Tour Description
Journey from the vibrant streets of Marrakech into the tranquil expanse of the Sahara Desert on this unforgettable 4-day adventure to Merzouga. Cross the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains, explore ancient kasbahs, wander through lush valleys, and ride camels into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
This extended itinerary allows for a more relaxed pace — giving you time to explore local Berber culture, visit film studios in Ouarzazate, and truly experience Morocco's diverse landscapes. Whether you're looking for cultural immersion, desert serenity, or Instagram-perfect views — this tour has it all.
Itinerary
Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Depart early from Marrakech via the scenic Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2260m) across the High Atlas Mountains. Stop at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage ksar famous for its role in many films (Gladiator, Game of Thrones). Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa," before heading to Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses. Arrive in the stunning Dades Valley for dinner and overnight stay in a local riad or hotel.
Meals: Dinner & Breakfast.
Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, travel through the Tinghir Oasis to reach the spectacular Todra Gorges, a canyon with towering red cliffs. Continue toward Erfoud, famous for fossils and date palms, and finally reach Merzouga, gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy a camel trek across the dunes to your desert camp, where you'll witness a breathtaking sunset, enjoy a traditional dinner, and relax by a Berber drum circle under the starry sky.
Overnight: Desert camp (standard or luxury).
Meals: Dinner & Breakfast.
Merzouga – Rissani – Alnif – Ouarzazate
Wake early to watch the sunrise over the dunes — one of the most magical moments of the trip. After breakfast, return by camel or 4x4 and visit Rissani, the historical town once known for its caravan trade routes. Continue through Alnif and Tazzarine, following part of the old Paris-Dakar rally route. Arrive in Ouarzazate by evening.
Overnight: Hotel or riad in Ouarzazate.
Meals: Dinner & Breakfast.
Ouarzazate – High Atlas – Marrakech
After breakfast, visit the Taourirt Kasbah and optional film studios before driving back to Marrakech via the High Atlas Mountains. Enjoy scenic stops along the way and arrive in Marrakech by evening — marking the end of your desert adventure.
Meals: Breakfast.
What's Included
Included
- Pick-up and drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation
- Comfortable A/C vehicle (private or small group)
- Professional English/French/Spanish-speaking driver-guide
- 3 nights' accommodation (Dades Valley, Merzouga camp, Ouarzazate)
- Camel ride in Merzouga (sunset & sunrise)
- Dinner and breakfast during the tour
- Sandboarding at the camp (optional, free)
- Bottled water in vehicle
Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees to monuments or kasbahs
- Optional activities (quad biking, dune buggy, etc.)
- Tips for driver and local guides
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Additional Details
Departure Time
7:30 AM from Marrakech
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Group Size
Private & small group options
Accommodation
Riads, hotels & desert camps
Best Season
March–May & September–November
Languages
English, French, Spanish, Arabic
Frequently Asked Questions
About 1 hour each way, depending on your camp's location within the dunes.
Yes, travelers who prefer not to ride camels can take a 4x4 to the camp.
Yes — upgrade options include private tents, ensuite bathrooms, electricity, and Wi-Fi.
Absolutely — we can customize the experience for comfort and safety.
Yes, please inform us in advance to arrange special meals.
Yes — we can modify the itinerary to finish in Fes with an additional route through Errachidia or Midelt.