2 Days Tour From Fes to Marrakech
A short but wonderful trip from Fes to Merzouga & Back to Marrakech
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Overview
Embarking on a 2-day tour from Fes to Marrakech is like flipping through the pages of a living storybook. It’s a condensed journey through shifting landscapes, timeless traditions, and the soul of a country that never stops enchanting.
The route of this tour stitches together some of Morocco’s most iconic scenery in just 48 hours. Designed for travelers who crave depth without sacrificing time, this journey blends culture, history, and breathtaking nature into one unforgettable experience.
| Duration | Departure Time & Location | Arrival Time & Location | Price Per Guest |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 days and 1 nights | 8:30 AM from Fes | 18:00 in Marrakech | From 150 EUR |
Top Highlights of Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour 2 Days
The following are the top highlights of Fes to Marrakech desert tour 2 Days:
- Ifrane: Explore the peaceful mountain town known for its alpine style and clean streets.
- Azrou Cedar Forests: Stroll through cedar woods and spot wild Barbary macaques.
- Ziz Valley: Drive through the scenic palm-filled valleys and rocky gorges.
- Camel Trek in Merzouga: Ride camels across Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset.
- Desert Camp Overnight: Sleep in the desert under the stars with local music and dinner.
- Rissani Market: Quick stop at this historic town with a royal past and vibrant souk.
- Berber Villages: Pass through quiet, authentic Berber villages like Tazarine and N’kob.
- Draa Valley: Drive through vast date palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
- Ouarzazate: Enjoy lunch in this film-famous city near the Sahara.
- Ait Benhaddou: Visit Morocco’s most iconic kasbah and UNESCO site that featured in many movies.
Tour Gallery
Itinerary for the 2-Day Tour from Fes to Marrakech
Below is the itinerary for the 2 days Fes to Marrakech desert tour:
Day 1: From Fes to Merzouga Desert
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Fes ➜ Azrou ➜ Erfoud ➜ Merzouga
Distance: Approx. 467 km
Key stops:
- Azrou Cedar Forest
- Ifrane (optional stop)
- Ziz Valley
- Midelt & Erfoud
- Erg Chebbi Dunes
- Desert Camp Overnight
Day Highlights & Experiences
Departure from Fes
Your journey begins bright and early as we leave the historic city of Fes behind. As we head south, the urban landscapes gradually give way to rolling hills, pine forests, and the quiet beauty of the Middle Atlas Mountains.
Optional Stop in Ifrane
Our first optional break is in Ifrane, one of Morocco’s most unusual towns. Often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture and tidy boulevards, Ifrane offers a surprising contrast to the rest of the country.
Spot Barbary Macaques in Azrou Cedar Forest
Next, we’ll make a scenic stop in the cedar forests near Azrou. Here, you can take a short nature walk beneath towering centuries-old trees and, if you’re lucky, spot the playful Barbary macaques that live here.
Pass through Midelt & High Atlas Scenery
As we continue, we pass through Midelt, a market town between the Middle and High Atlas ranges. Known for its apple orchards and cool mountain breezes, it’s a great place to stop for lunch.
Explore Ziz Valley & Gorges
After Midelt, we descend through the spectacular Ziz Gorges, carved by the river over centuries. The road winds through tunnels and cliffs before opening up into the lush Ziz Valley, filled with date palms, kasbah ruins, and mudbrick villages.
Stop at Erfoud – Gateway to the Desert
By late afternoon, we reach Erfoud, known for its desert festivals, fossils, and marble workshops. The landscape here becomes noticeably more arid and dramatic, signaling we’re at the edge of the Sahara.
Merzouga Camel Trek
At Merzouga, the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi come into view. After checking in at a local auberge, you’ll meet your camel caravan and set off into the golden sand sea. The atmosphere at sunset in the desert is ideal for clicking some extraordinary photos.
Overnight Stay in the Desert Camp
Just before dusk, we’ll arrive at our desert camp located in the dunes. You’ll settle into your private tent before enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars. As night falls, gather around the fire for Berber music, storytelling, or simply gaze up at the starry sky.
Day 2: From Merzouga to Marrakech
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Merzouga ➜ Alnif ➜ Tazarine ➜ N’kob ➜ Ait Ben Haddou ➜ Marrakech
Distance: Approx. 562 km
Key stops:
- Desert Sunrise
- Tafilalet Palmeral & Rissani
- Alnif, Tazarine & N’kob
- Draa Valley
- Ouarzazate
- Ait Benhaddou
- Atlas Mountains
- Marrakech
Day Highlights & Experiences
Sunrise Over the Dunes
We begin early, well before sunrise. You’ll climb a nearby dune or enjoy the view from camp as the first golden light spills across the horizon.
Camel Ride to Hotel
After sunrise, we’ll mount our camels once again for the ride back to the hotel. Along the way, you’ll get a final glimpse of the desert in the soft morning light.
Drive through Tafilalet Palmeral & Rissani
We’ll drive through Tafilalet, one of Morocco’s largest palm groves, where you can spot traditional irrigation systems and ancient kasbahs nestled among the trees.
Next is Rissani, a town steeped in history as a former caravan center and the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty. If time allows, we’ll stop for a short walk through the local souk, known for its spices, dates, and a unique donkeys’ parking area.
Journey through Alnif, Tazarine & N’kob
Our route cuts across the rocky terrain of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. In Alnif, known for its prehistoric fossils, we may stop briefly to explore a fossil workshop. Then we pass through Tazarine and N’kob, small Berber towns with clusters of earthen kasbahs and sweeping desert views.
