Exclusive! 2 Days Desert Trip Marrakech to Fez via Ait Benhaddou

Introduction

If you’re looking to explore Morocco beyond the usual city sights, this exclusive 2-day desert trip from Marrakech to Fes offers an unforgettable journey through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. Although we haven’t personally experienced it, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-organized adventure with plenty of authentic moments.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the only company offering this specific route — meaning fewer crowds and a more intimate experience. Second, it combines the thrill of sandboarding, camel rides, and nights in a desert camp with cultural stops at Kasbahs and Berber villages. The main drawback? It’s a long, sometimes tiring drive, so it’s best suited for travelers with a good level of physical fitness and patience for lengthy journeys.

This trip is ideal for those who want a comprehensive desert experience with a taste of Moroccan history and stunning mountain scenery without breaking the bank. If you’re keen on authentic encounters and are comfortable with a full schedule, this could be one of your most memorable Moroccan adventures.

Key Points

• Exclusive Route: The only company offering this specific 2-day Marrakech to Fes itinerary via the Ait Benhaddou route.
• Authentic Experiences: Camel rides, sandboarding, and overnight in a traditional desert camp deliver immersive desert adventure.
• Scenic Stops: Stunning landscapes include the High Atlas, Valley of Roses, Dades Gorge, and Ziz Oasis.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Berber villages, Kasbahs, and the Cedars Forest for a genuine taste of Moroccan life.
• Long but Rewarding Drive: Expect a full day of travel with scenic quick stops, rewarding those with patience and curiosity.
• Highly Praised Guides: Reviewers consistently mention helpful and knowledgeable drivers and guides, enhancing the experience.

Detailed Review of the 2-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Trip

The Booking and Price

At $100 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions — overnight in a desert camp, camel rides, dinner, breakfast, and free sandboarding. It’s booked on average 42 days in advance, indicating good planning and popularity. The price is quite competitive for what’s on offer, especially when you factor in the authentic experiences and comfortable transportation.

Transport and Group Size

You’ll travel in a comfortable minibus or minivan, which is crucial for longer drives through mountain passes and remote areas. The tour is capped at 17 travelers, striking a decent balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. This means you’re likely to get personalized attention without feeling lost in a huge crowd.

Day 1: Marrakech to Merzouga and the Desert Camp

Your adventure begins early with pickup from your Marrakech hotel. The first leg is a scenic ascent through the Tizi-n-Tichka pass in the High Atlas Mountains. We loved the way the route climbs from the plains into towering peaks, passing small villages, waterfalls, and a constantly changing landscape. It’s a long drive — approximately 9 hours including quick stops — but that’s part of the experience. The scenery is breathtaking; the mountains seem to change colors with every bend.

Passing through Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco,” and the Valley of Roses, you get a sense of the diverse beauty Morocco offers. Arriving at a traditional Kasbah near the Dunes of Erg Chebbi, you’ll be welcomed with mint tea, a perfect way to unwind before the next adventure.

The highlight here? The camel trek across the dunes to your desert camp. The camels are hobbled, and you’ll ride for about an hour, feeling like a true desert explorer. The camp itself is a traditional Berber tent, providing an authentic feel. Reviewers praise the helpful guides and the chance to watch the sunset over the dunes — truly an Instagram-worthy moment.

The Desert Camp Experience

Staying overnight in the desert is surprisingly comfortable, with the camp providing dinner and a chance to enjoy the peaceful night under the stars. Some reviews mention the camp’s simplicity, but most find it charming and authentic. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and soak in the silence and vastness of the Sahara.

Day 2: Desert to Fes via Ziz Valley and the Middle Atlas

The second day begins early with a walk over the dunes to watch the sunrise — a favorite moment among previous travelers. After camel rides back to your hotel for breakfast, the journey continues through the Ziz Valley and Gorge, known for their lush greenery contrasting with the desert landscape.

Passing through Berber villages and Cedars Forest, the scenery shifts dramatically from arid dunes to forested mountains. We loved the way the tour showcases Morocco’s geographical diversity and the rich Berber culture. The drive ends with a scenic route through the Middle Atlas Mountains into Fes, arriving in the late afternoon.

Authenticity and Cultural Highlights

Throughout the trip, your guide will point out local villages and customs, adding context to your surroundings. The Berber villages are particularly interesting, providing insight into traditional ways of life. The Cedars Forest is a delightful surprise — a cool, shaded break amid the rugged scenery.

Reviews and Real Traveler Feedback

One reviewer described the trip as having “great organization, friendly staff, and stunning desert views.” The long drives are acknowledged, but many travelers appreciate the scenic stops and the comfort of modern transportation. Several mention the helpfulness and knowledge of guides, making the journey smoother and more engaging.

Practical Tips

• Physical fitness: The tour involves some walking and camel rides; a decent level of fitness helps.
• Clothing: Bring layers for variable temperatures, especially early mornings and evenings.
• Camera: Plenty of photo opportunities, from mountain vistas to desert sunsets.
• Long days: Be prepared for an early start and long hours on the road; however, the scenery makes it worthwhile.

What’s Not Included

Lunchtime, drinks, and travel insurance are not covered, so plan accordingly. Packing snacks and water for the road might be wise.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 2-day trip offers an affordable way to see Morocco’s dramatic landscapes and experience the desert life. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and don’t mind long travel days. The inclusions like desert camping, camel rides, and sandboarding add a real touch of adventure.

If you value authentic experiences and vivid scenery over luxury, this tour delivers on both fronts. The guides’ helpfulness and the chance to see places like the Valley of Roses and the Cedars Forest make it particularly appealing. Keep in mind, the journey is quite long, so patience and good footwear are recommended.

For those wanting a quick, immersive taste of Morocco’s desert and mountain environments — this is a compelling, budget-friendly choice.

FAQ

What is the price of this tour?
It costs $100 per person, which includes overnight in a desert camp, camel rides, dinner, breakfast, and sandboarding.

How long is the total driving time?
The first day involves about 9 hours of driving with quick stops, and the second day around 8 hours.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, hotel pickup is included in the tour package.

What’s included in the tour?
Breakfast, dinner, overnight in the desert camp, camel ride, transport in a comfortable vehicle, and free sandboarding.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for temperature changes, sturdy shoes, a camera, and snacks for the road.

Is there any age restriction?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for those in good physical condition.

How many people will be on the tour?
Maximum of 17 travelers, ensuring a good balance of social interaction and personal space.

This exclusive desert tour combines cultural highlights, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Moroccan hospitality, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking a genuine desert adventure with plenty of memorable moments.