Luxury 2-Days Desert Trip from Fes to.:( fes or marakech)

Planning a trip to Morocco often involves balancing the bustling medinas with the serenity of desert landscapes. This 2-day luxury desert tour from Fez promises an indulgent escape into the Sahara, with comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and unforgettable scenery. We’ve rounded up everything you need to know, based on real traveler reviews and detailed itinerary insights.

What sets this experience apart? First, the personalized service with small group sizes—capped at just nine travelers—means you’ll enjoy a more intimate, relaxed vibe. Second, the quality of accommodations in Berber tents, equipped with private bathrooms and electricity, elevates the overnight desert stay. Third, the expert guides like Hassan and Imad make all the difference, offering rich stories and helpful tips. However, keep in mind that the long drive and multiple stops can feel quite lengthy—something to consider if you’re short on time or prefer quicker trips.

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave a balance of scenic adventure, comfortable rest, and culture. If you’re seeking a well-organized, value-packed experience that takes you through Morocco’s stunning landscapes and into the Sahara’s heart, this could be just what you’re looking for—though patience for long travel days is a must.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Capped at nine travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Private tents with attached bathrooms in a luxury desert camp.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Encompasses scenic drives, camel rides, sunset and sunrise views, and cultural stops.
• Value for Money: At $139, the tour includes meals, sandboarding, camel treks, and door-to-door transfers.
• Long but Scenic Drive: Expect around 10 hours of travel, with numerous interesting stops.
• Authentic Experiences: Guides like Hassan and Imad enhance the journey with local insights and kindness.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Fez to the Sahara

The adventure kicks off early at 8am, with your pickup from your hotel or riad. The journey begins with a scenic drive through the Middle Atlas, and you’ll quickly see why Morocco’s diverse landscapes are so captivating. The first significant stop is Ifran, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” thanks to its charming mountain scenery. It’s a lovely spot for photos or a quick coffee break before heading to Azrou, a traditional Berber village famous for its cedar forest—the largest in Morocco.

Here, you’ll likely catch a glimpse of Barbary apes, a highlight for many travelers. The reviews mention how well-organized and informative guides are here, giving you a taste of local wildlife and culture. The journey continues through more mountain scenery and the Tiz Ntalghamt pass, offering spectacular views of rugged hills and lush valleys.

The drive further takes you through the Ziz Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Ziz River, where the scenery shifts from mountains to expansive high-plateaus. It’s the kind of landscape that makes the long hours feel worthwhile, especially with expert narration from guides who know the terrain well. As one reviewer notes, the drive is lengthy but filled with “beautiful scenery and cool stops.”

Day 2: Sahara Magic and Return

Rising early at the camp, you’ll witness a stunning sunrise in the dunes—an experience many describe as awe-inspiring. Camel rides through the erg Chebbi dunes are the main event, with most travelers commenting on how magical and peaceful the desert feels at dawn. The camp’s private Berber tents, equipped with attached bathrooms and electricity, make the overnight stay comfortable and authentic. Expect dinner and breakfast to be flavorful, with some reviewers emphasizing the quality of the food.

After breakfast, you’ll ride camels back to the camp, then begin your return journey to Fez. The route back passes through Rissani, Erfoud, and Erfoud, with a stop in Azrou’s cedar forest—another chance to see monkeys and take scenic photos. The reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the guides were, making the long drive more pleasant.

Most travelers arrive back in Fez around 6:30 pm, with options to transfer onward to Marrakech if booked accordingly. The entire experience, while long, is filled with memorable moments, from breathtaking views to cultural encounters.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Scenic Diversity and Cultural Stops

Traveling from Fez, you’ll traverse the Middle and High Atlas mountains, passing through lush forests, rugged passes, and striking gorges. The stops at Azrou and Ifran give you a glimpse into Morocco’s diverse geography and local life, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy mountain vistas.

