Marrakech Desert Tour

6 Days Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga Sahara

Explore Morocco on a 6-day journey from Marrakech to the Sahara, visiting Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Mharech Gorges, and Merzouga. Experience Erg Chebbi, nomadic villages, Gnawa music, Todgha Gorges, Dades Valley, and the scenic landscapes of the High Atlas.

Duration
6 Days
Starts 
Marrakech
ends

Marrakech

Transport
4×4 / minivan or minibus
Overview

6 Days Desert Tour From Marrakech

Experience the essence of Morocco on this fascinating 6 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga and back. Traverse the High Atlas Mountains, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, and uncover the cinematic allure of Ouarzazate.

Journey through the Draa Valley, exploring Berber villages, before reaching the breathtaking Gorges of Mharech. The highlight is Merzouga, where the towering Erg Chebbi dunes await, and the magic of the desert comes alive during a night in a luxury desert camp, featuring Berber music and delectable cuisine under the stars. It’s an immersive voyage through Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich culture, promising unforgettable memories.

Why you’ll like this route

Trip highlights

  • Traverse the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
  • Explore Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Visit Ouarzazate and its historic Taourirt Kasbah.
  • Journey through the Draa Valley, Berber villages, and traditional Kasbahs.
  • Marvel at the dramatic Gorges of Mharech.
  • Experience the vast Erg Chebbi dunes in the Merzouga Desert.
  • Enjoy a camel ride through the Merzouga desert.
  • Visit Khamlia and experience traditional Gnawa music.
  • Enjoy Moroccan cuisine and dinner beneath the desert stars.
Day by day

Itinerary

1

Marrakech – Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou –  Ouarzazate

Our 6 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga journey begins in Marrakech at 8:00 AM, as we set off on a remarkable adventure towards Ouarzazate. We’ll traverse the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which takes us through the High Atlas Mountains and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged terrain.

Our first major stop is the renowned Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated worldwide for its extraordinary beauty. This ancient Kasbah, constructed from mud brick, boasts intricate architectural details that tell stories of Morocco’s history. Your exploration of this historical gem will leave you delighted.

As the day draws to a finish, we continue our journey to Ouarzazate, a city steeped in history and famous for its movie studios. We’ll settle into our comfortable hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Overnight: Ouarzazate — Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  — Drive time: ~5 hours

2

Ouarzazate to Gorges of Mharech

Today, our journey leads us to the Taourirt Kasbah, a historical marvel in Ouarzazate. We continue through the enchanting Draa Valley, with its numerous Berber villages and Kasbahs that showcase the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco.

Our route takes us through N’kob, Tarazine, and Alnif, each offering unique insights into the local way of life. The highlight of the day is the Gorges of Mharech, some of which have been part of the famous Dakar Marathon or Rally. We’ll spend the night in a Riad, enjoying in the tranquility of this stunning location.

Overnight: Gorges — Meals: Breakfast, Dinner — Drive time: ~5 hours

3

Mharech to Merzouga

Today’s journey takes us through diverse landscapes as we pass through Ouzina, with visits to Berber villages along the way. The highlight of the day is the stunning Erg Chebbi, home to the highest dunes in North Africa. A delectable lunch in the form of pizza awaits you.

We arrive in the town of Merzouga, where we’ll leave unnecessary luggage before witnessing the mesmerizing desert sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll go to a tent for a night of unique desert living. Dinner and overnight accommodations are provided in Khaimah-style tents.

Overnight: Merzouga — Meals: Breakfast, Dinner — Drive time: ~4 hours

4

Exploring Merzouga and Erg Chebbi

Our day begins early to witness the beautiful sunrise over the Sahara Desert. After the magical start, you’ll have the opportunity for a refreshing shower and breakfast at the hotel. We’ll then venture on a journey encircling the Erg Chebbi, taking in the marvelous dunes of Morocco.

Our first stop is the oasis of Tissardmin, followed by a visit to a nomadic settlement where you can gain insights into their way of life. Khamlia provides a perfect opportunity to relax with a cup of tea while enjoying a small concert of Gnawa music.

After returning to our accommodation, you’ll have the afternoon to climb the dunes, capture the perfect photo, or simply revel in the desert tranquility. Dinner and overnight accommodations are provided at the hotel.

Overnight: Erg Chebbi — Meals: Breakfast, Dinner — Drive time: ~3 hours

5

Merzouga to the Valley of the Dades

After starting the day with a refreshing shower, we depart for Rissani, known for its abundance of black stone and marine fossils. The next highlight is the Todgha Gorges, where towering rock walls create a dramatic landscape.

Our day concludes with our arrival in the Dades Valley, where dinner and overnight accommodations are provided at a welcoming hotel.

Overnight: Dades Valley — Meals: Breakfast, Dinner — Drive time: ~5 hours

6

The Dades Valley to Marrakech

Our final day begins with our departure from the Dades Valley. Along the way, we pass through the Roses Valley, known for its lush rose gardens, and make a stop to explore the palm grove of Skoura.

As we make our way back to Marrakech, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past six days. Our journey concludes in the vibrant “Red City” of Marrakech, where we’ll ensure your comfortable transfer to your accommodation, marking the end of a remarkable adventure through the heart of Morocco.

Meals: Breakfast — Drive time: ~6 hours
Inclusions

What’s included

Included
  • ✓ Private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan
  • ✓ English-speaking local driver/guide
  • ✓ Luxury desert camp
  • ✓ Daily breakfast
  • ✓ Dinner in Dades Gorges, Ouarzazate, Erg Chebbi and Merzouga
  • ✓ Vegetarian & vegan meal options
  • ✓ Camel ride & sandboarding
  • ✓ Photo and rest stops
  • ✓ Free time to explore
  • ✓ Airport, hotel & riad transfers
Not included
  • × Lunches, drinks & extra dinners
  • × Entrance fees
  • × Tips
  • × Personal expenses
  • × Anything not listed
Route

Map

Good to know

Before you book

Is a desert camp stay included in the tour?

Yes. On Day 3, you’ll spend the night in Khaimah-style tents in the Merzouga desert, with dinner included.

What can I expect during the Merzouga and Erg Chebbi excursion?

You’ll explore the Erg Chebbi dunes, visit Tissardmin Oasis and a nomadic settlement, and enjoy Gnawa music in Khamlia. You’ll also have free time to climb the dunes and take photos.

Does the tour include Ait Ben Haddou and Todgha Gorges?

Yes. The itinerary includes a visit to Ait Ben Haddou on Day 1 and Todgha Gorges on Day 5.

Enquire about this trip
Reply within 24 hours from our Marrakech office

01
Private, not grouped

Every departure is exclusive to your party — no joining strangers, no fixed schedule.

02
Local driver-guides

Guides who know the Atlas roads and desert routes firsthand, not a rotating subcontractor pool.

03
Flexible routing

Adjust the return leg, add nights, or change the pace — all before you book.

04
Direct support

One point of contact in Marrakech for the full trip, before and during travel.

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