2 Day Private Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour — Erg Chebbi Dunes

Overview

Enjoy a private adventure crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains and the scenic Ziz Valley before reaching the edge of the Sahara. Ride camels into the dunes at sunset, spend the night in a traditional or luxury Berber camp with excellent service, witness a magical sunrise, and return to Fes the next day refreshed.

Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Departure/Return: Fes (private hotel/riad pickup and drop-off)
Transport: Private air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle or comfortable minivan (dedicated for your group)
Group size: Fully private (you and your traveling companions only)
Best for: Couples, families, friends, or anyone wanting flexibility, privacy, and personalized attention on a short desert getaway from Fes

Highlights

• Private scenic drive through the Middle Atlas with stops in Ifrane and Azrou cedar forest (Barbary macaque monkeys possible)
• Panoramic views of the lush palm-lined Ziz Valley and Berber villages
• Sunset camel trek (one camel per person) into the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes
• Overnight stay in a private tent at a traditional or luxury Berber desert camp
• Traditional Moroccan dinner, live Berber music/drumming, and stargazing
• Breathtaking Sahara sunrise with optional morning camel ride or desert walk
• Sandboarding (when available) and flexible pacing throughout

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Fes → Middle Atlas Mountains → Ziz Valley → Merzouga Dunes
Your private driver-guide will pick you up from your Fes hotel or riad at a time convenient for you (typically early morning between 7:00–8:30 AM). Drive south through the beautiful Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping at Ifrane (known as "Moroccan Switzerland") for photos and the Azrou cedar forest to enjoy the fresh air and spot playful Barbary macaques.

Continue via Midelt and descend into the scenic Ziz Valley with its extensive palm groves and traditional ksours (fortified villages). Arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon. Transfer to camels for a peaceful private trek into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes to watch the spectacular sunset.

Reach your desert camp for a warm private welcome with mint tea and pastries. Settle into your tent (private or upgraded luxury option) and enjoy a delicious traditional Moroccan dinner served around the campfire. Relax with live Berber music, drumming, and unforgettable stargazing in the quiet desert.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Private tent in a traditional or luxury Berber desert camp in Erg Chebbi (luxury upgrade includes en-suite bathroom, comfortable beds, and heating in winter)
Driving time: ≈ 7–9 hours with flexible scenic stops

Day 2: Merzouga Sunrise → Middle Atlas → Fes
Wake early for a magical private sunrise over the dunes (coffee/tea often served). Optional short camel ride or peaceful desert walk. Return to the camp for a hearty breakfast with fresh bread, eggs, fruits, yogurt, and hot drinks.

Have some free time to relax, try sandboarding, or take photos before departing. Your driver will take a scenic route back through the Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas with stops tailored to your preferences (e.g., additional cedar forest or Ifrane visit). Arrive back in Fes in the late afternoon or early evening for private drop-off at your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast
Driving time (return): ≈ 7–9 hours with flexible stops

What's Included

• Fully private transportation with dedicated English-, French-, or Spanish-speaking driver-guide
• Private hotel/riad pickup and drop-off in Fes
• 1 night in a private tent at a Berber desert camp in Erg Chebbi (standard or luxury upgrade available)
• Meals: Breakfast on Day 2 + traditional dinner on Day 1 (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available upon request)
• Camel treks (sunset on Day 1 + optional sunrise activity on Day 2; one camel per person)
• Berber music, drumming, and entertainment at the camp
• Sandboarding (when conditions allow) and camp facilities
• Fuel, permits, and all transport-related costs

What's Not Included

• Lunches and extra beverages/drinks
• Tips and gratuities (appreciated for your driver and camp staff)
• Personal expenses and travel insurance
• Optional add-ons (quad biking, extra 4x4 excursions)

FAQ

Q: What makes this tour "private"?
A: You have your own dedicated vehicle and driver-guide with no other travelers. Timing, stops, and pacing can be adjusted to your preferences.

Q: Can I choose a luxury camp?
A: Yes — luxury private tents with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, electricity, and superior dining are available at an additional cost.

Q: How tiring are the drives?
A: Both days involve long distances (7–9 hours), but stops are frequent and flexible. The desert experience more than compensates for the journey.

Q: What should I pack?
A: Layered clothing (warm jacket for desert nights and mountains), comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, scarf, small daypack, cash (MAD or EUR), and a power bank. A small overnight bag is sufficient.

Q: Are dietary requirements accommodated?
A: Yes — simply inform your driver or the booking team in advance. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are standard.

Q: Is camel riding mandatory?
A: The sunset camel trek is included, but 4x4 transfers can be arranged if preferred.

Q: When will I receive exact pickup details?
A: Usually the evening before departure via WhatsApp. A working mobile phone is essential.