morocco fes desert tours

Morocco Fes Desert Tours: A Comprehensive Guide

When planning a trip to Morocco, Fes stands out as a city rich in history, culture, and adventure. Known for its ancient medina, vibrant souks, and stunning architecture, Fes is a gateway to some of the most spectacular tours in the country. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Sahara Desert, visiting nearby cities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, there are numerous Fes desert tours. This guide will provide an in-depth look at the best tours from Fes, helping you choose the perfect package for your Moroccan adventure.

Exploring the Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is one of the most iconic destinations in Morocco. From Fes desert tours, you can embark on an unforgettable journey to this vast and mesmerizing landscape. Most tours include a visit to Merzouga, a small village on the edge of the desert, where you can experience the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes.

Highlights of Sahara Desert Tours:

• Camel Trekking: A quintessential desert experience, camel trekking allows you to traverse the dunes and enjoy the serene beauty of the desert.
• Overnight in a Desert Camp: Spend a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp. Enjoy local music, dance, and cuisine.
• Sunrise and Sunset Views: Witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset over the dunes, a sight that will remain etched in your memory.

Recommended Fes Desert Trip:

1. 3-Day Sahara Desert Tour: This tour typically includes transportation, meals, camel trekking, and an overnight stay in a desert camp. It’s a perfect option for those with limited time.
2. 4-Day Sahara Desert Adventure: For a more in-depth experience, this tour offers additional activities such as visits to local villages and extended time in the desert.

Cultural and Historical Tours

Fes itself is a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites. However, there are several nearby destinations that offer unique insights into Morocco’s rich heritage.

Day Trip to Meknes and Volubilis:

• Meknes: Explore the historic city of Meknes, known for its grand gates, palaces, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
• Volubilis: Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved mosaics and architectural marvels.

Chefchaouen – The Blue City:

• Day Trip: Visit the picturesque town of Chefchaouen, famous for its blue-painted streets and buildings. Enjoy wandering through the medina, shopping for local crafts, and savoring traditional Moroccan cuisine.

Recommended Fes Desert Trip:

1. Fes to Meknes and Volubilis Day Tour: This tour offers guided visits to both Meknes and Volubilis, providing historical context and insights into these significant sites.
2. Chefchaouen Day Trip: A full-day excursion that includes transportation, a guided tour of Chefchaouen, and free time to explore at your own pace.

Adventure and Nature Tours

For those who crave adventure and natural beauty, the region surrounding Fes offers plenty of opportunities to explore.

Middle Atlas Mountains:

• Day Trip: Discover the scenic landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Visit Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland,” and the cedar forests of Azrou, home to Barbary macaques.

Hiking and Trekking:

• Sefrou and Bhalil: Enjoy guided hikes in the beautiful countryside around Sefrou and Bhalil. These tours often include visits to traditional Berber villages and local markets.

Recommended Tours:

1. Middle Atlas Mountains Day Tour: This tour includes stops in Ifrane, Azrou, and the stunning Dayet Aoua Lake. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those looking to escape the city.
2. Hiking Tour in Sefrou and Bhalil: A guided hiking tour that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Culinary Tours

Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and unique combinations of spices. Culinary tours from Fes provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local food culture.

Cooking Classes:

• Hands-On Experience: Participate in a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagine, couscous, and pastilla.
• Market Visits: Many cooking classes include a visit to a local market to shop for fresh ingredients, providing insight into Moroccan culinary traditions.

Food Tours:

• Medina Food Tour: Explore the vibrant food scene in the medina of Fes. Sample a variety of street foods, visit local bakeries, and enjoy traditional Moroccan pastries.

Recommended Tours:

1. Fes Cooking Class: A hands-on cooking class that includes a market visit, cooking session, and a meal where you can enjoy the dishes you’ve prepared.
2. Fes Food Tour: A guided tour through the medina, offering tastings of a wide range of Moroccan dishes and an introduction to local culinary traditions.

Customized and Private Tours

For a more personalized experience, consider booking a customized or private tour from Fes. These tours can be tailored to your interests and schedule, providing a unique and flexible way to explore Morocco.

Benefits of Private Tours:

• Personalized Itinerary: Work with a tour operator to create an itinerary that suits your preferences and interests.
• Flexibility: Enjoy the flexibility to adjust your schedule and spend more time at the places that interest you the most.
• Exclusive Experience: Benefit from the undivided attention of your guide and a more intimate travel experience.

Recommended Tour Operators:

1. Private Morocco Tours: Specializing in customized tours, they offer a range of packages that can be tailored to your needs.
2. Luxury Desert Tours: For a high-end experience, this operator provides luxury tours with top-notch accommodations and services.

Practical Tips for Choosing a Tour

Selecting the right tour package from Fes requires careful consideration of several factors. Here are some practical tips to help you make the best choice:

Research and Reviews:

• Online Reviews: Read reviews on travel websites and forums to get an idea of the quality of the tours and the experiences of previous travelers.
• Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from friends or family who have visited Morocco.

Tour Inclusions:

• What’s Included: Check what is included in the tour package, such as transportation, meals, accommodations, and activities.
• Additional Costs: Be aware of any additional costs that may not be included in the package, such as entrance fees or optional activities.

Group Size:

• Small Group Tours: Consider small group tours for a more personalized experience and the opportunity to interact more closely with your guide.
• Large Group Tours: Larger group tours can be more economical but may offer less flexibility and personal attention.

Tour Duration:

• Short Tours: Ideal for those with limited time, short tours (1-3 days) focus on specific destinations or experiences.
• Extended Tours: For a more comprehensive exploration, consider extended tours (4-7 days) that cover multiple destinations and a wider range of activities.

Conclusion

Fes is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a gateway to some of the most exciting tours in Morocco. Whether you’re drawn to the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, the rich cultural heritage of nearby cities, the natural beauty of the Middle Atlas Mountains, or the tantalizing flavors of Moroccan cuisine, there is a Fes Desert Trip to suit every interest and preference.

By choosing the right tour, you can enhance your Moroccan adventure and create unforgettable memories. Remember to research your options, consider your interests, and select a tour that fits your schedule and budget. With the right planning, your tour from Fes will be a highlight of your Moroccan journey, offering you a deep and immersive experience of this enchanting country.