GROUP TOUR 1 night 2 Day Desert tour from FES to FES

Traveling from Fez into Morocco’s vast desert landscape is a bucket-list adventure for many. This 1-night, 2-day Sahara tour offers an accessible way to see the golden dunes, Berber culture, and breathtaking desert sunrises, all in a small group setting. While it’s not a multi-week expedition, it packs in enough highlights to satisfy those craving an authentic taste of Morocco’s iconic Sahara.

We really appreciate the value of this trip, especially the seamless logistics, the opportunity to ride camels, and the chance to stay overnight in a desert camp. The tour is quite flexible, with pickups included, and offers a genuinely immersive experience for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike. However, one thing to keep in mind is the long drive back to Fez—it’s about 7 hours—which could be tiring after two packed days.

This tour suits travelers who want a manageable, budget-friendly Sahara experience without sacrificing the essence of Morocco’s desert magic. If you’re after exclusive luxury or extensive time in the desert, you might find this tour a bit brief. But for those craving a quick, authentic escape, it hits the mark well.

Key Points

• Convenient group tour with pickup and group transportation simplifies logistics.
• Highlights include camel rides, Berber villages, and sunrise views over dunes.
• Overnight stay in a desert camp offers a genuine Sahara experience.
• Long travel hours mean you’ll want to prepare for a full, active two days.
• Small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a personal experience.
• Affordable price point provides good value for what’s included.
• Authentic local experiences like off-road trips and visits to Rissani.
• Excellent reviews mention friendly guides and stunning scenery.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Fez to the Sahara

You’ll start early at 8:00 am, leaving the bustling streets of Fez behind. The journey covers some of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes. The first stop is Ifrane, built by the French in the 1930s, often called the “Swiss village” thanks to its chalet-style buildings and snowy winters. It’s a quirky contrast to the desert ahead and offers a cool, scenic break.

Next, you’ll visit Azrou cedar forest, where the chance to spot wild monkeys adds an unexpected wildlife encounter to the trip. We loved the way this stop broke up the drive while immersing us briefly in Morocco’s natural surroundings. The route then snakes through the Middle Atlas, with forests, mountain springs, and Berber villages lining the way—highlighting Morocco’s diverse geography.

Midway, there’s a stop in Midelt for lunch, known for its fossils and rocks. It’s a practical pause, giving travelers a chance to stretch and enjoy some local cuisine. Afterward, the scenery shifts as you make your way towards the Ziz Valley, famous for its extensive palm oasis—an incredible sight that captures the desert’s lush contrast.

Approaching Merzouga, the desert gateway, the landscape changes dramatically. Rissani, a traditional market town, offers a glimpse into local Berber life. Here, you’ll hop into an off-road vehicle to get closer to the dunes, creating a sense of adventure even before the camp.

Day 2: Sunrise, Camels, and Return

Waking early is part of the experience. You’ll climb the dunes for the sunrise, with views just behind the Algerian border, about 50 km from Merzouga. The sight of the sun rising over endless sand dunes is unforgettable—and many travelers mention it as a highlight. It’s a peaceful, almost meditative moment that sets the tone for the rest of the day.

After sunrise, you’ll hop back on a camel to cross the dunes and freshen up. The tour includes a breakfast in the desert, which makes the early wake-up more worthwhile. Then, an all-terrain vehicle takes you back to Rissani, where the journey concludes with a comfortable drive back to Fez, with several scenic stops along the way. We appreciated the well-timed breaks, which made the long drive more manageable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package offers good value, especially considering the overnight stay and activities. Included are:

• Dinner and breakfast, both authentic and hearty, adding to the culture.
• One night in a desert camp, providing a chance to sleep under the stars.
• Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and group transfers.
• Camel ride to experience the desert the traditional way.
• A 4×4 transfer to the camp, ensuring smooth access deep into the dunes.

However, lunch isn’t included, so packing snacks or planning for a meal in Midelt is recommended. Tipping is optional but appreciated, especially if your guide enhances your experience.

Who Will Enjoy This?

Travelers who want a short but authentic Sahara experience will find this tour ideal. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule or looking for budget-friendly options. Remember, the tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere and personalized attention.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Praise

A standout comment from a traveler mentions their guide, Samir, as “very helpful and attentive,” which underscores the importance of having a knowledgeable guide. Other reviews highlight stunning views of the dunes and a smooth overall experience, with some mentioning the “super” quality of the trip.

The desert camp stays are described as authentic, allowing guests to enjoy the silence and vastness of the Sahara. The early morning sunrise, in particular, is frequently praised as a highlight, offering a moment of awe at the desert’s beauty.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress comfortably and be prepared for long hours in the vehicle. Layers are best, as temperatures can vary from cool mountain air to hot deserts.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock for protection against the sun, especially during dune climbs and camel rides.
• The camel rides are generally gentle, but if you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication beforehand.
• While most travelers can participate, those with mobility issues might find some parts, like dune climbs, challenging.
• The long drive back means you should plan for a full day of travel on the second day. Bring entertainment or reading material for the return trip.
• Booking in advance and confirming your pickup time ensures a smooth start to your adventure.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day desert tour from Fez offers a well-rounded introduction to Morocco’s Sahara. It balances scenic travel, culture, and the chance to sleep under the stars—all in a small group setting that fosters camaraderie. The inclusion of camel rides, desert camping, and sunrise views makes it a memorable, worthwhile experience for those eager to check off the Sahara from their Moroccan itinerary.

While it’s not a lengthy or luxurious expedition, the value for the price is clear. You get a taste of Morocco’s iconic desert landscapes, Berber hospitality, and a chance to step outside the city for a couple of days.

If you’re looking for an authentic, hassle-free way to experience the Sahara with friendly guides and stunning scenery, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, cultural encounters, and a bit of adventure, all without breaking the bank.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes dinner, breakfast, one night in a desert camp, air-conditioned transportation, group transfers, and a camel ride.

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making it easy to start your adventure without worrying about logistics.

How long is the drive from Fez to the desert?
The total journey takes about 7 hours on the return trip, with several scenic stops along the way.

Where does the tour stay overnight?
You’ll stay in a desert camp in Merzouga, offering a genuine Sahara experience under the stars.

What activities are part of the itinerary?
Camel rides, visits to Berber villages, sunrise dune climbs, and off-road trips to nearby towns like Rissani are included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or a dislike for long drives might want to consider their comfort.

How authentic is the experience?
Based on reviews, the tour provides authentic desert encounters, friendly guides like Samir, and stunning natural scenery that keeps expectations high.

This desert tour from Fez is an accessible way to taste Morocco’s Sahara, blending scenic landscapes with cultural moments. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat adventure, the memories of sunrise dunes and starry nights are sure to stick with you.