2-Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes

About This Activity: 2-Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Embark on a breathtaking 2-day journey from the vibrant city of Marrakech to the historic heart of Fes. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and stunning landscapes as you cross the majestic Atlas Mountains and discover the beauty of the Moroccan desert.

Highlights:

Explore the High Atlas Mountains: Travel through scenic mountain passes, stopping at traditional Berber villages along the way.
Overnight in the Desert: Enjoy a magical night under the stars in a traditional desert camp with a camel trek at sunset.
Discover Merzouga’s Dunes: Feel the golden sands of the Sahara Desert as you ride camels through the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes.
Tour the Ziz Valley and Gorges: Be captivated by the lush oasis and dramatic landscapes as you pass through this hidden gem.
End in Fes: The tour concludes in Fes, one of the most fascinating imperial cities of Morocco, where centuries of history come to life in its medinas and souks.
Hotel Pick-up in Fes: Convenient pick-up from your accommodation to start your adventure.
Camel Trek at Sunset: Experience an unforgettable camel ride across golden dunes as the sun sets, creating a magical moment.
Sunrise Over the Dunes: Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the desert sands for a truly serene experience.
Explore Scenic Routes: Visit the picturesque Ifrane, Medilt, and the lush Ziz Valley on your journey.

Inclusions:

Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Accommodation in a traditional desert camp.
Breakfasts and dinners.
Camel trekking experience.
Knowledgeable guide.

Exclusions:

Lunches

What to Bring:

Comfortable walking shoes.
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
Warm clothes for the desert night.

Perfect For: Culture enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking to explore Morocco’s hidden gems in a short time.

Itinerary: 2-Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Fez to Merzouga Overnight Desert Tour: A Must-Do Adventure for Couples, Families, or Small Groups!

Experience an unforgettable journey from Fez to the Sahara Desert on this exclusive overnight desert tour, perfect for those seeking an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience.

Day 1: Fez – Ifrane – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

Your tour begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel or riad in Fez. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through some of the most stunning natural and cultural sights Morocco has to offer.

Ifrane: Often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its European-style architecture and alpine climate, Ifrane is a charming stop where you’ll take in clean mountain air and stunning landscapes.
Cedar Forest of Azrou: Continue your journey through the lush cedar forests of Azrou, famous for its ancient trees and wild Barbary macaque monkeys. This is a perfect opportunity for nature lovers to experience Morocco’s diverse ecosystems.
Middle Atlas Mountains: As you ascend the rugged peaks of the Middle Atlas, you’ll pass through traditional Berber villages, where you can catch glimpses of everyday rural life in Morocco. The scenic drive offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains in winter and vibrant greenery during other seasons.

After a lunch stop in Midelt, known for its apple orchards, continue your journey to the stunning Ziz Valley. The valley, lined with towering palm trees, stretches across the horizon, creating a dramatic contrast to the surrounding barren desert. You’ll also pass through the Ziz Gorges, a series of narrow canyons carved by the river, offering spectacular views and perfect photo opportunities.

Arrival in Merzouga: Once you arrive in Merzouga, and transferring you to your accommodation there, you’ll embark on a camel trek through the mesmerizing dunes of Erg Chebbi. The camel ride offers a peaceful, enchanting journey as you cross the golden sands, illuminated by the setting sun. This hour-long trek leads you to your destination—a Private Luxury Berber Camp in the heart of the Sahara Desert.

At the camp, enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner under the stars. Traditional Berber entertainment, including rhythmic drumming and folk songs, will enhance the evening as you relax by the campfire. The clear desert skies offer unparalleled stargazing opportunities, making this a night to remember.

Day 2: Merzouga – Erg Chebbi Dunes – Return to Fez or Continue to Marrakech

Start your second day with an early wake-up to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara. As the first rays of sunlight spill over the dunes, the desert transforms into a glowing sea of gold, offering a truly magical experience. After capturing this moment, enjoy a hearty breakfast at the camp before setting off on a camel ride back to Merzouga village.

From Merzouga, Return to Fez: Retrace your route back through the Atlas Mountains, stopping along the way to soak in the scenic views and stretch your legs.

Why Choose This Fez to Merzouga 2 Days Desert Tour?

