
- Marrakech
- 6 days / 5 nights
overview:
Embark on an extraordinary 6-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, a journey that captures the essence of Morocco’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and desert charm. From the towering High Atlas Mountains to the vast dunes of the Sahara, this tour offers an in-depth experience of Morocco’s most scenic and captivating regions. You’ll discover traditional Berber villages, historical kasbahs, and experience unforgettable desert adventures.
itinerary:
Day 1: Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, heading towards the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of rugged mountains and traditional Berber villages. The first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village known for its ancient architecture and its role as a backdrop for many films.
After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, continue to Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco.” Here, you’ll visit the Taourirt Kasbah and explore the local film studios. You’ll spend the night in a guesthouse, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner and a peaceful evening.
Day 2: Ouarzazate to Dades Valley via the Skoura Oasis
On day two, your journey continues through the beautiful Skoura Oasis, a region dotted with ancient kasbahs and lush palm groves. You’ll pass through the Valley of Roses, famous for its annual rose festival, and make your way to the spectacular Dades Valley. Known for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations, the Dades Valley is a perfect spot for hiking and photography.
You’ll spend the night in a guesthouse in the valley, enjoying a delicious dinner and soaking in the natural beauty of the area.
Day 3: Dades Valley to Todra Gorge and Merzouga
After breakfast, head towards the breathtaking Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs rise 300 meters above the narrow canyon floor. This is one of Morocco’s most impressive natural landscapes and a perfect spot for a short hike or a stroll along the river.
From Todra Gorge, continue your journey through the arid landscapes of Erfoud and the Ziz Valley, eventually arriving at the gateway to the Sahara, Merzouga. In Merzouga, you’ll swap your vehicle for a camel and embark on a memorable camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Watch the sunset over the golden sands as you ride to your Berber camp, where you’ll spend the night under the stars, enjoying a traditional dinner and Berber music around the campfire.
Day 4: Merzouga Desert Exploration
Day four is all about exploring the vast beauty of the Sahara Desert. Begin your day with a stunning sunrise over the dunes, followed by a traditional breakfast at the camp. You’ll have the opportunity to try desert activities like sandboarding, quad biking, or visiting a nearby Berber village to learn more about the nomadic lifestyle.
In the evening, take another camel trek through the dunes and enjoy a second night in the desert camp, with dinner and entertainment around the fire.
Day 5: Merzouga to Ouarzazate via Alnif and N’Kob
After a magical night in the desert, you’ll ride your camels back to Merzouga and begin the return journey towards Ouarzazate. Along the way, pass through the small towns of Alnif and N’Kob, both known for their striking desert landscapes and traditional Berber architecture. You’ll also cross the Draa Valley, famous for its palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
Arriving in Ouarzazate in the evening, you’ll enjoy your last night in a comfortable guesthouse, reflecting on the incredible desert experiences.
Day 6: Ouarzazate to Marrakech
On the final day, you’ll make your way back to Marrakech, retracing your steps through the High Atlas Mountains and the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, stop for photos and to appreciate the stunning scenery one last time before arriving in Marrakech by late afternoon, completing your incredible 6-day desert tour.
Why Choose the 6-Day Marrakech Desert Tour?
This 6-day desert tour offers the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the Moroccan desert while also exploring its rich history and culture. With plenty of time to experience the beauty of the Sahara and the surrounding areas, this tour is ideal for travelers who want to make the most of their time in Morocco.
What to Expect on the 6-Day Desert Tour
- Scenic drives through the High Atlas Mountains and the Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Visits to the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou and the dramatic Todra Gorge
- Camel trekking through the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Two nights in a Berber camp, complete with traditional music and food
- Exploration of the desert with activities like sandboarding, quad biking, and village visits
- Overnight stays in charming guesthouses in Dades Valley and Ouarzazate
The 6-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to truly connect with the beauty of Morocco. From the cultural richness of the Berber villages to the awe-inspiring vastness of the Sahara Desert, this tour offers travelers the chance to see some of the country’s most iconic landscapes while enjoying unforgettable desert adventures.