Stop at Draa Valley
We’ll follow the Draa River, Morocco’s longest, as it winds through a spectacular valley of ancient kasbahs, fortified villages, and thousands of date palms. This lush corridor is in stark contrast to the surrounding desert and makes for some truly dramatic photo opportunities.
Explore the Cinematic Ouarzazate
In the early afternoon, we’ll reach Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa.” We’ll stop here for lunch, with options overlooking the mountains or near the historic Taourirt Kasbah.
Visit the Iconic Ait Ben Haddou
Next, we’ll visit the iconic ksar of Ait Benhaddou, a fortified village made entirely of mudbrick and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll take a guided walk through its winding alleys, past granaries and traditional homes.
Climb to the top for panoramic views of the desert plains. This site has been used as a filming location for Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones.
Atlas Mountains Drive
We’ll then begin our ascent into the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass. It offers breathtaking views of terraced hillsides, winding roads, and isolated Berber hamlets tucked into the cliffs.
Marrakech Arrival
By early evening, we’ll arrive in Marrakech and drop you off at your accommodation.
Tour Itinerary Map
Tour Includes & Excludes
Price Includes:
- Transportation: Private transfers, pickup & dropoffs, and A/C vehicles
- Guided Tours: Professional English-speaking guide/driver
- Accommodation: 1 night in a luxury desert camp
- Meals: Breakfasts and dinners
- Desert Activities: Sahara camel trek (one camel per person) at sunset
- Optional Transport: 4×4 transfer option (Instead of camels)
Price Excludes:
- Meals: Lunches and beverages
- Personal Expenses: Tips, souvenirs, and optional purchases
- Optional Activities: Anything not included in the itinerary
Available Tour Options
The 5 Must-Do’s on a 2-day Fes to Marrakech Adventure
The 5 Must-Do’s on a 2-day Fes to Marrakech Adventure
While this journey may be short, it’s packed with memorable moments. Here are five highlights that make this desert escape unforgettable:
Sunset Camel Trek in Merzouga & Desert Camp Overnight
Riding a camel into the dunes of Erg Chebbi as the sun sets is a moment you won’t forget. After the trek, you’ll arrive at a desert camp where a warm meal, local music, and a sky full of stars await.
Visit the Alpine Town of Ifrane and the Cedar Forests of Azrou
Often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” Ifrane stands out with its clean streets, alpine-style houses, and cool mountain air. Nearby, the cedar forest of Azrou offers a chance to stretch your legs and spot wild Barbary macaques.
Scenic Drive through the Ziz and Draa Valleys
Both valleys offer breathtaking contrasts to the desert terrain. The Ziz Valley is known for its palm groves nestled between rocky cliffs, while the Draa Valley stretches out with its ribbon of greenery, ancient kasbahs, and traditional mud-brick villages.
Explore the Iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
This fortified village is a step back in time. Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO-listed site made famous by countless films and TV series.
Cross the Changing Landscapes of the Atlas Mountains
From rocky ridges to winding passes, our route cuts through some of Morocco’s most dramatic scenery. Along the way, you’ll pass remote Berber villages and scenic overlooks that make the drive as exciting as the destinations themselves.
Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour: 2-Day Prep Guide
Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour: 2-Day Prep Guide
- Book Early: Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack Light but Smart: Bring layers, a warm jacket for desert nights, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a scarf for sand protection.
- Stay Charged: Carry a power bank as charging options in desert camps may be limited.
- Be Ready for the Camel Ride: Wear long pants and closed shoes for a more comfortable trek.
- Hydrate and Snack: Keep a reusable water bottle and light snacks handy.
- Cash is King: Bring Moroccan Dirhams for tips, small shops, and rest stops along the way.
- Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, greet locals respectfully, and always ask before taking photos.
- Know the Basics: Learn a few local phrases like “shukran” (thank you).
FAQs Answered
Pack light but smart: bring layered clothing for warm days and cool nights, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, closed-toe shoes for walking, and a scarf or turban for the desert wind.
The camel ride is gentle and designed for all fitness levels. While it may feel unfamiliar at first, the pace is slow, and guides are available to assist if needed.
Yes, meals can be tailored to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets with advance notice. Just let us know any specific dietary needs when booking.
Yes, you’ll have time to freshen up before and after the desert camp. Most desert camps also offer basic bathroom facilities, though amenities can vary depending on the camp type.
Absolutely. We offer flexible options to add extra nights, destinations, or activities. Just ask in advance to tailor the experience to your travel plans.
Securing a tour with us is straightforward. First, reach out and choose the tour that interests you. Then, make a small deposit to lock in your reservation. Don’t forget to check our booking policies for all the details.
Our Customers Reviews
I am very satisfied!
It was an incredible two days journey. In addition to experiencing camels in the Sahara desert, staying in tents, the sunset, the sun, and the starry sky, we were able to take photos at the tourist spots on the road! I was happy because I did everything I wanted to do.
However, Marrakesh from the Sahara has bad road conditions, so if you are prone to get drunk, be sure to drink a sickness stopped. The tent was upgraded and correct.
Very informative guide!
We have the chance to have our excellent trip to the Sahara. The journey has been one of the best experiences in our lives.
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.
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What's Next?
Hungry for more activities? Explore these incredible day trips that are available for you to experience before or after your main tour.
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Important Note:
We tailor our tours from Fes to meet your unique preferences and requirements. Contact us anytime to discuss your ideal itinerary.