This three-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga offers an immersive experience of Morocco’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
3 days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga desert
Marrakech desert trip first day:
The journey from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert begins on the first day of your trip with an early morning departure from Marrakech: Start your journey early in the morning from Marrakech, heading towards the High Atlas Mountains. The scenic drive through the Tizi n’Tichka pass offers stunning views of the rugged landscape and traditional Berber villages.
Aït Benhaddou: Your first major stop is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Benhaddou. This ancient fortified village, with its superb kasbahs and terracotta buildings, has served as the setting for many famous films. Take a guided tour to explore its labyrinthine streets and learn about its history.
Lunch in Ouarzazate: Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “cinema city in Morocco”. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and, then, we will visit the Atlas Film Studios and the Kasbah of Taourirt.
Dades Valley: In the afternoon, drive through the Valley of Roses, famous for its annual rose festival, and arrive at the Dades Valley. Here you will see spectacular rock formations and gorges. Spend the night in a local hotel or guesthouse and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner.
Travel from Marrakech to Merzouga stage from Dades Valley to Merzouga in the second day:
Todgha Gorges: After breakfast, depart for the Todgha Gorges, a series of limestone river canyons offering spectacular views. Walk through the gorge and admire the steep cliffs and the crystal-clear river that runs through them.
Lunch at Tinjdad or Erfoud: Continue your journey to the desert by stopping for lunch at Tinjdad or Erfoud, known for its fossils and the date festival. Explore local shops or visit a fossil workshop.
Arrival in Merzouga: In the afternoon, reach Merzouga, gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here you will switch from your vehicle to camels for a memorable desert trek. Enjoy a peaceful sunset camel ride, culminating with your arrival at a traditional Berber camp.
Night in the desert: Spend the night under the starry desert sky in a comfortable Berber tent. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, listen to Berber music, and perhaps join in the dancing around the campfire. This is the perfect opportunity to discover the tranquility and beauty of the Sahara.
Travel from Merzouga to Marrakech on the third day:
Sunrise over the dunes: Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes of the Sahara. After a hearty breakfast at the camp, return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4.
Return trip: Begin your return to Marrakech by retracing your route through picturesque landscapes. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop for breaks and photos, capturing the diverse beauty of the Moroccan countryside.
Lunch in Ouarzazate: Stop again for lunch in Ouarzazate, giving you a chance to rest and explore missed attractions.
Evening arrival in Marrakech: Continue your journey via the Tizi n’Tichka pass and arrive in Marrakech in the early evening. Your three-day adventure ends here, filled with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich culture.
- Included:
- Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver/guide.
- Accommodation: Hotel or guesthouse in the Dades Valley. Traditional Berber camp in the Merzouga desert.
- Meals: 2 Dinners, 2 Breakfasts.
- Guided Tours: Aït Benhaddou guided tour. Camel trekking in Merzouga.
- Exclusions:
- Lunches on all days.
- Dinner on the last day.
- Drinks: Beverages not included with meals.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, personal shopping, tips, etc.
- Entrance Fees: Entry fees to attractions and monuments not mentioned as included.
- Additional Activities: Any activities not mentioned in the inclusions.
