3 daysMarrakech
3 Days Desert Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga Dunes & Camel Trek
4.9(12,493)Free cancellation
from$115
4 Days Adventure from Marrakech to Fez/Marrakech via Desert
Length
4 days
Itinerary
4 days planned
Group
Max 17
Guides
English, French
Overview
This 4-day, 3-night desert tour offers an unforgettable adventure from Marrakech, with the option to return to Marrakech or finish in Fes. The Marrakech loop includes an overnight in the Dades Valley, a camel trek and night at a desert camp in Merzouga, an overnight in Ouarzazate, and a return to Marrakech, while the Marrakech to Fes route features an overnight in Dades, a night at the Merzouga desert camp, a second night in a Merzouga hotel with a visit to Rissani, and a final journey through the Ziz Oasis, Cedar Forests, and Middle Atlas mountains to Fes. Along the way, all travelers journey through the High Atlas Mountains, visit the iconic Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, and explore the dramatic Dades and Todra Gorges. Both routes include a camel trek and night under the stars in the Sahara, with daily breakfasts and dinners provided.
Day by day itinerary
1DAY 1: MARRAKECH / AIT BEN HADDOU / OUARZAZATE/GORGES⌄
Start your journey from your hotel in Marrakech or a designated meeting point, preparing for an exciting adventure across Morocco's stunning landscapes. You'll be introduced to the beauty of Morocco right from the start, as you travel from the bustling city of Marrakech through the heart of the Atlas Mountains.
As you ascend the Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260 meters above sea level), enjoy spectacular views of the winding road that cuts through the High Atlas Mountains. The landscape changes as you drive through lush valleys, Berber villages, and rugged peaks. Pause at a scenic spot to take photos of this awe-inspiring mountain scenery and to stretch your legs.
A visit to the iconic Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Morocco’s cinematic history. Explore the ancient fortified village (kasbah) made of adobe and mud, where numerous famous movies (like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia) have been filmed. Wander through narrow alleys and climb to the top of the kasbah for panoramic views of the surrounding valley and palm groves.
Known as the "Hollywood of Morocco," Ouarzazate is home to Morocco’s biggest film studios, where movies like The Mummy and Game of Thrones have been filmed. You can visit the studios if time allows, or simply explore the town’s kasbahs and learn about its role in film history.
Arrive at the stunning Dades Gorge, known for its dramatic rock formations, winding roads, and verdant valleys. The gorge is often referred to as the “Road of 1000 Kasbahs” due to the many historic kasbahs dotting the landscape.
Meals: Dinner: -Vegetarian option available. -Drinks aren't included.
Overnight: Overnight At Dades Hotel.
2Day 2: Dades Gorge / Todra Gorges / Tinghir / Rissani / Merzouga / Erg Chebbi⌄
Enjoy breakfast with views of the dramatic landscape before departing for Todra Gorge. This area is known for its spectacular cliffs and deep canyons. Travelers can take a short walk in the gorge or just enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the roadside.
The Todra Gorges are one of Morocco's natural wonders, with towering 300-meter-high cliffs of pink and orange rock. Travelers can walk through the gorge, enjoying the cool air and dramatic surroundings, or simply stop to take in the views.
A quick stop in the village of Tinghir provides a peek into authentic Berber life. Travelers can explore the local markets and take in views of the lush palm groves that surround the town
Rissani is a historic town known for its bustling souks (markets), where traders from the surrounding desert areas come to sell their goods. The market is the largest in the region and offers an authentic glimpse into daily desert life. Travelers can walk through the market, shop for local crafts, and visit the nearby kasbahs.
Arrival to Merzouga Desert.
Travelers are transported into the Sahara Desert. They’ll leave the vehicle behind and board camels for an hour-long trek into the towering sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. The ride offers incredible views of the ever-changing sandscapes. After arriving at the desert camp, guests can relax, enjoy a traditional Berber dinner, and gaze at the stars before overnighting in a desert camp.
