Fes Desert Tours

Fes desert tours are one of the best ways to experience the magic of the Sahara while discovering Morocco’s rich culture along the way. Whether you dream of riding a camel at sunset, sleeping under a sky full of stars, or exploring ancient kasbahs, a desert tour from Fes is the perfect starting point. Most routes from Fes lead to the famous Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga or the quieter Erg Chigaga area, offering options for every budget and travel style. This guide covers the best Fes desert tours, itineraries, highlights, and tips to help you choose the right trip. Desert tours from Fes.

Why Choose a Sahara Desert Tour from Fes?

Fes is one of Morocco’s most historic cities and a popular starting point for desert tours. From Fes, you’ll travel through dramatic landscapes, Berber villages, and mountain passes before reaching the golden dunes of the Sahara. Along the way, you can visit cedar forests with wild monkeys, panoramic viewpoints, and traditional towns that many travelers miss.

Fes desert tours are ideal if you want to combine culture and nature in one trip. You can spend a day or two exploring the Fes medina, then head south to experience a completely different side of Morocco. Many tours also include visits to local families, fossil workshops, and viewpoints, making the journey as memorable as the desert itself.

Popular Desert Tour Itineraries

Fes to Merzouga 2-Day Desert Tour
A 2-day Fes to Merzouga tour is best for travelers with limited time who still want a taste of the Sahara. On the first day, you travel through the Middle Atlas mountains, pass Ifrane (often called “the Switzerland of Morocco”), and cross cedar forests near Azrou. In the evening, you reach Merzouga, where you ride camels into the dunes to watch the sunset and sleep in a desert camp. The next morning, you return to Fes or continue to another city, depending on the tour.

Fes to Merzouga 3-Day Desert Tour
The 3-day Fes desert tour is the most popular option because it offers a more relaxed pace and more sightseeing. You’ll typically stop in Midelt or a similar town for the first night, then reach Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes on the second day. This gives you extra time for photos, short walks, and cultural stops along the way. On the third day, you return to Fes or travel toward Marrakech if you choose a one-way itinerary.

Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour via Merzouga
Many travelers choose a desert tour that starts in Fes and ends in Marrakech. These tours usually last 3 or 4 days and include Merzouga dunes, Todra Gorges, Dades Valley, and the famous Ait Benhaddou kasbah. This route is perfect if you want to see more of southern Morocco without backtracking to Fes. It’s also a great way to connect two major cities while enjoying a full Sahara experience.

Highlights of Tours

Merzouga & Erg Chebbi Dunes
Erg Chebbi is one of the most iconic dune areas in Morocco, with tall, golden sand dunes that change color with the light. Most Fes desert tours include a camel trek into these dunes at sunset or sunrise. You can climb a dune for panoramic views, take photos, and enjoy the silence of the desert.

Camel Trekking & Desert Camps
Camel rides are a classic part of Sahara tours, and they’re usually included in your Fes desert package. You ride across the sand to your camp, where you’re welcomed with mint tea, a traditional dinner, and Berber music around the fire. Depending on your budget, you can choose a standard camp with shared facilities or a luxury camp with private tents and en-suite bathrooms.

Berber Villages & Local Culture
On the way from Fes to the desert, you’ll pass through Amazigh (Berber) villages, fertile valleys, and date palm groves. Some tours stop at local homes, cooperatives, or viewpoints where you can learn about traditional life. This cultural side of the trip helps you understand the region beyond the desert scenery.

Choosing the Right Fes Desert Tour

When comparing Fes desert tours, it’s important to look at what’s included and how the itinerary is structured. Check the number of hours spent driving each day, whether the tour is private or in a small group, and what type of desert camp is offered. Private tours offer more flexibility and comfort, while group tours are more budget-friendly and social. Always read recent reviews to make sure the operator is reliable and transparent about pricing.

Also, consider whether you want a round trip from Fes or a one-way route to Marrakech. One-way tours usually cost a bit more but allow you to see more of Morocco without backtracking. If you have time, a 3 or 4-day tour will feel less rushed and give you more time to enjoy stops along the way.

Practical Tips for Fes Desert Tours

Pack light but smart for your Fes desert tour. Comfortable clothing, a warm layer for cool desert nights, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are essential. Closed shoes or light hiking shoes are better than sandals for walking on sand and rocky terrain. Bring a small backpack for daily essentials and keep valuables safe and minimal.

The best time for Fes desert tours is generally spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot in the desert, while winter nights can be surprisingly cold. No matter the season, booking with a reputable operator and confirming all details in advance will help ensure a safe and unforgettable Sahara experience from Fes.