3 days tour from Marrakech to desert of Merzouga

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a pick-up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech. You’ll head southeast, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). This winding mountain road offers spectacular views of Berber villages, terraced fields, and dramatic landscapes. Along the way, you’ll stop for photos and perhaps visit a local argan oil cooperative to see how this precious oil is made.

Next, you’ll arrive at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic ksars (fortified villages). This ancient mud-brick village has been featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. You’ll have time to explore its narrow alleys and climb to the top for panoramic views.

Afterward, you’ll continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Here, you can visit the Atlas Film Studios, where many famous movies were filmed, or simply enjoy lunch in the town. From Ouarzazate, you’ll drive through the Rose Valley (especially beautiful in spring when the roses are in bloom) and arrive in the Dades Valley. This area is famous for its stunning rock formations, known as the Monkey Fingers, and its lush oases. You’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel or riad, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner.

After breakfast, you’ll depart for the Todra Gorge, one of Morocco’s most impressive natural wonders. The gorge features towering limestone cliffs that rise up to 300 meters, with a crystal-clear river running through it. You’ll have time to walk through the gorge, take photos, and soak in the dramatic scenery.

From Todra Gorge, you’ll continue your journey toward the Sahara Desert, passing through Erfoud, a town known for its fossil workshops and date plantations. You might stop to see how fossils are extracted and polished into beautiful decorative items. As you approach Merzouga, the landscape will transform into golden sand dunes, marking the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes.

In Merzouga, you’ll meet your camels for a sunset camel trek into the desert. The camel ride is a peaceful and unforgettable experience, as you make your way through the rolling dunes to your desert camp. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with mint tea and shown to your comfortable tent, equipped with traditional Berber decor and modern amenities. After a delicious Moroccan dinner, gather around the campfire to enjoy Berber music and stargazing under the vast desert sky.

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a magical moment as the sunlight paints the sand in shades of gold and orange. After breakfast, you’ll return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4, where your driver will be waiting to begin the journey back to Marrakech.

The return trip takes you through Rissani, a historic town known as the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty (the current ruling family of Morocco). You’ll also pass through Alnif and the Draa Valley, a lush oasis filled with palm groves and traditional mud-brick villages. Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch and enjoy the changing landscapes as you cross back over the Atlas Mountains.

You’ll arrive in Marrakech in the evening, where your tour concludes. You’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, filled with memories of the desert, mountains, and the unique culture of Morocco.