2-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour

The 2-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour is one of the most efficient and unforgettable ways to travel between Morocco’s two imperial cities while experiencing the magic of the Sahara Desert.

Journey from the vibrant streets of Marrakech across the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, passing dramatic valleys, ancient kasbahs, and traditional villages before reaching the golden dunes of Merzouga. Along the way, enjoy scenic stops, fascinating historical insights, and incredible photo opportunities.

One of the greatest highlights of this desert journey is a sunset camel trek across the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes — Morocco’s largest and most impressive dunes. Afterward, spend a magical night in a desert camp beneath a sky filled with stars, where you will enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine, live Berber music, and the peaceful silence of the Sahara.

Designed for comfort and efficiency, this two-day Sahara itinerary allows you to maximize your travel time while still enjoying one of Morocco's most sought-after experiences.

This route is ideal for travelers searching for a fast yet immersive desert adventure without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Whether you choose a standard or luxury camp, travel privately, or join a small group, this experience promises culture, scenery, and unforgettable memories.

Why Choose the 2-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour?

Choosing the 2-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour allows travelers to combine transportation between two historic cities with an extraordinary Sahara experience. Instead of taking a simple transfer, this journey transforms your travel days into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure filled with natural beauty and cultural richness.

This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to witness the Sahara Desert, ride camels across golden dunes, and sleep under the stars without committing to a longer itinerary.

With carefully planned routes, comfortable transportation, and expert local drivers, the tour ensures a smooth and enriching experience from beginning to end.

Travelers who prefer to return to Marrakech instead of continuing to Fes may consider our 2-day Marrakech desert tour to Merzouga, which follows a similar scenic route while ending back in the Red City.

For those wanting an even deeper Sahara experience, our 4-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour offers extended time in the desert with additional cultural stops.

Highlights of the 2-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

• Cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass
• Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks
• Explore Ouarzazate, often called the gateway to the Sahara
• Admire dramatic landscapes filled with valleys, palm groves, and rock formations
• Experience a camel trek across the towering Erg Chebbi dunes
• Witness a breathtaking Sahara sunset
• Try sandboarding on the golden sands
• Spend an unforgettable night in a desert camp
• Enjoy traditional Moroccan dinner accompanied by Berber music
• Wake early to experience a peaceful desert sunrise

Who Is the 2-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour Best For?

The 2-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour is designed for travelers who want to maximize their time in Morocco while still experiencing the country’s most iconic landscapes.

This tour is especially ideal for:

• Travelers moving from Marrakech to Fes who prefer an unforgettable journey instead of a simple transfer
• Visitors with limited time who still want to experience the Sahara Desert
• Adventure seekers looking for camel trekking and desert camping
• Couples searching for a romantic desert escape
• Solo travelers wanting a safe and well-organized experience
• Photography enthusiasts eager to capture Morocco’s dramatic scenery

If you want to transform your travel days into a highlight of your Moroccan adventure, this tour delivers the perfect balance of comfort, discovery, and excitement.

Who Should NOT Take This Tour?

This tour may not be ideal for travelers who prefer slow travel or dislike long driving distances. Because the itinerary covers significant ground in two days, it is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with road journeys.

Travelers seeking a slower pace with reduced driving time may prefer a 3-day desert tour from Marrakech, which allows more time for exploration and relaxation.

Why Book With Desert Experience Glamping?

At Desert Experience Glamping, our 2-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour is thoughtfully designed to provide an exceptional and personalized adventure tailored to your travel style.

Our knowledgeable local guides are passionate about showcasing the very best of Morocco, ensuring that every moment of your journey is enriching, safe, and memorable.

This short yet immersive tour includes carefully selected accommodations, engaging activities, and a pace that balances exploration with comfort. From the vibrant energy of Marrakech to the cultural charm of Fes, we deliver a seamless blend of discovery and relaxation.

Our commitment to outstanding service, attention to detail, and authentic desert experiences guarantees a smooth and unforgettable journey — leaving you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation of Morocco’s diverse heritage.

What Makes This Route So Popular?

The route from Marrakech to Fes via the Sahara has become one of Morocco’s most sought-after travel experiences. By combining dramatic scenery, cultural landmarks, and authentic desert activities into a compact itinerary, this tour allows travelers to experience the country’s incredible diversity in just two days.

For many visitors, it becomes the highlight of their Moroccan adventure.