Luxury Experience: Enjoy the comforts of a private luxury Berber tent, complete with cozy bedding, traditional décor, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay in the desert.
Adventure & Culture: From camel trekking across vast sand dunes to experiencing Berber music and cuisine, this tour offers the perfect balance of adventure and cultural discovery.
Scenic Journey: The drive from Fez to Merzouga is a highlight in itself, with scenic stops in the Middle Atlas, Ifrane, Azrou, and the Ziz Valley.
Unforgettable Sunrise and Sunset: Witness the breathtaking desert sunrise and sunset, both of which provide extraordinary photo opportunities and moments of tranquility.
Suitable for All Travelers: This tour is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families looking for a fun adventure, and small groups desiring a more intimate experience.

Contact for booking 2-Day Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Highlights of Must-See Attractions on the 2-Day Marrakech to Fes Tour

Fez

Fez, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, is a vibrant and historic city known for its sprawling medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Before you embark on your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to see the unique architecture, narrow winding streets, and the world-famous tanneries. Fez is also home to the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest existing university in the world.

Ifrane

Located in the Middle Atlas Mountains, Ifrane is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its clean streets, European-style architecture, and cool mountain climate. Ifrane is also known for its picturesque parks, alpine forests, and the popular lion stone statue. It is a stark contrast to the desert scenery you will encounter later, making it a delightful stop for fresh mountain air and sightseeing.

Cedar Forest of Azrou

Just past Ifrane, you’ll visit the Cedar Forest of Azrou, one of the largest cedar forests in the country. The forest is home to towering cedar trees, including some that are hundreds of years old, and is inhabited by Barbary macaques—a species of monkey native to the region. Here, travelers can enjoy a quick stop to observe these playful creatures and admire the natural beauty of the forested landscape.

Middle Atlas Mountains

As you continue your journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains, you’ll experience dramatic landscapes, jagged rock formations, and picturesque Berber villages. This mountain range forms a natural barrier between the Mediterranean coast and the Sahara Desert. The peaks are snow-capped in winter, while the valleys and rolling hills offer green pastures during spring and summer.

Midelt

Located between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas mountain ranges, Midelt is a small town known for its apple orchards and agriculture. It’s a popular stop for a lunch break during this tour, offering traditional Moroccan food in a scenic setting surrounded by mountains. The town also serves as a gateway to the desert and is a transition point from the lush mountainous regions to the more arid landscapes ahead.

Ziz Valley and Ziz Gorges

After leaving Midelt, the tour continues through the Ziz Valley, a stunning palm-lined valley stretching across the desert. This fertile area is fed by the Ziz River and is home to thousands of date palms, creating an oasis in the midst of the arid surroundings. The valley offers dramatic contrasts with its vibrant greenery against the rocky desert terrain.

Ziz Gorges: Before reaching the valley, you’ll pass through the Ziz Gorges, a series of deep, narrow canyons carved by the Ziz River. The gorges provide spectacular views, with towering rock formations on either side and small villages nestled at the base of the cliffs.

Merzouga and Erg Chebbi Dunes

Upon arrival in Merzouga, you’ll be greeted by the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes, one of the largest and most iconic dune systems in Morocco. Erg Chebbi’s sand dunes can reach heights of up to 150 meters (about 500 feet), creating a stunning and serene desert landscape.

Camel Trek: From Merzouga, you’ll embark on a camel ride across the golden dunes, a quintessential desert experience. The sunset over the sand dunes is a magical moment, painting the desert in shades of orange, pink, and gold.
Private Luxury Berber Camp: Your night will be spent in a private luxury Berber camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, listen to live Berber music around a campfire, and sleep under the vast desert sky. This part of the tour offers a peaceful escape and a chance to experience the warm hospitality of the Berber people.

Sahara Desert (Sunrise)

On the second day, you’ll wake up early to witness the sunrise over the Sahara Desert. Watching the first light of day slowly spread across the dunes is an unforgettable experience, as the cool night gives way to the warmth of the morning sun. The stillness and beauty of the desert at dawn make this a highlight of the trip.

