The 3 Day Desert Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga is one of the most popular desert experiences in Morocco, ideal for travelers who want to discover the dramatic landscapes of the Atlas Mountains and spend an unforgettable night in the Sahara Desert. This journey takes you from the vibrant city of Marrakech across ancient kasbahs, lush valleys, and spectacular gorges, ending in the golden dunes of Merzouga.
Along the way, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, drive through the scenic High Atlas Mountains, visit traditional Berber villages, and experience a magical camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. The tour concludes with breathtaking desert sunsets, starry skies, and authentic Moroccan hospitality in a desert camp.
Whether you are a couple, family, or solo traveler, this 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga offers the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
8:30
Your 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga starts early in the morning with pickup from your hotel or riad in Marrakech. You will travel through the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains, crossing the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, with photo stops along the way.
The first major stop is the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient architecture and movie history. After free time to explore the kasbah and enjoy lunch nearby, the journey continues through Ouarzazate, passing by film studios and traditional Berber villages.
In the afternoon, you drive through the Valley of the Roses and the palm groves of Skoura, heading east toward the Sahara. By late afternoon, you arrive in Merzouga, where the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi rise dramatically from the desert floor.
You will then begin a memorable camel trek into the dunes, perfectly timed to watch the sunset over the Sahara. Upon reaching the desert camp, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, live Berber music around the campfire, and an overnight stay in a comfortable desert tent under the stars.
Driving distance: Approx. 560 km
Driving time: Approx. 9–10 hours
Wake up early to admire the sunrise over the Merzouga dunes, one of the most magical moments of the tour. After breakfast at the camp, return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4 vehicle.
The journey continues through Erfoud, a town famous for fossils and date palms, before heading toward the impressive Todra Gorge. Enjoy free time to walk between the towering canyon walls and take photos of this natural wonder.
After lunch near the gorge, drive through Berber villages and scenic valleys toward Boumalne Dades. Along the way, stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking the dramatic rock formations known as the “Monkey Fingers.”
Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel or riad in the Dades Valley.
Driving distance: Approx. 250 km
Driving time: Approx. 5–6 hours
After breakfast, your 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga continues westward through the beautiful Valley of the Roses, known for its fragrant rose fields and traditional kasbahs.
You will pass through Skoura Oasis and arrive in Ouarzazate, where you may stop to see the Kasbah of Taourirt or enjoy lunch. The journey then heads back across the High Atlas Mountains, once again crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass with scenic stops along the way.
Arrival in Marrakech is expected in the late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of your unforgettable desert adventure.
Driving distance: Approx. 330 km
Driving time: Approx. 6–7 hours
This Morocco tour plan is only a sample. Get in touch with us, and we will design a custom itinerary that fits your interests and travel style.
