If you’re looking for an adventure that’s short but filled with unforgettable moments, our 2 days desert trip from Marrakech is perfect.
You’ll experience the stunning landscapes of Morocco, from the winding roads of the Atlas Mountains to the charming dunes of the Sahara Desert. This quick getaway lets you escape the city’s busy activity and dive into Morocco’s natural beauty.
- Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
- Starting Location: Marrakech
- Ending Location: Marrakech
Depart Time: | 7:00 AM |
Arrival Time: | 18:00 Pm |
Tour Type: | Private Trip |
Price: | Starts at €148 per person |
- Drive through the High Atlas Mountains.
- Visit the old village of Ait Benhaddou.
- Stop at Ouarzazate, the desert city.
- Ride camels in the Merzouga Desert.
- Sleep under the stars in a desert camp.
- Watch the sunrise over the dunes.
- Explore the Draa Valley with its palm trees.
- Cross the Anti-Atlas Mountains.
- Enjoy the scenic drive back to Marrakech.
Itinerary of the Marrakech To merzouga tour 2 days:
Day 1: Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate → Merzouga Desert
We’ll leave Marrakech in the morning and head into the High Atlas Mountains. The road takes us through some amazing views of valleys and small Berber villages. You’ll have time to take pictures or just enjoy the ride.
Our first stop will be at Ait Benhaddou, a famous old village made of clay, where you can walk around and see the kasbahs (fortified homes). It’s a great place to feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
After visiting Ait Benhaddou, we’ll drive to Ouarzazate, a small city known as the gateway to the Sahara. We’ll stop for a quick look before continuing to Merzouga, where you’ll ride camels into the desert. We’ll spend the night in a luxury camp under the stars, surrounded by the stunning goldy dunes.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 560 Km
- Approx. 10-11 (Including Stops)
- Accommodation Details:
- Options for Standard Camp:
- 1. Merzouga Standard Camp
- 2. Nomad Standard Camp
- 3. Erg Chebbi Standard Camp
- Options for Luxury Camp:
- 1. Africa Luxury Camp
- 2. Caravanserai Luxury Camp
- 3. Desert Luxury Camp
Day 2: Merzouga → Draa Valley → Agdez → Ouarzazate → Marrakech
We’ll wake up early to catch the sunrise over the desert, it’s a special moment. After breakfast, we’ll leave Merzouga and drive through the beautiful Draa Valley, known for its palm trees and villages.
Our next stop is the town of Agdez, a small place at the edge of the desert. From there, we’ll drive through the Anti-Atlas Mountains, a rocky landscape that’s different from the High Atlas but still amazing to see.
We’ll pass through Ouarzazate again for a short break before heading back to Marrakech, where we’ll arrive in the evening.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 560 Km
- Approx. 10 Hours (including Stops)
Included:
- Private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel/riad in Marrakech
- Transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- English-speaking driver throughout the journey
- A night’s stay in a private luxury camp tent with dinner and breakfast
- Camel ride in the Merzouga desert dunes
- Optional sandboarding on the dunes
- Complimentary Moroccan tea with sweets at the luxury camp
- Fuel and all necessary transport costs
- Several stops along the way for scenic views and photos
Excluded:
- Lunches during the trip
- Drinks (soft drinks, water, etc.)
- Entrance fees to monuments (if applicable)
Gallery:
Know Before You Go:
1. Long Travel Days: Both days involve long drives, approximately 10-11 hours, with scenic stops. Be prepared for extended hours in the car, especially on winding mountain roads.
2. Weather Conditions: The desert can be extremely hot during the day, especially in summer, and cold at night. Pack layers for comfort, including sun protection (hats, sunscreen) and warmer clothing for the evening.
3. Camel Trekking: The camel ride to the desert camp takes about 1-1.5 hours. It’s a unique experience, but keep in mind it can be a bit uncomfortable if you’re not used to riding camels.
4. Desert Camp: You’ll stay in a traditional Berber camp. Most camps provide basic facilities like beds and shared bathrooms, but luxury camps with private bathrooms are also available.
5. Meals: Dinner and breakfast are provided at the desert camp. Lunches and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or buy meals along the way.
6. Cash on Hand: Bring cash for any personal expenses, lunch stops, and tips. Many places along the way, especially in the desert, may not accept credit cards.
7. Photography: You’ll have plenty of opportunities for amazing photos, so make sure to bring your camera or fully charge your phone. The sunrise and sunset in the desert are particularly stunning.
8. Comfortable Shoes: Pack sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain during stops and for the camel trek.
9. Health Precautions: If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking medicine, as the winding mountain roads can cause discomfort.
Accommodation Options
Luxury Desert Camp:
The luxury camp offers a more comfortable stay with private bathrooms and air conditioning. The tents are large, beautifully decorated, and come with cozy bedding and private seating areas. You’ll have more privacy and a premium experience, with high-quality meals served during your stay.
Standard Desert Camp:
The standard camp is a budget-friendly choice that still provides a traditional desert experience. The tents are simpler and smaller, with shared bathrooms. Meals are Moroccan dishes served in a communal setting, offering an authentic taste of the local culture.
Note: If these camps are fully booked, other excellent alternatives are available to ensure a memorable desert experience in Merzouga.
Pricing Overview for the 2-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
The price for the 2-day desert tour from Marrakech starts at €148 per person. The final cost can vary depending on factors like the size of your group, the type of desert camp you choose (luxury or standard), and the time of year you travel.
