Marrakech to Merzouga 3 Days: Ultimate Sahara Desert Experience
Embark on a 3-day journey from Marrakech to Merzouga, exploring the stunning Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, and spending two magical nights in the Sahara Desert with authentic Berber experiences.
Overview
Experience the ultimate Moroccan adventure on this 3-day journey from Marrakech to the golden dunes of Merzouga. This comprehensive tour takes you through the heart of Morocco's most spectacular landscapes, including the High Atlas Mountains, the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, the dramatic Dades and Todgha Gorges, before reaching the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes for an unforgettable desert experience.
Tour Highlights
- Cross the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m) with breathtaking views
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou
- Walk through the famous Dades Gorge and its "Monkey Fingers" rock formations
- Marvel at the towering Todgha Gorge, a paradise for rock climbers
- Experience sunrise and sunset over the golden Erg Chebbi dunes
- Enjoy traditional Berber hospitality with two nights in luxury desert camps
- Try sandboarding on the golden dunes
- Experience authentic Berber music and stargazing in the desert
Why Choose This Tour?
- Comprehensive Itinerary: More time to explore and experience the Sahara
- Authentic Experiences: Stay in traditional Berber camps with modern comforts
- Small Groups: More personalized attention and flexibility
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, multilingual driver/guides
- All-Inclusive: Most meals and activities included
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech → Ait Ben Haddou → Dades Gorge
- 07:00 - Departure from Marrakech
- 10:00 - Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m)
- 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 Gorge
Day 2: Dades Gorge → Todgha Gorge → Merzouga
- 08:00 - Breakfast and departure to Todgha Gorge
- 09:30 - Walk through the stunning Todgha Gorge
- 12:00 - Lunch in a local restaurant
- 14:00 - Continue to Merzouga via Erfoud (fossil capital)
- 16:00 - Arrive in Merzouga, prepare for the desert
- 16:30 - Start camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes
- 17:30 - Arrive at the luxury desert camp, enjoy sunset over the dunes
- 20:00 - Traditional dinner and overnight in the desert camp
Day 3: Merzouga → Rissani → Marrakech
- 06:00 - Sunrise camel ride (optional)
- 07:00 - Breakfast at the camp
- 08:00 - Return to Merzouga village by camel
- 09:00 - Visit Rissani's traditional market (Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays)
- 10:00 - Begin return journey to Marrakech
- 13:00 - Lunch in a local restaurant
- 20:00 - Arrival in Marrakech (approximate time)
What's Included
- Transportation in air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan
- English/French/Spanish speaking driver/guide
- 1 night in Dades Gorge (dinner & breakfast)
- 1 night in luxury desert camp (dinner & breakfast)
- Camel trek in the desert (one camel per person)
- Sandboarding experience
- All applicable taxes
What's Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
Packing List
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Warm clothing for cool desert nights
- Lightweight clothing for daytime
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Small backpack for daily essentials
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the best time of year for this tour? A: The best time is from September to November and March to May when temperatures are pleasant. Summer months can be extremely hot, while winter nights can be quite cold.
Q: Are there bathroom facilities in the desert camp? A: Yes, our luxury desert camps feature private bathrooms with showers and western-style toilets.
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 vehicles are used? A: We use modern, air-conditioned 4x4 vehicles or minivans, depending on group size.
Q: Is there Wi-Fi in the desert camp? A: While we encourage disconnecting to enjoy the desert experience, our luxury camps do offer limited Wi-Fi access.
Contact Us
- WhatsApp: +212675203319 / +212668534981
- Email: [email protected]
Last updated: January 2026
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