2 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga
Start Point: Fes
End Point: Fes
Transport: Private
Accommodation: Hotel
Age range: All
Language: English
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Summary of 2-Day Tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert
This incredible 2-day trip from Fes to Merzouga Desert is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the diverse beauty of Morocco! You’ll experience a captivating blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and historic landmarks. As soon as you leave Fes, get ready for a change! You’ll go from the cool, European-style town of Ifran to the vast stretches of cedar forests in Azrou and the breathtaking vistas of the Ziz Valley. And there’s more! Along the way, you’ll encounter traditional Berber villages that will give you a fascinating glimpse into the life and culture of Morocco’s indigenous people.
The absolute highlight of the 2 days trip from Fes is the camel trek into the golden sands of the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, where the endless Sahara Desert meets the sky. You’ll never forget spending a night under the stars in a nomadic camp! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to disconnect from the modern world and fully embrace the tranquility and magic of the desert.
This fantastic trip is not only about the incredible physical landscape, but also the amazing historical and cultural richness you’ll discover. From the ancient royal city of Rissani to the significance of the Middle Atlas in shaping Morocco’s natural environment, this itinerary promises both adventure and education in equal measure – it’s the perfect combination!
Places You’ll See
- Ifran
- Azrou and the cedar forests
- The Ziz valley and gorges
- Merzouga and Erg Chebbi
- Rissani
HIGHLIGHTS OF 2 DAYS DESERT TOUR FROM FES TO MERZOUGA
- Visit Ifran, the “Switzerland of Morocco.”
- Explore the cedar forests of Azrou.
- Spot Barbary apes in the Middle Atlas.
- Enjoy scenic views of the Ziz Valley and Gorge.
- Discover the historic town of Rissani.
- Ride a camel across the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Witness a breathtaking sunset over the Sahara Desert.
- Spend the night in a traditional desert camp under the stars.
- Wake up to a magnificent desert sunrise.
- Immerse yourself in Berber culture and traditions.
Why Start This Trip from Fes?
Starting your journey in Fes offers a unique and intimate gateway to Morocco’s rich history and cultural depth. Fes is one of the country’s oldest cities, renowned for its medieval architecture, labyrinthine medina and deeply rooted traditions. By starting in Fes, you are immediately immersed in an authentic Moroccan experience, offering a quieter and more historic atmosphere compared to the bustling, tourist-heavy streets of Marrakech. The city’s timeless charm allows you to start your trip on a reflective note, setting the stage for a journey focused on exploration and discovery rather than the hustle and bustle of commercialised attractions.
In addition, Fes is ideally situated for a direct route through the Middle Atlas, offering a scenic and less crowded drive towards Merzouga. The landscapes from Fez to the Sahara are some of the most varied and visually stunning in Morocco. You’ll pass through tranquil towns such as Ifran, lush cedar forests in Azrou and dramatic gorges in the Ziz valley. By starting in Fes, you avoid the longer, more common route from Marrakech, ensuring that you spend more time enjoying the natural beauty and hidden gems of Morocco’s interior rather than long stretches of road.
Another advantage of starting in Fes is the opportunity to explore some of Morocco’s lesser-known regions, such as Errachidia and Midelt. These areas are rich in Berber culture and offer a more off-the-beaten-path experience than the more tourist-oriented routes from Marrakech. Starting your journey in Fes puts you at the heart of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultures, ensuring a more personalised and immersive adventure.
Day by Day Itinerary
2 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga full itinerary
Embark on a remarkable 2-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Morocco, traveling from Fes to Merzouga and back. This unique itinerary takes you from the cool, Swiss-like Ifran, through the majestic Middle Atlas Mountains, to the iconic dunes of the Sahara Desert. Along the way, you’ll encounter lush valleys, ancient cedar forests, traditional Berber villages, and the stunning Ziz Gorge, before arriving in the heart of the Sahara for an unforgettable overnight camel trek and desert camp experience. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Morocco’s diverse terrains, rich history, and vibrant cultures.
1st Day: Fes - Ifran - Azrou - Midlet - Arfoud - Merzouga
Your journey starts bright and early at 7am from Fes, heading south-east to the tranquil town of Ifran, known as the ‘Switzerland of Morocco’ for its alpine climate and architecture. After a short stop, continue through the Middle Atlas, past the cedar forests of Azrou, where you may spot playful Barbary monkeys. The adventure continues with a scenic drive past Midlet and into the Ziz Valley, a landscape renowned for its verdant palm groves and impressive gorge.
At lunchtime, you’ll stop to take in the panoramic views of the Ziz Gorge before continuing on to the desert town of Rissani, known as the birthplace of Morocco’s royal Alaouite dynasty. From here, the landscape changes dramatically, taking you through Berber villages and vast expanses of desert to Merzouga.
On arrival in Merzouga, you will be greeted with a refreshing glass of mint tea as you check into your riad. After a short rest, you’ll take a camel trek into the mesmerising Erg Chebbi dunes, where you’ll watch the sun set over the Sahara. Spend the night in a traditional nomad camp, enjoying the rhythm of the Berber drums under the stars.
