12 days Desert Tours from Marrakech to Merzouga
Starting location
Marrakech
Tour's Duration
12 Days
Destination
Merzouga
This 12-day desert journey through Morocco is a captivating blend of landscapes, cultures, and centuries of history. Starting and ending in Marrakech, the itinerary spans the imperial cities of Fez, Meknes, Rabat, and Casablanca, the enchanting Sahara Desert, and the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen. You’ll experience the country from every angle its vibrant cities, quiet villages, rugged mountains, vast valleys, and sweeping sand dunes.
Wander through ancient medinas, explore UNESCO-listed sites like Ait Ben Haddou and Volubilis, ride camels into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, and sleep under the stars in a desert camp. Along the way, you’ll encounter welcoming locals, taste traditional cuisine, and witness Morocco’s diverse landscapes from the snowy peaks of the High Atlas to the Atlantic shores of Essaouira.
Whether you’re drawn to history, adventure, or cultural exploration, this tour offers a rich, full-circle experience of Morocco’s beauty.
- Explore the bustling souks and heritage of Marrakech
- Cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass
- Visit Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Discover cinematic Ouarzazate and the Valley of the Roses
- Experience the Dades and Todra Gorges
- Ride camels across the dunes of Erg Chebbi at sunset
- Sleep in a Sahara desert camp under the stars
- Explore Berber villages and meet local nomads
- Journey through the Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas Mountains
- Discover ancient medinas in Fez and Meknes
- Visit Roman ruins at Volubilis
- Wander through the charming blue streets of Chefchaouen
- Discover Rabat’s historic monuments and the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
- Enjoy the Atlantic breeze and laid-back atmosphere of Essaouira
Detailled Itineray
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
Meet at the airport and transfer to your accommodation in Marrakech. Time permitting, enjoy a stroll through the medina and the vibrant square of Jemaa el-Fnaa.
Day 2: Full Day in Marrakech
Spend the day discovering the city’s landmarks: the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, the Bahia Palace, and the lively souks. In the evening, soak up the unique atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa with its musicians, food stalls, and street performers.
Day 3: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Head east through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass. Stop at the fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, famous for its earthen architecture and film history. Continue through Ouarzazate and the Valley of the Roses before arriving in Dades Valley for the night.
Day 4: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, drive through the stunning Todra Gorges, a favorite spot for rock climbers. Then travel to Merzouga, where you’ll meet your camel caravan for a sunset ride into the dunes. Spend the night in a traditional desert camp with dinner and music under the stars.
Day 5: Merzouga Exploration – Nomads – Khamlia – Erg Chebbi
Wake early to catch the desert sunrise. After returning by camel, enjoy breakfast and set out to explore the surrounding area. Visit nomadic families, fossil sites, and the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnawa music. Return to Merzouga for a relaxed evening and overnight stay.
Day 6: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Cedar Forest – Ifrane – Fez
Begin the journey north through the Ziz Valley’s lush palm groves. Stop in Midelt for lunch, then continue through cedar forests home to wild Barbary macaques and the alpine-style town of Ifrane before arriving in Fez in the evening.
Day 7: Full Day in Fez
Enjoy a guided walking tour of Fez’s ancient medina, one of the largest in the world. Discover its historic sites including the Al-Qarawiyyin University, the Tanneries, the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), and panoramic viewpoints. Overnight in a traditional riad.
Day 8: Fez – Meknes – Volubilis – Chefchaouen
After breakfast, travel to Meknes to see its monumental gates, granaries, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Continue to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, then head into the Rif Mountains to reach the blue-washed town of Chefchaouen for the night.
Day 9: Chefchaouen – Rabat – Casablanca
Depart Chefchaouen and make your way to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. Visit landmarks such as the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower, and the royal mausoleum. Continue on to Casablanca for an overnight stay.
Day 10: Casablanca – Marrakech
In the morning, visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world. Then drive back to Marrakech, arriving in the afternoon. Free time to relax or explore at your own pace.
Day 11: Marrakech – Essaouira
After breakfast, take a scenic drive to the Atlantic coast and explore Essaouira’s medina, ramparts, and fishing port. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and artistic vibe, it’s a perfect contrast to the desert. Overnight in Essaouira.
Day 12: Essaouira – Marrakech (Departure)
Transfer back to Marrakech based on your flight schedule. End of the tour.
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)
Excluded
- Flights to/from Morocco
- Lunches and drinks
- Optional Activities & Extras
- Tips & Gratuities
- Personal Expenses
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