3 Days Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga Desert

The most popular private Marrakech to Merzouga tour

Recommended by 98% of travelers visiting Morocco

Marrakech to Merzouga tour 3 Days

Overview

A 3 Days Tour From Marrakech to Merzouga. This two-night, three-day tour includes visits to beautiful places such as the ancient Ait-Ben-Haddou Kasbah, the city of Ouarzazate, the wider Dades Valley, and the higher Todra Gorges. The itinerary also includes the far reaches of Draa Valley, the vastness of the Merzouga Sahara Desert, and many Berber villages. An astounding view along the way is over the High Atlas Mountains. Not to miss is a camel trek deep into the heart of the desert, where lie mesmerizing sights of the Sahara’s sunset and sunrise. The tour ends upon returning to Marrakech

Highlights

Crossing the High Atlas mountains
Exploring the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
Discovering the impressive Dades Gorge and the Todra Canyon
Riding camels through the Erg Chebbi dunes
Enjoying an incredible sunset and sunrise over the dunes
Spending a lovely starry night in a luxury desert camp
Traveling through Morocco’s longest river, the Draa River

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas mountains – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Roses Valley – Boumalne Dades

Your 3-day Sahara desert tour from Marrakech starts with an early morning pickup from your hotel or the airport. From there, you’ll travel through the stunning High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass. Along the way, you’ll stop to take in the amazing views and beautiful scenery before heading to the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a popular filming location. If you have seen Gladiator, Alexander, The Mummy, or Game of Thrones, you might recognize this fortified village. Next, we travel to Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the desert. After some free time for lunch, we continue through the Skoura palm grove toward the Rose Valley. Our day ends in Boumalne Dades, where we will spend the night.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Sahara Desert – Camel trekking – overnight in a luxury camp

On the second day of our Morocco desert tours from Marrakech, we’ll drive through the Dades Valley. We’ll stop for a panoramic view of the Dades Gorges, where you can take in the stunning scenery. After that, we’ll head to the Todra Gorges, a beautiful canyon shaped by the Todra River, with tall reddish cliffs. You’ll have time to explore the gorges and enjoy the surroundings. Next, we’ll pass through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad. We’ll have lunch along the way.

In the afternoon, we’ll arrive at the Merzouga Sahara Desert. Here, you’ll switch to camels and start your trek across the dunes. We’ll pause to watch the sunset from a high dune. Afterward, you’ll continue to the desert camp, where you’ll hear Berber drums and can join in dancing around the fire under the stars. Dinner and an overnight stay will be at the camp.

Day 3: Merzouga Sahara – Draa Valley- Anti Atlas Mountains – Ouarzazate – Marrakech

Wake up early to watch the sunrise in the desert—it’s truly unforgettable. After that, enjoy a hearty Moroccan breakfast prepared for you. You’ll then head back to Merzouga, either by camel or in the camp’s 4×4, where your driver will be ready to meet you. Next, we visit Rissani, a well-known traditional marketplace called a souk. From there, we travel through Alnif and continue along the Draa Valley until we reach Ouarzazate. The journey includes crossing the Tizi-n-Tichka pass before arriving in Marrakech. Your 3-day desert tour ends with a drop-off right at your riad in Marrakech.

Standard Tour

Great value for travelers prioritizing experience over amenities.

From €170 PER GUEST

Luxury Tour

Ideal for honeymooners or anyone wanting more space/comfort.

From €220 PER GUEST

Mixed Tour

A smart balance of comfort and cost.

From €197 PER GUEST

Included

For 3 days: snag private 4x4 or a minivan with A/C + Fuel
Pick-up & Drop-off at your Riad or any Location in Marrakech
And have a Private Driver/Guide Client speaks English.
One night in Excellency Hotel/Riad.
Overnight in Luxury Camp in the Desert, Private Bathroom.
Camel ride - one ride per person, or transfer with a 4WD as an alternative.
Sandboards Available at the Camp.
Dinners and Breakfasts

Excluded

FAQ Hub

How long is the camel ride in the Merzouga dunes?

About 45 – 90 minutes each way, depending on camp location and sunset/sunrise timing. A 4×4 transfer is available if you’d prefer not to ride.

Can we skip the camel ride?

Absolutely. We can arrange a 4×4 transfer directly to the camp for sunset/sunrise.

Can we upgrade hotels or tents?

Yes, but before departure. Once the trip starts, hotel/camp allocations are fixed.

What should we bring to the tent in the desert?

Nighttime calls for warm layers, while daytime requires light layers, closed shoes, and optional layers for a cool breeze-a good cap or scarf. Sun glasses, sunblock, and a headlight or torch, plus power bank!

Are there showers in the camp?

Standard camps typically include communal amenities.

Private ensuite tents are a feature of luxury campgrounds.

How cold are desert nights?

We supply warm blankets, but pack layers because winter (November to February) nights can drop to about 5 °C (41 °F) or below.

Can we end the tour in Fes instead of returning to Marrakech?

Absolutely. Select our Marrakech → Merzouga → Fes itinerary when booking.

When is the rose season in the Valley of Roses?

The International Rose Festival normally takes place in early May (dates change each year), and blooms usually occur from April to May.

What days is the Rissani souk at its busiest?

Livestock trading takes place early on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.

Moments Captured

Discover the spirit of our journeys through a vibrant collection of photos capturing stunning landscapes, cultural moments, and unforgettable experiences. Explore the beauty, adventure, and authentic charm that await you on every tour.

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