The 5 days tour Marrakech to Merzouga is the ideal choice if you’re looking to start and end your journey in Marrakech. With shorter daily drives and a slower pace, this itinerary allows for more sightseeing and cultural stops compared to faster tours. Enjoy two nights in the heart of the Sahara, offering a deeper desert experience, camel trekking, and unforgettable landscapes perfect for those seeking both comfort and adventure.
Marrakech
8:30 am
Marrakech
Daily
When traveling through Morocco, especially on a desert tour, it’s important to be prepared for seasonal weather changes. In summer, temperatures can get extremely hot during the day, particularly in the Sahara, so light, breathable clothing, sun protection, and staying hydrated are essential. In contrast, winter brings cold nights and even snow in the High Atlas Mountains, so packing warm layers and a good jacket is necessary, especially for overnight stays in the desert. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, making them ideal seasons for this journey. No matter when you choose to travel, we recommend preparing accordingly and packing with the season in mind.
We’ll start our 5 days trip from your hotel in Marrakech, where you’ll travel southeast across the gorgeous High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, you’ll stop to explore the UNESCO site of Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a stunning example of southern Moroccan architecture. Afterwards, we ‘ll continue toward Ouarzazate, passing through the Valley of Roses and small Berber villages. By late afternoon, we’ll reach the beautiful Dades Valley, where we’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional guesthouse or hotel.
After breakfast, set off toward the striking Todra Gorges, where you can take a short walk between the towering canyon walls. From there, continue driving through desert landscapes and small oases until you arrive in Merzouga. Later in the afternoon, you’ll begin a camel trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. As the sun sets, settle into your desert camp for a night under the stars—an unforgettable Saharan experience.
Today, you’ll explore the Merzouga region in depth. First, visit the village of Khamlia, where you’ll enjoy traditional Gnawa music performed by local musicians. Then, head off-road to meet nomadic families living in the desert and visit the seasonal salt lake of Dayet Srij, often surrounded by migratory birds. In the evening, return to your accommodation in Merzouga for a relaxing overnight stay.
After an early breakfast, we begin our journey back west. As we’ll travel, through Alnif, Tazzarine, and the picturesque Draa Valley, lined with palm groves and ancient kasbahs. Eventually, you’ll arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Depending on your arrival time, you may visit the Atlas Film Studios or explore the historic Taourirt Kasbah before spending the night in a local hotel.
On the fifth day, we’ll head back to Marrakech, once again crossing the attractive High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, enjoy scenic stops for photos and short breaks. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, where your unforgettable desert adventure comes to an end.
We booked a 5 days tour from Marrakech to Erg Chebbi with Around Morocco Trips, and it was an unforgettable experience. Traveling as a couple, we enjoyed every moment from the stunning landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains to the magical nights in the desert. Our driver/guide was knowledgeable, kind, and made sure we were comfortable throughout the journey. Everything was well planned, the accommodations were great, and the desert camel ride at sunset was truly magical.
