2 days luxury desert trip [fes to fes or marakech]

A Practical Look at the 2-Day Luxury Desert Trip from Fez

If you’re craving a taste of the Moroccan Sahara but only have a weekend to spare, this 2-day luxury desert trip might be just the ticket. This tour promises an overnight escape into the dunes of Merzouga, blending scenic drives, authentic Berber hospitality, and unforgettable desert moments—all for around $162.84 per person.

While it’s a quick journey, it packs in enough adventure and culture to satisfy anyone curious about Morocco’s iconic sands.

What we love about this experience is its combination of comfort and authenticity. Travelers are picked up directly from their accommodation, transported comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, and get to sleep in a private tent with an attached bathroom—adding a touch of luxury to a rugged landscape. Plus, the camel trek and star-lit campfire make the desert feel like an otherworldly retreat.

However, a few considerations are worth noting. The long travel times, often spanning 8 to 12 hours, mean you’ll need patience and a good playlist. Some reviews mention that the journey can be exhausting, especially if you’re not used to long road trips. This tour is best suited for those with a sense of adventure who want a genuine desert experience without the time or budget for a longer, more immersive trip.

This tour is ideal for busy travelers wanting a snapshot of the Sahara, photographers eager for stunning landscapes, or anyone looking for a unique overnight adventure that offers a taste of Moroccan nomadic life.

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience in a luxury setting, including private tent and traditional Berber music.
• Scenic, well-paced stops along the route with opportunities to see Berber culture and Moroccan landscapes.
• Value for money through inclusive meals, private accommodations, and a memorable camel trek.
• Long travel hours, which can be tiring but are balanced by the incredible views and experiences.
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the journey with insightful commentary.
• Flexible itinerary with options to start from Fez or Marrakech, catering to different travel plans.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Fez to the Dunes of Merzouga

The adventure kicks off early—around 7:30 am—when your driver greets you for the long ride into the Moroccan interior. From the start, you’ll notice the shift in scenery as you leave behind the historic city of Fez and head toward the Atlas Mountains.

First stop: Ifrane, often called Morocco’s Switzerland, is a charming mountain town with alpine-style architecture. It’s a pleasant break from the drive, and the cool mountain air offers a refreshing pause before heading into the cedar forests around Azrou. These forests are home to Barbary macaques, and many travelers mention spotting these playful monkeys—some even say the monkeys might try to “grab your lunch,” which adds a dash of humor and local flavor.

The journey continues through increasingly dramatic landscapes, with reviews praising the spectacular views and the chance to see Morocco’s diverse terrain. Many travelers mention the good air conditioning in the vehicle, which is a relief during the warm days.

The highlight of the day is the camel trek to the desert camp. Expect to mount your camel for a 90-minute ride into the towering sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. The guides often take great care in making this a memorable experience, with some reviews highlighting their ability to take incredible photographs and provide explanations along the way. As you arrive at the camp, you’ll be greeted with traditional Berber music, setting a lively and authentic tone.

The desert camp itself offers a surprising level of comfort. Travelers can settle into a private tent with an attached bathroom, a rare find in such remote settings. Dinner is served under the stars, with reviews emphasizing the delicious Moroccan fare and the peaceful ambiance. At night, the vast sky lit by countless stars makes the Sahara feel like a different universe—truly a highlight for many.

Day 2: Sunrise, Return to Fes via the Atlas

Waking up early for the sunrise over the dunes is often described as a magical moment. Many reviews mention the spectacular dawn views, which are perfect for photography or simply soaking in the moment. After a quick breakfast, you’ll ride your camel back to the camp, experiencing the shifting shadows as the desert awakens.

The return trip to Fez takes approximately 8 hours, with a route that crosses the mighty Middle Atlas Mountains. While this is a long day of travel, the scenery provides plenty of visual interest, with some travelers noting the variety of landscapes—from desert sands to lush forests.

Along the way, there are a few short stops, giving you time to stretch and appreciate Morocco’s natural beauty. Reviews indicate that the guides and drivers are attentive and knowledgeable, making the long hours more bearable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers meals—breakfast and dinner—as well as the luxury tent, camel trekking, sand skiing, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The private tent with an attached bathroom is a real plus, especially considering the remote desert setting.

Not included is lunch, so packing some snacks or a light picnic for the road might be a good idea. Some reviews recommend bringing water and snacks for the long drive, especially if you want to avoid dehydration or hunger during the many hours on the road.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

Travelers frequently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, noting that the guides often go above and beyond—taking great photos, sharing insights, and ensuring everyone is comfortable. For instance, some reviews highlight that the guides explained the cultural significance of sights and played traditional Berber music, adding depth to the trip.

The long travel hours are a common theme. Some find the journey exhausting, especially if they aren’t accustomed to long bus rides. However, many felt the stunning scenery and the unforgettable desert moments made up for the fatigue.

The group size, typically limited to 10 travelers, fosters a more intimate experience, though some reviews mention larger groups or less well-managed tours. Booking in advance (about 9 days ahead on average) is recommended to secure your spot.

Price and Value

At roughly $162.84 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price for what’s included—two days of guided travel, private camping, camel rides, and meals. Compared to longer or more exclusive safaris, this is a cost-effective way to experience the Sahara without sacrificing comfort.

What makes it a good value?

• The private tent with an attached bathroom is a rarity in desert camping.
• The inclusion of multiple meals and activities like sand skiing.
• The scenic, well-organized itinerary that balances driving and exploration.
• The chance to witness sunrise and sunset in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who:

• Are short on time but eager to see Morocco’s Sahara.
• Want a comfortable, guided trip rather than rough camping.
• Love photography and scenic landscapes.
• Are happy with a long day of travel in exchange for a memorable overnight stay.
• Seek an authentic yet manageable desert adventure.

It’s less suitable for those seeking an extremely leisurely pace or longer immersion in desert life. Also, if you’re prone to motion sickness or fatigue from long road trips, this might require some extra planning.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For most travelers, this 2-day luxury desert trip from Fez offers a balanced blend of comfort, adventure, and cultural insight. The private tents, camel rides, and stunning dunes make for a truly memorable experience, especially when paired with knowledgeable guides and good food.

While the long hours in transit can be tiring, the scenic variety, the chance to sleep under a blanket of stars, and the authentic Berber hospitality make it worthwhile. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting a taste of the Sahara in a short timeframe without sacrificing comfort.

If you thrive on striking landscapes, enjoy guided experiences, and want a manageable yet meaningful desert adventure, this tour will serve you well. Just pack your patience, your camera, and maybe a hat for the sun—that desert is unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to book this tour?
Booking around 9 days in advance is recommended, as it tends to be quite popular and books out quickly.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a private tent with attached bathroom in the desert camp, camel trekking, sand skiing, breakfast, and dinner.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch is not included, so consider bringing snacks for the journey.

What’s the group size?
Most tours are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, creating a more intimate experience.

How long is the drive from Fez to Merzouga?
It’s approximately 8 hours each way, with a route that takes you through the Atlas Mountains and scenic landscapes.

Can I customize the start location?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel or riad in Fez, and the tour can start from there, with options for Marrakech as well.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, warm clothes for the night in the desert, sun protection, and your camera for the incredible views.

Is the desert camp comfortable?
Yes, the private tents have attached bathrooms, and the overall setup is designed to provide a comfortable yet authentic desert experience.