Our 5 Days Marrakech Desert Tour is a wonderful adventure that takes you through the beautiful High Atlas Mountains and traditional Berber villages. You’ll visit historic kasbahs like Ait Benhaddou and experience the unique culture of southern Morocco.
The Trip also includes exploring scenic valleys such as the Roses Valley and the Dades Valley.
In the Merzouga Desert, you’ll ride camels across the golden dunes and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Sahara. Spend your nights under the starry desert sky in a comfortable camp, This tour offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and relaxation.
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Starting Location: Marrakech
- Ending Location: Marrakech
Depart Time: | 8:00 AM |
Arrival Time: | 17:00 Pm |
Tour Type: | Private Trip |
Price: | Starts at €255 per person |
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains with great views.
- Visit the historic Telouet Kasbah.
- Explore Ait Ben Haddou, a famous movie location.
- Discover Ouarzazate and its film studios.
- Drive through the beautiful Roses Valley.
- See the unique rocks in Dades Valley.
- Walk through the dramatic Todra Gorge.
- Ride camels in the Merzouga Desert at sunset.
- Meet nomadic Berber families in the desert.
- Enjoy Gnaoua music in Khamlia village.
Itinerary of the Marrakech Desert Tour 5 days:
Day 1: Marrakech → Ouarzazate → Telouet Kasbah → Ait ben haddou → Roses Valley → Boumaln dades
On the first day, we’ll start our journey from Marrakech, heading towards the High Atlas Mountains. As we drive through the Tizi N’Tichka Pass, you’ll get to enjoy amazing views of the surrounding landscapes and small Berber villages along the way.
Our first stop will be at the Telouet Kasbah, a historic site with rich cultural significance. After exploring this kasbah, we’ll continue to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient clay buildings. This village has been featured in many movies like: (Gladiator, Babel, The Mummy…) and it is one of Morocco’s most famous spots.
Next, we’ll head to Ouarzazate, often called the “door to the desert,” where you can explore its famous film studios. We’ll then pass through the Roses Valley, famous for its rose products, before arriving at the Dades Valley for dinner and a peaceful night at your cozy riad.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 320 Km
- Approx. 7 Hours (Including Stops)
- Accommodation Details:
- Accommodation Options:
- 1. Hotel Babylon Dades
- 2. Dar Blues
- 3. Eden Boutique Hotel
Day 2: Dades Valley →Todra Gorge → Ziz Valley → Erfoud → Merzouga Desert
On the second day, we’ll begin with a drive through the Dades Valley, where you’ll see unique rock formations and traditional Berber villages. The valley is known for its stunning views, which make for perfect photo stops. From there, we’ll head towards the stunning Todra Gorge, a canyon with tall cliffs that are popular for hiking and rock climbing.
After exploring the gorge, we’ll continue our journey through the desert landscapes, passing the town of Erfoud, which is famous for fossils. You’ll feel the desert atmosphere as we get closer to Merzouga. This is where you’ll start your camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, one of the highlights of the trip.
As the sun sets, we’ll arrive at your desert camp, where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and Berber music around the campfire. You’ll spend the night in a comfortable tent under the stars, experiencing the peaceful beauty of the Sahara Desert.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 270 Km
- Approx. 6 Hours (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 3: Full day to explore Sahara desert (Erg chebbi → Nomads → Khamlia "Gnaoua“ → Merzouga lake → palm grove forest)
On the third day, we’ll spend the whole day exploring the Sahara Desert. We’ll start by visiting the impressive Erg Chebbi dunes, where you can admire the wide, golden sand. After that, we’ll meet nomadic families living in traditional tents, and you’ll have the chance to learn about their way of life and enjoy some tea with them.
Next, we’ll visit the village of Khamlia, where you’ll listen to the beautiful Gnaoua music, played by locals with roots in West Africa. After that, we’ll head to the M’ifis Mines, where you can explore an old mining area and see another side of the desert’s history.
We’ll continue our journey to Merzouga Lake, which appears during certain seasons, and then explore the lush palm grove forest nearby. After a full day of adventure, you’ll return to your riad for a relaxing evening and dinner, enjoying the comfort of this traditional Moroccan Riad.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Explore the Sahara Desert
- Approx. 5 Hours (including Stops)
- Accommodation Details:
- Accommodation Options:
- 1. Riad Serai
- 2. Riad Dar Hassan
- 3. Riad Madu
Day 4: Merzouga → Rissani → Draa Valley → Anti Atlas → Ouarzazate
On the fourth day, we’ll leave Merzouga and head towards Rissani. where, we’ll visit a local market, or souk, where you can see how people shop for everyday things and maybe buy some local items or souvenirs. It’s a busy and colorful place that shows the local way of life.
