4 Days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate [197 km]

Your 4 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert begins with an early pick up from your accommodation or the airport in Marrakech. You’ll go on a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, passing through the winding Tizi-N-Tichka pass, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to stop and capture the breathtaking scenery.

Next, you’ll visit the renowned Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of Moroccan earthen architecture. This fortified village has been the backdrop for numerous Hollywood films and TV series, including Gladiator, Alexander, and Game of Thrones. After exploring the kasbah, you’ll continue to Ouarzazate, known as The Gate of the Desert. Here, you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel.

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – Nkob – Rissani – Merzouga Desert [372 km]

After breakfast, your adventure continues with a tour of Ouarzazate, starting with a visit to the famous Atlas Film Studios, where many blockbuster movies were filmed. You’ll also explore the Taourirt Kasbah, a historic mud-brick fortress that showcases the traditional architecture of southern Morocco.

Leaving Ouarzazate, you’ll journey through the picturesque Draa Valley, following Morocco longest river. The valley is dotted with lush palm groves, ancient kasbahs, and charming Berber villages, offering countless photo opportunities. You’ll pause for lunch in the quaint town of Nkob or Alnif before continuing your drive to the Merzouga Desert, passing through the historic town of Rissani.

Upon arrival at the Erg Chebbi sand dunes, you will exchange your car for a camel and begin a peaceful journey through the desert. As the sun sets over the dunes, you’ll be treated to a magical view before arriving at your desert camp. This unique campsite blends traditional nomadic tents with modern comforts, providing an authentic yet luxurious experience. After dinner, enjoy traditional Berber music around the campfire beneath a sky filled with stars.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley [273 km]

Rise early to witness the sunrise over the Sahara, a truly mesmerizing experience. After breakfast, you’ll return by camel to Merzouga, where your driver will be waiting. You’ll then depart the desert, heading to Rissani, once the capital of the Tafilalet region and a vital trading post. Here, you’ll explore the lively souk, particularly vibrant on market days (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays).

Continuing your journey, you’ll visit Erfoud, a town known for its fossilized marble workshops, before driving through the lush palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad to reach the Todra Gorges. The Todra River has carved a dramatic canyon through the mountains, creating towering red cliffs that are a favorite among rock climbers. Take some time to wander through the gorges and admire the stunning scenery.

After a lunch break, you’ll proceed to the Dades Valley, passing through Boumalne Dades. Here, you’ll make stops at the famous monkey fingers rock formations and a scenic overlook that provides panoramic views of the valley. You’ll spend the night in a charming hotel nestled in the valley, enjoying dinner and a peaceful rest.

Day 4: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech [342 km]

On the final day of your 4 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert, you’ll travel through the Rose Valley, renowned for its annual Rose Festival in May, where locals sell a variety of rose based products, from perfumes to cosmetics. You’ll visit the Amridil Kasbah, one of the most well-preserved kasbahs in Morocco, located amidst the palm groves of Skoura.

Afterward, you’ll return to Ouarzazate for lunch before embarking on the drive back to Marrakech. The journey takes you once again through the Tizi-N-Tichka pass and the High Atlas Mountains, offering more chances to appreciate the region’s stunning landscapes. Your tour concludes with a drop off at your accommodation or the airport in Marrakech, marking the end of your 4 days desert tour from Marrakech.