3 Days Tour To Merzouga Desert From Marrakech

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley

Departure from Marrakech

Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from the vibrant city of Marrakech. As we leave behind the bustling streets, we ascend into the High Atlas Mountains, following the winding road that leads to the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. This pass, at an altitude of 2,260 meters, offers breathtaking views of the mountain landscape, with its steep valleys and scattered Berber villages.

Exploring Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah

Our first major stop is at the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its striking red clay architecture and its role in numerous Hollywood films. As you wander through the ancient alleys of this fortified village, you’ll feel transported back in time, surrounded by the echoes of a bygone era.

Lunch in Ouarzazate

After our visit to Ait Ben Haddou, we continue to the city of Ouarzazate—often called the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Here, we’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch and have the opportunity to visit the famous Taourirt Kasbah. This city, with its rich history and vibrant culture, serves as a pivotal point in our journey.

Drive to Dades Valley

In the afternoon, we journey through the Valley of Roses and the Skoura Oasis, arriving at the stunning Dades Valley by evening. Known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” this region is famed for its dramatic rock formations and lush landscapes. We’ll settle into a local hotel or riad for dinner and an overnight stay, where you can unwind and absorb the tranquil atmosphere of the valley.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)

Visit to Todra Gorge

After a hearty breakfast, we set off towards the Todra Gorge, one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This deep canyon, with its towering cliffs and crystal-clear river, offers a stunning contrast to the arid landscapes surrounding it. We’ll take some time to explore the gorge, walking along its narrow paths and soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery.

Journey to Merzouga

Leaving the Todra Gorge behind, we continue our journey towards the desert town of Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi Dunes. Along the way, we pass through the towns of Tinjdad, Jorf, and Erfoud, each offering glimpses of traditional Berber life. As we approach Merzouga, the landscape gradually transforms into the vast, rolling dunes of the Sahara Desert.

Camel Trek into the Sahara

Upon arrival in Merzouga, we’ll trade our vehicle for camels, embarking on a camel trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi Dunes. The experience of riding a camel through the desert, as the sun sets and the dunes shift in color, is nothing short of magical. This trek takes us deep into the desert, where we will spend the night in a traditional Berber camp.

Overnight in the Desert Camp

The evening in the Sahara is a unique experience, with the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under a sky filled with stars. The camp is a place of tranquility, where the silence of the desert is broken only by the soft sounds of Berber music and the crackling of the campfire. This night under the stars is sure to be one of the highlights of your Moroccan adventure.

Day 3: Merzouga to Marrakech

Sunrise Over the Dunes

The final day of your tour begins with an early rise to witness the spectacular sunrise over the Sahara. Watching the sun slowly rise above the dunes, casting long shadows and warm hues across the landscape, is an unforgettable experience. After sunrise, we’ll return to Merzouga for breakfast before beginning our journey back to Marrakech.

Return Journey through the Atlas Mountains

As we retrace our steps, the road takes us once again through the diverse landscapes of the Atlas Mountains. We’ll pass through the Ziz Valley, known for its lush date palms and ancient Kasbahs, and continue through the Middle Atlas, where we might encounter the famous Barbary macaque monkeys near Azrou. The journey offers a final chance to soak in the natural beauty of Morocco before returning to the vibrant city of Marrakech.

Arrival in Marrakech

We arrive back in Marrakech in the early evening, marking the end of our 3-day tour. This journey, from the bustling city streets to the serene desert sands, offers a comprehensive experience of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The memories of the towering Atlas Mountains, the ancient Kasbahs, and the golden dunes of Merzouga will remain with you long after you leave.