Overview
Experience the enchantment of Morocco on a shared 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, where culture, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes come together. Journey through the picturesque High Atlas Mountains, visit the historic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, and marvel at the natural wonders of the Dades Valley and Todra Gorges. Immerse yourself in the Sahara Desert with a camel trek across vast sand dunes, and enjoy an unforgettable night in a traditional Berber camp under a starlit sky. This budget-friendly tour provides an authentic opportunity to discover Morocco’s highlights, fostering lasting memories and connections with fellow travelers on an extraordinary desert adventure.
Highlights
- Drive through the scenic High Atlas Mountains and Tizi n'Tichka pass.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah.
- Explore the dramatic landscapes of Dades and Todra Gorges.
- Ride camels at sunset across the Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Sleep under the stars in a traditional Berber desert camp.
- Watch the sunrise over the Sahara Desert.
Itinerary
Your 3-Day Shared Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga kicks off with an early morning departure from Marrakech, taking you through the stunning High Atlas Mountains. The drive along the Tizi n’Tichka pass presents breathtaking views of valleys and remote Berber villages nestled in the mountains. Our first significant stop is the historic ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its earthen architecture and its appearances in iconic films such as “Gladiator” and “Lawrence of Arabia.” Here, you’ll have the opportunity to wander through the winding streets and possibly meet a local family.
Following a traditional Moroccan lunch, we proceed to the Dades Gorge, passing through the charming Skoura oasis, celebrated for its lush palm groves and ancient Kasbahs. As we near the Dades Valley, the scenery transforms into striking rock formations and deep gorges. You'll check in to your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy dinner amidst the stunning backdrop of the valley.
After breakfast, we embarked on our journey to the Todra Gorge, one of Morocco's stunning natural attractions. This region is renowned for its impressive cliffs that soar up to 300 meters high. You'll have the opportunity to stroll through the gorge, soak in the breathtaking views, and snap some amazing photos.
Next, we made our way to the Sahara Desert, passing through the towns of Tinjdad and Erfoud, the latter famous for its fossils and as the gateway to the desert. Arriving in Merzouga in the late afternoon, you'll get ready for the day's highlight: a camel trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. As you ride your camel across the shifting sands, the mesmerizing colors of the dunes at sunset will captivate you.
Your journey will lead you to a traditional Berber camp, where you'll be greeted with warm hospitality. Savor a delicious Moroccan dinner, followed by an evening of music around the campfire. As the night unfolds, unwind beneath the starry sky, far removed from the hustle and bustle of civilization.
Awaken early to experience one of the desert's most breathtaking views: the sunrise over the Sahara. As the light gradually illuminates the dunes, it casts a warm golden glow, creating an ideal backdrop for stunning photographs and a tranquil beginning to your day.
After enjoying breakfast at the camp, we will embark on our journey back to Marrakech. Our route will take us through the Draa Valley, Morocco's longest river valley, adorned with date palms and historic Kasbahs. We will pause in Ouarzazate, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Sahara," renowned for its film studios and the impressive Kasbah Taourirt. Savor a leisurely lunch before we continue our drive over the majestic High Atlas Mountains, arriving back in Marrakech by early evening.
This three-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or a central location in Marrakech, leaving you with cherished memories of your Moroccan desert adventure.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pickup from Marrakech, travel in an A/C minibus (up to 17 passengers).
- One night in Dades Valley with dinner and breakfast.
- Sunset and sunrise camel treks in Erg Chebbi.
- Night in a comfortable Sahara desert camp.
- Breakfast, shower, and pool access at the Merzouga lodge.
The Cost Excludes
- Beverages and lunches
- Optional local guide in Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou - €3 per person.
- Personal expenses.
FAQs
Merzouga is located 560 kilometers (348 miles) from Marrakech, and the drive takes approximately 9 to 10 hours. The journey offers breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains, passing through picturesque Berber villages, lush valleys, and historical kasbahs, making it a scenic adventure before reaching the Sahara Desert.
Yes, the price for the 3-day shared desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is fixed at 95 Euros per person. This price includes transportation, accommodation, camel rides, dinners, and breakfasts. There are no additional costs if fewer people join the tour, ensuring a budget-friendly option for all travelers.
Absolutely! Merzouga is a highlight for anyone visiting Morocco, offering the iconic Sahara desert experience. From riding camels at sunset to stargazing under clear desert skies, it’s an adventure that captivates every traveler. You’ll stay in a traditional desert camp nestled in the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes, making this tour an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Sahara.
Yes, both accommodations on the tour offer upgrade options. The first-night stay at the hotel in Dades Valley is private, and you can upgrade to an air-conditioned room for an additional 10 Euros per person. For the desert camp in Erg Chebbi, you can choose to upgrade to a deluxe camp featuring private ensuite bathrooms and showers for a more luxurious desert experience.
Yes, the desert camp tents in Erg Chebbi are private, even on the shared 3-day Marrakech desert tour. You’ll have a private tent equipped with comfortable bedding to ensure a restful night’s sleep in the heart of the Sahara.
During the shared desert tour, you will stay at a private hotel in Dades Valley on the first night. The standard room is comfortable, but if you’d like to upgrade to a more luxurious air-conditioned room, it is available for an additional 10 Euros per person.
Map
Know Before You Go
When booking your tour, kindly let us know about any dietary preferences or specific requirements you may have, such as vegetarian or vegan options. This helps us tailor meals to suit your needs throughout the journey.
- Our experienced guides carefully choose restaurants that are renowned for serving fresh, high-quality meals to ensure your comfort and well-being during the trip. If you have a preferred restaurant in mind, feel free to let your guide know—they will be happy to accommodate your request. Your satisfaction, especially when it comes to dining, is a top priority for us.
- Although this is primarily a private experience, you also have the option to join others by selecting our shared 3 days desert tour from Marrakech.
- You also have the flexibility to drive directly to the Merzouga desert on the first day. This option allows you to dedicate the second day entirely to exploring Merzouga, following the full itinerary outlined in the 3 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.
- Please keep in mind that the third day includes a long drive. If you’d prefer a more relaxed pace, consider choosing the 4 days Marrakech desert tour, which offers more time and less travel per day.
- For a richer experience, we highly recommend spending a full day in Merzouga. This is especially ideal if you choose the 4 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga or the 5 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.
- This 3 days Marrakech desert tour can also conclude in Fes by selecting our Marrakech to Fes desert tour. Alternatively, you can begin in Fes and finish in Marrakech with the Fes to Marrakech desert tour.
- While it’s possible to experience the desert in just two days by choosing our Marrakech desert tours 2 days, please note that we do not recommend this option due to the extensive driving involved.
