Marrakech Vacation Guide

Availability

Everyday

Duration

3 days

Start From

Marrakech

Overview of the 3-Day Desert Trip to Merzouga

This 3-day desert tour takes you from Marrakech to the mesmerizing dunes of Merzouga, with a stop for the night in Boumalne Dades, a picturesque town surrounded by dramatic mountains and valleys. The journey includes scenic drives through the High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, and Berber villages, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and stunning desert landscapes. Experience camel treks, spend a night in a desert camp under the stars, and create lasting memories on this incredible desert journey.

Included :

Excluded :

Things to Bring

  • Comfortable clothing and walking shoes
  • Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection
  • Camera to capture the desert beauty
  • Cash for souvenirs and personal expenses

Booking and Cancellation

  • When to Book: Book at least 24 hours in advance.
  • Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Detailed Itinerary of the 3-Day Desert Trip to Merzouga

Day 1: Marrakech – Boumalne Dades (via Atlas Mountains & Ait Benhaddou)

Morning Pickup from Marrakech

    • Time: Approx. 7:00 AM
    • Depart from your hotel or riad in Marrakech in an air-conditioned vehicle, and enjoy the scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains.

Stop at Ait Benhaddou

    • Time: Approx. 10:00 AM
    • Visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved kasbahs and striking mud-brick architecture. The site has served as the backdrop for many films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Explore the narrow streets and panoramic views of the desert landscape.

Lunch in Ouarzazate

    • Time: Approx. 1:00 PM
    • Stop for lunch in Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” This town is also home to the Atlas Film Studios, where numerous famous films were shot.

Arrival in Boumalne Dades

    • Time: Evening (Approx. 6:00 PM)
    • Arrive in Boumalne Dades, a small town nestled in the Dades Valley. Surrounded by majestic mountains, Boumalne Dades is a peaceful stop before venturing further into the desert.

Dinner and Overnight in Boumalne Dades

    • Time: Approx. 7:30 PM
    • Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at your hotel or riad, followed by a restful overnight stay.

Day 2: Boumalne Dades – Merzouga (via Todra Gorges & Erfoud)

Breakfast in Boumalne Dades

    • Time: Approx. 8:00 AM
    • Enjoy a hearty Moroccan breakfast before continuing your journey.

Stop at Todra Gorges

    • Time: Approx. 9:30 AM
    • After breakfast, drive to the Todra Gorges, known for its impressive cliffs and river valley. Take time to explore the area and enjoy a short walk through the gorge, which is a popular spot for climbers.

Lunch in Erfoud Or Tinghir

    • Time: Approx. 1:00 PM
    • Continue your journey through the desert landscape, stopping for lunch in Erfoud, a town known for its fossils and proximity to the Sahara.

Arrival in Merzouga

    • Time: Late afternoon (Approx. 5:30 PM)
    • Arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll meet your camel caravan for the journey into the desert.

Camel Trek to Desert Camp

    • Time: Approx. 1 hour
    • Embark on a camel ride to your desert camp, passing through the stunning golden sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi. Enjoy the sunset over the dunes and experience the tranquil beauty of the desert.

Dinner and Overnight in Desert Camp

    • Time: Approx. 7:30 PM
    • Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at the desert camp, followed by a night of stargazing under the clear desert skies.

Day 3: Merzouga – Marrakech

Sunrise Camel Ride and Breakfast ( Extra )

    • Time: 6:00 AM
    • Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the dunes, a truly magical experience. Afterward, enjoy breakfast in the desert camp before beginning the ride back to Merzouga.

Return to Merzouga

    • Time: Approx. 8:00 AM
    • Ride the camels back to Merzouga, where you’ll meet your driver for the return journey.

Scenic Drive Back to Marrakech

    • Time: 9:30 AM
    • Begin the return journey to Marrakech, passing through the same scenic landscapes as on the way to the desert.

Lunch in Ouarzazate

    • Time: Approx. 1:00 PM
    • Stop for a lunch break in Ouarzazate.

Arrival in Marrakech

    • Time: Approx. 6:00 PM
    • Arrive back in Marrakech, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or riad, marking the end of this unforgettable desert adventure.

Tour photos

Tour Map

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Merzouga from Marrakech?

Merzouga is approximately 9-10 hours away from Marrakech by road. The journey includes scenic stops, ensuring a comfortable and interesting experience along the way.

No prior experience is necessary! The camel trek is designed to be easy and enjoyable for beginners. Your guide will assist you throughout the journey

Yes, the desert camp in Merzouga is well-equipped, offering a comfortable and authentic experience. The camp includes traditional tents, bedding, and basic amenities, allowing you to enjoy the desert in comfort.

Yes, this trip is suitable for families. Children can enjoy the camel ride, and the trip is designed to be safe and enjoyable for all ages. Please let us know in advance if you are traveling with young children so we can make necessary arrangements.

The trip includes all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagines, couscous, and salads will be served during the journey and at the desert camp.