Meals: Breakfast: -Vegetarian option available. -Drinks aren't included. · Dinner: -Vegetarian option available. -Drinks aren't included.
Overnight: Overnight at the desert camp.
3Day 3: Erg Chebbi / Merzouga / Khamlia Village / Oasis / Rissani / Merzouga⌄
Wake up early to witness one of nature's most beautiful sights – the sunrise over the Sahara Desert. As the first light of day hits the vast dunes, the golden sand becomes a canvas of changing colors, offering a magical and peaceful experience.
Head to Merzouga!
Khamlia is a small village located near the dunes, famous for its Gnawa musicians, whose ancestors were brought from Sub-Saharan Africa. Travelers will be welcomed with a live music and dance performance, offering a unique cultural experience that highlights the village’s rich heritage.
Explore one of the local oases near Merzouga, where palm trees and other plants create a striking contrast against the surrounding desert. The oasis is a peaceful spot for a short break, offering a chance to rest and enjoy the lush greenery
Back in Rissani, visitors can tour the historic kasbahs, including the ruins of the old royal palace. Take a walk through the famous Rissani market to see local artisans selling spices, textiles, and crafts. For lunch, try the area’s traditional dish, Medfouna (a Berber-style stuffed pizza), baked in clay ovens.
After a full day of exploration, return to Merzouga to relax and unwind. Enjoy dinner at your hotel and reflect on the unforgettable desert experience.
Meals: Dinner: -Vegetarian option available. -Drinks aren't included. · Breakfast: -Vegetarian option available. -Drinks aren't included.
Overnight: Overnight at Merzouga Hotel.
4Day 4: Merzouga / Ziz Valley / Midelt / Cedar Forests / Fez⌄
Pickup from your Hotel.
The Ziz Valley is known for its lush palm groves and beautiful kasbahs scattered along the river. As you drive through this fertile valley, take in the lush greenery that contrasts with the surrounding desert terrain. There will be several opportunities for photo stops.
Stop for lunch in the small town of Midelt, nestled between the High and Middle Atlas Mountains. Surrounded by apple orchards, it provides a peaceful break from the desert and offers spectacular views of the mountains.
Drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains.
Stop in the cedar forests. This area is home to the Barbary macaque monkeys, which are often spotted in the trees. Travelers can stretch their legs and enjoy a walk in the forest while keeping an eye out for these playful creatures.
Pass through Ifrane.
Arrive in Fez, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, by late afternoon or early evening. The tour ends here, but travelers are encouraged to explore Fez's ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its maze of alleys, historic mosques, and vibrant souks
Meals: Breakfast: -Vegetarian option available. -Drinks aren't included.
What's included
- ✓3 nights accommodations
- ✓Sandboarding (upon request)
- ✓Berber Sahraoui Music around the campfire
- ✓Hotel pickup and drop-off
- ✓Transport by air-conditioned minibus
- ✓Dinner
- ✓Breakfast
- ✓Local taxes
- ✓Professional Driver speaks English
- ✓Camel ride
Not included
- ✕Entrance fees ( for the Atlas studio)
- ✕Drinks
- ✕Lunches
- ✕Gratuities
- ✕QuadBiking over the dunes for one hour
Good to know
Starts: If you're staying at a riad in Marrakech, our team will arrange the nearest accessible pickup point for you, where our vehicle can reach.
Ends: The driver will drop you off at the nearest location of your hotel in Marrakech. For Riad Guests in Fes: Please inform your driver as you approach the city. We will contact your Riad to arrange a meeting point at the nearest gate. This makes finding your way much easier, and Riad staff will be available to help you with your luggage through the Medina’s pedestrian streets.
Cancellation: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Wheelchair accessible
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
- Dress code is casual. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- The max number of travelers per vehicle is 17
- You may change drivers and/or vehicles during your journey
- You share the vehicles with other travelers regardless of their options
- Have enough cash on you (Between 170MAD to 250MAD per day per person)
- You will share the vehicle with other travelers and you may not necessarily end the tour with the same people that you start with
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