2-Day Desert Tour Overview
Complete Fes to Merzouga Desert Adventure with Camel TrekkingThe tour includes private transportation, guided visits, camel trekking, and a memorable overnight stay in a desert camp with traditional dinner and breakfast.
The Fes to Merzouga 2-day desert tour covers approximately 500 kilometers through Morocco's most dramatic and varied landscapes. You'll experience the European-style architecture of Ifrane, the mineral and fossil markets of Midelt, the lush palm groves of the Ziz Valley, the historical significance of Rissani as the ancient capital of Tafilalet, and finally the spectacular golden dunes of Merzouga in the Sahara Desert.
This compact itinerary is ideal for those who want to experience the Sahara desert's magic without committing to a longer tour. You'll enjoy camel trekking at sunset, traditional Berber hospitality, stargazing in the desert, and a sunrise over the dunes before returning to civilization.
2-Day Desert Tour Itinerary: Fes to Merzouga
Detailed day-by-day itinerary of your desert adventureDay 1: Fes - Ifrane - Midelt - Ziz Valley - Merzouga Desert Camp
Departure from Fes & Ifrane Visit
Early morning departure from your accommodation in Fes. Drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains to Ifrane, known as "Morocco's Little Switzerland" for its European-style architecture and alpine climate. Stop for photos at the famous stone lion monument and explore the picturesque town.
Cedar Forest & Barbary Macaques
Continue through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, where you might spot troops of Barbary macaques (Barbary apes) in their natural habitat. Stop to observe and photograph these fascinating primates if conditions permit.
Midelt & Ziz Valley
Arrive in Midelt, a town famous for its mineral and fossil markets. Enjoy lunch (optional) with views of the surrounding mountains. Continue south, descending into the spectacular Ziz Valley, with its impressive gorges and extensive palm groves. Stop at panoramic viewpoints to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Arrival in Merzouga & Camel Trek
Arrive at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. Meet your friendly camel caravan for a magical sunset camel trek into the heart of the desert. The 1-1.5 hour camel ride takes you to your desert camp as the sun sets over the golden dunes.
Desert Camp & Overnight
Arrive at your comfortable desert camp nestled among the dunes. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, accompanied by Berber music around a campfire. Experience the incredible silence and clarity of the desert night sky before retiring to your private tent for the night.
Day 2: Merzouga Desert - Rissani - Midelt - Return to Fes
Sunrise Over the Dunes
Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara dunes (optional but highly recommended). The play of light and shadow on the golden sands is an unforgettable photographic opportunity. Enjoy breakfast at the camp as the desert comes to life.
Camel Return & Rissani Visit
After breakfast, camel trek back to the village of Merzouga. Drive to Rissani, the ancient capital of the Tafilalet region and the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty (current Moroccan royal family). Visit the famous Rissani Gate and explore the bustling traditional market (souk) if time permits.
Return Journey via Ziz Valley
Begin the return journey to Fes, stopping again at the Ziz Valley for different photographic perspectives. Enjoy lunch (optional) in Midelt or another convenient location along the route.
Arrival in Fes
Continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing Ifrane once more. Arrive back in Fes in the late afternoon or early evening (approximately 6:00-7:00 PM depending on traffic and stops), where you'll be dropped off at your accommodation, concluding your 2-day desert adventure.
Desert Tour Highlights
Experience the best of Morocco's 2-day desert adventureIfrane Visit
Morocco's "Little Switzerland" with alpine architecture
Midelt Region
Mineral-rich area with fossil markets
Ziz Valley
Spectacular gorges and palm groves
Rissani Gate
Historical capital of Tafilalet region
Camel Trekking
Sunset & sunrise camel rides in Erg Chebbi dunes
Desert Camp
Overnight in comfortable camp under stars
What's Included / Not Included
Complete details for your 2-day desert tour package- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Fes
- Private transportation in comfortable vehicle
- English/French-speaking driver/guide
- 1 night accommodation in desert camp
- Camel trekking in Merzouga (sunset & sunrise)
- Dinner & breakfast at desert camp
- Camp accommodation (private tent with beds)
- Mineral water during transfers
- All applicable taxes
- Lunches during the journey
- Drinks and personal snacks
- Entrance fees to monuments
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Tips for guides and camel handlers
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
Practical Details
Important information for your 2-day desert tourFrequently Asked Questions
About our 2-day Fes to Merzouga desert tourThe desert camp provides comfortable private tents with proper beds, mattresses, blankets, and bedding. Most camps have shared bathroom facilities with basic toilets. Some camps offer upgraded "luxury" tents with private bathrooms. The camp typically includes a dining tent, common area, and campfire space. There is usually limited electricity (often available only during certain hours for charging devices). We recommend bringing a headlamp or flashlight for nighttime navigation.
The camel rides are approximately 1 to 1.5 hours each way (to the camp at sunset and back in the morning). The camels walk at a gentle pace with trained guides. Most people find it comfortable, but it can be tiring for those with back problems. If you prefer not to ride camels, we can arrange 4x4 transfer to/from the camp at no extra cost. Children can ride with an adult or have their own camel with a guide. The camel trek is one of the highlights of the experience, offering authentic desert transportation.
Essential packing includes: comfortable clothing (layers for temperature changes), closed shoes for camel riding, sandals for camp, warm jacket (desert nights can be cold), sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), headlamp or flashlight, camera with extra batteries, power bank, personal toiletries, small towel, and any necessary medications. Pack light in a small overnight bag; you can leave larger luggage in the vehicle during the desert camp stay.
The tour typically starts between 7:00-8:00 AM from your Fes accommodation (exact time confirmed upon booking). On Day 2, you'll arrive back in Fes between 6:00-7:00 PM depending on traffic, stops, and season. The itinerary includes sufficient stops for photos, restrooms, and meals. The desert camp experience includes sunset camel trek, dinner, overnight, sunrise viewing, breakfast, and morning camel return. We maintain a flexible schedule to ensure you enjoy each location without feeling rushed.
Yes, absolutely! This tour is perfect for solo travelers. As a private tour, you'll have the vehicle and driver/guide to yourself regardless of group size. At the desert camp, solo travelers typically get their own private tent. The tour offers a great balance of guided experiences and personal freedom. Many solo travelers appreciate having everything organized while enjoying the flexibility to customize stops and pace. Your safety and comfort are our priority throughout the journey.