3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
Starting location
Marrakech
Tour's Duration
3 Days
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.
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.
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