3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert
- Marrakech
Duration
3 Days
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum Age
0
3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
The 3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour is one of the most popular Morocco desert tours, perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the magic of the Sahara. Starting in Marrakech, you will cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass and visit the UNESCO Kasbah Aït Ben Haddou, before continuing through Ouarzazate and the stunning Dades Valley.
In Merzouga, you’ll enjoy a camel trek at sunset across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes and spend the night in a Berber desert camp under the stars. On the return journey, the route passes through spectacular desert landscapes, valleys, and Berber villages before arriving back in Marrakech.
This short but complete desert trip is ideal for couples, families, and small groups who want to combine adventure, culture, and breathtaking nature.
🗓️ 3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour – Itinerary
Your adventure begins with an early departure from Marrakech, heading south through the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260 m). Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Berber villages, terraced valleys, and winding roads.
The first major stop is the famous Kasbah Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic ksars in Morocco. After a guided visit and lunch, continue to Ouarzazate, also called the “Hollywood of Africa,” where many international films and TV series (Gladiator, Game of Thrones) have been shot.
From Ouarzazate, the journey follows the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs towards the lush Dades Valley, with its dramatic rock formations and green oasis. Dinner and overnight stay in a traditional riad or hotel in the valley.
After breakfast, the tour continues through the Dades Valley, passing small Berber villages and kasbahs. The road leads to the spectacular Todra Gorge, a canyon with towering limestone cliffs reaching up to 300 meters. There will be time to walk and take photos in this breathtaking natural setting.
In the afternoon, travel through Erfoud, known for its fossils and dates, before reaching the village of Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. Here begins the highlight of the trip: a camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes. Guided by local Berbers, you’ll ride into the desert as the sun sets, painting the dunes in golden and red tones.
Arrive at a Berber desert camp, where you will enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, music around the campfire, and a magical night under a sky full of stars. Overnight in comfortable Berber tents (standard or luxury available).
Wake up early to witness the unforgettable sunrise over the dunes of Merzouga. After breakfast at the camp, return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4. The return journey passes through desert landscapes and the Draa Valley, Morocco’s largest palm grove, dotted with kasbahs and oases.
Stop in Ouarzazate for lunch or a short break before crossing the High Atlas Mountains once again. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening, where your 3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour comes to an end with drop-off at your riad or hotel.
ℹ️ Useful Information for the 3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
- Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
- Start / End: Marrakech – round trip
- Transportation: Private 4×4 vehicle or air-conditioned minibus
- Accommodation: Riads/hotels in the valleys and Berber desert camp (standard or luxury)
- Guides: Professional driver and local English-speaking guides
- Included: Private transfers, camel trekking, accommodations, dinners in the desert and valleys, breakfasts
- Recommended Age: Suitable for all ages; ideal for couples and groups
- What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, closed shoes, jacket for cool desert nights, and a camera
⭐ Reasons to Choose This 3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
- ✅ Ideal short trip to the Sahara Desert from Marrakech
- ✅ Cross the scenic High Atlas Mountains
- ✅ Visit the UNESCO Kasbah Aït Ben Haddou
- ✅ Explore the spectacular Dades Valley and Todra Gorge
- ✅ Ride camels at sunset across the Erg Chebbi dunes
- ✅ Spend a magical night in a Berber desert camp under the stars
- ✅ Private transport, authentic accommodations, and expert local guides
🌍 More Information & Related Tours
To learn more about the Imperial Cities of Morocco, you can visit this official reference.
- Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Trip – 5 Days
- 15 Days Morocco Tour from Tangier
- 8 Days Morocco Tour – Imperial Cities
