logistics, letting you focus on soaking in the views and making memories.

The tour suits those on a limited schedule who want to tick off the Sahara from their Morocco itinerary, but be prepared for the long drives. If you’re after a genuinely immersive desert experience with a touch of Moroccan hospitality, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Fez to Merzouga?
The journey takes approximately 8 hours with stops, but it’s broken up with sightseeing and bathroom breaks that help pass the time comfortably.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price of $120 covers transportation, breakfast and dinner, overnight in a desert camp, camel rides, and sandboarding. Drinks and lunches are not included.

Can I go if I’m not physically very active?
Yes, but some walking and camel riding are involved. Moderate physical fitness is recommended, and the camel ride is usually manageable for most travelers.

Is the overnight desert stay comfortable?
While basic, the Berber tents are well-organized, with helpful staff and a warm atmosphere. In winter, it might be cold, so packing warm clothes is advised.

What’s the best time to go?
The tour runs year-round, but consider the weather—winters can be chilly, especially at night, while summer offers warm days. Always check current conditions.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers or families?
Yes, with a maximum group size of 15, it’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families looking for an authentic desert adventure.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged if advised at booking, ensuring everyone’s dietary needs are met.

This tour offers a genuinely rewarding glimpse into Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from mountain forests to endless Sahara dunes. With a thoughtful itinerary, friendly guides, and comfortable logistics, it’s a chance to experience the magic of the Moroccan desert without the stress of planning every detail yourself.