3-Day Desert Adventure: Marrakech to Merzouga
Overview
Embark on a captivating 3-day journey from Marrakech to Merzouga and back, immersing yourself in Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. Discover ancient kasbahs, explore dramatic gorges, experience the Sahara Desert with a camel trek, and explore vibrant souks along the way. Return via scenic routes through Draa Valley and the Atlas Mountains, concluding with a guided tour of Marrakech’s historic Medina.
Highlights
- Cross the Atlas Mountains via Tizi N’tichka Pass.
- Visit UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, famous for its cinematic history.
- Explore Ouarzazate, known as Morocco’s Hollywood, and visit Atlas Film Studios.
- Pass through Skoura oasis and Valley of Roses.
- Overnight amidst the dramatic cliffs of Dades Gorges.
- Discover Todra Gorge’s towering cliffs, popular among climbers.
- Journey through Erfoud, the fossil capital of Morocco.
- Arrive in Merzouga to experience the vast Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Enjoy a camel ride into the desert for a sunset view.
- Experience a traditional Saharan dinner and GNAWA music at a Berber camp.
- Witness a breathtaking sunrise over Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Explore Rissani’s vibrant souk and local culture.
- Drive through Draa Valley’s palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
- Discover Marrakech with a guided tour of the bustling Medina, including Jamaa el Fna square and Koutoubia Mosque.
DETAILLED ITINERARY
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
We depart from Marrakech, crossing the Tizi N’tichka pass at 2260m altitude, a stunning journey through the Atlas Mountains. Our first stop is the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, an ancient fortress town that has been a backdrop for many famous movies. Continuing to Ouarzazate, known as the Hollywood of Morocco, we visit its renowned film studios. After lunch, our route takes us through the Skoura oasis with its date palms, Kalaat M’gouna famous for its rose products, and the enchanting Valley of Roses. Our day ends amidst the dramatic cliffs of Dades Gorges, where we settle in for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga
After breakfast, we set off towards Tinghir and the spectacular Todra Gorge, renowned for its towering cliffs popular among climbers. Continuing our journey, we pass through Erfoud, the fossil capital of Morocco, before reaching Merzouga in the afternoon. Here, the landscape transforms into the vast Erg Chebbi dunes. We embark on a camel ride into the desert, guided by local experts, to witness the mesmerizing sunset from the dunes. Our evening concludes with a traditional Saharan dinner at a Berber camp, accompanied by captivating GNAWA music under the starlit sky.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Marrakech
Our day begins early with a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, a serene moment to cherish in the Sahara. After breakfast, we return by camel to Merzouga village. Our journey back to Marrakech takes us through Rissani, a town famed for its vibrant souk, and along the Draa Valley with its palm groves and ancient kasbahs. Passing through Ouarzazate once more, we cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, stopping for panoramic views and photo opportunities. Upon arrival in Marrakech, a guided tour introduces us to the bustling Medina, including Jamaa el Fna square, Koutoubia Mosque, and other cultural gems.
included
- Riding a camel
- English speaking driver
- Transportation
- Breakfast and dinner
Excluded
- Drinks
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses