3 Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga – A Journey into the Moroccan Sahara
A trip to Morocco is incomplete without venturing into the majestic Sahara Desert. And one of the most popular and scenic ways to do this is by taking a 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. This journey is packed with iconic landscapes, historical landmarks, authentic Berber experiences, and of course — camel trekking and overnight camping in the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Whether you're an adventurous traveler or someone seeking unique cultural encounters, this tour offers a perfect blend of nature, tradition, and discovery.
? Tour Overview: Marrakech to Merzouga in 3 Days
This 3-day tour starts in Marrakech, the bustling Red City, and takes you over the High Atlas Mountains, through Berber villages, past ancient kasbahs, and into the heart of the Sahara Desert at Merzouga. By the end of the tour, you will have crossed diverse terrains, experienced Morocco’s cultural richness, and made unforgettable memories.
? Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
?️ High Atlas Mountains & Tizi n’Tichka Pass
Your desert journey kicks off early in the morning as you leave Marrakech behind and drive through the High Atlas Mountains. The route winds up through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters), offering breathtaking views of valleys, traditional Berber villages, and terraced fields.
? Ait Ben Haddou – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Your first major stop is Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most famous ksars (fortified villages). Recognized by UNESCO, this ancient mud-brick city has been the backdrop for Hollywood movies like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia.
You’ll have time to explore the ksar, climb to the top for panoramic views, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
? Ouarzazate – “The Hollywood of Africa”
Next, you’ll visit Ouarzazate, home to Atlas Film Studios and the Taourirt Kasbah. This region is known for its cinematic landscapes and historical charm.
? Dades Valley
By late afternoon, you’ll reach the stunning Dades Valley, also known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” The drive through the valley offers striking rock formations, green oasis landscapes, and dramatic cliffs.
Overnight: Riad or hotel in Dades Gorge
Meals: Dinner included
? Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
? Todra Gorge
After breakfast, you’ll travel through the picturesque Dades Valley toward Tinghir and then stop at the spectacular Todra Gorge — Morocco’s grand canyon. Towering cliffs reach up to 300 meters, making it a favorite for climbers and photographers. You’ll enjoy a short walk along the gorge’s riverbed, soaking in the dramatic views.
? Arrival in Merzouga
The journey continues through the desert towns of Erfoud and Rissani, known for fossils and traditional markets, before arriving in Merzouga — the gateway to the Sahara.
Here, your camel caravan awaits. You’ll pack a small bag and mount your camel for a scenic trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, some of the tallest sand dunes in Morocco.
? Camel Trek & Desert Camp
As the sun sets over the golden dunes, you’ll arrive at your Berber-style desert camp nestled among the sands. Enjoy:
A warm Moroccan dinner
Traditional drumming around the fire
Stargazing under the desert sky
Depending on your package, you can choose between standard tents or luxury desert tents with private bathrooms.
Overnight: Desert camp in Merzouga
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included
? Day 3: Merzouga – Alnif – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Wake up early for a magical sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast at the camp.
You’ll then ride your camel or take a 4x4 vehicle back to Merzouga, where your driver awaits for the return journey to Marrakech.
? Back Through the Mountains
The return route may vary slightly from the outbound journey, passing small villages, oases, and rock formations near Alnif and Nkob, with scenic stops along the way. You’ll arrive back in Marrakech by early evening, ending your desert adventure.
Meals: Breakfast included
Arrival Time in Marrakech: Between 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (approx.)
✅ What’s Included in the 3-Day Desert Tour
✔️ Private or shared air-conditioned transport
✔️ English/French/Spanish-speaking driver-guide
✔️ Camel ride in the desert
✔️ 1 night in a hotel (Dades Valley)
✔️ 1 night in a Sahara desert camp (Merzouga)
✔️ Daily breakfast and dinner
✔️ Hotel pickup and drop-off in Marrakech
Optional Add-Ons:
Upgrade to luxury desert camp
Quad biking in the dunes
Local guided tours at Ait Ben Haddou or Todra Gorge
? Pricing Estimate
Prices can vary based on group size, level of comfort, and time of year. Here’s a general guide:
Shared group tour: From $120–$180 USD per person
Private tour (2 people): From $300–$400 USD per person
Luxury upgrade: Add $60–$100 USD per person
? Best Time to Go
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer the most comfortable temperatures.
Summer (June–August) can be extremely hot, especially in the desert.
Winter (December–February) is mild during the day, but desert nights can be very cold.
? What to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
Warm clothes for desert nights
Light backpack for desert camp essentials
Camera or phone with a power bank
Water bottle
? Travel Tips
Book in advance, especially during high season.
Choose a licensed and reputable tour provider.
Prepare for long drives – Morocco’s landscapes are vast and remote.
Embrace the simplicity of desert life — disconnect and enjoy the silence.
? Why Choose This Tour?
It’s a perfect short itinerary for travelers with limited time.
You experience Morocco’s incredible diversity — mountains, oases, kasbahs, and desert.
It's a balanced blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
The camel ride and overnight desert camp are bucket-list experiences.
Final Thoughts
The 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is a once-in-a-lifetime journey into Morocco’s soul. From the cinematic landscapes of Ait Ben Haddou to the magical sunrise over Erg Chebbi dunes, every moment is filled with wonder.
Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or just some unforgettable photos, this trip is one of the most enriching ways to experience the beauty and diversity of Morocco.
