3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
3-day
Total duration
Marrakech
Starting Point
start from: €250
Per Persone
Private Or Shared
Group Type
Marrakech to Merzouga 3 day desert tour
Enjoy an exciting 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert, from the bustling Marrakech city to the Sahara’s very heart. The tour starts in the morning as you drive through the High Atlas Mountains, stopping at the hidden gem of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next we will visit Atlas studios in Ouarzazate where movies such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and The Mummy were filmed. Along the way, immerse yourself in the fragrant Rose Valley, and the stunning Dades Valley, while learning about the local customs.
Explore the various Berber villages nestled within the Anti-Atlas Mountains. Indulge in the breath taking atmosphere of Todra Gorges. The highlight of the tour is the Merzouga Desert. Upon arriving at the golden dunes, embark on a camel ride to witness the magical sunset over the sands.
After these unforgettable Sahara Desert experiences, return to Marrakech via a different route through scenic Draa Valley and Agdz, which makes your 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert even more diverse and full of new remarkable sights.
Qué llevar
- glasses
- Suncream
- Running Shoes (recommended)
- Camera
- A Scarf (Chèche)
- Comfortable Clothing
Highlights of 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
- Enjoy a scenic drive across the Tizi n'Tichka pass, the highest mountain road in North Africa (2,260m), and take in panoramic views of the valleys and traditional Berber villages.
- Explore the spectacular mud-brick walls of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous as the backdrop for iconic films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
- Discover the legendary Atlas Film Studios and the historic Kasbah Taourirt in Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa."
- Discover artisanal products in the fragrant Rose Valley, then drive through the breathtaking Dades Valley to admire the Dades Gorges and "Monkey Fingers" mountains.
- Walk through the spectacular Todra Gorges, a massive limestone canyon with towering vertical cliffs (300m), and take in the lush green views of the Tinghir palm oasis.
- Experience the magic of the Sahara with a camel ride over the golden Erg Chebbi dunes, witness spectacular sunsets and sunrises, and rest in a traditional desert tent.
- Visit the Drâa Valley, the longest valley in Morocco filled with endless palm trees, and enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning Anti-Atlas mountains on your way back to Marrakech.
Description of 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
Marrakech - High Atlas - Ait Ben Haddou - Ouarzazate - Rose Valley - Dades Gorges (Approx. 6 hours 30 mins drive / 364 km)
In the morning, you will meet your driver to begin your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. We will start by driving up into the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the famous Tizi n’Tichka pass at an elevation of 2,260 meters. Along the way, we will make several panoramic stops, giving you the perfect opportunity to take stunning pictures and learn about the local way of life.
Next, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou. On a walking tour of this ancient mud-brick village, you’ll discover its architecture and see where blockbusters like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones were filmed. Afterward, we head to Ouarzazate—the “Hollywood of Africa.” Here, you can take an optional guided tour of the Atlas Studios (8 euros) and visit the historic Kasbah Taourirt in the city center.
Continuing our journey, we will drive along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through the beautiful Skoura Valley and the Valley of Roses. We will stop at a local cooperative so you can learn about the region’s traditional rose production. Finally, we will drive through the scenic Dades Valley to reach your Riad, where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful night.
Dades Gorges - Todra Gorges - Erfoud - Merzouga Sahara (Approx. 4 hours 30 mins drive / 265 km)
After checking out of your Riad, the second day of your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga begins with an exploration of the Dades Valley. We will admire the unique “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and take in the views of the famous “Tissdrine” zigzag road. Next, we will travel to the Todra Valley, stopping at a panoramic viewpoint to overlook the lush river lined with endless date palm trees. You will then have time to enjoy a peaceful walk through the towering Todra Gorges, strolling right alongside the crystal-clear spring water.
Leaving the dramatic gorges behind, our journey continues toward the Sahara Desert. We will pass through charming local villages like Tinjdad before making a stop in Erfoud, known as the “Capital of Fossils.” Here, you will have the chance to visit a local workshop to discover the region’s fascinating fossilized marble and learn about how these ancient pieces are carefully crafted.
Finally, you will arrive at the edge of the magnificent Sahara Desert. You will embark on a memorable camel ride, trekking across the golden dunes just in time to witness a breathtaking sunset. Afterward, your camels will bring you to your luxury desert camp. You will spend an unforgettable evening enjoying a delicious traditional dinner, relaxing around a warm campfire, and falling asleep under a vast, star-filled sky.
Merzouga - Rissani - Draa Valley - Agdz - Marrakech (Approx. 8 hours 44 mins drive / 560 km)
After breakfast at your desert camp, we begin the journey back to Marrakech. Our first stop is Rissani, a town known for its large traditional market. From here, we will drive through desert landscapes dotted with acacia trees, passing through the towns of Alnif and Nkob.
