2 Days Tour From Fes To Marrakech Via Merzouga Desert

A Practical Look at the 2 Days From Fes to Marrakech Via Merzouga Desert

This 2-day tour from Fez to Marrakech offers a whirlwind introduction to some of Morocco’s most striking sights—from cedar forests and mountain gorges to shimmering Sahara dunes. While I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, it’s clear that it appeals to travelers eager to see a broad slice of Moroccan scenery without spending weeks on the road.

What we love about this experience is its combination of diverse landscapes—you’ll witness the transition from the cool mountain air of Ifrane and cedar groves to the vast, golden Sahara. Plus, the authentic desert camp overnight provides a memorable taste of Bedouin-style living under the stars.

A possible consideration is the speed of the itinerary—with just two days, some travelers might find the pace a bit rushed, especially with long driving stretches. Also, the camel ride to the camp, while iconic, isn’t everyone’s favorite part, as one reviewer pointed out it might be more about tipping the camel guides than necessity.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want an affordable, shared-group adventure that packs in the highlights of Morocco’s varied terrain. If you’re short on time but eager for a taste of the desert and mountains, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Diverse scenery in just two days — from cedar forests to Sahara dunes.
• All-inclusive experience with pickup, group discounts, and a mobile ticket.
• Authentic Sahara overnight in a tent camp, complete with camel rides.
• Long driving stretches are part of the journey but offer scenic views.
• Limited group size (max 8 travelers) for a more intimate experience.
• Cost-effective at around $152 per person, balancing price and adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Fez to the Sahara

Your adventure kicks off early at around 7:30 am, with pickup from your accommodation in Fez. The journey to Merzouga is roughly a day’s drive, but it’s a scenic route that makes the long hours more palatable. Traveling through Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine feel, is a highlight. The cool mountain air and the town’s charming architecture make it a refreshing start.

Next up are the cedar forests near Azrou, home to Barbary macaques. If you’re lucky, you might catch a playful troop of monkeys amidst the trees. The drive continues through Midelt, a mountain town known for its apple orchards, and then down into the Ziz Valley, where palm groves line the riverbanks, contrasting beautifully with the arid surroundings.

Erfoud and Rissani mark the approach to the Sahara. Rissani, historically a trading hub, offers a glimpse into traditional Moroccan life. The lunch stop is a good chance to sample local flavors before heading to the foot of the dunes.

Here’s where the highlight begins—the camel guide will meet you to take a ride through the Sahara dunes of Erg Chebbi. The camel trek, often considered a quintessential Sahara experience, lasts about 1 to 2 hours, taking you into the golden sands where you’ll find the desert camp set up. Travelers should note that, as one review mentions, the camel ride might feel more like a tourist tradition than a necessity—some find it more about tipping guides than the journey itself.

At the camp, you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner and spend the night in tents designed to evoke Bedouin life. The experience of sleeping under the stars, with the dunes stretching around you, is genuinely memorable—even if the comfort level varies depending on your expectations.

Day 2: From the Sahara to Marrakech

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes—an unforgettable sight—and then walk back to the camp on camels for breakfast. The morning provides a chance to reflect on the desert’s silence and vastness.

After breakfast, the journey continues with a visit to the gorge, where mountain scenery becomes the focus. This stop offers a refreshing change of pace from the dunes and a picture-worthy natural landscape.

Next, you’ll head to the Fint Oasis—an oasis of greenery amid the desert—perfect for a brief stroll and some photos. From here, the route takes you along the Tizi-n-Tichka mountain pass, renowned for its winding roads and spectacular views. The drive through this region offers a fitting conclusion to your scenic tour, culminating in your arrival in Marrakech in the afternoon.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

A review from Iaki_C captures the overall sentiment: “El viaje no está demasiado bien explicado, el viaje con los dromedarios no es imprescindible, no quería montar pero casi me obligaron, no es necesario para llegar al campamento, solo para dar algo de dinero a los camelleros. El resto genial.” This suggests that some travelers may feel the camel ride is more about tradition than necessity, and the explanation of the trip could be clearer.

Another common theme is the value of the experience—most find the scenery, especially the Sahara camp, worth it. The group size, limited to 8 travelers, helps keep things intimate, although it also means scheduling can be tight.

Transportation, Timing, and Value

The tour begins early in the morning and involves a significant amount of driving—roughly 7 hours of travel in total, plus stops. While this might sound exhausting, the route is filled with scenic vistas that keep the journey engaging.

The inclusion of pickup from your accommodation and a mobile ticket makes logistics straightforward. At $152.28 per person, the price is reasonable considering the accommodation, transport, and unique experience of sleeping in the desert. However, remember that some parts of the trip—like the camel ride—are optional or could be viewed as touristy.

The maximum group size of 8 ensures a more personalized experience, but it also requires booking well in advance—on average, 44 days ahead—highlighting its popularity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you are looking for a cost-effective way to see Morocco’s varied landscapes in a short time, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for adventurous travelers willing to spend long hours in a van for the chance to sleep in the Sahara.

Those seeking a more relaxed or luxury experience might find the pace a little hurried or the accommodations basic. However, if authentic, immersive moments—like the desert camp—are what you cherish, this tour offers plenty of those.

Finally, those who enjoy small group travel with a focus on natural scenery and cultural highlights will likely find this experience rewarding.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is limited to small groups, which enhances the experience. However, the long driving hours and physical activity involved in camel riding might not suit everyone.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation, pickup from your accommodation, and the desert camp experience with dinner and breakfast. Additional costs, like tips for guides or personal expenses, are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility.

Is the camel ride necessary?
Not strictly; some travelers might find it more about tradition and tipping than essential. If you prefer to skip it, you might be able to do so, but this depends on the guide’s flexibility.

How comfortable is the desert camp?
The review suggests that the experience is authentic, which may mean basic tents. Comfort levels vary, and it’s best to go with expectations of a rustic, memorable night under the stars.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of high-altitude mountain scenery, desert dunes, and the overnight in the Sahara makes it a well-rounded way to experience Morocco’s natural diversity quickly.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour from Fez to Marrakech via the Merzouga Desert is aimed at travelers eager to see a broad spectrum of Moroccan landscapes without breaking the bank or extending their trip for weeks. Its main strength is the variety—mountains, oases, and dunes—all packed into a manageable package.

The experience of sleeping in the Sahara stands out as a genuine highlight, especially for those craving a night under the stars in a desert setting. The small group size also means you’ll get a more personalized journey, which adds value for those who prefer intimate travel experiences.

While the pace is brisk and some parts might feel more touristy than authentic, the affordability and scenic diversity make it a compelling choice. Ideal for adventurous spirits, those short on time, or travelers looking to tick Morocco’s highlights off their list, this tour offers a practical and memorable introduction to this fascinating country.

Final Recommendation

If you’re after a short, affordable adventure that combines Morocco’s mountain majesty with the mystique of the Sahara, this trip delivers. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind long drives, enjoy small group settings, and are looking for a mix of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Just be prepared for a quick pace and some touristy moments—those are part of the charm of Moroccan desert tourism. Overall, it’s a solid choice for your first foray into Morocco’s wild beauty.