2 Days Tour From Fes to Merzouga
An Outstanding Desert Journey in Two Days
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Overview
If you only have a couple of days but dream of watching the sun rise over golden dunes, this 2-day tour from Fes to Merzouga is your gateway to Morocco’s soul-stirring Sahara. This isn’t just a road trip; it’s a transformation, where ancient landscapes and desert silence shift your perspective in ways you didn’t expect.
In just two days, you’ll cross the Atlas Mountains, explore charming Berber villages, and experience the heart of the Sahara. Whether you’re tight on time or simply seeking an unforgettable weekend, this itinerary delivers a deep, immersive taste of Morocco’s desert magic.
| Duration | Departure Time & Location | Arrival Time & Location | Price Per Guest |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 days and 1 night | 8:30 AM from Fes | 18:00 in Fes | From 145 EUR |
Top Highlights of 2-Day Tour from Fes to Merzouga
Below are the top highlights of the 2-day tour from Fes to Merzouga:
- Ifrane: Stroll through the clean, peaceful streets of Morocco’s “Little Switzerland,” known for its European-style architecture and fresh mountain air.
- Azrou Cedar Forest: Stop in the Middle Atlas forest to see wild Barbary macaques up close.
- Berber Lunch in Midelt: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal in a mountain-side cafe nestled between the Middle and High Atlas.
- Ziz Gorges & Valley: Drive through winding canyons and palm-filled valleys.
- Erfoud & Fossils: Pass through desert towns famous for fossil workshops and bustling date markets.
- Camel Trek at Sunset: Ride a camel into the vast Erg Chebbi dunes just in time to catch the setting sun.
- Overnight Desert Camp: Sleep under the stars in a Berber-style camp with local music, warm food, and Saharan silence.
- Sunrise Over the Dunes: Wake early for a peaceful moment watching the sun rise over the glowing sand dunes.
- Rissani & Errachidia: Drive through these desert towns steeped in history, with optional visits to Rissani’s local souk or the mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif.
Tour Gallery
Itinerary for the 2 Days Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour
Here’s the itinerary details of the 2 days Fes to Merzouga desert tour:
Day 1: From Fes to Merzouga
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Fes ➜ Ifrane ➜ Azrou ➜ Midelt ➜ Erfoud ➜ Merzouga
Distance: Approx. 470 km
Key stops:
- Ifrane
- Azrou Cedar Forest
- Midelt
- Ziz Valley
- Erfoud
- Merzouga
- Erg Chebbi
Day Highlights & Experiences
Hotel Pickup
We’ll start the tour by picking you up from your accommodation in Fes. Your private driver and local guide will greet you and brief the journey ahead.
Ifrane – Morocco’s Alpine Gem
Our first stop is Ifrane, nicknamed “Little Switzerland.” With its tidy streets, red-roofed houses, and European-style design, it’s a unique contrast to the rest of Morocco.
Azrou Cedar Forest – Wild Macaques & Woodland Views
Next, we’ll head into the cedar forests of Azrou in the Middle Atlas Mountains. Here, you can meet the curious Barbary macaques that roam freely and enjoy a peaceful stroll beneath towering trees.
Midelt – Lunch with a View
Around midday, we’ll stop in Midelt for a traditional Berber lunch. This mountain town sits at the junction of the Middle and High Atlas, offering stunning backdrops as you dine in a cozy local cafe.
Ziz Gorges & Valley – Scenic Desert Gateway
As we continue south, we’ll pass through the impressive Ziz Gorges, where dramatic cliff walls frame a narrow valley lined with palm groves. Keep your camera ready for sweeping desert views.
Erfoud – Land of Fossils and Dates
In Erfoud, we’ll take a short break in a town known for its fossil workshops and date production.
Merzouga & Erg Chebbi Camel Trek – Into the Dunes
By late afternoon, we’ll arrive at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. Your camels will be ready for a slow-paced trek into the golden sands. As the sun sets, the scene becomes perfect for photos and soaking in the stillness of the Sahara.
Overnight Desert Camp – A Night Under the Stars
After your camel ride, we’ll reach our desert camp where you’ll be greeted with refreshing mint tea. Unwind in your private tent before savoring a delicious Moroccan dinner. As night falls, gather around the campfire for live Berber music and gaze up at the vast, unpolluted canopy of stars overhead, before turning in.
Day 2: From Merzouga to Fes
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Merzouga ➜ Rissani ➜ Erfoud ➜ Errachidia ➜ Ziz Valley ➜ Azrou ➜ Fes
Distance: Approx. 469 km
Key stops:
- Sunrise on the Dunes
- Rissani
- Erfoud & Errachidia
- Ziz Valley
- Midelt
- Azrou Cedar Forest
- Fes
Day Highlights & Experiences
Sunrise on the Dunes – A Magical Morning
We’ll wake you before dawn to climb the nearest dune and watch the sun rise over the Sahara. Afterwards, a traditional Berber breakfast awaits you at the desert camp.
Camel Trek Back – One Last Ride
After breakfast, we’ll take a gentle camel ride back to the Merzouga village meeting point, giving you one last look at the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Rissani – Historic Market Town
Optionally, we can stop in Rissani, an old trading town known for its authentic souk and deep ties to Morocco’s royal Alaouite family.
