2 Day Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour — Round Trip with Camel Trek

Overview

Depart Fes early and cross the Middle Atlas Mountains and scenic Ziz Valley to reach the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy a sunset camel ride, spend the night under the stars in a Berber desert camp with traditional music and dinner, wake up to a magical sunrise, and return to Fes the following day with fresh mountain scenery.

Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Departure/Return: Fes (hotel/riad pickup and drop-off)
Transport: Comfortable air-conditioned van, minibus, or 4x4
Group size: Small shared groups or private options available
Best for: Travelers based in Fes who want a quick but immersive Sahara experience without changing cities

Highlights

• Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains via Ifrane and Azrou cedar forest (possible Barbary macaque sightings)
• Beautiful descent through the palm-lined Ziz Valley
• Sunset camel trek into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes
• Overnight stay in a traditional Berber desert camp with dinner, live music, and stargazing
• Spectacular Sahara sunrise the next morning
• Optional sandboarding and short desert exploration
• Authentic Berber culture and hospitality

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Fes → Middle Atlas → Ziz Valley → Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)
Early morning pickup from your Fes hotel or riad (usually 7:00–8:00 AM). Drive south through the Middle Atlas, stopping in the charming town of Ifrane ("Moroccan Switzerland") and the Azrou cedar forest for photos and a chance to see monkeys.

Continue via Midelt and descend into the scenic Ziz Valley with its lush palm groves and fortified villages. Arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon. Mount camels for a relaxing trek into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes to enjoy a spectacular sunset.

Arrive at your desert camp for a warm welcome with mint tea. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner (tagine, couscous, salads), live Berber music and drumming around the campfire, and a peaceful night under the vast starry Sahara sky.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Traditional Berber desert camp in Erg Chebbi (standard tents with mattresses and blankets; luxury tent upgrades available)
Driving time: ≈ 7–9 hours with scenic stops

Day 2: Merzouga Sunrise → Ziz Valley → Middle Atlas → Fes
Early wake-up for a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, followed by a camel ride back to the edge of the desert (or 4x4 transfer). Enjoy breakfast at the camp.

Have some free time for optional sandboarding or a short desert walk before departing. Drive back north through the Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas Mountains with fresh photo stops (possible second stop at the cedar forest or Ifrane). Arrive back in Fes in the late afternoon or early evening for drop-off at your hotel/riad.
Meals: Breakfast
Driving time (return): ≈ 7–9 hours with stops

What's Included

• Pickup and drop-off at your Fes hotel/riad
• Transportation in a modern air-conditioned vehicle with English-, French-, or Spanish-speaking driver-guide
• 1 night accommodation in a Berber desert camp in Erg Chebbi (standard or luxury upgrade available)
• Meals: Breakfast on Day 2 + traditional dinner on Day 1 (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available upon request)
• Camel rides (sunset on Day 1 + sunrise on Day 2; one camel per person)
• Berber music, drumming, and entertainment at the camp
• Sandboarding (when available)
• Fuel and all transport-related costs

What's Not Included

• Lunches and beverages/drinks on both days (budget ≈ €10–15 per lunch)
• Tips and gratuities for the driver and camp staff
• Personal expenses and travel insurance
• Optional activities (quad biking, extra 4x4 excursions)

FAQ

Q: Is this tour very tiring due to the long drives?
A: Yes, both days involve long driving hours (7–9 hours), but they are broken with beautiful stops and the rewarding desert experience makes it worthwhile for most travelers.

Q: Can I upgrade to a luxury camp?
A: Yes — many operators offer luxury tent upgrades with private or semi-private bathrooms, better beds, and enhanced facilities at an additional cost.

Q: What should I pack for the desert night?
A: Layered clothing (warm jacket for cold nights Oct–Mar), comfortable closed shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, scarf, small daypack, cash (MAD or EUR), and a power bank. Bring a small overnight bag.

Q: Are dietary requirements accommodated?
A: Yes — inform your driver on Day 1. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are commonly available.

Q: How extreme is the desert weather?
A: Summer days can be hot (stay hydrated); winter nights can be cold. Camps provide blankets; luxury tents offer more comfort.

Q: Is camel riding mandatory?
A: It's included, but you can request a 4x4 transfer to/from the camp if you prefer not to ride.

Q: When do I receive pickup details?
A: Usually the evening before via WhatsApp or the booking platform. A working mobile phone with WhatsApp is recommended.

Q: Can I make this a private tour?
A: Yes — private round-trip tours are popular and allow more flexible timing and comfort.