This 5 days desert tour from Marrakech with day trip to Essaouira is the perfect way to experience Morocco’s incredible diversity in a short time. From the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara, and from ancient kasbahs to the refreshing Atlantic coast, this journey combines nature, culture, adventure, and relaxation. Travel through traditional Berber villages, explore dramatic gorges and valleys, ride camels across the desert, sleep under the stars in a luxury desert camp, and enjoy the charming seaside atmosphere of Essaouira. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Moroccan adventure with comfort and unforgettable landscapes.
5 days desert tour from Marrakech with Essaouira day trip Highlights
- Cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains and Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah (UNESCO Site)
- Explore the beautiful Dades Valley and Todgha Gorge
- Ride camels across the dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Watch sunset and sunrise in the Sahara Desert
- Sleep under the stars in a traditional desert camp
- Discover the stunning palm groves of the Draa Valley
- Enjoy a full-day excursion to the seaside city of Essaouira
- Experience authentic Berber culture and hospitality
5 days desert tour from Marrakech with Essaouira day trip Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech. You will cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass, one of the most scenic roads in Morocco. Along the way, you will stop to enjoy panoramic views and take photos of traditional Berber villages built into the mountains. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, an impressive fortified village made of clay and stone that has been used as a filming location for many international movies. After exploring the kasbah, you will drive to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” before continuing through the Valley of Roses, famous for its rose products and beautiful landscapes. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in the Dades Valley, where you will enjoy dinner and spend the night in a comfortable traditional hotel overlooking the canyon.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todgha Gorge – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, you will travel through the Dades Valley toward the impressive Todgha Gorge, a dramatic canyon with towering rock walls reaching over 300 meters high. You will have time to walk along the river and enjoy the natural beauty of this unique place. The journey continues through palm-filled valleys, small Berber towns, and the desert city of Erfoud, known for its fossils and marble workshops. By afternoon, you will reach Merzouga, where the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi rise dramatically from the desert. Here, you will switch to camels and begin a magical trek across the dunes, watching the sunset as the sky changes colors. You will arrive at your desert camp, where a traditional Moroccan dinner is served, followed by Berber music around the campfire under a sky full of stars.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Alnif – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate
Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the sand dunes, one of the most beautiful moments of the Sahara experience. After breakfast at the camp, you will travel by 4×4 or camel back to the village of Merzouga. Your journey continues toward Rissani, a historic trading center famous for its traditional market and authentic desert atmosphere. You will then cross semi-desert landscapes through Alnif and Tazarine, passing rocky plains, ancient kasbahs, and vast open horizons. The route follows the lush Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest river valley, lined with thousands of palm trees and ancient fortified villages. In the evening, you will arrive in Ouarzazate, where you will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel.
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
After breakfast, you will begin your return journey to Marrakech, again crossing the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, you will stop at scenic viewpoints for photos and refreshments. Upon arrival in Marrakech in the afternoon, you will have free time to relax or explore the city at your own pace. You can visit the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, explore the colorful souks, or enjoy a traditional hammam and spa experience. Overnight stay in your riad or hotel in Marrakech.
Day 5: Marrakech – Essaouira – Marrakech
On the final day, you will take a full-day excursion to the beautiful coastal city of Essaouira. After breakfast, depart Marrakech and drive through the Argan tree forests, where you may see goats climbing the trees. Upon arrival in Essaouira, you will explore the charming medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its white-and-blue architecture, artistic atmosphere, and relaxed vibe. Visit the old fishing port, the historic city walls (Skala), and the lively fish market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. You will also have free time to walk along the sandy beach or shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. In the late afternoon, you will return to Marrakech, where your tour ends.
Included
- Private air-conditioned transportation with experienced driver/guide
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech
- 4 nights accommodation (hotels/riads and desert camp)
- 4 breakfasts and 3 dinners
- Camel trek in Merzouga desert
- Sandboarding in the dunes (optional)
- Sunset and sunrise desert experience
- Free time to explore sites and take photos
Excluded
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees to monuments (if required)
- Guide in monuments (optional)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Tips for driver and camp staff
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