Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day desert adventure from Marrakech to Merzouga, exploring the diverse beauty of Morocco’s south. Journey through the stunning High Atlas Mountains, ancient Berber villages, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Discover the immense dunes of the Sahara, enjoy camel trekking at sunset, and experience the warm hospitality of desert nomads.

This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural discovery and natural splendor, from the vibrant landscapes of the Dades Valley to the serene oases of Hassi Labied and the historic kasbahs of Ouarzazate.

Tour Info

• Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
• Departure: 08:00 AM
• Starting Point: Marrakech
• Ending Point: Marrakech

Highlights

• Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
• Visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah (UNESCO World Heritage site).
• Explore the Dades and Todra Gorges, with their breathtaking landscapes.
• Camel trek through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi at sunset.
• Spend a magical night in a desert camp under the starry sky.
• Visit nomadic families and learn about Berber traditions.
• Experience the lush beauty of the Draa Valley and its palm groves.
• Discover historic kasbahs and the film studios of Ouarzazate.

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Start the journey from Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, stop at panoramic viewpoints and an argan oil cooperative. Visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, known for its historical significance and use as a filming location for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After lunch, continue to Ouarzazate, the “Gateway to the Desert,” and pass through the Valley of Roses before arriving at Dades Valley for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga
After breakfast, drive through the Dades Valley and visit the dramatic Todra Gorges, known for their towering cliffs. Enjoy a leisurely walk in the gorge before continuing to Erfoud, famous for its fossils. Arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll prepare for a desert adventure. Leave your luggage at the hotel and embark on a camel trek to a desert camp, stopping to watch the sunset over the dunes. Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner with live music before spending the night under the stars.

Day 3: Merzouga Region Exploration
Rise early to witness the magical sunrise over the desert. After breakfast, return by camel to Merzouga, where your driver awaits. Spend the day exploring the Merzouga region, including visits to an old kohl mine, nomadic families, and the Gnaoua village of Khamlia, where you’ll experience traditional music and dance. After lunch, take a scenic walk through the palm groves of Hassi Labied Oasis. Return to Merzouga for dinner and an overnight stay at a local riad or hotel.

Day 4: Merzouga – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Ouarzazate. Travel through the picturesque Draa Valley, with its lush date palm groves and traditional villages. Continue across the Anti-Atlas Mountains, arriving in Ouarzazate in the afternoon. Check into your hotel or riad, where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night.

Day 5: Ouarzazate – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
Start the final day with breakfast, followed by a visit to the Kasbah Taourirt and the famous film studios in Ouarzazate. Drive back to Marrakech, stopping at the historic Kasbah Telouet in the High Atlas Mountains. Enjoy lunch en route before completing the journey via Tizi n’Tichka Pass, arriving in Marrakech in the afternoon.

Included

• Private transport with air-conditioning.
• Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.
• Professional English-speaking driver/guide.
• 1 night in Marrakech (bed and breakfast).
• 2 nights in hotels/riads (dinner and breakfast included).
• 1 night in a desert camp (dinner and breakfast included).
• Camel ride per person.

Excluded

• Flights.
• Drinks of all kinds.
• Lunches.
• Entrance fees to kasbahs or movie locations.
• Personal expenses and tips.