3 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

Experience the magic of Morocco on this 3 days tour from Marrakech to the Merzouga Desert. Every moment reveals a new landscape and cultural treasure. Cross the stunning High Atlas Mountains. Explore ancient kasbahs rich with history. Walk through impressive gorges shaped by nature. Ride camels across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. This journey combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Enjoy an authentic and comfortable desert experience. Create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Sahara.

Highlights 3 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

Scenic High Atlas Mountains crossing via Tizi n’Tichka Pass with breathtaking photo opportunities
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou and learn about its cinematic history
Visit Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert, with opportunities to see film studios and local kasbahs
Walk through Dades and Todgha Gorges, witnessing Morocco’s dramatic landscapes and rock formations
Camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes and overnight stay in a traditional Berber desert camp
Traditional Moroccan dinner and live Berber music under the star-studded Sahara sky
Witness both the stunning desert sunrise and sunset, capturing unforgettable moments in the golden dunes

Itinerary 3 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

Day 1: Marrakech – Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Ait Ben Haddou – Dades Valley

Your adventure begins in the early morning as you depart from Marrakech, heading southeast across the majestic High Atlas Mountains. The route takes you along the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass, where the winding roads reveal panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, terraced villages, and lush valleys. Along the way, you pass through traditional Berber villages, where locals still maintain their centuries-old customs, and have the chance to see terraced farmlands and dramatic cliffs carved by nature. Your first major stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified ksar that has stood for centuries and served as a backdrop for many famous films.

After exploring the ksar and learning about its history and architecture, the tour continues to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” where you can see the famous film studios and local kasbahs. Continuing through the palm groves of Skoura and the fragrant Rose Valley, the day ends in the Dades Valley. Here, you will be captivated by the towering cliffs, winding canyon roads, and unique rock formations, enjoy a delicious traditional dinner, and spend the night in a charming guesthouse surrounded by the natural beauty of the valley.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todgha Gorge – Merzouga Desert

After a hearty breakfast, you continue your journey deeper into Morocco’s desert regions along the scenic road of a thousand kasbahs, which passes through small villages, lush oases, and dramatic landscapes. The first major highlight of the day is Todgha Gorge, where enormous cliffs rise dramatically from the valley floor, creating a natural canyon that is both awe-inspiring and serene. Take your time walking through the gorge, admiring the sheer rock faces and enjoying the tranquil environment that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

From here, the route continues through the towns of Tinghir, Tinjdad, and Erfoud, where you can experience local markets, traditional crafts, and fossil workshops, providing insight into the rich culture and history of the region. As you approach Merzouga, the landscape transforms dramatically, revealing the vast golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Here, you will embark on a camel trek, traversing the undulating dunes as the sun sets over the horizon, painting the desert in warm shades of orange and gold. Upon arrival at your desert camp, you will be welcomed with mint tea and a traditional Berber dinner, followed by an evening of music and storytelling under the star-filled Sahara sky, creating an unforgettable night immersed in desert culture and tranquility.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert – Sunrise – Ziz Valley – Return to Marrakech

The final day of the tour begins before sunrise, allowing you to witness one of the most magical experiences of the Sahara: the sun rising over the golden dunes. The changing colors of the sand, the peaceful silence, and the cool morning air create a moment that will remain etched in your memory forever. After enjoying breakfast at the camp, you ride camels or travel by 4×4 back to Merzouga village, where your private vehicle awaits to begin the scenic journey back to Marrakech. Along the way, you pass through the Ziz Valley, famous for its lush palm oases and picturesque villages, and continue through Erfoud, Rissani, and other desert towns, offering chances for photographs and short rest stops.

The route winds through the Anti-Atlas and High Atlas Mountains, providing dramatic scenery and changing landscapes, from arid deserts to fertile valleys and rugged peaks. Arriving in Marrakech in the evening, you will be dropped off at your hotel or riad, concluding this incredible adventure filled with culture, natural beauty, and authentic Moroccan experiences.