Desert Tour From Marrakech to Merzouga

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Overview

Experience the best of Morocco’s desert landscapes with our 4-Day Desert Tour From Marrakech to Merzouga, one of the most popular Sahara journeys from Marrakech.
This extended itinerary offers a relaxed pace and allows for deeper exploration, blending majestic mountain drives, authentic Berber encounters, and unforgettable desert adventures.

Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, stroll through the stunning Dades and Todra Gorges, and end your days beneath the Sahara sky after an enchanting camel trek through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a perfect balance of discovery, comfort, and adventure while traveling from Marrakech to the edge of the Sahara.

Please note: This itinerary is just a suggested program. If it doesn’t fully match what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to design a customized itinerary tailored to your preferences, travel dates, and duration of stay. We specialize in creating personalized tours and experiences across Morocco.

Pricing: The cost of the tour varies depending on the number of travelers, the more people joining, the lower the price per person. Since transportation is a fixed cost, it will be divided among participants. Prices also depend on the category and quality of accommodation selected.
Please contact us for an exact quote based on your group size and travel preferences.

Trip Highlights

Journey across the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore Ouarzazate, known as “Hollywood of Africa.”
Take a scenic walk through Dades and Todra Gorges.
Ride camels across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset.
Spend a night in a luxury Sahara desert camp.
Visit the Atlas Film Studios and Taourirt Kasbah.

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Your adventure begins at 8:00 a.m., when your driver collects you from your hotel or riad in Marrakech.
Travel through the High Atlas Mountains via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), passing Berber villages and terraced farmlands along the way.

Arrive in Ouarzazate to explore the historic Taourirt Kasbah, followed by a delicious local lunch. Continue toward Skoura Palmery and the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic red cliffs and lush oases.
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a charming riad or kasbah surrounded by the valley’s breathtaking scenery.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Dunes (Erg Chebbi)

After breakfast, drive toward Tinghir, where you’ll explore the Todra Gorges, towering 300 meters high and perfect for short scenic walks and photography.
Continue through Tinjedad, Touroug, and Erfoud, where you can visit a local fossil workshop before reaching Merzouga, gateway to the Sahara.

Here, your camels await to carry you through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi just in time for sunset.
After the ride, arrive at your luxury desert camp, enjoy mint tea, a delicious Moroccan dinner, and live Berber drumming under a canopy of stars.

Day 3: Merzouga – Tazarine – Agdz – Ouarzazate

Wake up early to witness a mesmerizing sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast and a refreshing shower at camp, ride camels (or 4×4 transfer) back to Merzouga village.

We’ll then journey toward Rissani, a historic Saharan town known for its lively souk and fossil workshops. Continue through the scenic Draa Valley, dotted with palm groves and Berber villages, before reaching Ouarzazate for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 4: Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Marrakech

After breakfast, visit Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Morocco’s most iconic fortress. Stroll through its narrow alleys and climb to the top for panoramic views of the valley.

Then, explore the Atlas Film Studios, where Hollywood classics like Gladiator, Indiana Jones, and Lawrence of Arabia were filmed.
After lunch, drive back to Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains, with an evening arrival at your accommodation.

What's included

Free airport transfer to your hotel in Marrakech.
Private transfer in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Professional English-speaking driver/guide.
Pick-up & drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation.
Guided visit to Ait Benhaddou Kasbah.
Visit to Cinema Studios and Taourirt Kasbah.
2 nights in traditional kasbah hotels (Dades Valley & Ouarzazate).
1 night in a luxury desert camp at Erg Chebbi (private ensuite tent).
Breakfasts and dinners during your tour (vegetarian options available).
Camel trekking with sunset and sunrise.
Private bathroom with hot shower & toilet in your desert tent.
Free time to explore key sites along the route.

What’s Not Included

Know Before You Go

Day 1 drive time: approx. 7–8 hours with scenic stops.
Bring warm clothing for cool desert nights (October–March).
Camel rides last about 1.5 hours each way.
Suitable for families, couples, and small private groups.
Optional 4x4 transfer available instead of a return camel ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this 4-day tour suitable for children or older travelers?

Yes, it’s paced comfortably, with frequent stops and the option to swap the camel ride for a 4×4 vehicle if preferred.The journey covers approximately 1,100 kilometers (680 miles) spread comfortably over six days, with scenic stops, guided visits, and overnight stays in carefully chosen locations to ensure a relaxed pace.

2. What is the difference between the 3-day and 4-day Merzouga tours?

The 4-day version offers a more relaxed pace with extra sightseeing time in Ouarzazate and Dades Valley, reducing long drives and adding comfort.

3. What kind of accommodation is included in the desert camp?

The desert camp features private ensuite tents with hot showers, toilets, comfortable beds, and warm blankets. It’s a true blend of authenticity and luxury.

4. What should I pack for the desert trip?

Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a jacket for evenings, and a camera for unforgettable desert landscapes.

5. Can I customize the itinerary or extend the trip?

Yes. You can extend your stay with extra nights in Marrakech, Merzouga, or Ouarzazate, or add experiences like a 4×4 dune tour or quad biking.

6. How cold does it get at night in the desert?

In winter, temperatures can drop to 5–8°C (41–46°F), so bring warm layers. All tents are well-insulated and equipped with heavy blankets.

7. Are vegetarian or vegan meals available?

Yes. Both vegetarian and vegan meals are available upon request at all accommodations.

8. How long is the drive from Marrakech to Merzouga?

The total journey spans around 550 km, divided over two days with sightseeing breaks, scenic stops, and meals along the way.