3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

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Starting location

Marrakech

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Tour's Duration

3 Days

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Destination

Fes

Experience an unforgettable 3-day desert adventure that departs daily from Marrakech. Perfect for those who crave a deeper connection with Morocco’s natural beauty, this journey takes you through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes all the way to the heart of the Sahara.

As you travel, the scenery transforms dramatically: from the fertile plains of Al-Haouz to the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas Mountains, through picturesque valleys and lush oases, across vast rocky plateaus, and finally to the sweeping golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.

One of the most memorable moments of this tour is the serene camel ride at sunset, followed by a peaceful night under the stars in a traditional desert camp.

Cross the winding Tizi n’Tichka passes through the High Atlas Mountains.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah.
Journey through Ouarzazate and the Valley of Roses to reach Dades.
Marvel at the towering cliffs of Todgha Gorge and pass through Erfoud on the way to the desert.
Enjoy a camel ride at sunset across the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Spend the night in a traditional desert camp under a starlit sky.
Return to Marrakech through the Draa Valley.

Embarking on this immersive three-day desert adventure from Marrakech to Merzouga promises magnificent landscapes and cultural richness—from the High Atlas Mountains and the Valley of Roses to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi—but there are a few practical points worth noting. The drive through mountainous terrain includes winding roads and high-altitude passes, so it’s wise to prepare for cooler temperatures and variable weather in some seasons. Layered clothing and sturdy, comfortable footwear are your friends here. Hydration is key in the dry air, and if you’re sensitive to motion sickness, packing remedies or choosing your seat strategically may help.

Sunlight in desert and mountain environments can be harsh, especially at higher elevations or across open dune landscapes, so don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. While your accommodations and support are arranged, some allowances—like lunch, extra snacks, drinks, and small souvenirs—might require local currency, so carrying some Moroccan dirhams is advisable. Also note that cell signal can be patchy outside urban centres. It’s smart to download any maps or critical information beforehand.

Detailled Itineray

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Boumalne Dades

The tour kicks off with an early departure from your accommodation in Marrakech. Traveling in a comfortable air-conditioned 4×4 or minibus, the route leads you through the Atlas Mountains toward the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a beautifully preserved fortress town that feels like stepping into history.

After a guided visit and lunch in the area, continue to Ouarzazate, known for its cinematic landscapes and historic kasbahs. From there, the drive continues through the Valley of Roses to the Dades Valley, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner and overnight stay in a cozy guesthouse with a private room.

Day 2: Dades – Todra Gorge – Merzouga

After breakfast, the journey continues toward the striking Todra Gorge. With its towering limestone cliffs and deep canyon, it’s a breathtaking stop for photos and exploration.

Following lunch, head toward the desert through palm groves and desert towns until you reach the village of Merzouga. Here, you’ll swap your vehicle for a camel and ride across the dunes of Erg Chebbi just as the sun begins to set.

Arrive at your desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner and an evening of music around the campfire. Sleep in a comfortable tent under the clear desert sky.

Day 3: Merzouga – Draa Valley – Marrakech

Wake early to catch the desert sunrise before riding your camel back to Merzouga. After breakfast, begin the return journey to Marrakech.

The drive passes through the town of Rissani known for its rich architectural heritage and continues through the Draa Valley, famous for its scenic palm groves and traditional mud-brick villages.

Enjoy lunch en route and pass again through Ouarzazate before climbing the Atlas Mountains back to Marrakech, where you’ll arrive around 8:00 PM, marking the end of this immersive desert adventure.

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Included

Depends on the tour: Private or shared air-conditioned vehicles (4×4, minivan, minibus)
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Multilingual driver/guide (English, French, Spanish)
Camel trekking (only in desert tours)
Hotel or traditional riad stays (3-star, 4-star, or luxury options)
Daily breakfast and dinners (depending on the type of accommodation you choose)

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Excluded

Flights to/from Morocco
Lunches and drinks
Optional Activities & Extras
Tips & Gratuities
Personal Expenses

Extra Activities

To take your experience beyond the standard itinerary, consider adding one or more of these enriching activities:

Visit the Valley of Roses or a local date-palace: On the journey toward the desert, pause to explore fragrant rose gardens or traditional date cooperatives for a more immersive cultural touch.
Extend time at Todra Gorge: This natural wonder offers towering limestone cliffs—spend a bit longer stretching your legs or simply soaking in the scenery.
Sandboarding or ATV rides in Erg Chebbi: For a dash of adventure beyond the iconic camel trek, consider a thrilling sandboarding session or guided ATV ride across the dunes.
Berber music and storytelling: Arrange a brief presentation or informal performance around the campfire to enrich your overnight desert experience with local culture.
Sunrise photography session: Rise a bit earlier on Day 3 to capture the mesmerising dune colors in the soft morning light—many guests find this moment truly memorable.
Local market stop in Rissani: On the return route, plan a short visit to Rissani’s traditional market—a vibrant spot to experience daily life and pick up authentic goods.