3 days itinerary from Chefchaouen to Merzouga
A 3 days itinerary from Chefchaouen to Merzouga offers one of the most adventurous ways to travel from the north of Morocco to the Sahara Desert. This desert journey takes you from the famous Blue City of Chefchaouen through the beautiful landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains before you reach the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga, and finally continue to the vibrant city of Marrakech.
If you plan to take this tour, keep in mind that most tour companies offer it only as a private trip, since many travelers start their Sahara tours from Fes instead. However, when you start from Chefchaouen, you enjoy a unique road trip that crosses several different regions of Morocco.
What to See During 3 Days itinerary from Chefchaouen to Merzouga (Ending in Marrakech)
During this desert adventure, travelers drive through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. In addition, stop in the charming alpine-style town of Ifrane before continuing to the famous Azrou Cedar Forest, where Barbary macaques live in the wild. The journey then continues toward Midelt, a peaceful town between the Middle Atlas and the High Atlas, where you spend the first night in a comfortable hotel.
On the second day, the road leads through the impressive Ziz Valley, known for its breathtaking views of thousands of palm trees and traditional villages. The tour also passes through Erfoud, a town famous for its fossils and date markets. From here, you continue toward the spectacular dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. In the afternoon, you enjoy a camel trek across the golden Sahara dunes before arriving at a luxury desert camp, where a special dinner and traditional music await under the starry sky.
On the final day, you head toward Marrakech. This part of the journey is the longest driving day, but it rewards you with beautiful desert landscapes and unforgettable views along the way.
Is the 3 Days Tour from Chefchaouen to Merzouga Worth It?
Yes, this 3 days chefchaouen to desert is definitely worth it. Especialy for travelers who want to experience different landscapes of Morocco in a short time. The route connects the northern Rif region with the vast Sahara Desert and ends in the lively city of Marrakech. By creating an unforgettable travel experience across the country.
One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the variety of scenery you encounter along the way. You start in the blue mountain town of Chefchaouen. Then pass through the cultural capital of Fes, cross the forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains, and admire the palm-filled oasis landscapes of Ziz Valley before reaching the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga.
Another reason why many travelers choose this itinerary is the unique Sahara experience. Riding camels across the golden dunes at sunset and spending the night in a desert camp under a sky full of stars creates memories that last a lifetime. Visitors also enjoy traditional Moroccan food, Berber music, and the peaceful atmosphere of the desert far away from busy cities.
However, travelers should keep in mind that this itinerary includes long driving. Especially on the last day when the tour continues toward Marrakech. Because of this, the tour suits travelers who enjoy road trips and want to see many regions of Morocco within a limited time.
Overall, the 3 day itinerary from Chefchaouen to Merzouga offers an exciting combination. Of culture, nature, desert landscapes, and authentic Moroccan experiences, making it one of the most rewarding journeys for visitors exploring the country.
Detailed Itinerary & Hotels – 3 Days from Chefchaouen to Merzouga Ending in Marrakech
Day 1: Chefchaouen – Meknes – Ifrane – Midelt (Approx. 340 km)
The journey starts in Chefchaouen and heads south toward Meknes, one of Morocco’s historic imperial cities. After a short stop, the road continues into the beautiful landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains.
The next stop is Ifrane, known for its alpine-style architecture and cool mountain climate. From there, the tour continues to the nearby Azrou Cedar Forest to see the Barbary macaques among the ancient cedar trees.
In the afternoon, the drive continues through mountain scenery and Berber villages until reaching Midelt.
Overnight: Hotel Boulaajoul
Day 2: Midelt – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert (Approx. 260 km)
After breakfast, the road heads south toward the Sahara. The first scenic stop is the panoramic viewpoint over Ziz Valley, famous for its thousands of palm trees and oasis villages.
The journey continues through Erfoud, a town known for its fossil workshops and date markets. From here, the route leads directly to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a camel trek across the Sahara dunes at sunset before arriving at the desert camp.
Overnight: Sahara Stars Camp with dinner and Berber music under the stars.
Day 3: Merzouga – Journey to Marrakech (Approx. 560 km)
Today, you’ll wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi. After breakfast, start the long drive toward Marrakech.
This is the longest driving day of the tour, crossing changing desert and mountain landscapes before arriving in Marrakech in the evening.
Price options for the 3 Days Tour from Chefchaouen to Merzouga
| Group Size | Category | Approx. Price per Person |
|---|---|---|
| 2 travelers | Standard hotels + Standard desert camp | ~ 390 € / person |
| 3–4 travelers | Standard hotels + Standard desert camp | ~ 270 € / person |
| 2 travelers | Luxury hotels + Luxury desert camp | ~ 450 € – 550 € / person |
| 3–4 travelers | Luxury hotels + Luxury desert camp | ~ 350 € – 450 € / person |
What’s Included (Typical)
✔ Private transportation with driver/guide
✔ 2 nights’ accommodation (hotel + desert camp)
✔ Camel trek at sunset (Erg Chebbi dunes)
✔ Breakfast each day
✔ Dinner at the desert camp
What’s Usually Not Included
❌ Flights
❌ Lunches & drinks
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Entrance fees (if any)
The price of this 3‑day private itinerary can vary depending on the category of hotels and desert camps you choose (standard vs. luxury), as well as the number of travelers in your group.