2 Days/1 Night Sahara Desert Trip: Fes – Merzouga – Fes

Embark on an unforgettable two-day, one-night journey from Fes to the captivating Sahara Desert in Merzouga. This small-group adventure promises breathtaking landscapes, camel rides, and delectable meals, all while immersing you in the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this excursion offers a unique opportunity to experience the desert’s serene beauty and connect with its timeless allure. However, travelers should be mindful of potential logistical challenges and prioritize proper hydration to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience. Dive deeper into the details to uncover the true essence of this captivating Saharan adventure.

Key Points

• 2-day, 1-night excursion from Fes to Merzouga and back, with a maximum capacity of 15 travelers for a small-group experience.
• Meals and camel riding included, but extra water recommended for desert dinners due to drink exclusions.
• Past travelers noted discomfort in transportation conditions and rushed stops, suggesting consideration of alternative tour options.
• Stay hydrated and bring breathable scarves for sun and sand protection, and plan for drink exclusions during desert dinners.
• Tour starts at Bab Boujloud Gate in Fes, with pickup options available within a 5 km radius and confirmation of start time with the provider recommended.

Trip Overview

The Sahara Desert trip offers a 2-day, 1-night excursion from Fes to Merzouga and back, allowing travelers to experience the serene beauty of the desert.

This small-group tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, departing and ending at the Bab Boujloud Gate in Fes. Guests should arrive at least 40 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

The tour includes meals, drinks, and camel riding, though travelers are advised to bring extra water as drinks during desert dinners aren’t provided.

While the reviews are largely positive, some past participants have noted rushed stops, touristy cafes, and issues with communication and transportation comfort.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour’s inclusions encompass dinner, breakfast, lunches, and drinks during the journey. However, drinks during the dinner in the desert are excluded, so travelers are advised to pack extra water for this portion of the trip.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Dinner	Drinks during dinner in the desert
Breakfast	–
Lunches	–
Drinks	–

Plus, the tour is equipped with infant seats, but it is not wheelchair accessible.

Transportation and Meeting Details

Pickup options are available within a 5 km radius of the Bab Boujloud Gate, the departure and end point for the tour.

Travelers are advised to contact the local provider for assistance in locating the meeting point. It’s important to confirm the start time with the provider prior to the trip.

The transportation to and from the Sahara Desert is included, though previous travelers have noted some issues with the comfort of the transportation conditions.

It’s recommended to inquire about the specific vehicles used for the journey.

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Based on the provided information, traveler experiences and feedback for the Sahara Desert trip have been a mixed bag.

On the positive side, travelers praise the friendly driver, enjoyable camel riding, and overall good value for the cost.

However, there are also some notable downsides. Some cite rushed stops, touristy cafes, lack of communication regarding drink charges, uncomfortable transportation conditions, and misleading sunrise wake-up information.

The takeaway is that while the trip offers worthwhile experiences, there are areas for improvement, and travelers may want to consider other tour options, especially from Marrakech, for potentially better experiences.

Recommendations and Considerations

Travelers should stay well-hydrated during the Sahara Desert trip and bring breathable scarves (at least 2-3 meters long) to protect against the sun and sand.

It’s recommended to purchase water beforehand to avoid high local prices at tourist cafes. While the tour includes meals, drinks during dinner in the desert aren’t covered, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Plus, some past guests have noted that the transportation conditions can be uncomfortable, so considering other tour options from Marrakech may provide a better overall experience, especially if the Fes to Merzouga route feels overly rushed.

Departure and End Point

The Sahara Desert trip kicks off at the Bab Boujloud Gate in Fes, where travelers will congregate at least 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

This is the designated meeting point and departure location for the 2-day, 1-night excursion. The tour concludes at the same Bab Boujloud Gate in Fes, with the return trip completing the full Fes-Merzouga-Fes circuit.

Pickup options are available within a 5 km radius of the gate, and the local provider can assist travelers in locating the meeting point.

It’s important to confirm the exact start time with the provider to ensure a smooth and punctual departure.

Maximum Travelers per Tour

The Sahara Desert trip accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers per tour. This small group size allows for a more intimate and personalized experience.

It ensures that everyone has ample space and attention from the guide. The limited capacity also helps maintain the tranquility and authenticity of the desert environment.

Travelers can expect a more exclusive and tailored journey, without feeling crowded or overwhelmed. This group size is ideal for fostering camaraderie and allowing participants to connect with one another and the breathtaking desert landscape.

The capped number of travelers contributes to the overall quality and exclusivity of this Sahara Desert excursion.

Contact for Assistance

Before departing, travelers can contact the local tour provider for assistance in locating the meeting point. The provider offers several options to help:

• Call the designated phone number provided in the tour details
• Send an email with questions or concerns
• Utilize the provider’s online chat support system
• Check the website for any updates or special instructions
• Arrive at the meeting spot early to allow time for coordination

The local team is available to ensure travelers find the departure location without issue and start the desert adventure on the right foot.

Confirming the meeting time with the provider is also recommended to avoid any delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Camel Ride in the Sahara Desert?

The camel ride in the Sahara Desert typically lasts around 1-2 hours. Travelers should expect a leisurely and scenic journey across the sand dunes, providing an authentic cultural experience during the 2-day, 1-night tour.

Are There Bathroom Facilities Available During the Desert Excursion?

The desert excursion includes bathroom facilities, though they may be limited. The stops along the way typically have basic restrooms, and the overnight camp in the Sahara desert also provides some toilet and washroom facilities for travelers.

Can Travelers Bring Their Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and snacks on the tour, though the tour includes meals such as dinner and breakfast. Bringing extra water is recommended, as beverage prices may be high at local cafes.

What Are the Typical Weather Conditions in the Sahara Desert During the Tour?

The Sahara Desert experiences hot, dry conditions year-round, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C) and cool nights. Travelers should be prepared for intense sunlight, minimal shade, and potentially windy conditions that can kick up dust during the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Sahara Desert Trip?

There are no specific age restrictions for this Sahara desert trip. Infant seats are available, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Travelers of all ages are welcome, though the camel rides may not be suitable for very young children.

Recap

The 2-day, 1-night Sahara Desert trip from Fes to Merzouga offers a breathtaking adventure through stunning landscapes. With camel riding, delicious meals, and transportation included, it’s an opportunity to take in the desert. Travelers should be prepared for potential rushed stops and transportation discomfort, and staying hydrated is crucial, especially during desert dinners. The small-group experience, limited to 15 travelers, ensures a unique and personalized adventure.