Marrakech Desert Tour to Merzouga
Enjoy an unforgettable 3-day journey from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert, discovering breathtaking landscapes and authentic Moroccan culture along the way. Cross the High Atlas Mountains with panoramic viewpoints, visit the UNESCO Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, and explore the dramatic canyons of Todra Gorges. Continue through palm-filled valleys, Berber towns, and scenic desert roads until you reach Merzouga. Here, your camel caravan awaits to guide you across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, where you’ll watch a magical sunset before spending the night in a traditional or luxury desert camp. With warm Berber hospitality, delicious local meals, music around the fire, and a sky full of stars, this short desert adventure delivers culture, nature, and unforgettable moments in just three days.
Trip Overview
Experience a 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour and discover the High Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, Todra Gorges, and the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy a camel ride, a magical Sahara sunset, and an overnight stay in a traditional or luxury desert camp—the perfect Morocco desert adventure from Marrakech.
Day-by-Day Program
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Your journey begins early in the morning as you leave Marrakech and drive through the majestic High Atlas Mountains. The winding Tizi n’Tichka pass offers incredible views, Berber villages, and plenty of photo stops. Along the way, you’ll visit the UNESCO Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a famous ksar used in many movies and series such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Your guide will give you time to explore the authentic mud-brick architecture and narrow alleys.
After lunch in Ait Ben Haddou or Ouarzazate, continue toward the “Hollywood of Africa,” where you may see film studios from the outside. The drive carries on through the lush Skoura Palm Oasis and the Valley of Roses before reaching the spectacular Dades Valley. You’ll enjoy a relaxing evening in a comfortable hotel overlooking the dramatic rock formations and gorges.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi)
After breakfast, continue the adventure towards the towering Todra Gorges, one of Morocco’s most impressive canyons. You can walk between the 300-meter-high cliffs and admire the river that flows through the narrow corridor. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a peaceful break before heading deeper into the Sahara region.
The journey continues through the towns of Tinghir, Tinjdad, and Erfoud—famous for fossils and desert landscapes. In the afternoon, you arrive in Merzouga, where your camel caravan awaits. Begin a magical camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, stopping on a high dune to watch the breathtaking Sahara sunset. Your night will be spent in a traditional or luxury desert camp where you’ll enjoy a Moroccan dinner, Berber music under the stars, and an unforgettable desert atmosphere.
Day 3: Merzouga – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Wake up early to witness the incredible sunrise over the Sahara dunes—a peaceful moment you will always remember. After breakfast at the camp, ride camels or take a 4×4 transfer back to Merzouga village to meet your driver. The journey back to Marrakech passes through Alnif, Tazzarine, and the stunning Draa Valley, renowned for its vast palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
After a lunch break in Agdz or Ouarzazate, continue through the Atlas Mountains toward Marrakech. You will arrive in the evening, and drop-off will be at your hotel or riad.