Sahara Desert Tour – 2 Days – Fez to Marrakech OR Return to Fez

Once upon a time in the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, a group of eager travelers embarked on a thrilling two-day adventure from Fez to Marrakech or the option to return to Fez. With dreams of breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures, they set off on a journey that promised to be unforgettable.

However, little did they know that their expectations would soon collide with the harsh realities of organizational issues, communication barriers, and unexpected discrepancies. As the sun began to set on their first day, doubts began to creep in, leaving them questioning whether this desert tour would truly be the adventure they had anticipated.

Good To Know

• Lack of clear and timely communication from the tour organization
• Deviation from the advertised tour itinerary and language proficiency of the guide/driver
• Inadequate transportation and uncomfortable journey conditions
• Issues with the camel ride experience, camp amenities, and provided meals

Tour Organization and Communication

How well was the Sahara Desert tour organized and how effective was the communication with the tour company?

When it comes to improving customer service, communication challenges can often be a stumbling block. In the case of this particular tour, there were some areas that could have been handled better.

The confirmation of booking was received, but specific questions about pick-up were left unanswered. It took multiple inquiries before a response was received, causing unnecessary stress and uncertainty.

However, once the tour began, the pick-up went smoothly and the driver was punctual. Despite these initial communication challenges, the tour was able to proceed as planned.

This highlights the importance of effective and timely communication in ensuring a positive customer experience.

Transportation and Journey

The journey through the Sahara Desert on this tour wasn’t without its challenges and surprises. One of the first things that stood out was the condition of the vehicle used for the tour. Unfortunately, it wasn’t air-conditioned, which meant that passengers had to endure the high temperatures with open windows. This made the journey quite uncomfortable, especially considering the long hours spent on the road.

Plus, the scheduled breaks were different from what was described in the tour description. The lunch stop in Midelt, for example, was replaced by multiple stops at different locations. While these unexpected changes may have disrupted the itinerary, they did provide opportunities for exploring different places along the way.

Camel Ride and Desert Experience

Continuing the journey through the Sahara Desert, the experience of the camel ride and desert exploration presented its own set of challenges and surprises.

• The camel ride, although shorter than advertised, provided a unique perspective, allowing travelers to witness the vast expanse of sand dunes and the stunning beauty of the desert landscape.

• Despite feeling unwell, requests to stop during the ride weren’t understood by the tour guide, which was a disappointment for some.

• To reach the desert camp, a thrilling Jeep ride was required, adding an element of excitement to the adventure.

• The camp itself had tents with beds, providing a comfortable place to rest. However, some amenities weren’t functional, which affected the overall experience.

• Plus, the dinner provided wasn’t sufficient, and drinks weren’t included, leaving some travelers disappointed.

Despite these challenges, the camel ride and desert exploration offered a unique and unforgettable experience in the Sahara Desert.

Return Journey and Group Size

As the group embarked on the return journey from the Sahara Desert, they were met with unexpected changes and a larger group size, altering the dynamics of their desert adventure. The advertised maximum group size of 7 was exceeded, leading to a sense of overcrowding and less personalized attention.

The cramped conditions in the vehicle made for an uncomfortable ride back to Fez. To make matters worse, they were greeted by an unfriendly driver, who seemed uninterested in providing a pleasant journey. The group had hoped for a more relaxed and enjoyable trip back, but the combination of the larger group size and the demeanor of the driver left them feeling disappointed.

It was a stark contrast to the initial excitement and enthusiasm they’d felt at the start of the tour.

Overall Experience and Feedback

Amidst a whirlwind of contrasting emotions, the reviewer reflects upon their overall experience and shares their candid feedback about the Sahara Desert tour.

Despite the shortcomings, there were moments that stood out, like witnessing the breathtaking desert sunrise and embarking on an exhilarating Jeep ride.

However, the tour felt rushed and centered around making money, with overtourism and a profit-driven approach evident throughout.

The organization and communication could be improved, as the confirmation of booking was received but specific questions about pick-up were left unanswered until the evening.

The tour deviated from the description, with different stops and durations, and the tour guide/driver only spoke Arabic, not the advertised languages.

Common Questions

How Can I Ensure That the Pick-Up for the Tour Is Coordinated Smoothly and Punctually?

To ensure smooth and punctual pick-up for the tour, the traveler should contact the tour organizer in advance, providing clear details and asking for confirmation. Arriving at the designated meeting point on time is also crucial.

Is the Vehicle Used for the Tour Air-Conditioned?

Yes, the vehicle used for the tour is not air-conditioned. This lack of comfort can make the journey uncomfortable, especially in high temperatures. It is important to consider this when planning the overall experience.

Can I Expect the Scheduled Breaks and Lunch Stops to Be as Described in the Tour Itinerary?

Expectations of scheduled breaks and lunch stops were not met. The tour deviated from the itinerary, with different stops and durations. However, the pick-up coordination went smoothly, ensuring a hassle-free start to the tour.

How Long Is the Camel Ride to the Desert and What Should I Do if I Feel Unwell During the Ride?

The camel ride to the desert lasts around X hours. If feeling unwell during the ride, the guest can try communicating with the tour guide, although language barriers may be present.

Is the Group Size Limited to a Maximum of 7 People as Advertised?

The group size for the Sahara Desert Tour is advertised as a maximum of 7 people, but the reviewer mentioned that the group exceeded that number. It is unclear if there is a minimum number required for the tour to proceed.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, while the Sahara Desert Tour offers breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures, recent reviews have highlighted several shortcomings that have left travelers feeling unsatisfied.

Issues with organization, communication, transportation, and the desert experience have been noted. Despite some highlights, such as the mesmerizing desert sunrise, the overall rushed and profit-driven approach has left travelers longing for improvements.

By addressing these concerns and focusing on customer satisfaction, the Sahara Desert Tour can truly become the unforgettable adventure it promises to be.