Larger groups will generally get a lower price per person. It’s best to contact the tour provider directly for a custom quote for exact pricing.
Group Size | Estimate Price (Per person) |
6 Person | From €148 |
5 Person | From €142 |
4 Person | From €152 |
3 Person | From €172 |
6 Person | From €192 |
1 Person | From €252 |
- The price per person gets lower as the group size increases.
- Prices cover transport, accommodation (standard camp), and basic meals.
- Choosing a luxury camp or adding extra activities will raise the cost per person.
Choose Your Tour Type: Private Trip VS Shared Trip
Pick a private trip for more flexibility or a shared trip for a budget-friendly group option. The table below shows the main differences.
Private Trip | Shared Trip |
Customized itinerary | Fixed itinerary |
Flexible departure time | Set departure time |
Exclusive vehicle and guide | Shared vehicle and guide with others |
Luxury camp or riad accommodation | Standard room in camp or riad |
148 euros per person | 99 euros per person |
Extra Activities:
We can arrange other activities to make your trip even more special. Just let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll take care of the rest!
Before/After Trip | During The Trip |
1. Airport Transfers 6. Day Trip Agafay | 1. Professional Photographer |
Places to Visit on Your 2 Days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert:
1. High Atlas Mountains
Traveling through the High Atlas Mountains means stunning mountain views, winding roads, and traditional Berber villages. The Tizi n’Tichka pass, Morocco’s highest road, offers breathtaking panoramas and is a perfect spot for photos.
2. Ait Benhaddou
Ait Benhaddou is an ancient village made of clay, known for its historical architecture and as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its kasbahs (fortified houses) are centuries old, and the village has been used in many films.
3. Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is called the “Gateway to the Desert” because it’s the last big town before the Sahara. The city is famous for the Taourirt Kasbah, an old fortress, and its film studios, where many famous movies have been filmed.
4. Draa Valley
The Draa Valley is a long stretch of palm groves and small villages, with the Draa River running through it. This green valley is a refreshing contrast to the desert landscape. It’s known for its peaceful beauty and is home to some of Morocco’s most scenic views.
5. Agdez
Agdez is a small, quiet town at the edge of the desert. It’s known for its old kasbahs and its position as a gateway to the Draa Valley. The surrounding landscape offers a mix of desert and mountain views.
6. Anti-Atlas Mountains
The Anti-Atlas Mountains offer a rugged, remote landscape, different from the High Atlas. The terrain is rocky and wild, with fewer villages and more open spaces. Acacia trees and desert plants dot the area.
7. Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi)
The Merzouga Desert, famous for its massive Erg Chebbi dunes, offers a classic Sahara experience. The towering golden dunes stretch endlessly, creating a breathtaking sight.
8. Dades Valley
The Dades Valley is known for its dramatic red rock formations and small villages. One of the highlights is the “Monkey Fingers” rock formation, a unique natural feature. The valley is a beautiful mix of green fields, rock formations, and traditional Berber homes.
How long does the drive take from Marrakech to Merzouga?
The drive from Marrakech to Merzouga takes approximately 9 to 11 hours, depending on stops for sightseeing and breaks. The journey covers about 560 km, crossing the High Atlas Mountains, and passing through key locations like Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate.
Is the 2-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga too rushed?
For some, the 2-day tour might feel rushed because of the long driving hours. However, the tour is designed to offer a quick desert experience for those with limited time. You’ll still get to visit key sites like the Atlas Mountains, Ait Benhaddou, and the Merzouga dunes.
What should I pack for the 2-day desert tour?
It’s important to pack light and practical items for the tour. Essentials include comfortable clothes for both hot days and chilly nights (layers are best), sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat or scarf to protect from the sun, and comfortable shoes for walking and camel riding. Don’t your medicines.
Are meals included in the 2-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga?
Yes, some meals are included. Typically, dinner and breakfast are provided at the desert camp in Merzouga. However, lunches and drinks are usually not included and will need to be purchased at stops along the way.
Is camel riding included in the 2-day desert tour?
Yes, a camel ride in the Merzouga desert is included in most 2-day tours. The camel trek usually lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours and takes you across the Erg Chebbi dunes to the desert camp.
Is the 2-day tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the 2-day tour can be a great experience for families, including those with children. The long drive may be tiring for younger kids, but many families find the stops along the way and the camel ride in the desert exciting for children. Just be sure to pack plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment for the road.
Important:
Customize your trip to fit your needs, from days to destinations. Prices depend on group size, the more people, the lower the cost per person. Plan according to your budget and tour style, you might like 2 days tour from marrakech to zagora desert.
Ready for a desert adventure? Explore the Sahara, ride camels, and relax under the stars with Travel-Morocco-Tours. Contact us today to start planning!
Important:
Customize your trip to fit your needs, from days to destinations. Prices depend on group size, the more people, the lower the cost per person. Plan according to your budget and tour style, you might like 2 days tour from marrakech to zagora desert.
Ready for a desert adventure? Explore the Sahara, ride camels, and relax under the stars with Travel-Morocco-Tours. Contact us today to start planning!
Related Tours From Marrakech
Marrkech To Merzouga Desert Tours | Marrkech To Fes Desert Tours |
→ 3 Days Tour From Marrakech | → Marrakech to Fes tour 2 days → 3 Days Tour Marrakech to Fes |