Overview: Marrakech to Merzouga and Back (3-Day Tour)
Embark on an unforgettable 3-day adventure from Marrakech to the golden dunes of Merzouga and back. This journey takes you through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, scenic valleys, and ancient Berber villages, culminating in an enchanting night under the stars in the heart of the Sahara Desert.
Itinerary
Our journey through the Moroccan desert begins in Marrakech: at the airport, at your hotel or at any other point of your choice. There you will be picked up by our driver/guide to start the road trip in a vehicle equipped with the best comforts.
We will cross the Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka pass, the highest in this mountain range, at about 2,200 meters above sea level, leaving behind spectacular panoramic views and Berber villages where time seems to have stopped. A few kilometers before Ouarzazate, known as the Hollywood of Morocco for its famous studios, we will visit the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou: a walk through its adobe enclosure will make us understand why it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 (optional entrance). We will also stop to take pictures at the Taourirt kasbah.
It will not be the only fortress that will appear on the horizon, because from then on we will travel part of the road of the thousand kasbahs’, through the Valley of the Roses and the Dades Valley. In the first, the rose bushes occupy hectares and hectares of land. And in the second, palm trees, birch and almond trees grow at the foot of the river that gives it its name.
Precisely in the Dades Valley we will make a stop on the way to spend the night in a riad full of charm and regain strength for the intense day of the next day, which will take us to the very heart of the Moroccan desert.
The second day of this journey through the Moroccan desert begins with an energetic breakfast at the riad and will end in Merzouga and its famous Erg Chebbi dunes. But first, the day has another major attraction: the Todra Gorges. This is the name given to the rocky walls of up to 200 meters that have been chiseled over the years by the Todra River. The road here makes unlikely twists and turns and offers views typical of science fiction, and we will descend to walk through some of its most emblematic sections.
Back in the vehicle, we will continue to Merzouga, probably the most admired town in the Moroccan desert. Here we will change means of transport: we will park our vehicle and get on the back of our camels (option replaceable by a 4×4 specially designed for the desert) to head for the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Our Berber tent camp is located there, equipped with all the comforts for a pleasant stay. But the real pleasure will be around you, where the sunset takes on a unique color and the sky, a purity that makes the stars shine as you have never seen before. In this special atmosphere, you will enjoy your dinner and your night’s rest.
The magical sunset and the majestic starry sky of the previous day have their continuation in the sunrise of the third day, which you will be able to contemplate from the camp. With the light of the new day, it will be time to taste the breakfast included in the accommodation and then take a comforting shower, which will be done in the camp or in a hotel in Merzouga depending on the package contracted. After that, it will be time to leave by road to Rissani, a city known for having one of the most beautiful medinas in the south of the country.
After that, we will continue to other towns in this sector of the Moroccan desert, such as Alnif and Tazarine. We will also cross the Draa Valley and its extensive palm grove, considered the largest in North Africa. This can be seen in one of the towns on the route, Agdz, a traditional stop on the caravan routes that now houses places of interest such as the Kasbah des Arts.
From here, the return trip to Marrakech will take us back to Ouarzazate and the Atlas Mountains, which we will now cross through the Ait Saoun pass, at about 1,600 meters above sea level. Arrival in Marrakech late in the day will mark the end of an intense and fascinating journey through the Moroccan desert. And our farewell, at the airport or at the place of your choice, will be full of thanks, best wishes for the future and a sincere ‘see you soon’.
The Cost Includes
- Transportation/Fuel: 3 days air-conditioned 4WD vehicle or minivan.
- Services of a qualified multilingual local guide / driver.
- Comprehensive sightseeing with guidance.
- 1 nights in well-recommended hotels/kasbahs/riads with Dinner & Breakfast
- 1 night in a Berber desert Nomadic luxury camp (private tent) with Dinner & Breakfast.
- 1 hour Camel ride (one camel per individual).
- Meals as stated
- Sand-boarding (free and optional -this activity is undertaken at your own risk-).
- Traditional Music live show in desert
The Cost Excludes
- International Airfare
- Visa Charges
- Your travel and medical insurance
- Personal Expenses such as shopping, laundry, etc
- Services not mentioned or not promised by agency
- Emergency expenses
Booking Policy for All Tours:
Booking Policy for All Tours
Our booking policy ensures a smooth and transparent process for all our customers. Please review the details below:
1. Reservation Process
Tours can be booked via our email, phone, or in person.
Bookings are confirmed upon receipt of a deposit or full payment.
2. Deposit Policy
A non-refundable deposit of 20–30% of the total tour cost is required at the time of booking.
The remaining balance is payable on the first day of the tour using Cash, Euro, Usd or Moroccan Dirham
3. Cancellation Policy
More than 30 days before the tour date: Full refund of the amount paid, excluding the non-refundable deposit.
Less than 15 days before the tour date: 50% refund of the total amount paid, excluding the deposit.
7 days or less before the tour date: No refund.
4. Changes to Bookings
Changes to your booking (e.g., date or group size) can be made up to 7 days before the tour, subject to availability.
Additional charges may apply for changes requested within 7 days of the tour date.
5. Payment Methods
PayPal.
Bank Transfer.
Cash (for remaining balance, if applicable).
7. Liability Disclaimer
While we ensure the safety and quality of our tours, we are not responsible for delays, cancellations, or losses caused by factors beyond our control (e.g., weather, strikes, or natural disasters).
FAQs
The standard Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour is typically 3 days and 2 nights, but other options like 2-day or extended 4-day tours are also available.
Key stops often include:
Camel trek and overnight stay in a Berber desert camp under the stars
Aït Benhaddou Kasbah (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert.
The stunning Dades Gorges or Todra Gorges.
Essential items include:
Personal toiletries, and a power bank.
Comfortable and breathable clothing for daytime.
Warm layers for the cold desert nights (especially in winter).
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
A scarf or turban for sand and wind protection.
Yes, camel rides are generally safe. The camels are well-trained, and guides are present to assist. However, if you have back or knee issues, let the tour operator know in advance, as alternatives (e.g., a 4×4 ride) may be available.
The best times are:
Fall (September to November): Comfortable temperatures.
Avoid the summer months (June to August) due to extreme heat.
Spring (March to May): Mild weather and blooming landscapes.
Most desert camps offer two types of accommodations:
- Standard camps: Basic tents with shared facilities.
- Luxury camps: Spacious tents with private bathrooms and extra amenities.
Make sure to confirm with your tour provider what type of camp is included.
Yes, we allow customization, such as private tours, extended durations, or tailored stops. Communicate your preferences when booking with us.
In rare cases of extreme weather (e.g., sandstorms), adjustments may be made to the itinerary for safety. Operators usually provide alternatives or reschedule.