Shared 2 Days Fes Desert Tours to Merzouga back to Fes

Exploring the 2-Day Shared Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour: An Honest Look

Travelers eager to see Morocco’s iconic Sahara dunes often consider a multi-day trip from Fes, and this 2-day shared tour to Merzouga certainly promises a memorable adventure. While we haven’t personally joined the trip, the detailed itinerary, rave reviews, and honest insights suggest it’s a well-organized way to experience Morocco’s diverse scenery and culture without breaking the bank.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the carefully curated stops along the way—from cedar forests to Swiss-inspired Ifrane—offer a rich taste of Morocco’s contrasting landscapes. Second, the opportunity to spend a night in a desert camp near Erg Chebbi, complete with a camel ride at sunset and a sunrise in the dunes, sounds both picturesque and genuinely Moroccan. Lastly, the included meals and professional drivers mean you can relax without worrying about logistics.

A potential consideration: the journey is quite long, with around six hours of driving each way, so travelers prone to motion sickness or with limited patience for long bus rides might want to prepare accordingly. The small group size—capped at 17—helps keep the experience intimate and engaging. This tour suits those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and authentic desert nights, especially if you’re after a solid overview of Morocco’s landscape in a short time.

Key Points

• Compact 2-day itinerary offers a quick yet comprehensive Sahara experience.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Highlights include cedar forests, Swiss-style Ifrane, fossil workshops, and dunes of Erg Chebbi.
• Expert guides and drivers make navigation smooth and add valuable local insights.
• Includes most major stops, a camp night, and meals but excludes lunch.
• Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, hassle-free desert adventure without multiple overnight stays.

Journey Through Morocco: What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to take you from the bustling streets of Fes into Morocco’s more tranquil and awe-inspiring landscapes. The journey kicks off early in the morning, with a pickup from your accommodation—an advantage for those staying in central Fes, as it simplifies logistics. The air-conditioned vehicle is comfortable and well suited for the long drive, and with a maximum of 17 travelers, you’ll likely find the group intimate enough for good conversation but not crowded.

Day 1: From Fes to the Sahara

The first stop, Imouzzer Kandar, is a quiet town offering a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the peaceful hillside views. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, perfect for grabbing a photo or browsing local crafts. Next, you’ll visit Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” due to its European-style architecture. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll through its clean streets and gardens—an unusual sight in Morocco, but a delightful surprise for many.

The cedar forests of Azrou follow, where you might get a chance to see the Barbary macaque monkeys. This stop is especially memorable; one reviewer described it as “a captivating handicraft market with curious monkeys nearby,” adding a playful touch to the day. The town of Midelt offers a hearty Moroccan lunch with mountain views, giving you energy for the final stretch towards the desert.

Erfoud, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” provides an interesting contrast—fossil workshops showcase the region’s geological treasures. Some travelers find this visit fascinating, especially if you’re curious about Morocco’s natural history. The last leg of the day takes you to Merzouga, where the dunes of Erg Chebbi call. Watching the sunset on a camel ride across the dunes is often highlighted as a highlight—”breathtaking” is a word we keep seeing in reviews.

Overnight in the Desert

The desert camp experience is a chance to disconnect and enjoy authentic Berber hospitality. You’ll be served Moroccan cuisine and might gather around a campfire under a star-studded sky—an almost surreal experience for many. Reviewers mention the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with one describing the guide Abdou as “a golden guide,” which hints at the personal touch that adds value to the experience.

Day 2: Sunrise and Return

Early morning, you’ll wake up to witness the sunrise from atop a dune—a truly magical moment. You can expect to see a photographer’s dream in the making as the sun rises over the sand. After breakfast, a camel ride will bring you back to Merzouga village, where you’ll head towards Rissani, a town with historical significance linked to Morocco’s royal lineage.

The return drive includes several scenic stops, giving you more chances to enjoy Morocco’s diverse terrains before arriving back in Fes. The driver will drop you off at your accommodation, marking the end of a well-paced, balanced trip.

The Value of This Tour

At $239.28 per person, this tour offers strong value for the depth and variety of experiences included. The stops at cedar forests, Ifrane, fossil workshops, and the Sahara dunes combine natural beauty with authentic cultural encounters. The inclusion of meals, a night in the desert camp, and a professional driver all contribute to a hassle-free journey.

The small group size means more personalized attention, and the experienced guides make a significant difference—helping you appreciate the local culture and history, as well as ensuring safety during the camel rides and desert activities. The fact that the tour is shared also keeps costs reasonable while still maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

What You’ll Love

• The opportunity to witness a spectacular desert sunrise and enjoy a camel ride across the dunes.
• The variety of stops along scenic routes, providing insight into Morocco’s different regions.
• The professionalism of guides and drivers, who are praised for their kindness and knowledge.
• The chance to sample authentic Moroccan cuisine at mid-mountain stops and in the desert camp.

Possible Drawbacks

• The long driving hours (around 6 hours each way) may be tiring for some, especially if you dislike bus travel.
• The tour’s one-night desert stay might feel rushed for travelers looking for a more relaxed, multiple-night experience.
• It’s a shared tour, so those seeking total privacy might prefer a private option.

Perfect For

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive Moroccan desert experience without extensive planning. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and the thrill of a desert night without the expense or commitment of multiple overnight stays.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic adventure that balances natural beauty, culture, and comfort in a short timeframe, this tour hits the mark. It also suits travelers who appreciate small groups and local guides — adding a personal touch to the journey.

FAQs About the Fes to Merzouga 2-Day Tour

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drives more comfortable, especially during hot days.

What is included in the price?
Most major stops, breakfast, dinner, and the desert camp experience are included. Lunch is not covered, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the stop in Midelt.

How large is the tour group?
A maximum of 17 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, but bringing a camera or phone for photos is highly recommended, especially for the sunset and sunrise in the dunes.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the long driving hours if traveling with very young children or elderly family members.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly specified, Morocco’s desert scenery is stunning year-round. Avoid extremely hot summer months if you prefer milder temperatures.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews praise guides like Abdou for being “a golden guide,” offering friendly, insightful commentary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the desert camp comfortable?
While the experience is more rustic and authentic, most find the camp cozy and memorable, especially under the stars.

Will I see wildlife?
You may spot Barbary macaque monkeys at the cedar forest, but wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

To sum it up, this 2-day shared Fes to Merzouga desert tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and authentic Moroccan hospitality. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to experience the Sahara in a manageable, well-organized way without sacrificing depth or comfort. Perfect for adventure lovers, culture seekers, and first-time visitors alike, this trip can truly be a highlight of your Moroccan journey.