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.
What to bring
- 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.
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Need Help?
- : excitingmoroccotravel@gmail.com
- : +212 674 667 431
Itinerary – 3 Days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
Day 1: Atlas Mountains → Aït Benhaddou → Dades Valley
Meet your driver/guide at the arranged time and location (to be confirmed with the company the day before your trip).
start your drive towards the High Atlas Mountains. Approximately after an hour driving, stop at Ait Barka for a panoramic view – the perfect spot to take pictures of the stunning mountain scenery and enjoy a coffee break. Then continue driving through the mountains to visit an argan cooperative, where you can see how local women produce argan oil and Amlou by pressing argan seeds. You’ll also have the option to purchase the authentic argan products. The journey continues to the highest point of the Tichka Pass, where you can stop to admire the breathtaking Views of the winding mountain road.
Upon arrival at Ksar Ait Ben Haddou, you will begin your walk through the fortress Kasbah, starting from the Ounila Valley. Take pictures of the Kasbah from the outside, then visit the agricultural area before climbing the Kasbah through its stairs. Along the way, you’ll discover the local architecture, pass by traditional shops, and see filming locations. Once you reach the top, you’ll have free time to enjoy panoramic views of the Ounila Valley and the stunning landscape.
we head to Ouarzazate (often called the “Hollywood of Morocco” because of its famous film studios and dramatic landscapes), first we’ll stop at Atlas Studios. There you have the option to buy a ticket for a guided tour (about 80 MAD per person) of under one hour, to see film sets and learn about movie production. If you decide not to enter, we can simply take photos from the outside.
After that, we’ll go to Kasbah Taourirt, a historical fortified residence of the Glaoui family in the 19th century that had strategic importance during the colonial period for control and trade. There is also a small entrance fee to go inside and explore restored parts; otherwise you can enjoy views and photo-stops from outside.
Afterwards, continue driving through the beautiful Rose Valley, where you will stop at a rose cooperative to see how locals produce rose water and oil – and perhaps buy some rose products.
Then continue towards the Dades Valley, arriving in the afternoon. The valley is known for its unique rock formations, including the famous “Monkey Fingers” mountains, and Zigzag road “Tissdrine”, famous for its stunning panoramic views. Later, check in to your Riad nestled among the Dades Mountains.
Day 2: Dades Gorge → Todra Gorge → Merzouga Desert Camp
After a wonderful night in the charming Dades Valley, you will start drive to the Todra Valley. Upon arrival, stop at a Panoramic viewpoint to admire the breathtaking landscapes. Then continue to the Todra Gorges, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the Todra River and marvel at the towering cliffs surrounding you.
Later, enjoy a scenic drive through the desert landscapes, passing by Tinjdad, Jorf, and Erfoud. Once you arrive at the Desert, embark on a Camel ride to witness the stunning sunset over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Afterwards, head to your desert camp where you’ll savor a delicious local dinner and enjoy traditional Berber music around campfire. Before drifting to sleep, take a moment to gaze at the star-filled sky.
The camel ride tipically lasts about one Hour, when you arrive, your luggage will be delivered to the camp by car, while you reach the camp by the camel.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Draa Valley - Ouarzazate – Marrakech
After breakfast, you will start your journey, driving through Rissani, a beautiful market village. Continue driving along the Anti-Atlas Mountains, passing by the Draa Valley, considered the longest river in Morocco, stretching approximately 200 kilometers. We pass by Nkob and stop at Agdz to witness a beautiful view of the palm trees from a panoramic viewpoint. Arrive by late afternoon in Marrakech. The driver will drop you off at your accommodation, where our 3-day tour from Marrakech to the Merzouga desert comes to an end.
Included in the Tour
- Private Air-acconditied Car.
- English speaking driver/Guide.
- One Night in luxury Riad in Dades Valley, Dinner and breakfast included
- Camel Ride.
- One Night in a luxury Camp in the Desert, Dinner and breakfast included.
Not Included
- Lunches.
- Drinks
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Merzouga from Marrakech?
Merzouga is about 560 km (about 9-10 hours by car), but the scenic stops along the way – including Ait Ben Haddou, the Todra Gorges, and the Atlas Mountains – make the trip unforgettable.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag for the desert?
No need! The desert camp provides clean bedding and warm blankets, even in winter.
Can I skip the camel ride and take a 4WD to the camp?
Yes, this is available upon request – just let us know in advance.
What kind of food is served?
Delicious Moroccan food: tagines, couscous, fresh salads and traditional breads, with vegetarian options available
Is the trip suitable for children or older travelers?
Absolutely! The itinerary is well-balanced and family-friendly, although long drives may require some patience.
What happens to your luggage when you ride a camel?
Your luggage remains in the vehicle or is taken to camp while you ride camels with a small daypack.
What should I wear in the desert?
Comfortable, breathable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a scarf or hat for protection from the sun. Evenings can be chilly – bring a jacket!
Tour map
Good to Know
- Camps fill up quickly - reserve at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee your dates and preferred tent.
- You can expect to be picked up around 8:30 a.m.; your driver will confirm the exact time the afternoon before departure.
- For pleasant daytime temperatures and clear skies, travel from March to May or September to November.
- What you book is what you pay - no hidden fees, no forced shopping stops.
- Bring Moroccan dirhams for lunch, drinks, ATMs are scarce in rural areas and small towns.
- You'll receive full reservation details - pickup time, agent name and emergency contact - as soon as you book.
- All desert camps provide beds, mattresses and warm blankets - no sleeping bag required.
- Quoted driving durations exclude photo stops, lunches, and site visits—factor in extra hours for a relaxed journey.
- Day 3 is a long drive back to Marrakech. Consider extending the tour to 4 days if you prefer a slower pace.
- Vegetarian, vegan and other special diets are available. Please let us know at the time of booking.
Booking
Ready for an unforgettable trip ? Book now and pay later with ease! If you don’t hear from us soon, please feel free to contact us on WhatsApp at +212 674 667 431 we’re always here to help make your dream trip a reality.
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Important Note: Customize Your Tour
This 3 Days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is just a suggestion – if it doesn’t suit your style, feel free to contact us for a tailor-made Morocco adventure; prices depend on group size and choice of accommodation, with per-person prices decreasing as your group grows.
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