4-Day Marrakech Desert Tour to Merzouga & Back

This itinerary details a captivating 4-day trip from Marrakech that takes you deep into the Sahara desert and returns you to the starting point.

Day 1: Marrakech- Dades Valley

We begin our journey in Marrakech, driving towards Ouarzazate via the dramatic Tizi-N-Tichka pass (2260m) in the High Atlas Mountains. Along the winding road, you will enjoy the beautiful Berber villages and mountain landscapes. Our first major stop is the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Kasbah in Morocco, which was once home to many members of the Glaoui family. After lunch at the Kasbah, we continue through Ouarzazate, often called "the Hollywood of Africa," and follow the road of the thousand Kasbahs, admiring the fascinating sand castles and the city of Kalaat Mgouna (the rose city). We will then proceed to our hotel for the night, nestled in the heart of the Dades Gorge.

Day 2: Dades Gorge- Merzouga Desert

After breakfast, we drive back through the valley to view the amazing rock formation known as "the monkey toes" and the historic 19th-century Kasbah of Ait Yul. Leaving the Dades Valley, we head towards Tinghir and the Todra Valley, enjoying panoramic views of the old mud Berber villages. Upon reaching the Todra Gorge, we'll walk beneath the 300m high red cliff, a popular spot for rock climbers. Our trip continues to Erfoud and Rissani for lunch. Finally, we arrive in the desert village of Merzouga, where you will be welcomed with a glass of mint tea before checking into your hotel.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert Excursion

This day is dedicated to exploring the desert and the surrounding villages. We suggest waking early to catch the stunning sunrise over the dunes near the camp, where you can appreciate the morning breeze and the changing colors of the vast sea of sand.

Next, you will ride your camel from the camp back to Merzouga village for a Berber breakfast and a relaxing shower. We then set out to discover the area, including the colossal Erg Chebbi dunes, which reach heights of up to 250 meters. We will drive to Khamlia village, contemplating the nomadic Berber settlements along the way and stopping to learn about their traditions. The people of Khamlia originate from Mali and Sudan; here, you'll be welcomed with mint tea and entertained with their spiritual Gnawa music. Afterwards, we will return to your accommodation to relax and enjoy your final afternoon near the desert. Overnight stay will be in the Merzouga area.

Day 4: Merzouga Desert -Marrakech

After an early breakfast, we begin the long drive back to Marrakech. We will follow a different route or retrace our steps through the Draa Valley and over the High Atlas Mountains, making stops for lunch and rest along the way. Your 4-day desert adventure will conclude with your arrival back in Marrakech in the evening.