Next, we enter the Draa Valley, formed by the longest river in Morocco. This area is known for its palm groves and date production. We will stop to learn about the local dates, with the option to purchase some if you like. Before continuing, we will pause in Agdz for a panoramic view over the valley’s thousands of palm trees.
In the afternoon, we will drive through Ouarzazate and cross the High Atlas Mountains. As your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga comes to an end, your driver will drop you off at your accommodation in Marrakech or the closest accessible point to your Riad in the Medina.
Day 1
Marrakech - High Atlas - Ait Ben Haddou - Ouarzazate - Rose Valley - Dades Gorges (Approx. 6 hours 30 mins drive / 364 km)
In the morning, you will meet your driver to begin your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. We will start by driving up into the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the famous Tizi n’Tichka pass at an elevation of 2,260 meters. Along the way, we will make several panoramic stops, giving you the perfect opportunity to take stunning pictures and learn about the local way of life.
Next, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou. On a walking tour of this ancient mud-brick village, you’ll discover its architecture and see where blockbusters like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones were filmed. Afterward, we head to Ouarzazate—the “Hollywood of Africa.” Here, you can take an optional guided tour of the Atlas Studios (8 euros) and visit the historic Kasbah Taourirt in the city center.
Continuing our journey, we will drive along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through the beautiful Skoura Valley and the Valley of Roses. We will stop at a local cooperative so you can learn about the region’s traditional rose production. Finally, we will drive through the scenic Dades Valley to reach your Riad, where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful night.
Day 2
Dades Gorges - Todra Gorges - Erfoud - Merzouga Sahara (Approx. 4 hours 30 mins drive / 265 km)
After checking out of your Riad, the second day of your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga begins with an exploration of the Dades Valley. We will admire the unique “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and take in the views of the famous “Tissdrine” zigzag road. Next, we will travel to the Todra Valley, stopping at a panoramic viewpoint to overlook the lush river lined with endless date palm trees. You will then have time to enjoy a peaceful walk through the towering Todra Gorges, strolling right alongside the crystal-clear spring water.
Leaving the dramatic gorges behind, our journey continues toward the Sahara Desert. We will pass through charming local villages like Tinjdad before making a stop in Erfoud, known as the “Capital of Fossils.” Here, you will have the chance to visit a local workshop to discover the region’s fascinating fossilized marble and learn about how these ancient pieces are carefully crafted.
Finally, you will arrive at the edge of the magnificent Sahara Desert. You will embark on a memorable camel ride, trekking across the golden dunes just in time to witness a breathtaking sunset. Afterward, your camels will bring you to your luxury desert camp. You will spend an unforgettable evening enjoying a delicious traditional dinner, relaxing around a warm campfire, and falling asleep under a vast, star-filled sky.
Day 3
Merzouga - Rissani - Draa Valley - Agdz - Marrakech (Approx. 8 hours 44 mins drive / 560 km)
After breakfast at your desert camp, we begin the journey back to Marrakech. Our first stop is Rissani, a town known for its large traditional market. From here, we will drive through desert landscapes dotted with acacia trees, passing through the towns of Alnif and Nkob.
Next, we enter the Draa Valley, formed by the longest river in Morocco. This area is known for its palm groves and date production. We will stop to learn about the local dates, with the option to purchase some if you like. Before continuing, we will pause in Agdz for a panoramic view over the valley’s thousands of palm trees.
In the afternoon, we will drive through Ouarzazate and cross the High Atlas Mountains. As your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga comes to an end, your driver will drop you off at your accommodation in Marrakech or the closest accessible point to your Riad in the Medina.
What is included and excluded in your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga?
Included
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech.
- Private, air-conditioned transportation (4x4 or minivan).
- Professional English/Spanish-speaking driver.
- 1 night accommodation in Dades Gorges (Dinner and Breakfast included).
- 1 night in a Merzouga luxury desert camp (Dinner and Breakfast included).
- Camel trek in the Merzouga dunes (one camel per person).
- Sandboarding in the dunes (optional).
Not Included
- Lunches and drinks.
- Entrance fees (e.g., Atlas Studios).
- Tips for the driver or local guides(optional).
- Personal expenses.
Your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
We want your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga to be perfect for you. This trip is fully customizable, meaning we can adjust the itinerary, pick-up locations, and drop-off points to fit your specific needs.
Your driver will coordinate with you the night before to set the exact departure times, ensuring a smooth and personalized journey.