After visiting Rissani, we’ll drive through the Draa Valley, which is full of green palm trees and small villages. It’s a peaceful and beautiful part of the journey. Then, we’ll continue through the Anti-Atlas Mountains, enjoying the views and take some photos
In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in Ouarzazate, a city known for its film studios and old kasbahs. You can relax at your hotel or riad, have dinner, and get ready for the final day of the trip.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 370 Km
- Approx. 7 Hours (including Stops)
- Accommodation Details:
- Accommodation Options:
- 1. Riad Dar Chamaa
- 2. La Perle du Sud
- 3. Hotel Sultana Royal Golf
Day 5: Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → Telouet Kasbah → Marrakech
On the last day, we’ll start the morning in Ouarzazate and visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a historic village and UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a place with many old clay buildings, and it’s been used as a location for movies like “Gladiator” and “The Mummy.”
After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, we’ll head to the Telouet Kasbah, another old fortress with a lot of history. This kasbah was once an important stop for traders traveling through the mountains. You’ll have time to walk around and take in the history and architecture.
Finally, we’ll drive back to Marrakech, passing through the High Atlas Mountains and the beautiful Tizi N’Tichka Pass again. We’ll arrive in Marrakech in the afternoon, marking the end of your 5-day adventure.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 200 Km
- Approx. 4 Hours (including Stops)
Included:
- Pick up and drop off at your accommodation in Marrakech.
- Private, comfortable A/C vehicle with a driver/guide.
- Camel trekking experience in the Merzouga desert.
- 1 night in a Riad in Boumaln Dades (including breakfast & Dinner).
- 1 night in a luxury camp in Merzouga (including dinner and breakfast).
- 1 night in a Riad in Merzouga (dinner and breakfast included).
- 1 night in a Riad in Ouarzazate (including breakfast & Dinner).
- Guide and driver who speaks your language for the entire tour.
- Stops at scenic viewpoints along the way.
- Fuel and all taxes
- Sandboarding in the Sahara Desert.
Excluded:
- Lunches, Drinks (soft drinks and alcohol).
- Entrance fee.
Gallery:
Know Before You Go:
1. Packing Tips: Bring comfortable clothes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes for walking. It can be hot during the day and cool at night in the desert.
2. Camel Ride: The camel ride to the desert camp takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and it’s a fun and safe way to explore the dunes.
3. Desert Camp: You’ll spend one night in a desert camp, where you can enjoy dinner, and traditional music, and sleep under the stars in a comfortable tent.
4. Electricity in the Camp: The camp uses solar power, so there is some electricity, but it’s a good idea to bring a portable charger for your devices.
5. Meals: Breakfasts and dinners are included in the tour, but you’ll need to pay for your lunches during the journey.
6. Weather: The desert can be very hot in the summer and cold at night in the winter, so pack accordingly.
7. Payment: You may need to pay entrance fees to some sites along the way, and tips for the driver/guide are optional but appreciated.
8. Accommodation Choices: Let your tour operator know your preferences for accommodations, such as hotels, riads, or desert camps.
9. Extra Activities: You can add activities like quad biking, sandboarding, or a visit to local markets for a richer experience.
10. Group Size: This tour can be private or small-group based, so ask in advance if you prefer a more personal experience.
Accommodation Options: Luxury Vs Standard
1. Camps Options
Standard Camp: Stay in a traditional Berber tent with shared bathrooms. It’s a simple but cozy experience, where you’ll enjoy dinner and breakfast under the stars in the peaceful desert.
Luxury Camp: Stay in a private tent with your bathroom and electricity. The tents are more comfortable, offering a better dining experience along with dinner and breakfast included.
2. Riads:
Standard Riad: Stay in a simple riad with a private room and basic services. Dinner and breakfast are included, providing a comfortable rest after your desert adventure.
Luxury Riad: Upgrade to a luxury riad with large rooms, services, and more comfort. Dinner and breakfast are included, giving you a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Note: If these camps and riads are fully booked, there are other excellent options, offering both standard and luxury stays for a fantastic desert experience.
Pricing Overview for the 5 Days Desert Trip From Marrakech
The 5-Day Desert Tour From Marrekech starts at €255 per person. The final price will depend on the size of your group, your accommodation choice (standard or luxury), and the travel dates.
