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Marrakech to Merzouga 2 Days: An Unforgettable Desert Adventure

Experience the magic of the Moroccan desert on this 2-day journey from Marrakech to Merzouga. Cross the High Atlas Mountains, explore Ait Ben Haddou, and spend a magical night under the stars in the Sahara.

3 min read

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 2-day adventure from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the golden dunes of Merzouga. This carefully crafted tour takes you through some of Morocco's most breathtaking landscapes, including the High Atlas Mountains, the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, and the stunning Dades Valley, before reaching the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes.

Tour Highlights

  • Cross the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m) in the High Atlas Mountains
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou
  • Travel through the stunning Dades Valley and its famous "Monkey Fingers" rock formations
  • Experience a magical sunset and sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes
  • Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars
  • Spend a night in a luxury desert camp with Berber music around the campfire

Why Choose This Tour?

  • Efficient Itinerary: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want to experience the Sahara
  • Comfortable Transportation: Travel in modern, air-conditioned vehicles
  • Local Expertise: Experienced, multilingual driver/guide
  • Authentic Experience: Stay in a traditional Berber desert camp
  • Small Groups: More personalized attention and flexibility

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech → Ait Ben Haddou → Dades Valley

  • 07:00 - Departure from Marrakech
  • 10:00 - Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n'Tichka pass
  • 12:00 - Visit Ait Ben Haddou (lunch included)
  • 15:00 - Continue to Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Morocco"
  • 17:00 - Travel through the Valley of Roses to Dades Gorge
  • 19:30 - Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Dades Valley

Day 2: Dades Valley → Todgha Gorge → Merzouga → Marrakech

  • 07:00 - Breakfast and departure to Merzouga
  • 09:00 - Stop at Todgha Gorge for photos
  • 12:00 - Lunch in a local restaurant
  • 15:00 - Arrive in Merzouga, start camel trek into the desert
  • 17:30 - Arrive at the desert camp, enjoy sunset over the dunes
  • 20:00 - Traditional dinner and overnight in luxury desert camp
  • Next Morning: Sunrise camel ride, breakfast, and return to Marrakech

What's Included

  • Transportation in air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan
  • English/French/Spanish speaking driver/guide
  • 1 night accommodation in Dades Valley (dinner & breakfast)
  • 1 night in luxury desert camp (dinner & breakfast)
  • Camel ride in the desert
  • All applicable taxes

What's Not Included

  • Lunches and drinks
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Travel insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I pack for the desert tour? A: Comfortable clothing, warm layers for cool evenings, sturdy shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera.

Q: Is the camel ride suitable for everyone? A: The camel ride is about 1.5 hours each way. If you prefer, you can walk alongside the camels or arrange alternative transportation to the camp.

Q: What type of accommodation is provided? A: You'll stay one night in a comfortable hotel in Dades Valley and one night in a luxury desert camp with private bathroom facilities.

Q: How long is the drive from Marrakech to Merzouga? A: The total driving time is approximately 9-10 hours, broken up over two days with many interesting stops.

Q: Is there a luggage limit? A: Due to limited space in the vehicle, we recommend one medium-sized suitcase or backpack per person.

Contact Us


Last updated: January 2026

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