Overview
This is one of our most popular journeys: the classic route from Marrakech to the great dunes of Merzouga, packed with discoveries along the way. Oases, kasbahs, canyons, then the Sahara itself.
The highlight is the camel trek into the dunes of Erg Chebbi at sunset and the night in a desert camp. With no light pollution, the sky above the camp is one of the most spectacular you will ever see.
Highlights
- Cross the High Atlas by the Tizi n’Tichka pass
- The UNESCO-listed kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
- The Valley of Roses and the Dades Gorges
- The Todra Gorges and the Tinghir oasis
- A camel trek in Erg Chebbi at sunset
- A night in a Berber camp in the Sahara
3 days / 2 nights
Itinerary
Day 1
Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Gorges
Departure at 8:00 from your riad, hotel or the airport. Travel south across the High Atlas through the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260 m), then visit the kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate. Continue through the Valley of Roses to the Dades Gorges for dinner and the night at a hotel.
Day 2
Dades – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga
After breakfast, head to the Todra Gorges and the Tinghir palm grove, then drive through Erfoud, the fossil town, to Merzouga. In the afternoon, leave the vehicle for a camel trek of about two hours across the dunes of the Sahara. Dinner and night in nomad tents in the heart of the desert, under the stars.
Day 3
Merzouga – Draa Valley – Marrakech
Wake early for the sunrise over the dunes, then ride back for breakfast and a shower. Drive through the great palm grove of Tafilalet and Rissani, the cradle of the Alaouite dynasty, then via Alnif, Tazzarine and N'Kob to the Draa Valley and Agdz. Cross the High Atlas once more and arrive in Marrakech in the evening.
Included
- Pick-up from your riad or hotel in Marrakech
- Transport with driver throughout the tour
- First night in a hotel in the Dades Valley, with dinner and breakfast
- Second night in a desert camp, with dinner and breakfast
- Camel treks at sunset and sunrise
Not included
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Optional local guide in Ait Ben Haddou
Accommodation
Night 1: hotel in the Dades Gorges. Night 2: Berber camp in the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Comfortable and luxury camps with private bathrooms are available on request.
Good to know
Days 1 and 3 include long drives (8 to 10 hours with stops). If you would like a gentler rhythm and a full day in the desert, have a look at our 5-day Marrakech to Merzouga tour.
Photos
Frequently asked questions
Is 3 days enough for Merzouga?
Yes, it is the minimum for Merzouga from Marrakech and gives you a full desert experience, with two long driving days. With 4 or 5 days, the pace is more relaxed.
Can the tour end in Fes?
Yes. Instead of returning to Marrakech, we can finish the tour in Fes on day 3. Tell us when you enquire.
What should I pack for the desert?
Layers: days are warm but desert nights can be cold, especially from November to March. Bring a warm jacket, a scarf or cheche against sand and sun, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable shoes and a small bag for the night in the camp.
Can the itinerary be adapted?
Yes. If this itinerary does not quite match what you are looking for, tell us: we adapt the route, the pace and the hotel category to your wishes, your group and the season.
Plan this trip with us
Tell us your dates and group size: we reply within 24 hours with a tailored proposal. Every tour is private and can be adjusted.