3 Day Sahara Desert Tour From Marrakech
Table of Contents
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, a 3-day desert trip from Marrakech is the perfect escape into Morocco’s natural beauty. Embark on an exciting journey through the High Atlas Mountains and experience the stunning vastness of the Sahara Desert. From exploring Berber villages to gazing at the breathtaking Erg Chebbi dunes, this trip offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in Morocco’s most iconic landscapes.
Overview and Highlights
3 Day Desert Trip from Marrakech promises a magical experience, combining adventure with cultural discovery. On this journey, you’ll:
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains with scenic views.
- Visit traditional Berber villages along the way, offering a glimpse into the life of the locals.
- Ride camels across the Sahara Desert and spend a night under the stars at a desert camp near Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Visit the small town of Merzouga, known as the gateway to the desert.
- Take a stroll through the fascinating Draa Valley, famous for its palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech to Merzouga Desert (Approx. 8 hours drive)
Your adventure begins as we depart from Marrakech and head towards the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of rugged landscapes, small villages, and terraced farms. A stop in Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will offer the chance to explore this ancient Kasbah. After lunch, we continue towards the town of Merzouga, where the desert adventure truly begins.
Upon arrival in Merzouga, you’ll mount camels and head towards the desert camp. The ride takes you through the towering Erg Chebbi dunes, and once you reach the camp, you’ll be treated to a traditional Berber dinner. Spend the night in a comfortable tent under the starry sky.
Day 2: Merzouga to Dades Valley (Approx. 6 hours drive)
Wake up early to catch the stunning sunrise over the Sahara Desert, a breathtaking moment you won’t soon forget. After breakfast, you’ll ride camels back to the village of Merzouga. From here, we continue the journey to the Dades Valley, passing through several Berber villages and the famous Todgha Gorge, a magnificent site with dramatic cliffs.
In the evening, we’ll settle in a local guesthouse in Dades Valley, where you can relax and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Day 3: Dades Valley to Marrakech (Approx. 7 hours drive)
On the final day of your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech, we start the journey back, taking in the sights of the Draa Valley and its palm groves. We’ll stop for lunch in the town of Ouarzazate, also known as the “Gateway to the Desert”. Afterward, we will head back to Marrakech, where the tour concludes.
Inclusions
- Transport in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle
- Professional driver and guide
- Camel ride in the Sahara Desert
- One night in a desert camp in Merzouga
- One night in a local guesthouse in Dades Valley
- Meals (dinners and breakfasts)
- All fuel and tolls
- Camel ride to the dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Guided tour of Ait Benhaddou and Todgha Gorge
Exclusions
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance
Map of the Tour
FAQs
The trip lasts three days and covers a distance of approximately 1,000 kilometers, offering plenty of time to explore the desert, mountains, and villages along the way.
We recommend bringing comfortable clothing for the hot days and cold nights, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Don’t forget a warm jacket for the night in the desert!
Yes, we offer the option to upgrade to luxury desert camps or more premium accommodations in the cities upon request.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but we recommend checking with us for any special considerations based on your children’s age.
Yes, during the trip, you’ll visit traditional Berber villages and interact with local people, offering a unique insight into their way of life.