4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
Start Point: Marrakech
End Point: Marrakech
Transport: Private
Accommodation: Hotel
Age range: All
Language: English
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Summary of 4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
This 4-day budget tour from Marrakech to Merzouga offers an incredible opportunity to explore the Erg Chebbi desert via Merzouga. Travel from Fes to Merzouga via the Atlas Mountains, with highlights including a camel ride, an overnight stay in a desert camp and watching the sunrise and sunset over the dunes – it’s an experience you’ll never forget!
Places You’ll See
- High Atlas Mountains
- Telouat Kasbah
- Ait Ben Haddou
- Draa Valley
- Merzouga Desert & Erg Chebbi
- Todra Gorges
- Dades Valley & Roses Valley
- Skoura Palm Groves & Ouarzazate
HIGHLIGHTS OF 4 DAYS DESERT TOUR FROM MARRAKECH TO MERZOUGA
- Traverse the scenic High Atlas Mountains and visit the historic Telouat Kasbah
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou
- Experience a camel trek and overnight stay in the Merzouga Desert
- Walk through the stunning Todra Gorges and admire its towering cliffs
- Visit the lush Draa Valley and the charming Skoura Palm Groves
Why Start This Trip from Marrakech?
Starting this trip in Marrakech provides an ideal gateway to Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural riches. One of Morocco’s most vibrant cities, Marrakech offers a fascinating contrast to the tranquil desert landscapes you’ll encounter on this trip. Its bustling souks, historic medinas and stunning palaces set the stage for the adventure ahead.
Marrakech is also strategically located near the High Atlas Mountains, making it the perfect starting point for your desert tour. You’ll quickly move from the lively atmosphere of the city to the tranquil beauty of the mountains, where you can enjoy breathtaking views, traditional Berber villages and the dramatic Tizi Ntichka pass. This gradual change of scenery allows you to fully appreciate Morocco’s diverse topography.
In addition, starting from Marrakech provides easy access to essential services and transport. Whether you’re arriving by plane, train or bus, Marrakech is well connected, making it convenient for travellers to begin their journey through the Moroccan desert. This accessibility ensures a seamless start to your 4-day Marrakech to Merzouga adventure, allowing you to focus on the incredible experiences that await you.
Day by Day Itinerary
4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga full itinerary
Get ready to see Morocco in a whole new way with our 4-day tour back to Marrakesh via the incredible Merzouga desert!
Planning a trip to Morocco is one of the most exciting things you can do. With so many different cultural identities, landscapes, and histories, there’s so much to see in such a short time. And that’s where we come in! We’ll show you how to get the full Moroccan experience in just 4 days.
Day 1: Marrakesh to Ouarzazate via High Atlas, Telouat Kasbah, Ait Ben Haddou and Ounila Valley
Get ready for an incredible first day! Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
On the first day of your 4-day journey from Marrakesh to the magical Merzouga desert, our driver/guide will pick you up from your accommodation in Marrakesh at 8:30 in the morning in a private 4×4 vehicle or Mercedes mini van (for a big group). You’ll be on your way to the incredible four-day Morocco desert tour from Marrakesh to Merzouga Sahara, with stops in Ouarzazate and the breathtaking High Atlas mountains.
On our way, we’ll have the incredible opportunity to see Tizi Ntichka, the highest point in our country at 2,260m! We’ll be treated to some truly breathtaking views along the way, with plenty of photo opportunities to capture the beauty of the Berber villages. Then we´ll take a small road that goes to the incredible Telouat Kasbah (Telouat Kasbah was the palace for the Pasha of Marrakech Thami El Glaoui and his family).
After visiting the incredible kasbah, you’ll have free time to enjoy delicious, traditional food in the town or we’ll head to the next amazing site of Ait Ben Haddou through the stunning Ounila valley. Here, you can see quaint Berber villages and families living in beautiful adobe houses nestled in the mountains. Then, we’ll reach the magnificent ksar (fortified village) of Ait Ben Haddou, where we’ll explore the famous old kasbah (declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986).
This incredible location has been used as a backdrop for many famous films, including Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Lawrence of Arabia, Asterix, The Mummy, The Jewel of the Nile, and Sahara with Penélope Cruz! After visiting the incredible kasbah, we’ll continue on our journey to Ouarzazate, also known as “The Gate of the Desert”! Then it’s off to the hotel for a delicious dinner, where we’ll be spending the night!
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
Day 2: Ouarzazate - Draa Valley - Nkob - Merzouga Desert - Camel Ride and Night in a Berber Tent
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel or riad in Ouarzazate, we’re off on the second day of our amazing four-day desert trip from Marrakesh to Merzouga! We’re off to the absolutely stunning Draa Valley, home to one of Morocco’s longest rivers! We’ll make some stops along the way to capture the incredible beauty of ancient kasbahs, charming Berber villages, and the lush green palm groves of the valley. Then, enjoy a leisurely lunch in either Nkob or Alnif, depending on when hunger strikes!
