Our 4 Days Tour Marrakech To Merzouga Desert takes you through Morocco’s beautiful landscapes and historic places.
You’ll cross the High Atlas Mountains, visit Ait Ben Haddou, and explore spots like Ouarzazate, Roses Valley, and Dades Valley. Enjoy a camel ride in the Erg Chebbi dunes in the Sahara Desert and spend the night in a desert camp.
You’ll also visit Todra Gorge, Rissani, and the scenic Draa Valley. This tour mixes adventure and culture, perfect for families, couples, or friends, creating memories to last a lifetime.
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Starting Location: Marrakech
- Ending Location: Marrakech
Depart Time: | 8:00 AM |
Arrival Time: | 17:00 Pm |
Tour Type: | Private Trip |
Price: | Starts at €188 per person |
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains.
- Visit Ait Ben Haddou.
- Explore Ouarzazate.
- Drive through Roses Valley.
- See Dades Valley.
- Walk in Todra Gorge.
- Ride camels in the Merzouga Desert.
- Sleep in a desert luxury camp.
- Visit Rissani Market.
- Drive through Draa Valley.
Itinerary of the Marrakech To Merzouga Desert Tour 4 days:
Day 1: Marrakech → Ouarzazate → Ait ben haddou → Roses Valley → Boumaln dades
We will start our trip from Marrakech, driving through the beautiful High Atlas Mountains. As we cross the famous Tizi N’Tichka pass, we’ll stop to enjoy the amazing views and take some photos.
Next, we will visit Ait Benhaddou, an ancient village with old kasbahs (fortresses). It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been used in many famous movies like “Gladiator, Babel, and The Mummy”. After exploring, we’ll have a traditional lunch nearby.
Then, we’ll continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” This city is famous for its movie studios and historic kasbahs, and it’s a great place to learn more about Morocco’s desert life.
Finally, we’ll drive through the lovely Roses Valley and reach the Dades Valley, where we’ll have dinner and spend the night in a cozy hotel.
- 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
After breakfast, we will leave the Dades Valley and go to Todra Gorge, a beautiful canyon with tall rock walls. You’ll have time to walk around and enjoy the views.
Next, we’ll reach Erfoud, a town known for its fossils and date palm trees. This small desert town is often called the gateway to the Sahara. It’s also famous for its fossil workshops and local markets
In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in Merzouga at the edge of the Sahara Desert. You’ll ride camels into the Erg Chebbi dunes to watch the sunset. After that, You’ll have dinner, enjoy Berber music around the campfire, and sleep in a luxury desert camp under the stars.
- 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: Merzouga Desert → Rissani → Alnif → Draa Valley → Ouarzazate
We will begin the day early by watching the stunning sunrise over the Sahara Desert. After enjoying breakfast at the desert camp, we ride camels back to Merzouga and prepare to continue our trip.
Our first stop is Rissani, a small town known for its traditional market, where locals buy and sell goods. It’s a great place to experience local life. After exploring, we’ll drive through the quiet village of Alnif, taking in the desert landscapes.
We then make our way to the beautiful Draa Valley, famous for its endless palm trees and ancient kasbahs. The peaceful views continue as we head to Ouarzazate, where you’ll have dinner and spend the night on an amazing cozy riad.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 400 Km
- Approx. 8 Hours (including Stops)
- Accommodation Details:
- Accommodation Options:
- 1. Riad Dar Chamaa
- 2. La Perle du Sud
- 3. Hotel Sultana Royal Golf
Day 4: Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → Telouet Kasbah → Marrakech
After breakfast, we will start by exploring Ouarzazate, a city famous for its film studios, and the old Taourirt Kasbah. It’s called the “Hollywood of Africa” because many popular movies were filmed here, making it a must-see spot.
Next, we’ll visit the well-known Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient village, with its beautiful mud-brick buildings, has appeared in many movies. After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, we’ll continue our journey to the historic Telouet Kasbah, a hidden but impressive place.
From there, we’ll drive back through the High Atlas Mountains, enjoying the views once again. By the end of the day, we reach Marrakech, where the tour ends and we’ll drop you off at your accommodation, filled with unforgettable memories.
- Estimate Distance (Km): Approx. 200 Km
- Approx. 5 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 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, Beverages
- Entrance fees to monuments or attractions.
Gallery:
Know Before You Go:
1. What to Pack:
- Bring comfortable clothes for hot days and cool nights (layers are best).
- Wear good walking shoes for exploring and camel rides.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect from the sun.
- A small backpack is handy for water and essentials during the day.
2. Weather:
- Desert days are hot, but nights can get cold, so pack for both.
- The best time to go is in spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when it’s not too hot.
3. Health Tips:
- Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, especially in the desert heat.
- Let your guide know if you have any food restrictions (like vegetarian or vegan), and they’ll adjust the meals for you.
- Be ready for some long drives but with stops to stretch and explore.
4. Money and Tips:
- Carry some cash in Moroccan dirhams for tips, entrance fees, and small purchases.
- Tipping is optional but appreciated for guides, drivers, and at meals.
5. Safety:
- Camel rides and desert activities are safe for most people. Tell your guide if you have any concerns.
- Always follow your guide’s instructions for safety in the desert.
6. Accommodations:
- You’ll stay in comfortable hotels in the Dades Valley and Ouarzazate, and in a luxury camp in the desert at Merzouga.
- The desert camp has private tents with modern facilities, and you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars.
7. Photography:
- The desert and mountains offer great spots for photos, so bring a camera or phone.
- Ask locals before taking their pictures, as it’s polite.
8. Cultural Etiquette:
- Respect local customs, especially in villages and markets.
- Dress modestly when visiting traditional places like kasbahs and markets.
