Shared 2 Days Fes Desert Tours to Merzouga back to Fes

Planning a trip to Morocco and craving a memorable desert experience? This shared 2-day Fes to Merzouga tour offers a chance to see some of Morocco’s most captivating landscapes and cultural highlights without breaking the bank. We’re here to give you the full scoop—what works, what might surprise you, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What we love most about this tour is the careful balance it strikes between adventure and comfort. The stops along the way reveal Morocco’s incredible diversity—from lush cedar forests to European-style Ifrane — and the desert camp near Erg Chebbi promises some truly magical moments.

The second day’s early morning sunrise camel ride is an unforgettable highlight, and the experience leaves many travelers feeling like they’ve truly connected with the landscape.

One potential consideration is the early start and the long drive each day—about 6 hours from Fes to Merzouga on Day 1 and similar on Day 2—which might be tiring for some. However, for those eager to see the desert without a hefty price tag or a private tour, this is a solid choice.

It’s especially suited to travelers looking for a well-rounded, budget-friendly Moroccan desert adventure with plenty of authentic sights and friendly guides.

Key Points

• Excellent value for the price, including transport, meals, and desert activities
• Highlights include scenic stops at cedar forests, Ifrane, and fossil workshops
• The guides and drivers are praised for their friendliness and knowledge
• Early sunrise camel ride offers a once-in-a-lifetime view of the dunes
• Tour is suitable for most travelers, accommodating up to 17 participants
• Free cancellation adds peace of mind for flexible planning

The Journey from Fes: What to Expect

Starting Early with Comfort

Your adventure begins bright and early, at around 7:30 am, with pickup from your Fes accommodation. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride for the long day ahead, which is crucial given the total drive time of approximately 6 hours. While long journeys can seem daunting, the stops along the way break up the day nicely, offering scenic variety and cultural insights.

Scenic Stops that Showcase Morocco’s Diversity

The first stop is Imouzzer Kandar, a quiet town among rolling hills, perfect for stretching legs and soaking in a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a chance to see a less touristy side of Morocco, where local markets buzz with activity and friendly faces.

Next, you’ll visit Ifrane, affectionately called “Little Switzerland” for its European-inspired architecture and immaculate gardens. Here, you can walk through tidy streets and get a taste of a mountain-town vibe—an unusual sight in Morocco.

A visit to Azrou Cedar Forest follows, where the chance to see Barbary macaques in their natural habitat is a real treat. The nearby handicraft shops also give insight into local Berber craftsmanship—handmade rugs, woodwork, and jewelry that make lovely souvenirs.

Lunch in Midelt

Midelt is a perfect lunch stop, offering Moroccan cuisine amid stunning mountain views. This town, surrounded by the Atlas Mountains, provides a lovely contrast to the desert sands ahead. It’s a good opportunity to relax and enjoy the local flavors before heading into the Sahara.

Erfoud and the Fossil Industry

Your journey continues into Erfoud, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Here, a visit to a fossil workshop shows off the town’s unique industry. Fossil artisans craft intricate pieces that reflect the area’s geological history—an unusual and fascinating aspect of Morocco’s diverse economy.

Reaching Merzouga: The Desert’s Heart

As you approach Merzouga, the landscape transforms. The towering Erg Chebbi dunes come into view, shimmering in the sun. The sunset camel ride here is often highlighted as a highlight of the trip—golden sands stretching endlessly, with the sky changing color as the sun dips below the horizon. Many travelers describe this as “breathtaking” and “surreal.”

You’ll arrive at your desert camp, where traditional Moroccan dinner awaits. Spending the night under a starry sky, perhaps around a campfire, offers an experience that many say is both authentic and deeply calming.

Day Two: Sunrise, Desert, and Return

Early Morning Sunrise Camel Ride

The next morning starts before dawn—an early wake-up call that’s well worth it. Sitting atop a dune to watch the sunrise over the dunes is a moment of awe, often cited as one of the most memorable parts of the trip. Many reviews highlight this as “living a waking dream,” and it’s easy to see why.

Breakfast and Departure

After breakfast at the camp, you’ll begin the return journey, passing through Rissani—an old city with ties to Morocco’s ruling dynasty. It’s a brief stop that adds some historical flavor before heading back to Fes.

Return to Fes

The drive back takes about 6 hours, but the scenic stops, along with the chance to reflect on your desert adventure, make the journey bearable. Your driver will drop you off at your accommodation, completing a trip that’s both exciting and comfortable.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay comfortable during the long drives, a key factor considering the itinerary’s duration. The group size, limited to 17 travelers, maintains a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Meals and Inclusions

Meals are included—dinner in the desert camp and breakfast after sunrise—saving you the hassle of finding food in remote areas. However, lunch isn’t included, so packing snacks or planning for meals in towns like Midelt and Erfoud is wise.

Cost and Value

At $239.28 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusions like transport, meals, and the desert experience. The price compares favorably with private tours and allows you to see Morocco’s highlights without the expense of a private guide.

Flexibility and Cancellation

With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, this tour provides peace of mind, especially if your travel plans are subject to change.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive desert experience without the hassle of planning individual transfers or accommodations. It suits those comfortable with long drives and early mornings, and who appreciate a mix of nature, culture, and adventure. The stops at mountain towns, cedar forests, and fossil workshops offer a well-rounded view of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and industries.

It’s particularly perfect for first-timers or those on a tight schedule, as it packs plenty into just two days—highlighting Morocco’s natural beauty and rich culture in a manageable trip.

Final Thoughts

This shared 2-day Fes to Merzouga tour strikes a good balance between value, adventure, and comfort. The route covers Morocco’s stunning landscapes—mountains, forests, and desert—while offering authentic cultural encounters. The guides and drivers receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey feel personal and safe.

While the long hours may not suit everyone, the spectacular dune views, the camel rides, and the chance to spend a night under the stars make it worthwhile for many travelers. It’s a great way to experience Morocco’s iconic Sahara with fellow explorers, at a price that feels fair for what’s included.

If you’re eager to see the desert but want a hassle-free, budget-friendly option, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, dinner, and the desert camp experience, including a camel ride to the dunes.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have opportunities to buy or pack snacks during stops in Midelt, Erfoud, and other towns.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 17 travelers, keeping the group manageable and friendly.

When does the tour start?
Pickup begins at around 7:30 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing and travel.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

What should I bring for the desert camp?
Bring layers for the cool desert evenings and mornings, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Is the desert experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the early start and long drives for young children.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, travelers have praised the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey more enjoyable.

What makes this tour a good value?
The combination of scenic stops, cultural insights, desert activities, and meals included make the price very reasonable.

Will I see a real desert sunset and sunrise?
Absolutely, the sunset camel ride and early morning sunrise are highlights that many travelers remember fondly.

This 2-day Fes to Merzouga tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Moroccan desert experience—perfect for those eager to explore the landscape and culture without fuss. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to combine adventure with comfort, all while staying within a reasonable budget.