3-Day Desert Tour: Marrakech to Merzouga

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day adventure from Marrakech to the mesmerizing Merzouga Desert. This tour is perfect for those eager to explore Morocco’s vast landscapes, from the towering Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Experience a dynamic blend of cultural landmarks, dramatic gorges, and serene oases.

Highlights include visiting the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, camel trekking through the Sahara at sunset, and spending a magical night under the stars in a desert camp. Every turn of the journey offers breathtaking scenery, making this desert tour an unforgettable Moroccan experience.

Tour Info

Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Departure: 08:00 AM
Starting Point: Marrakech
Ending Point: Marrakech

Highlights

Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and iconic kasbah.
Explore the Dades Valley and the stunning Todra Gorges.
Ride camels through the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset.
Spend a night in a traditional desert camp under a star-filled sky.
Pass through the scenic Draa Valley on the return journey.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Dades Valley
Your journey begins at 8:00 AM with a drive through the majestic Atlas Mountains, passing traditional Berber villages and stunning landscapes. Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, a historic kasbah often featured in Hollywood films.

After lunch at Ait Ben Haddou, continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” where several iconic movies were filmed. The day concludes with a scenic drive through the Roses Valley to Dades, where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night in a comfortable riad or guesthouse.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, travel to the awe-inspiring Todra Gorge, a canyon with towering rock walls and breathtaking views. Take time to explore the gorge before heading to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert.

Upon arrival in Merzouga, embark on a camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset. Reach your desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and spend the night under the starlit desert sky.

Day 3: Merzouga – Draa Valley – Marrakech
Wake up early to watch a stunning sunrise over the dunes, followed by a camel ride back to Merzouga. Begin the return journey through the scenic Draa Valley, passing by Rissani, Nqob, and Tamnougalt.

Enjoy lunch along the way and revisit Ouarzazate before crossing the Atlas Mountains to arrive in Marrakech by 8:00 PM, marking the end of this incredible desert adventure.

Included

Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech.
Private air-conditioned transport.
Professional driver/guide.
1-night accommodation in Dades Valley (dinner and breakfast included).
1-night stay in a luxury or standard desert camp (dinner and breakfast included).
Camel trekking in the Sahara Desert.