5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara
Join us on a 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara for an unforgettable experience. Start by driving through the beautiful High Atlas Mountains, visiting the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, and exploring Ouarzazate’s Taourirt Kasbah. Enjoy the palm groves of Skoura and the striking landscapes of Dades Valley.
On the second day, walk through the stunning Todra Gorges, discover Erfoud’s fossils, and arrive in the Merzouga Sahara Desert. Ride camels, watch a spectacular desert sunset, and stay in a traditional desert camp.
On the third day, catch a sunrise over the dunes, learn about the Gnawa tribe in Khamlia, and visit the village of M’fis. Experience a unique visit with a desert nomad family. Finish the tour with stops in Rissani’s lively markets and the lush Draa Valley before heading back to Ouarzazate.
Tour Highlights
- Scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains
- Visit to ancient kasbahs and traditional villages
- Exploration of Dades Valley and Todra Gorge
- Exciting camel ride across the Sahara Desert
- Magical night under the stars in a Berber camp
- Comfortable accommodations and local cuisine
- Interaction with local nomad families
- Visit to Khamlia village to experience Gnawa culture
Itinerary of the 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Ouarzazate – Skoura – Dades
We’ll pick you up from the airport or your accommodation and begin our tour in Marrakech at 8:00 AM. We’ll drive through the stunning High Atlas Mountains, taking in the beautiful mountain views. Along the way, we can stop to appreciate the scenery.
Next, we’ll reach Ouarzazate, known for its movie studios and desert landscapes. We can visit the Taourirt Kasbah, an old palace that provides insight into Moroccan history.
Afterward, we’ll continue to Skoura, a town famous for its palm groves and impressive kasbahs. You can visit the Kasbah Ameridil.
Finally, we reach Dades, renowned for its impressive canyons and unusual rock formations. We’ll stay here for the night.
Overnight in Dades Valley
Hotel, dinner, and breakfast included.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Sahara
Leaving Dades, we head to the Todra Gorges, magnificent canyons where you can walk through the narrow, towering cliffs. The scenery is breathtaking, so be sure to have your camera ready.
After the gorges, we’ll continue on to Erfoud, a town known for its fossils and dates. You might want to explore some local shops and try some delicious dates.
Our ultimate destination for the day is Merzouga in the Sahara Desert. We’ll arrive in the late afternoon, where you’ll have the chance to ride camels into the dunes to watch a stunning desert sunset.
We’ll spend the night in a traditional desert camp in Merzouga, where you can enjoy a Berber dinner and gaze at the starry desert sky. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience.
Overnight in Merzouga Desert
Camps, dinner, and breakfast included.
Day 3: Merzouga (Explore Erg Chebbi Desert) – Khamlia – M’fis – Desert & Nomads – Merzouga
In the morning, you can wake up early to enjoy an admirable sunrise over the Sahara dunes. It’s a sight you’ll never forget, so make sure to capture it with your camera.
After breakfast, we’ll head to the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnawa tribe. You can learn about their traditional culture.
Next, we’ll visit the village of M’fis, a small desert settlement. Here, you can interact with the locals and gain insight into their way of life in this arid environment.
One of the highlights of the day is a visit to a desert nomad family. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about their nomadic lifestyle, hear their stories, and enjoy tea with them. It’s a cultural exchange you won’t find anywhere else.
Return to Merzouga in the late afternoon, where you can relax and soak in the desert’s tranquility.
Overnight in Merzouga Desert
Hotel, dinner, and breakfast included.
Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Agdz – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate
We depart from Merzouga and make a stop in Rissani, a historical town known for its lively markets and as the birthplace of the Alawite dynasty. You can explore the local markets and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
As we travel along the Draa Valley, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the palm oases and the desert’s edge. The valley is a lush and green contrast to the surrounding arid landscapes.
We’ll make our way to Ouarzazate, where we will spend the night.
Overnight in Ouarzazate
Hotel, dinner, and breakfast included.
Day 5: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
On our final day, we will visit the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a famous old village with unique buildings and history. We can explore its narrow streets and learn about its culture.
As we leave Ait Ben Haddou behind, we’ll drive through the High Atlas Mountains once again, where you’ll be treated to more awe-inspiring mountain landscapes, arriving in Marrakech in the evening.
What’s Included
- Pick-up and drop-off at/from your hotel, riad, or airport
- English-speaking guide/driver
- Transport by private vehicle with A/C
- Sandboarding in the sand dunes
- Overnight in Dades Valley (breakfast & dinner)
- Overnight in Merzouga Desert (breakfast & dinner)
- Camel trekking (camel ride, sunset & sunrise over dunes)
- Overnight in desert camp (breakfast & dinner)
- Overnight in Ouarzazate (breakfast & dinner)
- Car fuel
What’s Not Included
- Drinks
- Lunches
- Entrance to monuments (Optional)
- Gratuities for guides and drivers (Optional)
Important Notes for the 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara
- This is a private tour tailored to your interests, allowing you to skip or add places along the way. You can also modify the itinerary as needed, and the tour can depart on any date that fits your plans.
- Additional activities such as Erg Chegaga tour, day trips, ATV quads, or extra days can be added upon request.
- You have the flexibility to discuss with the driver if you’d like to skip certain places or extend your time elsewhere.
- You can also choose to stay for one night in the desert on our 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.
- You have the option to travel to and from the camp either on a camel ride or by 4×4 vehicle.
- Bring some warm clothes, as the desert can become quite chilly at night and may be cloudy, making stargazing less likely. We also recommend comfortable shoes, long skirts, long-sleeved shirts, and pants, along with sunglasses, a hat or cap, and sunscreen to protect against the sun and ensure a comfortable camel ride.
- Vegetarian and vegan options are available. Please advise upon booking.
- At the time of booking, you’ll receive a confirmation for your reservation.
- Feel free to contact us if you have any further questions.
5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara Price
The price for our 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara starts at €820 per person, €940 for two people, €1060 for three people, and so on. The more people who join, the lower the price per person. Please note that the final price may vary based on factors such as the number of participants, season, availability, and the specific accommodations selected (see below). For a personalized quote and more details, please contact us.
Accommodation Details
We take pride in providing comfortable and authentic Moroccan accommodations throughout your journey. Below is an overview of the types of lodging you can expect during our 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara:
| Night | Location | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Night | Dades Valley | Ksar Sultan Dades |
| 2nd Night | Erg Chebbi Dunes | Merzouga Dunes Luxury Camps |
| 3rd Night | Merzouga Desert | Kasbah Azalay Merzouga |
| 4th Night | Ouarzazate | Riad Tama & spa |
Note: Please be aware that if the listed accommodations are fully booked or unavailable for any reason, we can arrange similar alternatives to ensure your comfort during your stay.
Safety Information
Your safety is our top priority. We recommend that all travelers stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun with sunscreen and appropriate clothing. Our experienced guides will provide safety briefings before activities, including camel trekking and hiking. For any emergencies, we will provide you with local emergency contact numbers. Our vehicles are equipped with safety features, and we encourage you to keep your personal belongings secure throughout the tour. Should you have any questions or concerns about safety, feel free to reach out to us.
Jinhao L
A TripAdvisor Customer
Thomas
A TripAdvisor Customer
Amjad
A TripAdvisor Customer