Desert Tour From Marrakech to Fes

(91 Reviews)

Overview

Short on time but eager for a genuine Moroccan desert experience? Our 2-Day Desert Tour From Marrakech to Fes is the ideal choice for travelers seeking to combine scenic landscapes, camel trekking, and a luxury desert camp stay, all in just two unforgettable days.

Travel from the vibrant city of Marrakech, across the High Atlas Mountains, through Ouarzazate and the Dades Valley, and on to the golden dunes of Merzouga. There, you’ll enjoy a camel ride at sunset, dine under the stars, and sleep in your private Berber tent surrounded by silence and beauty.

The next morning, journey through the Ziz Valley, Middle Atlas Mountains, and cedar forests of Azrou, before arriving in Fes, Morocco’s cultural capital.

Please note: This itinerary is just a suggested program. If it doesn’t fully match what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to design a customized itinerary tailored to your preferences, travel dates, and duration of stay. We specialize in creating personalized tours and experiences across Morocco.

Pricing: The cost of the tour varies depending on the number of travelers, the more people joining, the lower the price per person. Since transportation is a fixed cost, it will be divided among participants. Prices also depend on the category and quality of accommodation selected.
Please contact us for an exact quote based on your group size and travel preferences.

Trip Highlights

Drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou.
Explore Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.”
Ride camels across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset.
Spend the night in a luxury desert camp under the stars.
Travel through the Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas Mountains.
Spot Barbary apes in the cedar forest of Azrou.

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ouarzazate – Merzouga Desert

Start your 2-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes early with a 6:00 a.m. pick-up from your hotel or riad. Travel through the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), enjoying scenic stops for panoramic views and picturesque Berber villages.

Continue to the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and filming location for legendary productions such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. From there, journey to Ouarzazate, where you’ll explore the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studios.

Proceed through the Rose Valley, Skoura palm grove, and Todra Valley, stopping for lunch along the way. By late afternoon, you’ll reach the mesmerizing Merzouga dunes, where camels await to take you on a sunset trek across the golden sands of Erg Chebbi.

As night falls, settle into your luxury desert camp, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, and experience Berber drumming beneath a sky full of stars.

Day 2: Erg Chebbi – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Cedar Forest – Fes

Rise early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast and a refreshing shower, return by camel or optional 4×4 to meet your driver.

Travel north through the Ziz Valley, dotted with palm groves and dramatic rock formations. Pass through Errachidia and Midelt, where you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

Continue across the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in the Cedar Forest of Azrou to observe playful Barbary monkeys, then pass through Ifrane, often called the Switzerland of Morocco. Arrive in Fes by late afternoon, where your driver will drop you at your accommodation, marking the end of your Sahara adventure.

What's included

Private transfer in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.
Professional English-speaking driver/guide.
Pick-up from your Marrakech hotel/riad and drop-off at your Fes accommodation.
Guided visit to Ait Benhaddou Kasbah.
Visit to Cinema Studios in Ouarzazate.
Overnight stay in a luxury desert camp at Merzouga (private ensuite tent).
Breakfast and dinner (vegetarian options available).
Camel trekking with sunset and sunrise.
Private bathroom with hot shower and toilet in your tent.
Free time to explore landmarks like Ait Benhaddou, Taourirt Kasbah, and Cinema Sets.

What’s Not Included

Know Before You Go

Total drive time (Day 1): Approx. 9–10 hours with scenic stops.
Warm clothing recommended for desert nights (October–March).
Optional 4x4 transfer available instead of return camel ride.
Perfect for couples, small groups, and solo travelers short on time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this tour too short to experience the Sahara Desert properly?

Not at all! The 2-day route is designed to maximize your time. You’ll still experience a camel trek, desert sunset and sunrise, Berber music, and overnight camp, all key highlights of a full desert adventure.

2. How long is the drive from Marrakech to Merzouga?

The drive takes approximately 9–10 hours, with multiple scenic stops for photos, lunch, and sightseeing along the way through the High Atlas Mountains and Ouarzazate.

3. What type of desert camp is included?

You’ll stay in a luxury desert camp with private ensuite tents, complete with hot showers, flush toilets, and comfortable bedding. The camp also features Berber-style décor, lantern lighting, and a communal fire area for evening festivities.

4. Can I choose not to ride a camel?

Yes, absolutely. You can opt for a 4×4 vehicle transfer to and from the camp instead of a camel trek — ideal for guests with back concerns or mobility preferences.

5. Are vegetarian or special meals available?

Yes, we accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary preferences upon request. Please mention your requirements when booking.

6. Is there Wi-Fi or electricity at the desert camp?

Most luxury camps have solar-powered electricity for lighting and charging small devices. Wi-Fi may be limited, offering a chance to truly disconnect and enjoy the desert atmosphere.

7. What should I bring for the 2-day desert trip?

Pack comfortable clothing, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a warm jacket for desert nights. Don’t forget your camera for the stunning views and camel trek moments.

8. What time does the tour arrive in Fes on Day 2?

You can expect to reach Fes by late afternoon (around 5–6 p.m.), depending on road and weather conditions.

9. Is this tour available year-round?

Yes, the 2-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour operates all year, but the best months are September to May when the temperatures are mild.

10. Can I start the tour from Fes and end in Marrakech instead?

Yes, the itinerary can be reversed upon request for travelers starting in Fes and ending in Marrakech.

Rex K

We had the most wonderful and memorable time, largely thanks to Youness. He was the best ever and we are so appreciative.

Hamma H

The trip was very well organised. It was also easy communicating with the team. The driver was on time and we enjoy it the day pass in Agafay. I highly recommend it! We enjoyed it!

Long P

The trip was excellent and the driver was very friendly and helpful, I would recommend it highly to ant one who would like to go on tour.

Shelley T

Highly recommend the hot air balloon ride at sunrise. Absolutely stunning!!! The staff were amazing, the ride was amazing, breakfast was amazing, literally couldn't fault it. Would definitely use Deep South Travel for any other excursions, they were fab and we got exactly what we asked for. Thank you!