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
2nd Day: Merzouga - Errachidia - Ziz Valley - Fes
Rise early to see what may be the most spectacular sunrise of your life, illuminating the golden sand dunes of the Sahara. After a leisurely camel ride back to Merzouga, you’ll enjoy breakfast at your riad before making your way back. As you travel back through the Errachidia and Ziz valleys, the changing light transforms the landscape, offering another stunning perspective of Morocco’s diverse terrain. Your adventure ends with your arrival in Fez in the afternoon.
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
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What makes the 2 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga an adventure?
An adventure in the truest sense of the word, this itinerary offers travellers the chance to explore both the natural and cultural riches of Morocco. The journey begins with a drive through the majestic Atlas Mountains, where you’ll encounter breathtaking views, towering cedar forests and playful Barbary monkeys. Every bend in the road reveals a new view, and the diversity of Morocco’s landscapes will never cease to amaze you.
One of the highlights of the trip is the camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Riding a camel across the vast Sahara with nothing but endless sand in front of you is an exhilarating and humbling experience. The changing colours of the dunes as the sun sets create a sense of otherworldliness, transporting you to a space where time seems to stand still.
Spending the night in a desert camp under the stars is another highlight that makes this trip truly adventurous. Away from the light pollution of the city, the stars seem brighter and closer, and the silence of the desert adds to the sense of awe. The drumbeats of Berber music echo through the night, immersing you in the ancient rhythms of the desert people.
In addition, the opportunity to explore small Berber villages along the way gives you a deeper connection to the people and culture of Morocco. Often overlooked by tourists, these villages offer a glimpse of a simpler way of life where tradition and community remain strong.
Finally, the changing terrain itself is part of the adventure. From the fertile valleys of the Ziz River to the arid expanses of the Sahara, this journey offers an unparalleled variety of landscapes that never cease to surprise and inspire. It’s not just the destination, but the journey itself that makes this a true adventure.
What's Included
The 2 day trip from Fes to Merzouga include:
- Pick up from your accommodation and drop-off
- Car + Fuel
- Camel Trek (Camel per person)
- Dinner & Breakfast
What's not Included
The 2 day trip from Fes to Merzouga does not include:
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Flights Tickets
- Entrance to monuments
- All accommodations are subject to change
Road map of 2-Day Tour from Fes to Merzouga
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2 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga Sightseeings
This 2 day desert trip from Fes to Merzouga offers unique landscapes, cultural heritage, and opportunities for adventure, making them must-visit spots on any Moroccan itinerary. During this trip, we will discover many sights, including:
Ifran
Known as the ‘Switzerland of Morocco’, Ifran is famous for its clean streets, alpine architecture and snow-covered winters. Its European charm makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat. Despite its modern appearance, Ifran is rooted in Berber traditions, and its lush green parks and lakes offer a refreshing break from Morocco’s more arid regions.
Azrou and the cedar forests
Azrou is a traditional Berber town in the Middle Atlas, famous for its nearby cedar forests, the largest in Morocco. These forests are home to the endangered Barbary monkeys, a playful and curious species that you can see during your stay. The cedar trees, some of which are over 800 years old, provide a serene setting for a walk in nature and a cool respite from the hot Moroccan climate.
The Ziz valley and gorges
The Ziz Valley is a vast oasis with thousands of date palms stretching as far as the eye can see. The Ziz River, which flows through the valley, has carved out the stunning Ziz Gorge, a geological marvel of towering cliffs and vibrant greenery. This region has been an important trade route for centuries, linking the northern cities with the Sahara. As you drive through, the panoramic views of the gorge and valley are nothing short of breathtaking.
Merzouga and Erg Chebbi
Merzouga is the gateway to the Sahara, home to the massive Erg Chebbi dunes, which rise up to 150m. The small desert village provides a base for exploring the majestic sands, where you can take a camel trek and experience the magical play of light over the dunes. Spending the night in a desert camp, surrounded by nothing but the stars and the sound of drums, is a surreal experience that captures the essence of Moroccan desert life.
Rissani
Rissani is a historic town near Merzouga, known as the birthplace of Morocco’s ruling Alaouite dynasty. Once an important trading post for caravans travelling between the Sahara and northern Morocco, Rissani is home to ancient ksars (fortified villages) and a bustling souk selling traditional crafts, spices and textiles. It’s a fascinating place to explore Morocco’s deep-rooted history and cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions - 2 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Merzouga
- How long is the camel trek?
- The camel trek to the desert camp typically lasts about 1-2 hours, depending on the starting point and pace.
- Is the overnight desert camp comfortable?
- Yes, the camp is equipped with comfortable tents, mattresses, and blankets. Some camps also offer modern amenities like showers.
- What should I wear in the desert?
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for the daytime, and warmer layers for the chilly desert nights. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Can I travel this itinerary with children?
- Yes, the trip is suitable for families, though younger children should be prepared for the camel ride and long travel distances.
- How do I prepare for the high temperatures in the desert?
- Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.
From $300/PAX