Larger groups will benefit from lower prices per person. For an exact price, it’s best to contact the tour provider for a customized quote.
Group Size | Estimate Price (Per person) |
6 People | From €255 |
5 People | From €265 |
4 People | From €275 |
3 People | From €295 |
2 People | From €325 |
1 Person | From €385 |
- Prices include transportation, standard accommodation (hotel/standard camp), and meals (dinner and breakfast).
- Upgrading to luxury camps or adding activities like quad biking will increase the cost.
- Prices may vary depending on the season and availability.
Choose Your Tour Type: Private VS Shared
You can choose between a private tour for more personal experiences or a shared tour for a more affordable group option. The table below shows the key 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 |
Starts From 255€ per person | Starts From 175€ per person |
Extra Activities:
We offer extra activities to make your trip even more special. Whether it’s before, during, or after the tour in Marrakech, we can arrange fun experiences for you. Just let us know what you’d like!
Before/After The Trip | During The Trip |
Hot Air Balloon Ride in Marrakech | Professional Photographer |
Day Trip to Essaouira | Romantic Dinner in the Desert |
Day Trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls | Quad Biking Activity |
Day Trip to Ourika Valley | Buggy Driving Activity |
Marrakech Guided Trip | Horse Riding |
Agafay Desert Trip | Picnic In Sahara Desert |
Places to Visit on Your 5 Days Marrakech Desert Tour:
1. High Atlas Mountains: On the first day, you’ll cross the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi N’Tichka Pass, enjoying breathtaking views of the mountains and Berber villages.
2. Telouet Kasbah: Visit the Telouet Kasbah, an ancient fortress that was once an important stop for traders crossing the mountains. It’s a historic place with a rich past.
3. Ait Ben Haddou: Explore Ait Ben Haddou, a famous UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient village is known for its mud-brick buildings and has been featured in many movies.
4. Ouarzazate: Known as the “door to the desert,” Ouarzazate is home to famous film studios and historic kasbahs. It’s a great place to learn about Morocco’s film history.
5. Roses Valley: Drive through the Roses Valley, famous for its rose fields and the annual rose festival in spring. The valley is beautiful and peaceful.
6. Dades Valley: Visit the Dades Valley, known for its stunning rock formations, also called “monkey fingers.” It’s a great spot for taking photos.
7. Todra Gorge: On the second day, walk through the Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon with tall cliffs. It’s a perfect place for a scenic hike.
8. Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi): In the Merzouga Desert, you’ll ride camels across the Erg Chebbi dunes and watch the sunset. It’s a peaceful and beautiful part of the trip.
9. Khamlia Village: Visit Khamlia, a small village where you can enjoy traditional Gnaoua music performed by locals. It’s a unique cultural experience in the desert.
10. Rissani: known for its traditional souk (market). It’s a lively place to see local life and shop for souvenirs.
Yes, if you book a private tour, the itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences. You can add extra stops, and activities, or even adjust the pace of the tour to better fit your needs.
Yes, sandboarding is included in the Merzouga Desert experience for those who want to try it. It’s a fun activity to enjoy while you’re exploring the dunes.
It’s recommended to bring comfortable clothes for the day, along with sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Since it gets cold in the desert at night, especially in the winter, pack some warm layers or a jacket.
Yes, this tour is family-friendly, and children are welcome. Kids can enjoy camel rides, exploring the desert, and seeing unique places like kasbahs and Berber villages.
Yes, dinners and breakfasts are included in the tour price. However, you’ll need to pay for your lunches during the journey, which are typically enjoyed at local restaurants along the way.
You’ll stay in comfortable hotels or riads during the tour, with one night in a desert camp in Merzouga. Both standard and luxury options are available, depending on your preference. All accommodations include dinner and breakfast.
Absolutely! If you prefer not to ride camels, you can take a 4×4 vehicle to the desert camp. This option is provided at no extra cost, and it’s a good alternative for those who find camel riding uncomfortable.
Important:
You can customize your trip to suit your needs. If our plan doesn’t work for you, you can choose how many days to stay and which places to visit. Want extra stops or more time at a location? We can adjust the tour to match your preferences.
Looking to extend your adventure? Check out our 5-day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour for a journey through the stunning Sahara that concludes in the historic city of Fes.
Prefer a round trip? Explore our 4 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to experience the desert and return to the city of Marrakech.
Let us know what you’d like, and we’ll plan the ideal tour for you!
Related Tours From Marrakech
Marrkech To Merzouga Desert Tours | Marrkech To Fes Desert Tours |
