Travelers seeking a taste of Morocco’s legendary Sahara will find this 2-day, small group tour an inviting option. Offered by Fancy Moroccan Trips, this experience promises an authentic journey through some of Morocco’s most captivating landscapes, culminating in a night under the stars in a traditional desert camp.
With a high rating of 5.0 based on four reviews, it’s clear many travelers leave feeling satisfied—if not enchanted—by what’s on offer.
What makes this tour stand out? First, its well-planned itinerary that combines mountain scenery, Berber culture, and desert adventure. Second, the expert guidance and friendly service that seem to make even long drives enjoyable.
However, a potential consideration is the duration and pace—it’s fast-moving, and some might wish for more time in each stop. This tour is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and cultural exposure without breaking the bank.
- Key Points
- A Practical Overview of the Tour
- The Itinerary in Detail
- Day 1: From Fez to the Desert
- Day 2: From the Desert Back to Fez or Marrakech
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- Why Travelers Love This Tour
- Practical Considerations
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- The Best Of Fez!
- More Tour Reviews in Fez
Key Points
- Authentic desert experience with a night in a traditional Berber camp
- Beautiful scenic stops including Ifrane, Azrou, Midelt, and Ziz Valley
- Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Expert guides who receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness
- Delicious Moroccan cuisine included in the itinerary
- Flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance
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A Practical Overview of the Tour
The trip begins early, with pickup at your Fez accommodation at 8:00 a.m., setting the tone for a full day of exploring. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, which makes the long hours on the road more manageable. The small group size (maximum 15 travelers) ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, allowing for a more personalized experience.
This journey is more than just a scenic drive; it’s a chance to see Morocco’s diverse landscapes—from the lush Middle Atlas Mountains to the ochre-colored Berber villages and the vast Erg Chebbi dunes of the Sahara. The value lies not only in the sights but also in the insightful commentary from guides like Thami, who many reviews highlight as knowledgeable and caring.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Fez.
The Itinerary in Detail
Day 1: From Fez to the Desert
The day kicks off with a pickup at 8 a.m. from your Fez accommodation. The first leg takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, renowned for their panoramic views and fresh mountain air. You’ll want your camera ready because we’re told the scenery offers numerous photo opportunities.
Your first stop is Ifrane, often called the “Moroccan Switzerland,” thanks to its clean streets, alpine-style houses, and leafy parks. Many travelers find this town charming and a refreshing contrast to the desert ahead. One reviewer mentioned the “clean air” and “scrubbed streets,” which really give you a sense of the town’s neatness.
Next, it’s on to Azrou, a traditional Berber village famous for the Barbary macaques that roam freely. Visitors frequently cite the monkeys as a highlight—“very knowledgeable and courteous” guides often take care to point out these animals, which add a playful element to the journey.
Lunch is at Midelt, where you’ll have the chance to sample classic Moroccan dishes. The included meal is a good chance to relax and recharge before heading further south. Midelt sits at a crossroads of mountains and desert, making it a strategic and scenic stop.
After lunch, you’ll visit Errachidia to see the Ziz Valley. Here, the contrast of green palm groves against the red earth creates striking vistas. Several reviews mention the “spectacular landscape” and “ochre-colored houses,” which showcase Morocco’s natural beauty and traditional architecture.
Arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara, marks the beginning of the desert adventure. You’ll have time to rest before embarking on an unforgettable camel trek at sunset. The camels are a classic Moroccan experience, and the sunset views over the dunes are often described as breathtaking. The night is spent in a desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a Moroccan dinner under the stars—a truly memorable way to connect with the desert’s silent majesty.
Day 2: From the Desert Back to Fez or Marrakech
The morning starts with a camel ride back to the hotel or camp to enjoy breakfast. The return journey provides a different perspective on the landscape, and some travelers appreciate the quiet dawn in the desert before heading back.
After breakfast, the group departs for either Fez or Marrakech, depending on your travel plans. The drive back offers a chance to reflect on your experiences amid the changing scenery.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour price of $258.49 per person offers excellent value, encompassing air-conditioned transportation, dinner, and breakfast. The inclusion of meals means you won’t need to worry about finding food during the stops, which is a relief when traveling in remote areas.
Lunch is not included, so you might want to budget extra if you prefer specific foods or snacks. The tour also offers pickup from your accommodation and the option for group discounts, making it flexible for different budgets and group sizes.
Why Travelers Love This Tour
Feedback highlights Thami’s guiding skills, with many reviewers calling him “amazing,” “knowledgeable,” and “courteous.” His efforts to make travelers comfortable and to share authentic insights shine through in reviews, often making the trip feel more personal. For example, one reviewer noted, “He took us to a dessert tour showing us different towns on the way,” emphasizing the guided experience’s richness.
The scenic stops, particularly Ifrane and Ziz Valley, consistently receive praise for their stunning views. Many travelers mention how these moments help them understand the diverse geography of Morocco—from mountains and forests to desert dunes.
The desert camp experience is often described as “charming” with “traditional Moroccan dinner,” and the starry sky makes for a memorable night. Several reviews appreciate the expert selection of restaurants and the delicious Moroccan food, which adds a genuine flavor to the culture.
Practical Considerations
While the tour offers a lot of value, travelers should keep in mind that it’s a relatively quick-paced journey. If you’re looking for more time in each stop or a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. The long drives mean comfort and patience are essential. Also, since the tour is limited to small groups, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a more intimate experience, but it does mean space is limited.
The cancellation policy is flexible, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance—a helpful feature for those uncertain about their plans.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see a broad swath of Morocco’s landscapes without spending days in transit. It’s ideal if you want an authentic desert night combined with scenic and cultural stops, all within a reasonable budget. The tour is also suited for small groups, making it more personal and engaging.
However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to spend more time in each location, you might want to consider alternative options. Those looking for a luxury experience or more personalized attention might find this tour’s group setting a bit limited.
Final Thoughts
This 2-day small group desert trip from Fez offers a well-rounded taste of Morocco. It combines the natural beauty of the Middle Atlas and Ziz Valley with the thrill of camel trekking into the Sahara. The expert guides, delicious meals, and cozy desert camp make for memorable moments, all wrapped in a cost-effective package.
Travelers who cherish authentic landscapes, friendly guides, and cultural insights will find this tour rewarding. It’s a solid choice for those who want to see as much as possible without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.
Overnight desert trips _ small Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 2 days, including one night in the desert camp.
Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup from your Fez accommodation is included at 8:00 a.m.
What’s the group size?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, making it intimate and personalized.
Are meals included?
Dinner and breakfast are included, but lunch is not. You may want to bring snacks or extra funds for lunch.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for varying weather, a camera, and possibly some cash for optional expenses.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour.
What is the highlight of the trip?
Many travelers rave about the camel trek at sunset and the starry night in the desert camp.
How is the transportation?
A comfortable, air-conditioned minivan ensures a smooth ride through scenic routes.
Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider your comfort with long drives and outdoor activities.
Who is the tour provider?
This experience is operated by Fancy Moroccan Trips, known for their knowledgeable guides and reliable service.
To sum it up, whether you’re after the iconic dunes, scenic mountain stops, or a taste of Berber culture, this tour offers a compelling way to experience Morocco’s diverse landscapes. It balances adventure with comfort, making it a great choice for those looking to get a true sense of the Sahara’s magic without overextending their time or budget.
