3 Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
Tour Overview:
Discover the beauty of Morocco on this 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. Travel through the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, explore the Dades Valley and Todra Gorges, and enjoy the beautiful sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. Experience a memorable camel ride at sunset and spend a magical night in a Berber desert camp under the stars.
This tour is a great way to discover Morocco’s landscapes, culture, traditional villages and the beauty of the Sahara Desert
Tour Highlights
- Cross the beautiful High Atlas Mountains and Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
- Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore Ouarzazate and the beautiful Dades Valley.
- Discover the impressive Todra Gorges.
- Enjoy the spectacular sand dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga.
- Experience a camel ride at sunset in the Sahara Desert.
- Spend one night in a private Berber desert camp under the stars.
- Visit the traditional souk of Rissani.
- Discover the beautiful palm groves and landscapes of the Draa Valley.
- Travel comfortably in a private air-conditioned vehicle with an Italian-speaking driver-guide.
3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Your 3-day desert tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech at around 8:00 AM.
We will drive through the beautiful High Atlas Mountains, crossing the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, we will stop at several panoramic viewpoints where you can enjoy the mountain scenery and traditional Berber villages.
You will also have the opportunity to visit a local argan oil cooperative and learn how this famous Moroccan oil is produced.
Next, we continue towards the south and visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This traditional fortified village has appeared in many famous movies, including Gladiator and other international films.
After lunch, we continue to Ouarzazate, known as the Gateway to the Desert. We then drive through the beautiful Skoura palm groves and the Valley of Roses before reaching the Dades Valley.
Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel in the Dades Valley.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga – Erg Chebbi Desert Camp
After breakfast, we continue our journey through the Dades Valley, enjoying its beautiful landscapes and traditional kasbahs.
We then drive to the impressive Todra Gorges, one of the most beautiful natural attractions in southern Morocco. Here, the river has created deep valleys between high limestone cliffs. You will have free time to walk along the river and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
After the visit, we continue towards Touroug, where we will stop for lunch.
In the afternoon, we arrive in Merzouga, where the amazing golden dunes of Erg Chebbi await you.
Upon arrival, you can leave your luggage in the vehicle or at the accommodation before enjoying a welcome glass of Moroccan mint tea.
After some time to relax, you will start your camel ride across the Sahara Desert. Along the way, we will stop to enjoy the beautiful sunset over the sand dunes and take memorable photos.
You will then arrive at your desert camp, where you will enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber music and a peaceful night under the stars.
Dinner and overnight stay in a private Berber desert tent.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Wake up early to enjoy the beautiful sunrise over the Sahara Desert. After breakfast at the camp, we leave the desert and begin our journey towards Marrakech.
Our first stop will be Rissani, a traditional Moroccan town famous for its lively local souk and traditional markets. You may also visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif.
We then continue through the beautiful pre-desert landscapes towards the Draa Valley, famous for its long palm groves and traditional villages.
We will stop along the way to enjoy the panoramic views and have lunch.
In the afternoon, we continue towards Ouarzazate and cross the High Atlas Mountains again before arriving in Marrakech in the evening.
At the end of the tour, we will drop you off at your hotel, riad or Marrakech airport.
Note: This tour can also be arranged with departure from other cities in Morocco upon request.
What's Included in the Tour?
Included
Transportation
- Private air-conditioned vehicle (4×4, minivan or minibus, depending on the group size).
- Hotel and riad pick-up and drop-off.
- All transportation during the tour.
- Italian-speaking driver-guide.
Guides and Activities
- Local guide in Ait Ben Haddou.
- Guided visit to Rissani.
- Camel ride in the Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Sunset stop during the camel ride.
- Private desert camp experience.
Accommodation
- 1 night in a hotel in the Dades Valley.
- 1 night in a private Berber tent in the Erg Chebbi Desert.
Meals
- 2 breakfasts.
- 2 dinners.
Not Included
- International flights.
- Travel insurance.
- Entrance fees to monuments and museums.
- Lunches and drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Hotel extras.
- Any services not mentioned in the included section.
Important Note: During the journey, we will stop at local restaurants or scenic places for lunch. Lunch usually costs around €5–€10 per person and is paid directly by travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long is the Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour?
The tour takes 3 days and 2 nights. It starts in Marrakech and finishes in Marrakech.
2. Is the 3-day desert tour private or shared?
The tour can be arranged as a private trip, offering more comfort and flexibility. Shared options may also be available upon request.
3. Is the camel ride included in the tour?
Yes. A camel ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes is included, with a stop to enjoy the beautiful Sahara sunset.
4. Where will we sleep during the tour?
You will spend the first night in a hotel in the Dades Valley and the second night in a private Berber tent in the Merzouga Desert.
5. Does the desert camp have a private bathroom?
A private tent is included. Private bathroom facilities depend on the type of desert camp selected. Please contact us to confirm your preferred accommodation.
6. Are meals included in the tour price?
Yes. The tour includes 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners. Lunches and drinks are not included.
7. Which places will we visit during the tour?
You will visit the High Atlas Mountains, Tizi n’Tichka Pass, Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, the Dades Valley, Todra Gorges, Merzouga, Erg Chebbi dunes, Rissani and the Draa Valley.
8. Can I start the tour from another city?
Yes. We can arrange this tour from other cities in Morocco upon request. Contact us to discuss your preferred departure location.
9. What type of vehicle is used during the tour?
We use comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles such as 4×4 cars, minivans or minibuses, depending on the number of travellers.
10. What time will we arrive back in Marrakech?
We usually arrive in Marrakech in the evening on the third day. You will be dropped off at your hotel, riad or Marrakech airport.
11. Can I choose a luxury desert camp?
Yes. You can request a luxury desert camp with a private tent and ensuite bathroom, subject to availability. Please let us know your preference when booking.