9. Optional Activities:
- If you want, you can do extra activities like quad biking or buggy driving in the desert. Just let your guide know, and they’ll set it up.
10. Important Information:
- Tell your guide about any special requests or preferences, like if you’d prefer to skip the camel ride.
- The drives are long, but there will be stops for rest and exploring along the way.
Accommodation Options: Luxury Vs Standard
1. First Night, Third Night: Dades Valley & Ouarzazate
- Standard Option: You will stay in a simple riad or hotel. The room will be comfortable, with a private bathroom and a hot shower. Dinner and breakfast are included. This option is great if you prefer something basic but cozy.
- Luxury Option: Upgrade to a nicer hotel with bigger rooms and extra amenities like air conditioning or even a pool. It’s a more relaxing experience after a day of traveling. Dinner and breakfast are included.
2. Second Night: Merzouga Desert Camp
- Standard Desert Camp: Stay in a traditional Berber tent. The camp is simple, with shared bathrooms, giving you a cozy desert experience. Dinner and breakfast are included. You’ll enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.
- Luxury Desert Camp: For more comfort, stay in a private tent with your own bathroom. The tents are bigger with proper beds, electricity, and nicer dining spaces. Dinner and breakfast are included, giving you a more comfortable desert stay.
Note: If these camps and riads are fully booked, there are other excellent options in Merzouga, Boumalen dades, and Ouarzazate, offering both standard and luxury stays for a fantastic desert experience.
Pricing Overview for the 4 Days Desert Trip Marrakech To Merzouga
The 4-Day Trip Marrakech To Merzouga starts at €188 per person. The final price will vary based on your group size, choice of accommodation (luxury or standard camp), and the dates of travel.
Larger groups can enjoy a lower price 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 €188 |
5 People | From €198 |
4 People | From €208 |
3 People | From €228 |
2 People | From €258 |
1 Person | From €318 |
- 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 flexibility and personalized options or a shared tour for a more budget-friendly group experience. The table below explains 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 |
Starts From 188€ per person | Starts From 118€ 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 Marrakech Desert Tour 4 Days:
1. High Atlas Mountains
The High Atlas Mountains offer stunning views and winding roads. You’ll pass through traditional Berber villages, giving you a vision of local life. The landscape shifts from green valleys to rocky peaks.
2. Ait Ben Haddou
Ait Ben Haddou is an ancient village and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Famous for its clay buildings, it has been featured in many films. Walking through its streets is like stepping back in time.
3. Ouarzazate
Known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” Ouarzazate is home to film studios and historic kasbahs. The Taourirt Kasbah is a must-see with its unique architecture. The city serves as a gateway to the Sahara.
4. Roses Valley
The Roses Valley is famous for its rose fields and small villages. During spring, the blooming roses are celebrated with a Rose Festival. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot in the heart of nature.
5. Dades Valley
The Dades Valley is known for its unusual rock formations, called the “Monkey Fingers.” The valley is full of green fields, small villages, and kasbahs. The views are truly breathtaking.
6. Todra Gorge
Todra Gorge features towering cliffs, reaching up to 300 meters high. A small river flows through the gorge, making it perfect for scenic walks. The dramatic rock walls are a natural wonder.
7. Erfoud
Erfoud is a desert town known for its fossils and traditional markets. It’s often called the gateway to the Sahara Desert. You’ll find fossil workshops and local handicrafts here.
8. Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)
The Erg Chebbi Dunes near Merzouga are some of the tallest in Morocco. You can take a camel ride through the golden sands. Spending a night in a desert camp here is a unique experience.
9. Rissani
Rissani is a desert town with a lively traditional market. Locals trade goods like dates and spices, giving you a feel of desert life. The town is rich in history as a former trading hub.
10. Ziz Valley
The Ziz Valley is known for its endless palm groves and scenic views. The lush valley contrasts with the surrounding desert. It’s a beautiful drive with small villages and kasbahs along the way.
11. Draa Valley
The Draa Valley is Morocco’s largest palm grove, filled with thousands of date palms. The valley is peaceful, with ancient kasbahs and green oases. It’s a great spot to relax after your desert journey.
Yes, the camel ride in the Erg Chebbi Dunes is part of the tour. You’ll get to ride camels to the desert camp at sunset and again in the morning to watch the sunrise, making it a memorable desert experience.
The tour includes 2 nights in comfortable hotels or riads and 1 night in a desert camp. You can choose between a luxury desert camp with more amenities or a standard camp for a more traditional experience.
Yes, you can book the tour either as a private trip or a shared trip. A private tour offers more flexibility and personalized service, while a shared tour is a more affordable way to experience the desert with other travelers.
You can add extra activities like quad biking or a hot air balloon ride when booking the tour or during the trip. Just let your tour provider know, and they will organize these activities for you at an additional cost.
The best time to take this tour is in spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild. Summer can be very hot in the desert, while winter nights can be quite cold, especially in the desert.
Yes, this tour is great for families, including children. The activities, such as camel riding, exploring the mountains, and desert camping, are safe and fun for all ages, making it a perfect adventure for families.
The drive from Marrakech to Merzouga takes about 9-10 hours, but it’s spread out over 4 days with several scenic stops. This makes the journey enjoyable and gives you time to explore different locations along the way.
Important:
You can customize your trip to fit exactly what you want. If our suggested plan doesn’t work for you, you can choose how many days to spend and which places to visit. Want to add extra stops or stay longer? We can adjust the tour to match your preferences.
If you’re short on time, a 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is perfect to explore the desert.
For a chance to see monkeys in the Cedar Forest or if you have a return flight from Fes, choose a 4-day tour from Marrakech to Fes.
Tell us what you’d like, and we’ll help create the perfect trip for you!
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