Marrakech Vacation Guide

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Design Your Marrakech Holiday
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Design Your Marrakech Holiday

5-Day Desert Tour

Availability

Everyday

Duration

5 days

Start From

Marrakech

Overview of the 5-Day Desert Tour

Embark on a thrilling 5-day desert tour adventure that takes you through Morocco’s stunning landscapes, from the lush valleys to the vast sands of the desert. Spend the first night in Boumalne Dades, nestled in the Atlas Mountains. On Day 2, venture to Merzouga, where you’ll experience a camel trek through the towering dunes of the Sahara. Day 3 brings you to Agdez, a small village with a rich history, before returning to Marrakech on Day 4. This journey offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty, cultural encounters, and desert adventures.

Included :

  • Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Boumalne Dades (hotel/guesthouse). 2 nights in Merzouga (luxury desert camp). 1 night in Ouarzazate (hotel/riad).
  • Meals: Breakfast and dinner daily.
  • Camel Trekking: Sunset and sunrise camel rides in the Sahara Desert.
  • Guided Tours: Local guides in key locations, such as Ait Benhaddou and Khamlia Village.

Excluded :

  • Lunches: Available at local restaurants during stops.
  • Personal Expenses: Drinks, souvenirs, and tips.
  • Optional Activities: Additional excursions or 4x4 desert adventures.

Things to Bring

  • Comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
  • A camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
  • A light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.

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 5-Day Desert Tour

Day 1: Marrakech to Boumalne Dades

  • Departure from Marrakech: 8:00 AM
    Start your journey with a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, with its breathtaking views and charming Berber villages.

Stops Along the Way:

  • Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Enjoy panoramic views of the High Atlas.
  • Ait Benhaddou: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its cinematic history.
  • Ouarzazate: Stop for lunch and a quick visit to the Kasbah Taourirt.
  • Drive through the Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses.
  • Arrive in Boumalne Dades: 6:00 PM
    Relax at your hotel or guesthouse. Dinner and overnight in Boumalne Dades.

 

Day 2: Boumalne Dades to Merzouga (Sahara Desert)

  • Morning Departure: 8:00 AM
    After breakfast, journey towards the dunes of Merzouga, passing through picturesque valleys and gorges.

Stops Along the Way:

  • Dades Gorge: Take a short walk to explore the stunning rock formations.
  • Todra Gorge: Admire the towering canyon walls and enjoy a brief stroll.
  • Rissani: Stop to explore the bustling local market (if it’s a market day).
  • Arrive in Merzouga: 4:00 PM
    • Enjoy a welcoming mint tea and prepare for your desert adventure.
    • Camel Trek: Embark on a camel trek to your luxury desert camp, watching the sunset over the dunes.
    • Dinner and overnight under the starry sky with traditional Berber music.

 

Day 3: Explore the Sahara Desert

  • Sunrise: Wake up early to witness a breathtaking desert sunrise, followed by breakfast at the camp.
  • Morning Activities:
    • Camel ride back to Merzouga.
    • Visit Khamlia Village to experience Gnawa music and culture.
    • Enjoy a 4×4 Jeep tour to discover nomadic life and explore the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
  • Afternoon at Leisure: Relax at your camp or explore the surrounding dunes on foot.
  • Evening: Traditional dinner and a second night in the desert camp.

Day 4: Merzouga to Ouarzazate

  • Departure from Merzouga: 8:00 AM
    Begin the journey towards Ouarzazate, passing through scenic desert landscapes.

Stops Along the Way:

  • Alnif: A small village known for its fossils and unique desert charm.
  • Draa Valley: Drive through Morocco’s largest palm grove, dotted with ancient kasbahs.
  • Arrive in Ouarzazate: 5:00 PM
    Spend the evening exploring the city or relaxing at your hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in Ouarzazate.

Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech

  • Departure from Ouarzazate: 8:00 AM
    Head back to Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains.

Stops Along the Way:

  • Kasbah Ait Benhaddou (if not visited on Day 1): Explore the ksar one last time.
  • Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Enjoy more scenic stops as you descend into Marrakech.
  • Arrive in Marrakech: 5:00 PM
    Your adventure concludes upon arrival in Marrakech.

Tour photos

Tour Map

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the camel ride in Merzouga?

The camel ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours each way to and from the desert camp.

Yes, no experience is required! The camel ride is easy and enjoyable, and the guide will assist you throughout.

Yes, the desert camp is well-equipped with traditional tents, comfortable bedding, and basic amenities. You’ll have a comfortable and authentic experience.

The desert can be very hot during the day, but temperatures drop significantly at night. It’s important to bring a jacket or sweater for the evenings.

Yes, the tour is suitable for families, though children must be accompanied by an adult on the camel ride.

 Yes, private tours can be arranged. Contact us for more details.

The trip includes breakfast and dinner. Lunches are not included, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop at local restaurants or markets.

The trip involves significant travel by road (approximately 6-9 hours on the first and last days), with scenic stops along the way.