Other Possible Sights Along the Way:

Berber Villages: Throughout the tour, you’ll pass many small Berber villages, giving you a glimpse of rural Moroccan life. These villages, with their traditional mud-brick houses and terraced fields, provide a contrast to the grandeur of the surrounding landscapes.
Tizi N’Talghamt Pass: This scenic mountain pass is located between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas ranges. The winding road offers breathtaking views of the valleys below and leads into the desert plains of Errachidia province.

What to Expect

On this 2-day tour from Marrakech to Fes, prepare for an immersive journey that will take you through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. Expect scenic drives through charming Berber villages, camel treks, traditional desert camps, and unforgettable sunrises and sunsets over the sand dunes. This tour combines adventure, culture, and luxury, giving you an authentic Moroccan experience.

Know Before You Go

Things to Know Before Going on this Trip

Duration: 2 days, with approximately 6–8 hours of travel each day.
Travel Style: Group or private tours available.
Weather: The desert can be extremely hot during the day and cold at night, so pack accordingly.
Physical Requirements: Moderate activity level—camel trekking, walking in the desert.
Deposit: A deposit is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance is due before the tour departure. Make sure to check the cancellation policy in advance.

Accommodation Overview: Riad Stays and Desert Camp Comforts

During your tour, you’ll stay at a traditional Riad in Fez or Marrakech, offering a peaceful retreat with authentic Moroccan decor and modern amenities. On your night in the desert, experience the serenity of a Luxury Berber Desert Camp, complete with cozy private tents, plush bedding, and delicious Moroccan meals. The camp offers a blend of comfort and authenticity, where you can relax under the stars and enjoy traditional music around the campfire.

Cultural Insights: Traditions and Customs to Know in Morocco

Language: While Arabic and Berber are the official languages, French is widely spoken.
Greeting: Moroccans typically greet with “Salam Alaikum” (Peace be upon you) and a handshake.
Dress Code: Morocco is a conservative country, so it’s recommended to dress modestly, especially in rural areas and villages.
Religion: Islam is the predominant religion, and you may hear the call to prayer five times a day. Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan.

Frequently Asked Questions: Everything You Need to Know

How long is the camel trek? Typically, the camel ride lasts about 1–1.5 hours each way, depending on the route and time of day.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated? Yes, Moroccan cuisine can cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Be sure to inform your guide in advance.
Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, but keep in mind the long driving hours and desert conditions. Camel rides are generally safe for children.
What should I pack? Pack comfortable clothing for the day, warm layers for the desert nights, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

Optional Activities: Enhance Your Moroccan Adventure

Quad Biking in Merzouga: For thrill-seekers, quad biking across the sand dunes adds an extra dose of excitement.
Sandboarding: Glide down the Sahara dunes on a sandboard for a fun, exhilarating experience.
Visit a Nomad Family: Get an intimate look into the life of local nomads by visiting a traditional family living in the desert.
Henna Tattoos: Take part in a traditional Moroccan practice with a beautiful henna design.
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains: Extend your adventure with a guided hike through the stunning Atlas Mountain ranges.

Safety Tips and Travel Advice for Your Moroccan Trip

Stay Hydrated: The desert heat can be intense, so carry plenty of water, especially during the camel trek.
Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes to stay cool during the day, and pack warmer clothes for the chilly desert nights.
Travel Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers adventure activities.
Respect Local Customs: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
Health Precautions: Carry any personal medications, as pharmacies may be scarce in desert regions.

Customer Testimonials: Hear from Past Travelers

“It was such an incredible experience! The camel trek and desert camp were truly unforgettable. Our guide was so knowledgeable and made the trip so enjoyable. We especially loved the traditional Berber music around the campfire.” — Emma, UK
“The scenery was absolutely breathtaking! From the magnificent Atlas Mountains to the awe-inspiring Sahara Desert, it was a truly unforgettable experience. We were blown away by the luxury camp – it was even better than we could have imagined! And the sunrise over the dunes was just magical!” — Carlos, Spain
“This tour was the absolute highlight of our trip to Morocco! The accommodations were so cozy, and we felt like we were in good hands the whole time. We absolutely loved the quad biking add-on! We highly recommend it!” — Amina, USA
Amina was delighted with her experience and couldn’t stop raving about it!