Erfoud & Errachidia – Glimpses of Desert Life
As we drive through Erfoud and Errachidia, you’ll see palm-lined roads, local villages, and dramatic desert scenery.
Ziz Valley – Palm Groves & Canyon Views
One of the most scenic parts of the journey, the Ziz Valley offers sweeping views of lush oases tucked between dry canyon walls. We’ll make photo stops so you can capture the contrast of green palms against rocky cliffs.
Azrou Cedar Forest – Nature & Wildlife
Time permitting, we’ll make another stop in the cedar forests of Azrou. It’s a great chance to stretch your legs and breathe in the crisp air.
Arrival in Fes – Journey’s End
By early evening, we’ll arrive back in Fes and drop you off at your hotel or riad.
Tour Itinerary Map
Tour Includes & Excludes
Price Includes:
- Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicle with fuel cost and pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation
- Driver/Guide: English-speaking and experienced driver/guide
- Desert Activities: Camel ride at sunset and sunrise (One camel per person)
- Accommodation: 1 night in a desert camp (private tent)
- Meals: Breakfast and dinner
- Alternative Transportation: 4×4 transfer from or to the camp instead of camel trekking
Price Excludes:
- Meals: Lunches and drinks
- Personal Expenses: Tips, souvenirs, or any other personal expenses
Available Tour Options
5 Memorable Things on a 2-Day Fes to Merzouga Trip
5 Memorable Things on a 2-Day Fes to Merzouga Trip
This 2-day Fes to Merzouga desert tour is packed with unforgettable moments. Here are five signature experiences that make this desert adventure so special.
Scenic Drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains
This tour offers some of Morocco’s most dramatic road trip moments. Take in the alpine air of Ifrane, the rugged cedar forests of Azrou, and later the lush ribbon of palm groves lining the beautiful Ziz Valley.
Meet the Barbary Macaques in the Azrou Cedar Forest
One of the more unexpected highlights is stopping in the cedar forest near Azrou. Here, don’t miss the chance to observe Barbary macaques, often playfully interacting in the trees or coming close enough for a photo.
Camel Trek through the Erg Chebbi Dunes at Sunset
Your camel ride into the dunes is a defining moment of the trip. As the sun dips behind the horizon, the sands of Erg Chebbi shift in color, glowing in warm amber and gold. This also gives you an opportunity to capture some stunning photos.
Sleep Under the Stars at a Berber Desert Camp
Spending a night beneath the starry sky of the Sahara is nothing short of enchanting. As darkness falls, the dunes come alive with the rhythm of traditional music, the warmth of authentic Moroccan cuisine, and a canopy of stars.
Watch the Sunrise from the Top of the Dunes
The desert sunrise is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. The calm and cool environment around you will make you feel the desert in a completely different way.
Essential Tips for a 2-Day Fes to Merzouga Adventure
Essential Tips for a 2-Day Fes to Merzouga Adventure
- Pack Light: Keep your overnight items in a small backpack. Large suitcases stay in the vehicle.
- Bring Cash: Carry some dirhams for meals and tips.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle and drink regularly.
- Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and villages, and take permission before taking photos.
- Pro Tip: Embrace the experience, disconnect a little, and enjoy the magic of the journey.
FAQs Answered
The drive from Fes to Merzouga offers a variety of scenic landscapes, including the alpine town of Ifrane, the cedar forests of Azrou, the mountain pass near Midelt, and the striking Ziz Valley with its palm groves and gorges.
Camel trekking is generally suitable for most travelers in moderate health. The ride lasts about an hour to an hour and a half. Please let your guide know if you have back or joint issues, as alternatives such as a 4×4 transfer may be arranged.
Bring layers—light clothing for the day and a warm jacket or hoodie for the chilly desert night. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a small flashlight, personal toiletries, and any medications. Comfortable shoes or sandals are also useful for walking on the sand.
Most desert camps provide limited solar-powered charging stations in communal areas. It’s best to bring a fully charged power bank just in case, especially if you plan to take lots of photos.
Absolutely. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can typically be arranged with advance notice.
Reserving a tour with us is easy. Begin by getting in touch to choose the tour that excites you. After that, secure your reservation with a small deposit. Don’t forget to review our booking terms for any additional details.
Our Customers Reviews
An Outstanding Experience!
We have the chance to have our excellent trip to the Sahara desert in Merzouga
This experience has been one of the best experiences in our life, Ahmed is an excellent driver, he shows us magnificent places on the way to the desert, and he was very good with us. This is an experience that everybody has to do once in his life.
Thank you very much Ahmed and Morocco Tours Agency.
A 10/10 Morocco Travel Journey!
We had an amazing time to Merzouga desert in Sahar. We went a group of 5 friends, so we did not have much time to be around and picked the 2 days excursion and it was one of the best things we ever did, and seen!
Our awesome driver drove us from Fez to near the desert, it is a long ride (so be ready for that), you go from snowed mountains to monkey town, etc.
WE RECOMMEND IT! Also, the cheapest one I saw, so a perfect value for money!
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What's Next?
Curious about more adventures? Dive into these incredible day trips that you can experience either before or after your main tour.
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Important Note:
Our tours from Fes are fully adaptable to suit your needs. Contact us whenever you’re ready, and we’ll create the perfect itinerary for you.