The Private 2 days Desert Tour Fez To Merzouga

Traveling through Morocco’s rugged landscapes to reach the Sahara Desert is one of those bucket-list moments. This private 2-day tour from Fez to Merzouga promises a journey filled with adventure, culture, and stunning scenery — all with the comfort of private transportation and curated experiences.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the carefully planned itinerary takes you from the bustling old city of Fez through picturesque mountain villages to the golden dunes of Merzouga. Second, it includes authentic experiences like camel treks at sunrise and sunset, plus an overnight stay in a desert camp. Third, the reviews repeatedly praise the guides and drivers for their professionalism and friendliness.

A potential consideration? The trip involves a substantial amount of driving — around 7 hours each day — so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy long scenic routes and don’t mind the journey. This tour is perfect for those craving a genuine desert adventure with personalized touches, especially if you’re after a combination of comfort, culture, and incredible views.

Key Points

• Authentic Moroccan experience with camel rides, desert camping, and Berber culture
• Comfortable private transportation with air-conditioned vehicles and professional drivers
• Stunning scenery including mountain passes, green towns, and Sahara dunes
• Well-rated guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the trip
• Good value for money considering the included activities, meals, and overnight stay
• Long travel days but balanced by picturesque stops and authentic experiences

An In-Depth Review of the 2-Day Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour

Planning a desert trip from Fes can be daunting, but this private tour offers a well-structured, immersive experience that balances adventure with comfort. Let’s walk through what you can expect, based on the detailed itinerary and genuine traveler insights.

Day 1: From the Old City to the Dunes

The journey begins early from your hotel or riad in Fes, typically around 7:30 am. A professional, friendly driver — often praised for punctuality — picks you up in an air-conditioned vehicle. From there, the route takes you through Morocco’s Middle Atlas region, which is a highlight in itself.

First stop: Immouzer – a peaceful mountain town where you can stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh, cool air. Travelers mention how relaxing and scenic this pause is, offering a welcome break from the drive. Next, you’ll head towards Ifrane, often called “Morocco’s Switzerland,” thanks to its tidy streets, lush greenery, and alpine vibe. Reviewers have appreciated how this stop offers a cool contrast to the desert ahead, with some noting the high trees and rivers make it a peaceful spot to relax.

The tour also includes a visit to the Cedar Forest, a unique sight where you might spot Barbary macaques and enjoy the cool shade among ancient trees. Although entrance fees aren’t included, many travelers find this stop adds a touch of nature to the journey that’s well worth the brief detour.

After roughly 7 hours of travel, you arrive at Merzouga, where the real desert adventure begins. Many reviewers mention how the views of the dunes are breathtaking, with some describing the transition from lush mountains to endless golden sands as surreal. The highlight? An optional camel trek to watch the sunset or sunrise over the dunes. This part of the experience consistently draws praise for its authenticity and the sense of stepping into a classic desert scene, with quotes like “the desert is fabulous and the sunset was amazing” capturing the magic.

Day 2: Desert Life and Cultural Discoveries

The second day kicks off early with a camel trek to witness the sunrise over the dunes. Reviewers rave about the feeling of standing atop the sand, watching the sun cast golden light across the Sahara, with some comparing it to the cinematic grandeur of Lawrence of Arabia. The camels are usually well-behaved, and guides ensure that this experience feels special.

Back at the hotel or camp, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Rissani, the historic market town. Here, visitors love exploring the lively souk, where vibrant stalls sell everything from spices to textiles. The visit to Moulay Ali Cherif’s mausoleum adds a cultural layer, giving travelers insight into the roots of Moroccan ruling dynasties. Multiple reviews mention the authenticity of these stops, with one noting, “the souk is colorful and the mausoleum fascinating.”

The afternoon may include optional activities like quad biking or simply relaxing at the camp, soaking in the starry night sky. The overnight stay in the desert camp, often praised for its comfortable setup and traditional ambiance, offers an unforgettable chance to sleep under the stars. Many travelers comment on how the experience feels both luxurious and genuine, especially if they’re seeking a memorable desert night.

Transportation and Organization

The tour’s transportation is consistently described as reliable, with air conditioning making the long drives manageable. The driver (sometimes named Yassine or Nasser in reviews) is often singled out for his professionalism, kindness, and knowledge. Travelers appreciate the private, unshared nature of the tour, which allows for flexibility and personalized attention.

Meals included, like breakfast and dinner, are considered good value and authentically Moroccan — with some reviewers mentioning the delicious tajine served during the desert night. Since entrance fees and guides are not included, travelers should budget extra for optional extras, but overall, most agree the price reflects fair value considering the personalized service and experiences.

The Reviewers’ Perspective

Based on reviews, the guides and drivers are a huge part of what elevates this tour. Guests frequently note how their drivers, like Naseer or Jalal, went above and beyond, sharing stories, cultural insights, and making everyone feel safe and comfortable. This personal touch often turns what could be a long, dusty trip into a memorable adventure.

Travelers also love the scenery — from green mountain towns to vast dunes — and mention how the stops are well timed, giving enough opportunity to enjoy each place without feeling rushed. Some reviews highlight the flexibility of the itinerary, such as stopping at panoramic viewpoints or enjoying a leisurely camel ride at sunset.

What About Price and Value?

At around $441.35 per person, the tour offers good value for those looking for a comprehensive desert experience that covers transport, activities, meals, and accommodation. The reviews consistently mention that they felt the price was justified given the quality of the experience, especially with the added bonus of a private tour, which means no large groups and a more tailored journey.

A Few Considerations

The main drawback? The lengthy drives can be tiring, especially for travelers not accustomed to long road trips. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this may be a challenge. Also, since entrance fees and local guides are not included, you might want to budget for optional extras during your stops.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private 2-day Fes to Merzouga desert trip suits travelers who prioritize comfort, personalized service, and authentic Moroccan scenery. It’s ideal for those eager to experience the Sahara in a way that’s both scenic and culturally rich. Good for first-timers who want a well-organized itinerary, as well as seasoned travelers looking for a hassle-free adventure.

If you’re after a short but immersive desert experience with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour ticks those boxes. Plus, the reviews attest to the high level of guide expertise, which can significantly enrich your understanding of Moroccan culture and landscapes.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Fez to Merzouga offers a well-rounded introduction to Morocco’s desert, mountains, and Berber culture. You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, the stunning vistas, and the chance to sleep under the stars in a desert camp — all with a good assurance of value for the price.

It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind long road trips in exchange for authentic experiences and personalized attention. As many reviewers note, the blend of scenic stops, cultural visits, and desert adventures creates a memorable journey that’s worth every penny.

If you crave an intimate, authentic desert escape with the comfort of private transport and expert guides, this tour is a fantastic option.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, it is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, offering a more personalized journey.

What is included in the price? Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, dinner, hotel/riads pick-up and drop-off, a desert camp, and camel treks for sunrise and sunset.

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees to historical sites are not included, so you might need to budget extra if you wish to visit specific places.

Do I need to bring anything special? While not explicitly stated, packing comfortable clothing for long drives, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a camera for the scenic stops and dunes would enhance your experience.

What are the accommodation arrangements? The tour includes staying in a desert camp, which many describe as comfortable and traditional, with some reviews mentioning it being a more luxurious setup.

How long are the driving days? Expect approximately 7 hours of driving each day, with stops along the way for sightseeing and breaks.

Can children participate? Yes, most travelers of all ages can join, but children should be accompanied by an adult for safety during camel rides and other activities.

In summary, this private 2-day desert tour from Fez to Merzouga offers a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and desert magic — perfect for those wanting a genuine taste of Morocco’s Sahara without sacrificing comfort.