4 Days from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Your adventure begins early in the morning as we depart from your hotel or riad in Marrakech. We cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), with several photo stops to admire panoramic views of the Berber villages and mountain landscapes.

Our first major stop is at the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most famous historical landmarks. This ancient fortified village has served as the backdrop for countless Hollywood movies, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, we continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” where you can visit the Atlas Film Studios or the Taourirt Kasbah. We then travel through Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses, famous for its fragrant rose products, before arriving at the Dades Valley.

Enjoy dinner and overnight in a beautiful riad or hotel overlooking the Dades Gorges.

🏠 Overnight: Dades Valley
🍽️ Meals: Dinner included

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi)

After breakfast, we drive along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, a breathtaking route lined with ancient fortresses and Berber villages. Our journey leads us to the Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon with towering limestone cliffs up to 300 meters high. Here, you can enjoy a short walk through the gorge, take photos, or simply appreciate the natural beauty.

We continue through Tinjdad and Erfoud, the fossil capital of Morocco, before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes.

Upon arrival, your camel trekking adventure begins. Ride through the mesmerizing dunes as the sun sets, painting the desert in hues of gold and orange. At your luxury desert camp, you’ll be greeted with mint tea and a warm welcome. After a delicious Moroccan dinner, enjoy Berber drumming and songs around the campfire under a canopy of stars.

🏠 Overnight: Luxury Desert Camp in Merzouga
🍽️ Meals: Dinner & Breakfast included

Day 3: Explore Merzouga and Nomad Villages

This day is entirely dedicated to exploring the magical surroundings of Merzouga Desert and its rich culture. After breakfast at the camp, you can choose to ride camels or return by 4×4 to the village.

We begin our desert excursion around the Erg Chebbi dunes, visiting Khamlia village, home to the Gnawa musicians originally from Sub-Saharan Africa. You’ll enjoy a live performance of traditional Gnawa music and learn about their unique culture.

Next, we visit a Berber nomad family living in the desert, offering a rare glimpse into their traditional lifestyle. Continue toward the Mifis mines, the Merzouga oasis, and the Hassilabied palm groves.

In the afternoon, you can relax at your hotel or desert camp, watch the sunset over the dunes, or take an optional quad or buggy ride for an adrenaline-filled adventure.

🏠 Overnight: Second night in Merzouga Desert (Hotel or Camp)
🍽️ Meals: Dinner & Breakfast included

Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate – Marrakech

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, one of the most magical moments of the desert. After breakfast, we begin our return journey to Marrakech.

We pass through Rissani, the ancient capital of the Alaouite dynasty and home to a traditional Moroccan market. Then, we drive through Alnif and Nkob, with panoramic views of the Draa Valley, famous for its lush palm groves and kasbahs.

We continue through Ouarzazate and the High Atlas Mountains, arriving in Marrakech by evening, where your driver will drop you off at your accommodation — marking the end of your 4 days from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert with 2 nights in Merzouga.

End of Tour

Highlights of the 4 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Tour (2 Nights in Merzouga)

• Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

• Visit the UNESCO Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou

• Explore the Dades Valley and Todra Gorges

• Enjoy a camel trek and sunset over Erg Chebbi dunes

• Spend 2 nights in the Merzouga Desert (luxury camp and hotel)

• Meet Berber nomads and experience local desert life

• Discover Gnawa music and traditional culture in Khamlia

• Visit Rissani Market and drive through the Draa Valley

What’s Included

• Pick up and drop off from your Marrakech accommodation

• Private transportation in an air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan

• English/French/Spanish-speaking driver-guide

• 1 night in Dades Valley (hotel or riad)

• 2 nights in Merzouga Desert (camp and/or hotel)

• Camel trekking experience in Erg Chebbi dunes

• All dinners and breakfasts as per itinerary

• Sandboarding and Berber music around campfire

What’s Not Included

• Lunches and drinks

• Entrance fees (optional visits)

• Personal expenses and tips