Standard trip in 1 night / 2 days from fez to merzouga – marrakech or back with same transportation fez

Exploring Morocco’s Sahara in 2 Days: A Practical Review of the Fes to Merzouga Experience

If you’ve ever dreamt of crossing the Moroccan desert and experiencing the vast dunes and starry skies, this 1-night, 2-day tour from Fes to Merzouga offers an accessible, well-organized way to do it. While we haven’t personally joined this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a journey packed with scenic stops, cultural insights, and memorable desert nights.

What we love about this trip is how it balances affordability with authenticity—offering a journey that appeals to all budgets, from backpackers to luxury seekers. The comfortable transportation, well-run itinerary, and knowledgeable guides stand out as major positives. Plus, the chance to see iconic spots like Ifrane, Azrou Cedar Forest, and the Ziz River all in one trip is a real perk for those short on time.

One thing to consider is the long driving hours—around 7 hours of total travel each way—so it’s definitely a trip for those who enjoy scenic road trips and don’t mind lengthy bus rides. This tour is best suited for travelers eager for an authentic desert experience without breaking the bank and who value guided, well-structured adventures.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At around $139.37 per person, this tour offers good value considering the stops, accommodations, and included activities.
• Comprehensive Stops: Enjoy diverse landscapes—from mountains and cedar forests to oasis towns and desert dunes—without feeling rushed.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews highlight friendly, multilingual guides who are attentive and knowledgeable, making the journey more enjoyable.
• Authentic Desert Night: Sleep in a luxury camp, have dinner under the stars, and experience a true Sahara night.
• Group Size: Limited to 17 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Flexible Return Options: You can choose to end the trip in Fes or continue to Marrakech, providing flexibility in your Morocco itinerary.

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Early from Fes

The journey begins early, with pickup from four different points in Fes—Place Rcif, Bab Boujloud, Place Batha, or near Hotel Barcelo—between 7:30 and 8:00 am. The early start is crucial because the trip involves approximately 7 hours of driving plus several stops. Many travelers appreciate the early departure because it maximizes sightseeing and reduces the risk of missing out on picturesque views, especially of the Atlas Mountains.

Scenic Route and Key Stops

Ifrane is the first major stop, often dubbed the “Little Switzerland” of Morocco. Its well-manicured streets and Alpine-inspired architecture make it a charming break from the road, and it’s a highlight for many visitors. Expect to spend about 20 minutes here—just enough time to stretch your legs and snap some photos of the neat streets and snow-capped peaks if you’re lucky.

Next is the Azrou Cedar Forest, famed for its ancient cedar trees and the Gibraltar monkeys that roam freely. Several reviews describe this as a fun, lively stop—especially if you enjoy watching the cheeky monkeys and browsing the souvenir stalls. For many, this moment is a highlight, as it offers a glimpse of Morocco’s natural beauty and a chance for some playful monkey interactions.

Midelt is often chosen as a lunch spot, although meals are not included. It’s a peaceful town known for apples and agricultural richness, thanks to the nearby Moulouya River. Travelers can enjoy a quick meal or just pause to admire the lush surroundings before heading further into the desert region.

The Ziz River creates a stunning oasis corridor, with its historic significance tied to the old trans-Saharan trade routes and the legendary city of Sijilmassa. The views of the river winding through the rocky landscape are truly memorable, and many reviewers highlight this as a scenic highlight of the trip.

Errachidia, Erfoud, and Rissani are notable oasis towns, with the “Gate of the Sahara” marking the desert’s edge. These stops give travelers a quick insight into desert-adjacent life and Moroccan history, making them more than just photo stops—they are cultural touchpoints.

Arriving in Merzouga and the Desert Experience

After roughly 7 hours of driving, you arrive at the hotel near Merzouga, where you can rest and enjoy a traditional Moroccan tea. This is also where the adventure shifts to the iconic desert part—either a camel ride or a 4×4 transfer to your luxury camp.

