In just two days, you can see some of Morocco’s most beautiful places. This desert tour leaves Fes behind and leads you into the calm spaces of the Sahara. You’ll pass through tall cedar trees and cross winding mountain roads. By late afternoon, the dunes of Erg Chebbi rise in the distance. As the sun lowers, you climb onto a camel and head into the sand. The air cools, shadows stretch across the ground, and everything feels still.
Quick Tour Snapshot
- Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
- Departure: Fes
- Destination: Merzouga Desert
- Tour Type: Private or Small Group
- Availability: Year-Round
Itinerary Overview
Day 1 – Fes to Merzouga
Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains (Ifrane, Azrou cedar forest)
The morning drive takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains. You’ll pass green valleys, rocky slopes, and tall cedar trees. Ifrane appears with its clean streets and European charm. Further on, Azrou’s ancient forest offers a calm setting filled with fresh air and quiet beauty.
Stops for photos and lunch en route
As you travel, you’ll pause at different spots to photograph mountain scenery and quiet villages. These stops give you space to look around and take everything in without hurry. Later on, there’s time set aside for lunch, so you can taste local recipes and unwind. Once you’ve rested, the road leads on toward the wide, open desert.
Arrival in Merzouga and camel trek into the dunes
Reaching Merzouga in the afternoon, you’ll meet your guide and prepare for the camel trek. The gentle ride takes you deeper into the dunes. As the sand shifts underfoot, you start to feel the calm and space that define this part of Morocco.
Sunset views from the dunes
From the high dunes, you’ll watch the sun drift toward the horizon. The light spreads warm colors across the sand. Each minute brings a new shade. It’s a quiet time to pause, take photos, or simply enjoy the desert’s vast, open sky.
Overnight in a desert camp (traditional Berber tents)
After sunset, you’ll reach the desert camp. Simple Berber tents stand ready with clean beds and soft lighting. The camp blends comfort with a sense of tradition. As the evening settles in, you’ll have time to relax before dinner is served by your hosts.
Dinner and campfire music
Dinner is prepared fresh and shared around the campfire. The meal includes local flavors and warm bread. Later, you’ll hear music played by your hosts. The songs echo across the dunes. It’s an easy moment to enjoy the company and the clear night sky.
Day 2 – Merzouga to Fes
Sunrise over Erg Chebbi dunes
Morning arrives quietly over Erg Chebbi. As the first light touches the dunes, the sand glows in soft gold and pale rose. You can climb a nearby ridge to watch the horizon change. This sunrise feels unhurried and calm. It’s a moment to reflect before the day begins. Each shift of light across the landscape brings a sense of peace you’ll remember long after you leave. Photographs never quite capture the scale or stillness that fills the air in these early hours.
Breakfast at camp
After sunrise, you’ll return to camp for breakfast. The meal is simple and fresh, usually including warm bread, local honey, fruit, and hot tea. Eating outdoors adds to the sense of place. You have time to sit and enjoy the quiet before packing up. The staff handles everything with care. They’ll help prepare your belongings and answer any last questions about the area. This final meal in the dunes feels relaxed, leaving you with a clear memory of Berber hospitality.
Return camel ride or 4×4 transfer to the village
When breakfast ends, you’ll either ride a camel or take a 4×4 back to Merzouga village. The journey feels different in the morning light. Camels move at a steady pace across the sand. If you prefer, the vehicle option shortens the return. Guides are there to assist and make sure you’re comfortable. This last stretch across the dunes offers one more chance to look around and absorb the landscape. It’s a simple transition from the desert’s calm back toward the road home.
Journey back to Fes with stops along the way
The drive back to Fes follows the same scenic route. You’ll pause for short breaks to stretch, take photos, and enjoy a meal along the way. Passing through the Middle Atlas again, you can see how the light changes with each view. Ifrane and Azrou appear familiar but feel different on the return. The air grows cooler as you approach Fes. The shift from open desert to mountain forest happens gradually. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at your starting point, carrying a sense of the desert’s quiet strength.
What’s Included?
Private Transport (4×4 or minivan)
A private vehicle takes you from Fes to the desert. The ride is comfortable and air-conditioned. Your driver manages all the details, so you can relax and watch the scenery change.
English/Spanish/French-speaking driver-guide
Your guide speaks English, Spanish, or French. They share insights along the way and help you feel at ease. You can ask questions at any point.
Camel ride in the dunes
A camel ride brings you into the dunes near Merzouga. The pace is slow and steady. Guides help you safely mount and lead the way as you take in the views.
1-night accommodation in a desert camp
Spend the night in a Berber camp with private tents. Each tent has clean bedding and simple comforts. It’s a quiet place to rest after your day’s journey.
Dinner & Breakfast
Dinner is served fresh when you arrive. You’ll enjoy traditional dishes and warm bread. In the morning, breakfast includes tea, coffee, and fruit before you depart.
What’s Not Included:
Lunches
Midday meals during the tour are not part of the package. You can choose where to stop and pay directly at local restaurants.
Drinks
Beverages, including water, tea, and soft drinks, are at your own cost. These can be bought along the way or at the camp.
Personal Expenses
Any personal spending, such as souvenirs, tips, or extra activities, is not covered in the tour price.
Why Choose This Tour?
Time-Efficient: Perfect for travelers on a short schedule This trip works well if you want to see the desert but don’t have many days to spare. In two days, you’ll cross the Atlas Mountains, ride a camel, and spend a night in the dunes. The plan covers a lot without feeling rushed, so you can enjoy each moment.
Authentic Experience: Sleep in Berber tents under desert stars
You’ll spend the night in a traditional Berber camp set among golden dunes. Private tents have clean bedding and simple comforts. After sunset, share a meal and listen to music by the fire. The sky fills with stars, creating a calm setting that feels close to the land and rich in local tradition.
All-Inclusive: No hidden fees
This tour includes private transport, camel rides, a night in a desert camp, and meals. You won’t face surprise costs or extra charges later. Each detail is clear from the start, so you know exactly what to expect. This way, you can relax and focus on enjoying the experience without stress.
Small Groups or Private: Personalized attention
Traveling in a small group or a private arrangement means more flexibility and personal care. Your guide has time to answer questions and adjust the pace as needed. This approach creates a warm atmosphere and helps you feel looked after. It also gives you space to enjoy the trip your way.