Fes
Depart Fes early and cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing cedar forests and charming towns, before descending through the scenic Ziz Valley to reach the edge of the Sahara. Enjoy a camel ride at sunset, spend the night in a traditional or luxury Berber desert camp, witness a magical sunrise, and return to Fes the next day with fresh mountain views.
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 in Fes wanting a quick but immersive Sahara experience without continuing to Marrakech
Day 1: Fes → Middle Atlas Mountains → Ziz Valley → Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)
Early morning pickup from your Fes hotel or riad (usually around 7:00–8:00 AM). Drive south through the Middle Atlas, stopping in the charming town of Ifrane with its Swiss-style architecture. Continue to the Azrou cedar forest for photos and a chance to see playful Barbary macaques (monkeys).
Pass through Midelt and descend into the beautiful Ziz Valley, lined with palm groves and ksours (fortified villages). Stop in Erfoud (famous for fossils) or Rissani if time allows. Arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon.
Mount camels for a peaceful trek into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes to enjoy a spectacular sunset. Reach your desert camp for mint tea, a traditional Moroccan dinner (tagine, couscous, salads), live Berber music and drumming around the campfire, and a magical night under the vast starry sky.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Traditional or luxury Berber tent camp in Erg Chebbi (luxury options often include proper beds, en-suite bathrooms, and heating in winter)
Driving time: ≈ 7–9 hours with scenic stops
Day 2: Merzouga Desert → Middle Atlas → Fes
Wake up early for a stunning sunrise over the dunes, followed by a camel ride back to the village edge (or 4x4 transfer). Enjoy breakfast at the camp and use the facilities (showers available).
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
Q: Is this tour very tiring?
A: Both days involve long drives (7–9 hours), but they are broken up with beautiful stops and the rewarding desert experience. It's suitable for most travelers who enjoy road trips.
Q: Can I choose a luxury camp?
A: Yes — many operators offer luxury tent upgrades with private bathrooms, comfortable beds, and better facilities at an additional cost.
Q: What should I pack for the desert night?
A: Layered clothing (warm jacket for cold nights, especially 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 cold/hot is the desert?
A: Summer days can be very hot (stay hydrated); winter nights can drop significantly. Camps provide blankets; luxury tents offer more comfort.
Q: Is camel riding mandatory?
A: It's included in the standard package, but you can request a 4x4 transfer instead if you prefer not to ride.
Q: When do I receive exact 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 it a private tour?
A: Yes — private 2-day tours are popular and offer more flexible timing and personalized service.
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Explore more tours from Fes
Enjoy a well-paced journey from the imperial city of Fes across the Middle Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley to the edge of the Sahara. Ride camels into the dunes at sunset, indulge in luxury glamping under the stars with excellent dining and live music, wake to a breathtaking desert sunrise, and return refreshed with scenic mountain views.
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.
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.