5 Days from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour

We’ll start your Marrakech adventure by picking you up from your accommodation—whether it’s a Riad or Hotel in the Medina. Our destination: Ouarzazate, a historical caravan town nestled on the silk and salt route in the eastern foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Our journey kicks off with a scenic drive through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, passing the charming Berber town of Taddert and crossing the lofty 2260 meters high Tizi-in-Tichka pass.

A must-see on our route is the renowned Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, situated just 30 kilometers from Ouarzazate. This kasbah, an intriguing red earth castle along the ancient Kasbahs road, holds UNESCO world heritage status. We’ll pause for lunch at the Kasbah, and then our path leads to Dades Gorge via Ouarzazate. As we traverse the captivating “Road of the Thousand Kasbahs,” resembling enchanting sandcastles, we’ll proceed to our next stop at Kalaat Mgouna, known as “the rose’s city” for its roses and annual festival during the May harvest.

Continuing our journey, we’ll reach our hotel nestled in the heart of the Dades Gorge, where you’ll spend the first night of our 5-day Sahara tour.

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set out from the captivating Dades Valley towards Tinghir and the Todra Gorges—Morocco’s highest oasis valley gorge. Prepare to be mesmerized by the panoramic views of ancient mud-built Berber villages that gracefully overlook the valley. Upon reaching the Todra Gorges, a remarkable natural wonder with towering red cliffs standing at 300 meters, we’ll take a leisurely walk, a favorite spot for rock climbers pursuing their passion.

Our journey continues to Erfoud, renowned for its fossilized marbles. Moving onward, we bid farewell to Erfoud and proceed to Rissani, home to the largest and most bustling weekly market in southern Morocco. Stroll through the market’s vibrant offerings, including craft stores, a dates market, and various animal trades featuring goats, sheep, donkeys, camels, and cows.

As we venture further towards one of the prominent desert destinations, Merzouga, you’re in for a tranquil night at the hotel, ensuring you’re fully rejuvenated for the upcoming Sahara adventure on the following day.

Embark on a day filled with extraordinary moments as you delve into the enchanting dunes of Morocco’s Erg Chebbi, the majestic region of the Sahara Desert boasting the largest dunes in the country. Today’s experiences promise to be some of the most unforgettable highlights of your Morocco Sahara adventure. Begin your morning by exploring Merzouga, immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere of this desert haven.

Prepare for an evening that will stay etched in your memory, starting with a visit to the Gnawa people, originally brought from Sudan as slaves. Dive into their captivating music and lifestyle, gaining a profound understanding of their traditions. Marvel at the panoramic views behind the Erg Chebbi, where the sand dunes create a stunning backdrop. Our journey then takes us to the nomadic families at Kem Kem, where you’ll share tea and discover a new perspective on life. For those seeking an extra thrill, why not engage in an hour of ATV Quad biking in the mesmerizing dunes?

As the afternoon unfolds, meet your camel and embark on a trek through the desert, traversing the red dunes until the only sights are endless sand and sky. The serene ambiance is occasionally punctuated by the gentle snorts of the camels and the soft rustle of their steps on the sand. Pause to witness the captivating sunset before reaching your camp. There, a warm welcome awaits with mint tea and cookies, providing time to savor the beauty of the sand dunes and the surrounding landscapes.

As night falls, indulge in a Moroccan dinner served under the stars next to a crackling campfire. Following the feast, gather around the fire to enjoy the rhythmic beats of typical Berber music played on drums beneath the vast expanse of the starlit sky.

Do not miss the chance to greet the sun as it embarks on another majestic journey. If you rise with the first light, find a spot on the sand dunes, and witness the sunrise gracefully unfolding in the dusty summer skies. After this breathtaking spectacle, we’ll guide you back to a local hotel where a comforting hot shower and a delightful breakfast await.

Our journey continues as we set out towards Ouarzazate, passing through the charming towns of Alnif, Tazarine, Nkob, and Agdez. Be captivated by the mesmerizing Draa Valley, adorned with countless Berber Kasbahs and millions of palm trees. The scenic beauty is truly a sight to behold. Continuing on our route to Ouarzazate, often hailed as the “Hollywood of Africa,” you’ll discover one of the largest studios in town. Ouarzazate, home to the opulent residences of the affluent, has served as the backdrop for numerous Hollywood blockbusters and iconic historical television programs, including the likes of Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you might even recognize familiar settings.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we’ll embark on a visit to the exquisite Taourirt Kasbah. This former residence of the Glaoui family, positioned on the town’s periphery, is renowned as one of Morocco’s most beautiful kasbahs. Following this cultural exploration, our journey leads us outside the town for an exclusive tour of the Atlas Corporation Studio, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of filmmaking.

As we bid farewell to Ouarzazate, our route guides us back to Marrakech through the scenic Atlas Mountains. The winding roads, ever-changing landscapes, vibrant valleys, and glimpses of Berber villages nestled high on the hillsides create a picturesque drive. Reaching the summit at Tizi’n Tichka Pass, the highest point in the Atlas Mountains, we’ll pause for photos and a breath of fresh mountain air.

Our final destination is Marrakech, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel, concluding your enriching 5-day Sahara tour. We sincerely hope you relished the tour experience with our dedicated team!