2 Days Desert Escape from Fes to Merzouga

Book this tour

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Starting location

Fes

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Tour's Duration

2 Days

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Destination

Merzouga

If you’re short on time but eager to experience the magic of the Sahara, this 2-day desert tour from Fes to Merzouga is the perfect choice. Journey through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains and explore the unique cedar forests of Azrou, home to the famous Berber monkeys. Traverse the scenic Ziz Valley, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Erg Chebbi dunes.

This compact adventure includes an unforgettable camel trek at sunset, a night under the stars in a traditional desert camp, lively Berber music around the campfire, and the chance to witness both sunrise and sunset over the endless sand dunes.

Cross the majestic Middle Atlas Mountains
Visit “Little Switzerland” – Ifrane
Spot Barbary macaques in the cedar forests of Azrou
Explore charming Berber villages
Enjoy a camel ride across Erg Chebbi’s golden dunes
Overnight stay in a traditional desert camp
Experience magical desert sunsets and sunrises
Discover the scenic Ziz Valley and its vast palm groves

This short yet unforgettable two-day adventure whisks you from Fes across the Middle Atlas Mountains to the red sands of Merzouga—an ideal escape if you’re short on time but eager for desert immersion.

Dress smartly & stay flexible: You’ll pass through cool forests, high mountain air, desert heat, and chill overnight conditions. Layered clothing and sturdy walking shoes are practical essentials.
Protect yourself from the elements: Sun in the desert and mountains is sharp. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle to stay sun-safe and hydrated.
Carry local currency: While your main meals and accommodations are included, extras like lunches, beverages, and optional activities typically aren’t. A small amount of dirhams will be useful.
Plan for limited connectivity: Parts of the route, especially through the desert, have spotty phone or internet reception. Download maps or important info ahead of time to avoid surprises.
Embrace the pace: Though compact, the itinerary is rich with stops, scenic views, and a surreal night under the stars—get ready for an exhilarating and fast-moving experience.

Detailled Itineray

Day 1: Fes – Middle Atlas – Azrou – Midelt – Erg Chebbi Desert

Your adventure begins with a morning pickup from your Fes accommodation. First stop is Ifrane, often called Morocco’s “Little Switzerland,” renowned for its alpine charm and pristine environment. Next, visit Azrou’s cedar forests to encounter playful Barbary macaques in their natural habitat.

Continue through Midelt, the heart of Morocco’s apple country, for a delicious local lunch. Cross the Tizi N’Talghoumt pass en route to Errachidia, with a scenic pause to admire the panoramic vistas of the Ziz Valley. As you approach the desert, stop in Erfoud, famous for its fossil workshops.

Arriving at Erg Chebbi, mount your camel for a 90-minute trek across towering dunes, taking in a spectacular desert sunset. Your camel ride ends at a traditional nomadic camp where you’ll enjoy a cozy dinner accompanied by live Berber drum music before settling in for a night under the stars.

Day 2: Sunrise at Erg Chebbi – Return to Fes via Ziz Valley

Wake early to catch the stunning sunrise from the top of the dunes. After breakfast and a refreshing shower at the camp, you’ll return by camel or 4×4 to the starting point.

The journey back to Fes includes scenic stops for photos and relaxation, with a lunch break along the way. Arrive in Fes by late afternoon or evening where your driver will drop you off at your hotel or riad, marking the end of your memorable Sahara escape.

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Included

Depends on the tour: Private or shared air-conditioned vehicles (4×4, minivan, minibus)
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Multilingual driver/guide (English, French, Spanish)
Camel trekking (only in desert tours)
Hotel or traditional riad stays (3-star, 4-star, or luxury options)
Daily breakfast and dinners (depending on the type of accommodation you choose)

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Excluded

Flights to/from Morocco
Lunches and drinks
Optional Activities & Extras
Tips & Gratuities
Personal Expenses

Extra Activities

If you’d like to elevate the journey with a dash of culture, extra adventure, or nature, here are some thoughtful options to consider:

Spend more time in Ifrane (“Little Switzerland”)
Stroll its tidy streets and cool architecture for a serene, Alpine-style contrast to the surroundings.
Extend your stop amid the cedar forests
Enjoy longer moments with the Barbary macaques—photographing their playful antics or simply soaking in the forest’s calm.
Visit a fossil workshop in Erfoud
Pause to explore the region’s prehistoric treasures—engage with artisans and learn about fossil crafting firsthand.
Upgrade your desert journey with a 4×4 dune drive
In addition to the camel trek, consider a guided off-road ride across the dunes for an adrenaline-fueled desert exploration.
Desert camp music and storytelling night
Enhance your overnight experience with cultural immersion—live Berber drumming, stories, or tamboura under starry skies.
Explore the Rissani souk on your way back
Stop in this historical town to explore local markets, taste traditional dishes like medfouna (stuffed pizza), or shop for crafts and spices.