After that, we continue our journey to the absolutely breathtaking Merzouga dunes, which are known as the “Desert of Powdery Golden Dunes” – and they really are as incredible as they sound! Now for the really fun part! We swap our motorised transport for a camel ride, venturing deep into the heart of the Erg Chebbi desert. Upon arrival at the camp, we settle into traditional tents made of camel hair, just like those used by nomadic Berber families. The evening includes a delicious dinner and an overnight stay in a Berber tent under the magnificent starry sky, accompanied by a performance of Berber drums.
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
Day 3: Merzouga Desert - Rissani Market - Erfoud Fossils - Todra Gorges - Dades Valley
On the third day of this incredible four-day Sahara tour from Marrakesh to Merzouga, your camel guide will wake you up bright and early for a truly unforgettable “date with the sunrise”! You’ll be blown away by the most spectacular sunrise you’ve ever seen from the top of a dune near the camp – it’s an experience you absolutely have to have! After taking in this awe-inspiring natural wonder, return to the camp for a hearty breakfast and a refreshing shower before embarking on a camel ride back to the Merzouga area.
Next stop: Rissani! We’re off to explore the vibrant marketplace (market days: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday). Next, we’re off to Erfoud, where you can explore the manufacturers of fossilised marble, showcasing the area’s incredible geological richness. And now for something truly spectacular! We’re continuing through Touroug and Tinjdad, and we’re about to arrive at one of the High Atlas mountains’ absolute highlights: the Todra Gorges. The river has carved out absolutely magnificent cliff-sided canyons and caves, creating a truly stunning natural setting that is absolutely popular among climbers. You’ll absolutely love a short walk through the gorges – it’s the perfect way to appreciate their beauty!
In the afternoon, we head to the incredible Boumalne Dades Valley, also known as the Valley of Figs. We’ll pass through the awe-inspiring Dades Gorges and stop at the “Monkey Fingers” rock formations, a truly unique and breathtaking natural wonder. The day ends on a high note with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay at the incredible Dades Gorges.
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
Day 4: Dades Valley - Roses Valley - Skoura Palm Groves - High Atlas Mountains - Marrakech
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel or riad, the final day of your incredible 4-day desert trip from Marrakesh to Merzouga begins with an exciting visit to a strategic lookout in the mountains. From this incredible vantage point, you’ll be blown away by the numerous kasbahs and their unique, breathtaking scenery. Next, we’re off to the Rose Valley (Kalaa Mgouna), the capital of roses in Morocco! Get ready to experience the renowned fragrant rose products that have made this place famous!
We then continue along the incredible “One Thousand Kasbahs Road,” making several stops to take in the absolutely stunning views before reaching the vast and beautiful Skoura palm grove. Then comes the highlight of the day! Our route takes us to Ouarzazate, where we visit the incredible Kasbah of Taourirt, the former residence of the Glaoui or Marrakech Pasha, the regional representative of the king. If you’re interested, we can also explore the amazing cinema studios and the incredible cinema museum, which celebrates Ouarzazate’s role in the film industry.
Then it’s off to enjoy lunch in the town of Ouarzazate before we start our return journey to Marrakesh, crossing the Tizi Ntichka mountain pass! And along the way, we’ll stop for photos, leaving behind the lunar landscapes for a scene bursting with colour! We’re excited to say that we’ll be arriving in Marrakesh around 6 pm! You’ll then be transferred to your hotel, which will mark the end of our amazing 4-day Sahara desert tour from Marrakesh to Merzouga.
Accomodation: Riad/ Hotel/Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast – Dinner
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What makes the 4-Day Desert Trip: Marrakech to Merzouga an adventure?
This 4-day journey from Marrakech to the Merzouga Desert is a real adventure because it takes you through some of Morocco‘s most diverse and stunning landscapes. From the moment you leave the bustling city of Marrakech, you are immediately transported into the dramatic scenery of the High Atlas Mountains. The winding roads, steep passes like Tizi Ntichka, and panoramic views make for an exhilarating start to the trip. As you traverse these ancient mountains, you’ll encounter small Berber villages perched on hillsides, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this rugged region.
The adventure continues as you descend from the mountains into the desert landscape, where the scenery changes drastically. One of the highlights is the journey through the Draa Valley, a lush oasis that contrasts starkly with the surrounding arid terrain. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore ancient kasbahs and see the intricate irrigation systems that have supported life in this region for centuries. The drive to Merzouga itself is an adventure, with each turn revealing a new facet of Morocco‘s natural beauty, from rocky plateaus to sweeping sand dunes.
Arriving in the Merzouga Desert is like stepping into another world. The vast expanse of the Erg Chebbi dunes, with their golden, ever-shifting sands, is both awe-inspiring and humbling. Riding a camel through this surreal landscape is a quintessential Moroccan adventure, providing a sense of timelessness and a connection to the ancient nomadic way of life. As you journey deeper into the desert, the sense of isolation and tranquility grows, culminating in an unforgettable night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp. The simplicity of desert life and the clear, star-filled sky create a profound sense of adventure and exploration.