The desert camp is often described as a highlight, with many reviewers raving about the comfort and hospitality. Expect a warm dinner, music, and, of course, the unforgettable experience of sleeping under a blanket of stars. Many highlight the “luxury camp” aspect, which ensures a comfortable night amid the dunes.

Day 2: Return or Continue Your Journey

On the second day, after breakfast, travelers can choose to head back to Fes or continue toward Marrakech. The return trip generally follows the same stops, giving you a chance to revisit favorite spots or catch additional sunset views.

If ending in Fes, expect to be dropped off at the same locations as in the morning—convenient for those planning to explore Fes further. Lunch isn’t included on the return leg, so it’s advisable to bring snacks or plan a stop in Midelt or other towns.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive manageable, especially given the group size limit of 17 travelers. With such a small group, you’re more likely to enjoy personalized attention from guides and have opportunities for questions and spontaneous stops.

The tour is well-managed, with clear timing, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and multilingual skills, making the experience accessible for international travelers.

Authentic Experiences and Visitor Feedback

From reviews, we see that many travelers found the guides to be knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. Hassan, Mustafa, and other guides receive mentions for their caring attitude and ability to cater to different needs, including speaking multiple languages.

Reviewers consistently mention the stunning dunes and the night in the desert camp as the main highlights. One reviewer wrote about the “music and dinner under the stars,” emphasizing how special this night can be. Others appreciated the delicious food and hospitality at the camp, with many feeling they experienced true Moroccan warmth.

Some travelers highlight the long drive as a consideration but note that the stops along the way make it worthwhile. The trip offers a balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and adventure, making it ideal for travelers wanting a quick, immersive desert experience.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the price—just over $139 per person—this tour provides excellent value, especially given the inclusion of transportation, one night in a luxury desert camp, and multiple scenic stops. It’s a practical choice for those wanting to see Morocco’s diverse landscapes without the need for extensive planning or high costs.

The inclusive aspects—like dinner and breakfast—help keep expenses predictable, and the well-organized itinerary maximizes your time. While two days is a tight window, the balance of driving, sightseeing, and desert nights makes it an efficient package.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers eager for a genuine Sahara experience. It suits those who don’t mind long drives and appreciate guided group adventures. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a balance of natural scenery, cultural stops, and desert nights in a short time frame.

It also works well for first-timers to Morocco, as the guides are experienced and the stops are curated to introduce you to the country’s highlights. However, if you’re after a very luxurious or private experience, this might feel a bit more communal and basic.

The Sum Up

This 1-night, 2-day Fes to Merzouga tour offers a solid, budget-friendly way to experience Morocco’s iconic Sahara. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a well-organized trip with authentic stops, friendly guides, and a comfortable camp night.

While the long travel hours might not suit those looking for a relaxed pace or private tour, the sightseeing, cultural insights, and Sahara night make it a memorable adventure. It truly delivers on value, blending natural beauty with Moroccan hospitality and a touch of adventure.

If you’re eager to tick the Sahara off your bucket list without overspending or complicating travel plans, this tour provides a dependable, enjoyable option. Just pack your sense of adventure, a good camera, and get ready for a Moroccan experience you’ll be talking about for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup is between 7:30 and 8:00 am from specific locations in Fes, so plan to be ready early to avoid missing the start.

What does the price include?
The tour includes dinner, breakfast, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and one night in a luxury desert camp.

Are meals included?
No, two lunches are not included, but dinner and breakfast at the camp are covered.

Can I choose to end the trip in Marrakech instead of Fes?
Yes, you can specify your preference in advance. The trip can finish in either city, with the return stops being the same as the start.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 17 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What about the guides?
Guides are appreciated for their friendliness and multilingual skills, making the journey informative and smooth.

How long is the drive?
The total driving time is roughly 7 hours, divided between scenic stops and breaks.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, a camera, some snacks for the road, and any personal essentials for a night in the desert camp.

Is this trip suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but long drives and desert nights might be less comfortable for very young children or elderly travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the trip, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

This tour strikes a balance between affordability and authentic Moroccan desert adventure, perfect for those wanting to see the Sahara without the fuss or the high costs.