Africa Marrakech Tours | Morocco Tours & Desert Trips | Luxury Morocco Trips
5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga A Journey Through Morocco’s Wonders
Discover the Sahara: 5-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Adventure
Key Highlights of the 5-Day Tour
- Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou , featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones .
- Explore the stunning Dades Gorges and its unique rock formations.
- Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga Desert
- Travel through the dramatic Todra Gorge , a paradise for hikers and photographers.
- Ride camels across the Erg Chebbi dunes and watch a magical sunset.
- Spend the night in a luxury desert camp, stargazing and enjoying Berber music.
- Day 3: Full Day in Merzouga Desert
- Watch a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes.
- Visit Berber Nomads, hidden villages, and explore the vibrant Lake of Birds (when full).
- Experience traditional Gnawa music in Khamlia village.
- Day 4: Merzouga to Ouarzazate
- Visit the traditional souk in Rissani and explore its vibrant markets.
- Travel through the lush Draa Valley , Morocco’s longest oasis-filled valley.
- Stay overnight in Ouarzazate , the “Gateway to the Sahara.”
- Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech
- Explore the iconic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou and the historic Telouet Kasbah .
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains , stopping at picturesque Berber villages.
- Return to Marrakech by evening, concluding your desert adventure.
Why Choose Our 5-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Tour?
- Private and Flexible : Travel in comfort with a private vehicle and customize the itinerary to suit your preferences.
- Luxury Accommodations : Stay in charming hotels, riads, and private tents in a luxury desert camp.
- Cultural Immersion : Gain firsthand knowledge of Berber Nomadic culture and traditions from knowledgeable guides.
- Experienced Guides : Learn about Morocco’s rich heritage from English-speaking drivers/guides.
- Minimized Driving Time : Focus more on exploration and less on long drives.
Day 1: Marrakech ⇢ High Atlas Mountains ⇢ Ait Ben Haddou ⇢ Dades Gorges
Your 5-day desert adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your riad or hotel in Marrakech. Head toward the High Atlas Mountains , crossing the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass , one of Morocco’s most beautiful routes.
Stop along the way to admire the breathtaking views and take photos before continuing to the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a filming location for blockbusters like Gladiator , Game of Thrones , and Prince of Persia .
After a scenic lunch stop, continue your journey to the Dades Gorges , passing through places like Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses . If time permits, visit the impressive Amridil Kasbah or explore the valley during spring when it’s adorned with blooming roses.
Check into your comfortable hotel in Dades Gorges, where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night.
- Driving Distance : Approximately 353 km
- Driving Time : Approximately 6.5 hours
Day 2: Dades Gorges ⇢ Todra Gorge ⇢ Merzouga Desert
Start your day with a delicious breakfast before heading to Todra Gorge , a dramatic canyon carved by the winding Todra River. Enjoy panoramic views, hike along the gorge, or relax by the palm groves.
Continue to Merzouga , where your camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes awaits. Pause atop a high dune to witness a mesmerizing sunset before continuing to your luxury desert camp.
In the evening, freshen up and enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner under the stars. Gather around a campfire to listen to traditional Berber music, drumming, and stories as you gaze at the starlit sky.
- Driving Distance : Approximately 310 km
- Driving Time : Approximately 5 hours
Day 3: Full Day in Merzouga Desert
Start your day early to witness the breathtaking desert sunrise over the dunes—a truly unforgettable experience. After a delightful breakfast at the camp, embark on a full-day exploration of the Merzouga desert.
Travel in a 4×4 SUV to visit Berber Nomads who reside beyond the dunes. Learn about their unique way of life and cultural practices from your guide. Along the way, explore hidden villages like Mes , soak in the rhythms of Gnawa music in Khamlia village, and visit the vibrant Lake of Birds if it’s visible during your visit.
Return to your riad or desert camp in the evening for dinner and another peaceful night in the desert.
- Driving Distance : Approximately 57 km
- Driving Time : Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Day 4: Merzouga Desert ⇢ Rissani ⇢ Draa Valley ⇢ Ouarzazate
After a delicious breakfast, begin your journey to Ouarzazate . Stop in Rissani , an ancient city known for its traditional souk (on market days) and historical significance as the foundation of the current ruling family of Morocco.
Continue through the lush Draa Valley , stopping for photos and breaks along the way. Arrive in Ouarzazate , often called the “Gateway to the Sahara,” by late afternoon. Check into your accommodation and spend the evening relaxing after a day of exploration.
- Driving Distance : Approximately 370 km
- Driving Time : Approximately 5.5 hours
Day 5: Ouarzazate ⇢ Ait Ben Haddou ⇢ Telouet Kasbah ⇢ Marrakech
Start your day with a visit to Ouarzazate , home to Africa’s largest film studio and the historic Taourirt Kasbah . Continue to the iconic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and filming location for numerous movies and TV series.
Next, explore the historic Telouet Kasbah , a hidden gem nestled in the High Atlas Mountains. Admire its intricate architecture and learn about its fascinating history.
Cross the High Atlas Mountains once again, stopping at picturesque Berber villages along the way. Arrive in Marrakech by evening, where your driver will drop you off at your accommodation, concluding your desert adventure.
- Driving Distance : Approximately 203 km
- Driving Time : Approximately 4 hours
RESERVATION
Ready to embark on this unforgettable adventure?
Accommodation Options
- Dades Gorges : Comfortable hotels with modern amenities and stunning views.
- Merzouga Desert : Luxury desert camps with private tents, plush bedding, and en-suite bathrooms.
- Ouarzazate : Charming riads with easy access to local attractions.
Inclusions
Included :
- Round-trip transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide.
- Camel ride in the Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Four nights’ accommodation (hotel in Dades Gorges, luxury desert camp in Merzouga, hotel in Ouarzazate, and riad in Marrakech).
- Dinner and breakfast during your stay in the desert.
- Guided visits to Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, Todra Gorge, and other key attractions.
Excluded :
- Lunches and additional meals not specified.
- Optional activities or upgrades.
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs or tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your trip to Morocco? We’ve compiled a list of the most common questions travelers ask to help you prepare for an unforgettable journey. From practical details like transportation and inclusions to activity options and customization, our FAQs section provides clear and concise answers to ensure you’re fully informed and ready to make the most of your adventure.
- Q: How long is the drive from Marrakech to Merzouga?
A : The drive takes approximately 8–9 hours, covering a distance of around 560 km. - Q: What should I pack for the desert tour?
A : Pack comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a camera, and layers for cooler desert nights. - Q: Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
A : Yes! This private tour is customizable and suitable for all types of travelers, including families and solo adventurers. - Q: Can I upgrade my accommodations?
A : Absolutely! You can choose between standard or luxury options for hotels and desert camps based on your preferences. - Q: What if I want to extend the tour?
A : If you’d like to add extra days or activities, simply let us know, and we’ll customize the itinerary for you.