What makes this trip truly adventurous is not just the landscapes but the experiences and interactions along the way. Each stop offers an opportunity to delve into Morocco‘s rich culture, whether it’s exploring the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, shopping for spices and goods at the vibrant Rissani market, or learning about the traditional Berber lifestyle in the heart of the desert. The adventure is as much about the people you meet and the stories you hear as it is about the places you visit.
Lastly, the journey back to Marrakech through the scenic routes of the High Atlas Mountains and the picturesque Dades Valley offers a perfect conclusion to this adventure. It’s a reminder of the varied and breathtaking beauty of Morocco, from rugged mountains to serene oases and vast deserts. This trip is a real adventure because it’s not just about seeing Morocco; it’s about experiencing the country in all its raw, natural beauty and cultural richness, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
What's Included
The 4 day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga include:
- Pick up from your accommodation and drop-off
- Car + Fuel
- Camel Trek (Camel per person)
- Dinner & Breakfast
What's not Included
The 4 day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga does not include:
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Flights Tickets
- Entrance to monuments
- All accommodations are subject to change
Road map of 4-Day Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
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4 days from Marrakech to Merzouga Sightseeings
High Atlas Mountains
The High Atlas Mountains are the highest mountain range in North Africa, offering dramatic scenery with winding roads, traditional Berber villages, and lush valleys. Tizi Ntichka, at 2,260 meters, is the highest pass in Morocco, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Telouat Kasbah
Once the palace of the Pasha of Marrakech, Thami El Glaoui, Telouat Kasbah stands as a testament to Morocco’s rich history. The kasbah showcases intricate stucco work, colorful tiles, and a blend of Berber and Andalusian architecture, making it a fascinating historical site.
Ait Ben Haddou
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, Ait Ben Haddou is a fortified village (ksar) made of clay and mud-brick structures. It has served as a backdrop for many famous films and TV series, including “Gladiator,” “Game of Thrones,” and “The Mummy.” Walking through its narrow alleys offers a glimpse into Morocco’s ancient architecture and way of life.
Draa Valley
The Draa Valley is known for its lush palm groves and traditional kasbahs lining the valley floor. As one of Morocco’s longest rivers runs through this valley, it creates a fertile landscape amidst the desert, dotted with Berber villages and ancient trading routes.
Merzouga Desert & Erg Chebbi
Merzouga is the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes, renowned for their towering, golden sands that shift with the wind. A camel trek into the heart of the desert offers an authentic experience, ending with a night in a traditional Berber camp under a blanket of stars.
Todra Gorges
The Todra Gorges are a series of limestone river canyons in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains. Towering up to 300 meters high, these cliffs provide a breathtaking setting, popular with hikers and rock climbers. A walk through the narrow passage offers stunning views of the rock formations and the river that flows through them.
Dades Valley & Roses Valley
The Dades Valley, also known as the Valley of Figs, is famous for its “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and scenic drive. Meanwhile, the nearby Roses Valley (Kalaa Mgouna) is known for its annual Rose Festival and the production of rose water and beauty products.
Skoura Palm Groves & Ouarzazate
The Skoura Oasis is an extensive palm grove with numerous kasbahs hidden among the trees, offering a lush retreat amidst the arid landscape. Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” is home to the Kasbah Taourirt and film studios where numerous movies have been shot.
Frequently Asked Questions - 4 days from Marrakech to Merzouga
How long is the drive from Marrakech to Zagora?
The drive from Marrakech to Zagora typically takes about 6 to 7 hours, covering approximately 350 km (217 miles). The journey includes crossing the stunning Tizi n’Tichka pass through the Atlas Mountains and offers plenty of scenic stops along the way.
What can I expect to see during the trip?
During the trip, you will pass through the scenic Atlas Mountains, visit the famous Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and experience the vast Draa Valley with its stunning palm groves. In Zagora, you can embark on a camel trek and enjoy a night in a desert camp under the stars.
Is the trip suitable for children and families?
Yes, the trip is suitable for families and children. The camel ride in the Zagora desert and the overnight stay in a desert camp can be a fun and memorable experience for kids. However, the long drive may require some breaks for younger children, so plan accordingly.
What should I pack for the trip?
For the trip, pack comfortable clothing for warm days and cooler evenings, as temperatures can drop in the desert. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. If you’re staying overnight in the desert, a light jacket or sweater is recommended for the evening. Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and sights.
Is there a lot of walking or hiking involved?
The trip generally involves moderate walking, especially when exploring Aït Benhaddou and during the camel trek. No strenuous hiking is required, but comfortable shoes are recommended. If you’re not keen on walking, the trip can be adjusted with more driving and fewer walking stops. hhe