3 Days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, heading towards the Dades Valley. The drive takes you through the High Atlas Mountains, where you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the stunning landscapes and rugged terrain. The winding mountain roads lead you through traditional Berber villages, where you can stop to take photos and immerse yourself in local culture.

Along the way, you’ll pass through Tizi n’Tichka Pass, one of the highest points in the Atlas Mountains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The drive then continues to the iconic Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a famous filming location for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. The kasbah is a beautiful example of traditional Moroccan earthen architecture, and a visit here is a must for anyone interested in the history and culture of Morocco.

After Ait Benhaddou, you’ll head towards Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Here, you can explore more historical sites, including the Taourirt Kasbah. Continuing your journey, you’ll pass through the Skoura Oasis and reach the Dades Valley, where you’ll spend the night in a local hotel or riad, surrounded by spectacular views of the valley and mountains.

After breakfast, your journey continues towards Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. The road takes you through Tinghir, a charming town known for its beautiful palm groves and the nearby Todgha Gorge, where you can take a short hike to enjoy the dramatic cliffs.

Continuing eastward, you’ll drive through Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil production, before finally reaching Merzouga in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, you’ll get ready for your desert adventure. Here, you will embark on a traditional camel trek across the iconic Erg Chebbi Dunes, where the golden sand stretches as far as the eye can see. The camel ride takes you into the heart of the Sahara, where you’ll experience the silence and beauty of the desert in a way few others do.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll reach a desert camp, where you will spend the night under the stars. The camp is equipped with traditional tents, providing a comfortable and authentic experience in the middle of the desert. Enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner around a campfire, and listen to the music and stories of the Berber guides. The peaceful desert night, with its star-filled sky, is one of the most magical experiences in Morocco.

On the third and final day of your tour, you’ll wake up early to watch the breathtaking Sahara Desert sunrise. The early morning light illuminating the dunes creates a scene that is both surreal and awe-inspiring. After the sunrise, you’ll ride camels back to the village of Merzouga, where you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local hotel.

After breakfast, you’ll begin the return journey to Marrakech. The drive takes you back through the Ziz Valley, a lush oasis surrounded by high cliffs and palm trees. From here, the journey continues through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through towns like Midelt and Ifrane—often referred to as “Little Switzerland” for its European-style architecture and cool climate.

You’ll also pass through Ifrane National Park, where you can spot the famous Barbary apes in the cedar forests. The scenery here is a stark contrast to the desert landscapes, providing a rich variety of Moroccan terrain. In the late afternoon, you’ll finally arrive in Marrakech, where your unforgettable 3-day desert adventure comes to an end.