Authentic Sahara Experience

The highlight is undoubtedly the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Many reviewers find the sunrise and sunset in the desert to be unforgettable, with some describing the night sky as “phenomenal” due to countless stars visible without light pollution. The camel rides, especially during sunset and sunrise, are praised for their peaceful, almost meditative quality.

Comfortable Camping in the Desert

Unlike basic tent setups, this tour offers luxury Berber tents with private bathrooms, electricity, and cozy furnishings. This elevates what might otherwise be a rustic experience, making it suitable even for travelers used to comfort. Many appreciate these amenities, especially after long days of travel.

Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides

Guide Hassan is repeatedly mentioned as warm, informative, and helpful. Travelers feel welcomed and well-informed, which adds depth to the trip. Guides often share insights into local life, wildlife, and desert customs, enriching the experience far beyond just the scenery.

Good Value for Money

At $139.03 per person, the tour covers a lot—meals, camel treks, sandboarding, private tents, and transfers. Considering the length and inclusions, many guests say it offers excellent value, especially for those who want a comprehensive desert experience without sacrificing comfort.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

The Lengthy Drive

The most common concern is the long travel hours—around 10 hours in total, including stops. While many reviewers found the journey scenic and well-managed, some felt it was tiring, especially if you’re not used to long road trips. If you prefer shorter, more intense excursions, this might feel a bit overwhelming.

Limited Time in the Dunes

While most travelers rave about the desert scenery, some mention that camel rides are relatively short—about 30 to 45 minutes—and that there’s only one ride included. Sandboarding is offered but not always available to everyone, as there’s often only one sandboard for the group. If you’re eager for extended riding or more adventure options, you might need to adjust expectations.

Accommodation Overcrowding?

A few reviews point out that tents are not entirely private; some campers had to share with up to four people, and privacy in bathroom facilities can be limited. However, most reviewers still found the tents comfortable and the experience authentic.

Pickup and Drop-off Logistics

Some travelers report disorganized pickup or drop-off experiences, though guides like Hassan and Imad generally mitigate these issues with friendliness and professionalism. It’s worth being patient and flexible.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 2-day desert trip offers a balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural richness, and comfortable camping, making it a great choice for travelers who want to experience a Moroccan desert adventure without sacrificing comfort. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized, engaging journey—especially valuable for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

It’s perfect if you’re looking for stunning scenery, cultural authenticity, and good value. Be prepared for a long day of travel, and bring warm clothes for chilly desert nights. If you love scenic drives, starry skies, and memorable camel rides, this tour will likely check all your boxes.

However, if you prefer a more intense or shorter desert experience, or need total privacy and maximum flexibility, you might want to explore other options. But for most, this tour strikes a fine balance, giving a taste of Morocco’s desert magic coupled with comfort and expert guidance.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour starts at 8:00 am, so plan to be ready at your hotel or riad by then for a smooth start.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers dinner, breakfast, sandboarding, air-conditioned transportation, camel treks, and a private tent with attached bathroom in the desert camp.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll stop for meals during the drive, so bringing some snacks or cash for local eateries is advisable.

How long is the drive from Fez to the desert?
The journey is approximately 10 hours including stops, so prepare for a long day on the road.

Can I book this tour to go to Marrakech instead of Fez?
Yes, pickup is offered from either Fez or Marrakech, but confirm your exact pickup point when booking.

Are the tents comfortable?
Yes, the tents are described as luxury Berber tents with electricity and private bathrooms, providing a comfortable desert overnight experience.

What should I bring?
Warm clothes for the desert night, snacks, cash for tips and souvenirs, and perhaps a camera for all the photo-worthy moments.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are small, with a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the long drive and camel rides may be challenging for some.

To sum it up, this tour offers a memorable, well-rounded adventure into Morocco’s Sahara, blending scenic drives, cultural stops, and luxurious desert camping. It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, authentic experiences, and are comfortable with a long travel day. The guides’ warmth and the stunning desert scenery make it a trip worth considering for your Moroccan itinerary.