3 Days - Tour of the Sahara Desert from Marrakech

Tour Overview

This exciting 3-day tour takes you from Marrakech through the stunning High Atlas Mountains to the majestic Sahara Desert. Day 1 begins with panoramic views as you cross the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou, and explore Ouarzazate's historical Taourirt Kasbah. After passing through the scenic Valley of Roses, you'll arrive in Boumalne Dades for a serene evening by the Dades Gorge. On Day 2, experience the dramatic Todra Gorge, followed by a camel trek or 4x4 ride to the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, where you'll enjoy a night under the stars at a traditional Berber camp.

Day 1: Marrakech to Boumalne Dades

Morning:

  • Depart from Marrakech early in the morning, around 7:00 AM, to make the most of the day.

  • Drive through the stunning High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass (the highest major mountain pass in North Africa at 2,260 meters), taking in panoramic views of Berber villages nestled into the mountainside and lush valleys.

  • Stop at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most famous Ksars (fortified villages), where you can explore the ancient mud-brick structures and climb to the top for a view of the surrounding landscape. You may recognize the location from famous films like "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones."

Koutoubia Mosque with tall minaret and surrounding ruins in Marrakech, Morocco under cloudy sky.
Rural village in a mountainous arid landscape with stone houses under a clear blue sky.

Afternoon:

  • Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara," and visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a sprawling fortress that was once the residence of the Glaoui family. Wander through the maze-like structure, discovering its rich history and beautifully decorated rooms.

  • Optional: Visit the Atlas Film Studios, the largest film studio in the world, where movies like "Lawrence of Arabia" and "The Mummy" were filmed.

  • After lunch in Ouarzazate, drive along the scenic Valley of Roses, known for its rose water production, especially during springtime when the roses are in bloom.

  • Continue to Boumalne Dades, a small town located in the Dades Valley, surrounded by rugged, dramatic landscapes.

Winding road through rocky mountain terrain in a desert landscape.
Historic clay village atop a small hill, surrounded by desert landscape and greenery, under a clear blue sky.

Evening:

  • Enjoy a leisurely evening in Boumalne Dades, taking in the breathtaking views of the Dades Gorge, with its unique rock formations known as "Monkey Fingers".

  • Settle into your accommodation, which might be a traditional Moroccan guesthouse (Riad) or a hotel with views of the gorge.

  • Have dinner featuring local Berber cuisine, and spend some time under the clear desert sky, possibly stargazing if the night is clear.

Two people taking a selfie in a canyon with a van and people in the background.
Camel caravan in Sahara Desert with people riding camels across sand dunes under clear sky.

Day 2: Boumalne Dades to Merzouga

Morning:

  • After breakfast, explore more of the Dades Gorge, taking a short walk or hike to appreciate the striking rock formations and vibrant green valleys that contrast with the barren mountains.

  • Head toward the Todra Gorge, where the towering canyon walls rise up to 300 meters high, making it a spectacular spot for hiking or even a quick swim in the Todra River.

  • As you continue, drive along the Road of 1000 Kasbahs, dotted with ancient fortified villages and Kasbahs, providing excellent photo opportunities of Morocco's historical and architectural richness.

Landscape view of a desert village with adobe buildings, surrounded by palm trees and greenery, under an overcast sky.
Three people standing in a desert environment with dry palm trees, wearing traditional robes and headscarves, under a clear sky.

Afternoon:

  • Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the vast Erg Chebbi dunes of the Sahara Desert. Merzouga is famous for its golden dunes that stretch endlessly towards the horizon.

  • Option to take a camel trek into the desert, riding into the sunset as the sand dunes glow orange and gold. Alternatively, a 4x4 excursion is available if you prefer a more comfortable journey into the dunes.

  • As you reach the desert camp, enjoy a warm welcome with mint tea.

Evening:

  • Settle into your traditional Berber camp, where you’ll sleep under a sky full of stars in either a basic tent or a more luxurious glamping-style tent.

  • After a hearty traditional Berber dinner of Tagine or Couscous, enjoy live Berber music around a campfire, listening to the rhythmic beats of drums and stories of the desert.

  • Before going to bed, take some time to absorb the surreal silence and vastness of the Sahara Desert.

Group sitting around a fire pit in a desert with traditional clothing, surrounded by lanterns and sand dunes at sunset.
Two people posing on sand dunes under a blue sky with clouds.

Day 3: Merzouga–Marrakesh

After breakfast, we will drive back to Marrakesh. Note that the 3-day tour from Marrakesh is long drive on the final day. If possible, the 4 or 5-day trip will allow you to see more of the sites without the rush.

What is included :

  •  Private Transport AC Minibus with English speaking guide/driver.
  •  Pick up & Drop off at your accommodation.
  •  1 night at the hotel / riad.
  •  1 night at the desert camp (Private tents).
  • Camel Trekking in the Sahara Merzouga.
  • Dinners & Breakfasts.

What is not excluded :

  • Lunches.
  • Drinks.
  • dinner in Marrakech and Fes
  •  Entrance fees, other personal  expenses and gratuities.