Best Time to Take the Marrakech to Fes 2-Day Desert Tour

The best time to enjoy a desert tour is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when temperatures are mild and ideal for travel. Spring brings blooming desert landscapes, while autumn offers cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Summer tours are available for travelers comfortable with higher temperatures, while winter provides crisp mornings and spectacular starry nights.

No matter the season, the Sahara delivers a truly unforgettable experience.

Important Travel Tips

Desert climates can vary greatly between day and night. Temperatures often exceed 100°F (38°C) during the day but can drop close to freezing after sunset.

To stay comfortable, we recommend packing:

Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime travel

Warm layers for cooler desert nights

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat

Comfortable walking shoes

A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

Respecting the fragile desert ecosystem is equally important. Please follow designated paths, avoid leaving waste behind, and help preserve the Sahara’s natural beauty for future travelers.

How Far Is Marrakech from Fes via the Sahara?

The distance between Marrakech and Fes via Merzouga is approximately 530–560 km (330–348 miles), depending on the route taken through the Atlas Mountains and Sahara region. While the journey involves extended driving hours, the ever-changing scenery — from dramatic mountain passes to vast golden dunes — transforms the experience into one of Morocco’s most scenic road trips rather than a simple transfer. Frequent stops for panoramic views, cultural sites, and rest breaks ensure the journey remains comfortable and enriching.

Most travelers agree that the landscapes make the long drive worthwhile, as the journey itself becomes a highlight of the desert experience.

Frequently Asked Questions — Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour 2 Days

What is included in the tour?

The tour typically includes transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking driver/guide, overnight accommodation in a desert camp, dinner and breakfast, and a camel trek in the Sahara. Stops at major attractions such as the Atlas Mountains and Ait Ben Haddou are also included.

What should I pack?

Pack light but bring essentials such as comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a jacket for cooler evenings, toiletries, and a camera. A small backpack is recommended for the camel trek.

Is the camel ride suitable for everyone?

Camel trekking is suitable for most travelers. However, if you have back or mobility concerns, a 4x4 transfer to the camp can usually be arranged.

Can I visit the Sahara on a day trip from Marrakech?

A true Sahara experience is not possible in a single day due to distance. While the nearby Agafay Desert offers shorter excursions, reaching the iconic dunes of Merzouga requires at least a two-day journey.

Where is the best place to experience the Sahara Desert?

Merzouga, home to the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes, is widely considered Morocco’s premier Sahara destination thanks to its towering dunes and authentic desert camps.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

The 2-day Marrakech to Fes desert tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage in a short timeframe. From crossing the Atlas Mountains to riding camels across golden dunes, every moment is designed to inspire.

With proper planning and a trusted tour operator, this journey becomes more than just transportation — it becomes one of the highlights of your Moroccan adventure.

Know Before You Go

Driving times do not include stops for sightseeing or meals

This tour involves long travel distances and is best suited for travelers comfortable with extended drives

Early departure is recommended to fully enjoy the desert experience

Vegetarian and vegan meal options are available upon request

Luggage is transported separately to the desert camp

4x4 transfers are available for travelers who prefer not to ride camels

For added flexibility, you may also start the tour in Fes and finish in Marrakech if it better suits your travel plans.

Included/Excluded
Transportation from Marrakech to the desert and Fes
Accommodation in a desert camp
Camel ride in the desert
Traditional Moroccan meals (breakfast and dinner)
Experienced local guide
Airfare or transportation to Marrakech
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Travel Insurance
Tips for the guide and camp staff (optional)
Optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
Tour Plan
Day 1: Marrakech → Ait Ben Haddou → Ouarzazate → Merzouga Desert
Today, your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel or riad in Marrakech. Leaving the bustling city behind, you will cross the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass — the highest mountain pass in Morocco — known for its panoramic views and dramatic scenery.

Your first major stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most iconic fortified villages. This ancient ksar has served as the backdrop for numerous international films and series, making it a fascinating destination for both history lovers and photographers.

After exploring the kasbah, continue toward Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” where you will visit the historic Taourirt Kasbah — a remarkable example of southern Moroccan architecture.

Following a relaxed lunch, travel through authentic Berber villages and ever-changing desert landscapes. Pass through the fossil town of Erfoud before heading deeper into the desert.

By late afternoon, you will arrive in Merzouga, where the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi rise dramatically on the horizon — signaling the beginning of your true Sahara experience.