From Fes: 2-Day Merzouga Desert Excursion

Traveling through Morocco often feels like flipping through a vivid photo album — except it’s all real. This 2-day Merzouga desert tour from Fes offers a chance to see some of the most iconic landscapes in the country, from snow-capped mountains to vast sand dunes. While it’s not a backpacker budget trip, the experience promises a good blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic desert life.

What sets this tour apart? We love the way it combines diverse scenery — winding mountain roads, lush oases, and the undulating sands of Erg Chebbi — into one manageable package. The camel ride across the dunes at sunset is a highlight, and the starry night spent in a desert camp feels truly special.

One consideration might be the long travel hours, but with plenty of stops and comfort in mind, it’s a fair trade-off for the sights and experiences.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a taste of the Sahara with a reliable, well-organized guide. It’s perfect if you prefer comfort over rugged backpacking, and if you’re eager to see Morocco’s natural beauty without sacrificing convenience. Whether it’s your first desert experience or a highlight of a broader Morocco itinerary, this tour offers genuine value.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Modern vehicle, including a 4WD for desert access, ensures a smooth journey.
• Authentic Experiences: Camel rides, desert camping, and Moroccan hospitality create memorable moments.
• Scenic Diversity: From cedar forests to palm oases and sweeping dunes, the landscape is varied and stunning.
• Cultural Insights: Stops in Berber villages and Rissani offer a glimpse into local life.
• Flexible Payment & Booking: Book now with the option to pay later, adding flexibility.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Departing Fes: Mountains and Forests

The journey begins early from Fes, heading eastward. The route takes you through Ifrane, a town with a surprising Swiss vibe, built by the French in the 1930s. It’s a peculiar but charming start, especially if you enjoy seeing Morocco’s unexpected architectural quirks. We heard from travelers like Dana that the drive to Merzouga is “very comfortable” and features a “pleasant and attentive driver who also speaks good English.” That kind of attentive service makes a long trip more enjoyable.

Next, you’ll pass through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you might spot local monkeys. It’s a surprise to see these familiar animals in the mountains, and they add a bit of life to the scenery. The drive continues across the Middle Atlas Mountains, with views of waterfalls, jagged rocks, and traditional Berber villages. It’s a good reminder that Morocco’s landscape is incredibly diverse, and this part of the journey sets the stage for the desert adventure ahead.

Midelt and Ziz Oasis: A Pineapple Break and a Green Oasis

Halfway, you’ll stop in Midelt for lunch. The town is famous for its rocks and fossils, but it’s also a good place for a break and to stretch your legs. Afterward, the route takes you along the Ziz River, where an expansive palm oasis appears — a lush contrast to the arid dunes ahead. We loved the panoramic views as you approach Merzouga, adding a sense of anticipation.

Rissani and the Desert Access

Arriving in Rissani, your guide will transfer you into a 4WD vehicle to reach the edge of the desert. This is a crucial part of the experience, as it takes you from the road into the dunes of Erg Chebbi. The drive itself offers scenic views of the desert’s transition from green to gold.

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Camel Trek and Desert Camp: The Main Event

Once at the dunes, you’ll mount camels for a 2-hour trek to the desert camp. Riding a camel at sunset is an experience many travelers cherish — the sands glow as the sun dips behind the dunes, and your guide will often position you for those perfect photos. As Dana remarked, the camels and guides are well-maintained, and the tents are “very clean and well maintained.”

The camp itself is a simple but authentic setup — a shelter under the vast, star-studded sky. Upon arrival, you’ll be served mint tea — a Moroccan staple — and enjoy a dinner under the stars. The quiet of the desert at night, with a blanket of stars overhead, offers a profound sense of solitude and wonder.

Sunrise and Return: A New Dawn

The next morning, you’ll wake early to witness the sunrise from just behind the Algerian border, a breathtaking sight. After a short walk across the dunes, you’ll ride the camels back to the camp, then enjoy a breakfast before heading back toward Fes. The return journey is long, about seven hours, but with comfort stops, it’s manageable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $293 per person reflects its comprehensive nature. Included are hotel/riad pickup and drop-off, a professional driver, transportation and fuel, breakfast and dinner, a camel ride, and one night in a desert camp. All taxes are covered, making it straightforward to budget.

Lacking are lunches and drinks, so it’s wise to bring some snacks and water. The tour’s flexibility with a “reserve & pay later” option is helpful if your plans are still loose. Keep in mind, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and nature of the activities.

Authenticity and Comfort: What Travelers Say

The one available review is glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating. Dana highlights the comfortable car journey, the attentive driver, and the well-maintained tents in the desert. She notes that the staff speak English, French, and some Italian, making communication smooth, especially in the remote desert setting.

Many travelers appreciate the stunning views and the chance to experience desert life. The camel ride at sunset, in particular, frequently gets mentioned as a highlight. The quiet, star-lit night at the camp is often described as “profound,” a rare chance to disconnect from modern life and soak in nature’s silence.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Comfortable shoes are essential for walking in the desert and around the camp.
• Bring sunglasses and a sun hat — the desert sun can be intense.
• While the accommodations are comfortable, pack a light jacket for the early morning and evening.
• Consider bringing a camera with a good zoom for capturing the dunes and wildlife.
• The long drive means you should be prepared for some downtime — bring a book or music.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day Merzouga desert excursion offers a well-rounded glimpse of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and desert life. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer reliable comfort over rugged adventure, but still want authentic experiences like camel riding and sleeping under the stars. The scenery alone makes it worth the price, especially if you’re keen on witnessing some of Morocco’s most iconic vistas.

If you’re looking for a manageable, organized way to see the Sahara and appreciate Moroccan hospitality, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s a good choice for first-timers to Morocco, families (except pregnant women), and anyone eager to experience the desert without sacrificing comfort.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Fes to Merzouga Tour

How long is the total trip from Fes to Merzouga?
The journey takes about 7 hours in total, including comfort stops and scenic breaks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, consider the long travel hours and the nature of camel riding and camping. Check with the provider if unsure.

What should I bring for the desert camp?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, and perhaps a light jacket for the early mornings and nights.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included, but lunches and drinks are not, so plan accordingly.

Can I request a different return method?
Yes, the tour notes that the return can be by car if requested, which might be more comfortable for some travelers.

Is the desert camp luxurious?
No, but the tents are described as very clean and well maintained. It offers an authentic desert experience without excessive luxury.

Is there Wi-Fi at the camp?
The tour doesn’t mention Wi-Fi availability; expect the desert to be quite remote.

What languages do the guides speak?
Guides are proficient in Arabic, French, and English, ensuring smooth communication.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues due to terrain and activities.

This tour expertly balances scenic beauty, authentic experiences, and practical comfort, making it a memorable way to see Morocco’s Sahara.

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