For a budget-friendly option and the chance to meet new people, you can request a shared 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. However, we highly recommend booking a private tour. Having your own private transportation makes the journey much more flexible, giving you extra time to explore and learn about the places you visit at your own pace. Even if you choose the shared option, your driver will still be happy to answer your questions and share their knowledge about Morocco. Whether you decide on a private or shared tour, you can choose the accommodation level that suits you best from the options below.
To finalize your reservation, we require a small deposit of 20%. Please note that your booking is not secured until this deposit is received. This helps us guarantee your vehicle and guide for your chosen dates.
Please note that during your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, your driver will make several stops at local cooperatives and shops. These stops are meant to showcase Moroccan culture and support local artisans, but there is absolutely no obligation to buy anything. If you prefer to skip these visits, just let your driver know and you will keep moving.
We want you to be happy with your meals as well. If the restaurant suggested by your driver doesn't suit your taste, feel free to ask for another option. If you choose to skip a sit-down lunch and eat snacks in the car instead, please keep in mind that your driver will still need a short break to eat. Our goal is to make your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga as comfortable and flexible as possible for you.
On the second day of your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, you will enjoy a sunset camel ride through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. For this ride, you only need to bring light items like water, sunglasses, a scarf, and your camera. You can also bring a small backpack to hang on the camel's saddle. The rest of your heavy luggage will be safely transported to the luxury desert camp by a 4x4 vehicle, so it will be waiting for you inside your tent when you arrive.
For travelers seeking an adrenaline rush and a chance to ride higher into the huge sand dunes, you can add an ATV (quad bike) adventure to your trip. Please note that this activity is not included in the total tour price. The cost is 50 euros per hour for a single rider, or 70 euros for one hour if two people share the same ATV. If you would like to include this exciting experience, simply inform your driver beforehand so we can arrange it for you.
Accommodation Options for Your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
Please keep in mind that all our accommodation options include a private bathroom and shower. We do not offer standard options with shared facilities, as we prioritize your comfort.
Please keep in mind that the final price of your 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga depends on the accommodations you choose from the list below. You have the flexibility to mix and match—for example, you could select Eden Booking for your first night and Merzouga Activities Camp for your second night. Simply fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page to let us know your preferred options, and we will get back to you with your exact final price.
Please keep in mind that once you have paid the total price for your tour, there are no hidden costs or extra fees charged by Exciting Morocco Travel. Your only additional daily expenses will be for your lunches and entrance fees..., exactly as outlined in the "Not Included" section.
For your comfort, please note that almost all of our accommodation options include air conditioning (A/C) and heating, which are essential during the hotter summer months and colder winter nights. The only exceptions are Option 1 for each day (Kasbah Didis and Merzouga Activities Camp), which do not have A/C or heaters.
3 days desert trip Marrakech to Merzouga: FAQ
How long is the drive for the 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga?
The drive to the Sahara is long but incredibly scenic. Day 1 involves about 6 hours of driving, and Day 3 is the longest with about 9 hours on the road. Day 2 is shorter (about 4 to 5 hours). However, we break up the journey of your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga with plenty of stops at historical sites, panoramic viewpoints, and local cooperatives so you can stretch your legs and enjoy the landscape.
What should I pack for the desert?
For your Morocco desert tour, we recommend packing comfortable layers, a warm jacket (as desert nights can get cold, especially in winter), and comfortable walking shoes. For the camel ride in Merzouga, you only need a small backpack with water, sunglasses, a scarf, and your camera. We will transport your heavy luggage directly to your Sahara desert camp using a 4×4 vehicle.
Are there showers and toilets at the desert camp?
Yes! We prioritize your comfort, so we do not use any camps with shared facilities. All of our desert camps—from the basic options to the high-end luxury choices—feature private en-suite bathrooms and hot showers right inside your tent, making your Marrakech desert trip highly comfortable.
Can we add extra activities like quad biking?
Absolutely! If you want an adrenaline rush in the Erg Chebbi dunes, you can add an ATV (quad bike) adventure. It is not included in the base price, but we can easily arrange it for you. Just inform your driver beforehand!
Is this tour suitable for families with children or seniors?
Yes, especially if you book this as a private desert tour. With private transportation, we have the flexibility to travel at your own pace, take extra restroom breaks, and customize the itinerary. If anyone in your group prefers not to ride a camel, we can easily arrange a 4×4 transfer directly to the camp.
Why do you require a 20% deposit?
We require a small 20% deposit to guarantee your booking. Because we provide professional drivers and high-quality desert camps, this deposit ensures that all your logistics are secured and ready for your arrival. Your booking is not officially confirmed until the deposit is received.
When will I know the exact pick-up time for my tour?
To ensure everything goes smoothly, your driver will get in touch with you the night before your trip. You will agree on the best time for departure to make sure you have plenty of time.
3 days desert trip Marrakech to Merzouga: Tour Map
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