Fes: 3 Days Desert Tour from Fes back to Fez

Travelers looking to experience Morocco’s sweeping deserts, lush oases, and mountain majesty often find themselves torn between various tour options. This 3-day Fes to Fez desert adventure offered by Desert Smile Tour stands out as a balanced choice—combining comfort, authenticity, and a taste of the Sahara’s magic.

It’s a journey that promises stunning landscapes, cultural encounters, and memorable moments, all for around $208 per person.

What we love about this tour is how it combines scenic highlights like the Middle Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley with genuinely immersive desert experiences—not just quick stops but dedicated time in the dunes and with local Berber families.

The second point? The reviews speak highly of the knowledgeable guides, especially their friendliness and cultural insights. And the camel ride into Erg Chebbi? That’s the kind of experience you’ll remember long after returning home.

One possible consideration? The itinerary involves some long driving days, especially on the way to and from the desert, which might be tiring for some travelers. Also, as with many tours, additional costs such as meals outside included breakfasts, drinks, and optional activities like quad biking or extra desert excursions, can add up if you’re not prepared.

Still, for those wanting an authentic taste of Morocco’s desert life without breaking the bank, this trip hits many high notes.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate scenic drives, cultural stops, and memorable desert activities, all with a comfortable group size and flexible booking options.

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience with camel rides and spending the night in a luxury Berber camp
• Impressive landscape stops like Ifrane, cedar forests, and Ziz Valley
• Knowledgeable guides who are friendly, informative, and enhance the trip
• Value for money at $208 including transportation, accommodations, and some activities
• Balanced itinerary with free time, optional activities, and scenic stops
• Long travel days require patience but are part of the adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Morocco’s Scenic Routes

This tour is more than just a trip to the Sahara; it’s a journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes. Starting in Fes, the journey takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, a region that offers a cool, Alpine-like contrast to the desert. The small town of Ifrane, dubbed the “Switzerland of Morocco,” provides a picturesque stop with its chalet-style buildings and clean streets. It’s a great spot for a quick walk and some photos before heading further.

Continuing into the cedar forests of Azrou, you’ll find yourself among Barbary macaques — a highlight for many. As one traveler put it, “You stop where the monkeys are, and they give you peanuts, which you then have to pay for.” It’s a lighthearted but memorable encounter, especially for animal lovers.

Driving through the Ziz Valley reveals Morocco’s famous palm groves and fortified villages. The views are often described as breathtaking, with lush green against the rocky landscape. The panoramic viewpoints overlooking palm oases are well worth the stop, giving you a sense of the scale and beauty of the region.

Arriving in Merzouga: Gateway to the Sahara

Arriving in Merzouga, the desert’s closest town, signals the start of your desert adventure. The warm welcome with mint tea sets the tone for the next few days. The highlight here is the camel ride into Erg Chebbi’s dunes. Expect about an hour in the saddle, which most find manageable, and the sunset over the dunes is simply stunning—an experience that many reviews call “magical” and “breathtaking.”

One traveler noted, “The camel ride was a great experience, and the Berber camp was beautiful. You could also go sandboarding.” Sandboarding might be a surprise for many, offering a fun way to enjoy the dunes beyond just sitting and watching.

The Desert Camp Experience

The Berber desert camp is often praised for its authenticity and comfort. Some reviews mention the “luxury tent,” complete with air conditioning, a shower, and a toilet, which is quite a perk after a long day. The dinner around the campfire, accompanied by traditional music, adds a cultural touch that feels genuine and warm.

For those staying two nights, the early morning sunrise over the dunes is a must-see, often described as “unforgettable.” After breakfast, many opt for 4×4 tours, visiting nomadic families, fossil sites, and Khamlia village, famous for Gnawa music. These excursions deepen your understanding of Berber culture and desert life.

Relaxation and Free Time at Merzouga

The second day offers a mix of activities and downtime. The hotel Riad Mamouche or similar provides a comfortable base with a pool and space for relaxation. Many reviews highlight the friendliness of staff like Mohamed and Hamid, who go out of their way to ensure guests feel well cared for.

Optional activities such as quad biking or exploring the dunes further allow you to tailor your experience. Many travelers found these extra activities worth the extra cash—just remember to bring cash for activities like ATV rides, as the tour’s included price covers mainly transportation, meals, and the camel ride.

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Returning to Fes: scenic but long

The journey back to Fes is a return through the same beautiful landscapes but can be lengthy—often about 7 hours of driving. Some reviews mention the long travel time, but most agree that the scenery, the stops, and the overall experience make it worthwhile. For instance, one traveler noted “We felt safe and well looked after throughout, and the views were stunning.”

Pricing and Overall Value

At $208 per person, this tour provides an affordable way to access Morocco’s Sahara, especially considering the accommodations, camel ride, and transportation included. Additional costs for meals outside breakfasts, drinks, and optional activities like quad biking are typical and should be budgeted for.

Some reviews mention that you can find cheaper tours in Fez—for example, in the city center, where prices might be around 110 USD. However, these might not include the same level of comfort, guide expertise, or scenic stops.

Authenticity and Comfort: Striking a Balance

The tour balances authentic desert life with comfort and safety. The Berber camp, with its traditional music and starry skies, often feels genuine rather than overly touristy. The guides’ knowledgeable insights and friendly demeanor are frequently praised, making this more than just transportation from point A to B.

The accommodations—namely the hotel with a pool and the desert camp—add a touch of luxury that many reviewers appreciate after a day of exploring. The included meals are generally well-received, with some noting the dinner at the camp as particularly memorable.

Suitability: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive desert experience without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural encounters, and outdoor activities like sandboarding and quad biking.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized trip that covers key highlights and offers some free time, this is a good choice. However, if you prefer shorter trips or want a more luxurious, less active experience, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This Fes to Fez 3-day desert tour offers excellent value for those eager to see Morocco’s diverse landscapes and experience the Sahara’s magic firsthand. The combination of breathtaking scenery, authentic cultural stops, and comfortable accommodations makes it a compelling choice for anyone wanting a well-rounded Moroccan adventure.

The guides’ friendly, informative approach helps you connect with local culture, while the camel rides and starry nights in the desert are likely to be highlights of your trip. The included visits to Ifrane, cedar forests, and Ziz Valley give a well-rounded flavor of Morocco’s natural beauty beyond the desert.

If you’re ready for a journey that mixes scenic beauty, cultural richness, and a touch of adventure—all at a reasonable price—this tour deserves serious consideration. Perfect for those who want a full, memorable experience without the stress of self-organizing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely, yes, but it’s not recommended for anyone over 95 years old, as the physical activity and long drives could be demanding for very elderly travelers.

Are meals included?
The tour includes two breakfasts and two dinners. Lunch and drinks are not included, so plan to budget extra cash for meals outside the provided options.

What should I bring for the camel ride?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring sun protection—like a hat and sunscreen. The camel ride lasts about an hour, so be prepared for the saddle.

Can I do additional activities?
Yes, options like quad biking and additional desert excursions are available, but they are not included in the base price and require cash payments.

How long is the drive from Fes to Merzouga?
The journey is approximately 7 hours, with scenic stops along the way. Be prepared for a long day of travel, but most travelers find it part of the adventure.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with cancellations allowed up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

This 3-day desert tour from Fes truly offers a thoughtful combination of Moroccan scenery, culture, and adventure—perfect for those wanting to see the desert without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby