From Fes: 2-Day Merzouga Desert Excursion

Embark on an unforgettable 2-day journey from Fes to the captivating Merzouga Desert. This excursion promises an immersive experience, blending scenic landscapes, thrilling 4WD adventures, and authentic Berber culture. Witness the sun’s radiant display as it dips below the towering dunes, then settle into a traditional desert camp for a night under the stars. With meals, transportation, and more included, this tour provides a hassle-free way to explore Morocco’s stunning Saharan realm. But the real question is, are you ready to uncover the magic that lies within?

Good To Know

• 2-day tour from Fes to the Merzouga desert, priced at $274.53 per person, includes hotel pickup, transportation, camel ride, and desert camp stay.
• Itinerary highlights include visits to Ifrane, Azrou, and Midelt, followed by a 4WD adventure and camel ride into the Sahara Desert.
• Overnight stay in a traditional Berber camp offers a unique cultural experience with Moroccan dinner, stargazing, and Berber music and storytelling.
• Tour includes early morning camel ride and sunrise experience, with a return journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains.
• Tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the challenging desert terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Merzouga Desert Excursion is a 2-day tour that departs from Fes, priced at $274.53 per person.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a reserve now and pay later option available, making it convenient for booking.

The tour includes hotel/riad pickup and drop-off, professional driver, transportation and fuel, breakfast, dinner, camel ride, and one night in a desert camp.

Lunches, drinks, and tips are excluded. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, so travelers should keep that in mind when booking.

Itinerary Highlights: Day 1

On the first day, travelers depart from Fes and make their way through the picturesque Ifrane, known as the "Switzerland of Morocco", where they’ll have the chance to admire the winter ski resort.

The journey continues through Azrou, a town nestled in the cedar forests, where visitors may spot the Barbary macaques.

Passing through the Middle Atlas Mountains, the tour stops for lunch in Midelt before arriving at the Merzouga dunes.

From there, travelers embark on a 4WD adventure and a camel ride into the heart of the Sahara Desert, where they’ll witness the stunning sunset and enjoy a delightful dinner and stargazing at a Berber camp.

Exploring the Sahara Desert

After arriving at the Merzouga dunes, travelers embark on an exhilarating 4WD adventure, venturing deep into the heart of the Sahara Desert.

The rugged off-road vehicles traverse the towering sand dunes, offering stunning panoramic views.

Travelers then dismount and continue their exploration of the desert on camelback, gliding across the undulating landscape.

As the sun sets, they witness the breathtaking transformation of the dunes, bathed in the warm, golden hues.

After settling into a traditional Berber camp, guests enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars and revel in the serene solitude of the vast desert expanse.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

As the sun dips below the horizon, the caravan arrives at the remote Berber camp nestled amidst the towering dunes. Guests are welcomed with traditional Moroccan mint tea and invited to explore the camp.

The tented accommodations offer a cozy respite from the desert chill, with plush carpets, lanterns, and comfortable bedding.

After a hearty dinner of Moroccan specialties, visitors can gaze up at the breathtaking canopy of stars, far from the light pollution of cities.

As the fire crackles, the camp comes alive with the sound of Berber music and storytelling, providing a truly immersive cultural experience.

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Experience the Sunrise Near the Border

Guests typically rise early to witness the sunrise near the Algerian border. This early morning activity provides a tranquil and serene experience.

The journey begins with:

1. A camel ride back across the dunes, giving travelers a different perspective of the desert landscape.
2. Time to shower and refresh at the camp before departing.
3. A final breakfast at the camp, preparing travelers for the return trip to Fes.

This early morning excursion is a highlight of the 2-day desert adventure, offering a peaceful start to the day and a chance to soak in the beauty of the Sahara before the journey back.

Return Journey and Comfort Stops

Following the camel ride back and the chance to refresh at the camp, the journey back to Fes begins.

The group will make a stop in Rissani, a town known for its lively markets and historic architecture. Along the way, there’ll be other comfort stops where travelers can stretch their legs, grab a bite to eat, and take in the scenic mountain views.

The drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains offers a chance to witness the region’s natural beauty.

Before arriving back in Fes, the tour will make one final stop, ensuring travelers reach their destination comfortably and with cherished memories of their Saharan adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Merzouga Desert Excursion includes a range of essential services to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience. The package includes hotel/riad pickup and drop-off, a professional driver, and all necessary transportation and fuel.

Travelers will enjoy a delicious breakfast and dinner, as well as a thrilling camel ride across the dunes. Plus, the tour provides a 1-night stay in a desert camp and covers all applicable taxes.

However, the package doesn’t cover lunches, drinks, or tips, which are the responsibility of the travelers.

Careful planning and packing the right items, such as comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat, will contribute to an enjoyable and memorable journey.

Important Information and Reviews

Certain limitations apply to the Merzouga Desert Excursion. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the challenging terrain and activities involved.

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat to protect themselves from the desert elements.

The tour has received excellent reviews, with one customer from Italy praising the comfortable journey, attentive driver, and clean desert camp facilities.

With an impressive 5-star rating, this 2-day Merzouga Desert Excursion from Fes promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Sahara Desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. Bringing a pet would not be permitted due to the sensitive desert environment and the potential disruption to the camel ride and camping experience for other participants.

Is There Wi-Fi Available at the Desert Camp?

No, there’s no Wi-Fi available at the desert camp. The tour focuses on immersing guests in the remote and off-the-grid desert experience without modern amenities. Guests should expect to disconnect during their overnight stay.

How Physically Demanding Is the Camel Ride?

The camel ride is moderately physically demanding. It requires riders to balance themselves atop the camel and some flexibility to get on and off. However, the ride itself is generally considered gentle and suitable for most able-bodied adults.

Can I Extend the Tour to 3 Days?

Yes, you can extend the Merzouga Desert Excursion to 3 days. This would allow more time to explore the desert and surrounding areas, and provide a more immersive cultural experience. Contact the tour operator to inquire about the 3-day itinerary and pricing.

Are There Any Health or Medical Facilities Nearby?

There are no major hospitals or medical clinics near the desert camps. However, the tour provider has first aid kits and can arrange emergency transportation if needed. It’s recommended to bring any essential medications.

The Sum Up

The 2-day Merzouga Desert Excursion from Fes offers an immersive experience in Morocco’s stunning Sahara Desert. Travelers can look forward to a thrilling 4WD adventure, camel ride, and an overnight stay in a traditional Berber camp. With meals, transportation, and hotel pickup included, this tour provides a hassle-free way to explore the heart of the desert and witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

You can check availability for your dates here: