5-Day Sahara Desert Adventure: Marrakech to Merzouga & Ouarzazat
Embark on an unforgettable adventure. Discover Morocco desert tour and experience Merzouga camel trek.
5-Day Sahara Desert Adventure: Marrakech to Merzouga & Ouarzazat
Discover the magic of Morocco’s south on this 5-day desert journey from Marrakech. Explore ancient kasbahs, rugged gorges, and the golden dunes of Merzouga with two nights under the desert stars.
Departure
Marrakech
Duration
5 Days
Arrival
Marrakech
Gallery
Overview
Embark on a breathtaking 5-day journey through the heart of Morocco, venturing from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serene silence of the Sahara. This immersive tour weaves through the majestic Atlas Mountains, past ancient kasbahs and lush valleys, and into the vast sand sea of Merzouga, where two magical nights in the desert await. Along the way, discover Berber culture, marvel at cinematic landscapes, and witness some of the most iconic sights in southern Morocco. With handpicked accommodations, a mix of guided exploration and free time, and unforgettable desert experiences—including a camel trek into the dunes of Erg Chebbi—this tour offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and culture. Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Moroccan escape beyond the cities.
Itinerary
Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Dades Valley
Drive Through the High Atlas Mountains
Depart Marrakech early and cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, enjoying sweeping views of the rugged Atlas Mountains and Berber villages.
- → Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m)
- → Scenic Berber villages
- → Panoramic photo stops
Visit Ait Ben Haddou
Explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, a stunning mudbrick ksar that has appeared in many films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
- → UNESCO World Heritage Site
- → Traditional Berber architecture
- → Film history
Dades Valley Drive & Overnight
Pass through Ouarzazate and continue to the beautiful Dades Valley via the Valley of Roses. Spend the night in a traditional guesthouse nestled in the gorge
- → Dades Gorges rock formations
- → Kasbahs and valleys
- → Authentic local stay
Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi)
Todra Gorge Exploration
Walk through the narrow canyon walls of Todra Gorge, a favorite spot for climbers and photographers.
- → Towering rock walls
- → Optional short walk
- → Local Berber villages
Merzouga Camel Trek & Desert Camp
Arrive in Merzouga and mount your camel for a trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy sunset from the dunes before a traditional dinner at the desert camp.
- → Camel ride into the dunes
- → Sunset over Erg Chebbi
- → Campfire music under the stars
Merzouga Desert Discovery
4x4 Desert Tour or Local Cultural Experience
Choose between a 4x4 desert tour to visit nomadic families and fossil sites, or spend a relaxed day experiencing Berber culture in Khamlia village.
- → Traditional Gnawa music
- → Nomadic lifestyle insights
- → Desert plateau and oases
Optional Sandboarding or Second Camel Ride
Try your hand at sandboarding or take another camel ride to experience the desert from a different perspective.
- → Thrilling activity in dunes
- → Photogenic moments
- → Relaxed pace
Merzouga – Alnif – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate
Scenic Drive through the Draa Valley
Journey through the Draa Valley, known for its lush palm groves and historic kasbahs. A scenic, less-traveled route.
- → Draa River oases
- → Traditional villages
- → Quiet, authentic route
Evening in Ouarzazate
Arrive in Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco.” Optional visit to Taourirt Kasbah or simply enjoy a relaxing evening
- → Historic kasbahs
- → Film studio atmosphere
- → Comfortable riad stay
Ouarzazate – Telouet – Marrakech
Visit Telouet Kasbah
Explore the often-overlooked Telouet Kasbah, once a residence of the powerful Glaoui family, full of intricate tilework and history.
- → Less touristy kasbah
- → Ornate interior design
- → Rich historical context
Return to Marrakech
Cross the High Atlas Mountains once more, arriving back in Marrakech by late afternoon. Tour ends with drop-off at your accommodation.
- → Scenic final drive
- → Reflection on the journey
- → Return to civilization
What's Included
- ✓ 4 nights accommodation (hotels, guesthouses, desert camp)
- ✓ Private or shared transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
- ✓ English/French/Spanish-speaking driver-guide
- ✓ Camel trek in Merzouga (1 per person)
- ✓ 4 dinners
- ✓ 4 breakfasts
- ✓ Local music at desert camp
- ✓ Fuel and tolls
What's Not Included
- × Lunches and drinks
- × Entrance fees to optional attractions (e.g., Telouet Kasbah, Atlas Studios)
- × Tips for driver and guides
- × Optional activities (ATV, etc.)
Tour Highlights
Sunset Camel Trek into Erg Chebbi
Experience one of Morocco’s most iconic moments—riding a camel across the Sahara dunes as the sun dips below the horizon. The colors, silence, and serenity are unforgettable.
Overnight in a Sahara Desert Camp
Sleep under a blanket of stars in a Berber-style desert camp, complete with traditional meals, music, and local hospitality.
Explore Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
This UNESCO-listed ksar is one of Morocco’s most photogenic and historically rich sites, used as a filming location for numerous international movies.
Scenic Drive through the High Atlas Mountains
The journey is as rewarding as the destination. The winding roads and panoramic vistas of the Atlas Mountains offer constant photo ops.
Cultural Immersion in Berber Villages
Meet locals, learn about nomadic life, and gain insight into Morocco's diverse cultural traditions along the way.
Secure Your Adventure
Reserve your spot today with no payment required. Limited availability - our tours often sell out weeks in advance.
