5 Days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate

Ascend the Majestic High Atlas Mountains

Your journey begins with a departure from Marrakech towards the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters), Morocco’s highest mountain road. Along the way, enjoy photo stops at panoramic viewpoints and pass by Berber villages perched on mountain slopes.

Explore the UNESCO Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou

Arrive at Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified village built of red mudbrick and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways and admire the centuries-old architecture. This ksar is a favorite filming location for movies like Gladiator and The Mummy.

Ouarzazate: Africa’s Hollywood

Continue to Ouarzazate, known as “Hollywood of Africa.” Visit the Atlas Film Studios, where blockbuster movies and series were filmed, and explore Kasbah Taourirt, once a royal residence of the powerful Glaoui family.

Overnight stay in a traditional riad or hotel in Ouarzazate with dinner included.

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Skoura – Rose Valley – Dades Valley

Visit the Oasis of Skoura

After breakfast, depart for Skoura, a lush palm grove filled with hidden kasbahs. Explore the Kasbah Amridil, one of Morocco’s most beautifully preserved fortified homes.

Journey Through the Rose Valley

Continue through the Valley of Roses, famous for its Damascus rose harvest and rose-based products. In spring, the valley comes alive with blossoms and local festivals.

Marvel at Dades Valley’s Rock Formations

Arrive in the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic gorges and unique rock formations like the “Monkey Fingers.” Drive through winding roads and admire the contrasting landscapes of rugged cliffs and lush greenery.

Dinner and overnight stay at a panoramic hotel or riad nestled in the valley.

Day 3: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)

Todra Gorges: Towering Cliffs and Crystal Waters

Begin the day with a drive to Todra Gorges, a natural canyon with 300-meter-high limestone walls carved by the Todra River. Enjoy a walk through the gorge, popular among climbers and photographers.

Drive to the Edge of the Desert

Pass through Erfoud, famous for fossils and desert landscapes, and Rissani, an ancient capital known for its historical significance and vibrant souks.

Camel Trek into the Sahara Desert

Upon arrival in Merzouga, meet your camel caravan and journey through the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. As the sun sets, the desert comes alive in golden hues.

Spend the Night Under the Stars

Arrive at your luxury desert camp, where you’ll be greeted with traditional mint tea. Enjoy a hearty Moroccan dinner, Berber drumming, and stargazing in the serene desert night.

Overnight in a private tent with modern amenities for a comfortable and magical experience.

Day 4: Merzouga Desert Exploration – Khamlia – Nomads – Oasis (2nd Night in Merzouga)

Witness a Sahara Sunrise

Wake early to admire the sunrise over the dunes — a breathtaking moment of silence and beauty.

Explore the Village of Khamlia

Visit Khamlia, a village known for its unique Gnawa music and spiritual rhythms brought from sub-Saharan Africa. Enjoy a live performance and a cultural exchange.

Discover Nomadic Lifestyles and Hidden Oases

Visit a Berber nomad family to learn about desert survival and hospitality. Continue your exploration to discover desert oases, fossil sites, and panoramic viewpoints in the Erg Chebbi region.

Return to your desert lodge or camp in Merzouga for a second relaxing night. Enjoy dinner and a peaceful evening under the stars.

Day 5: Merzouga – Alnif – Draa Valley – Agdz – Marrakech

Cross the Anti-Atlas Mountains

Depart Merzouga after breakfast and drive through Alnif and the dramatic landscapes of the Anti-Atlas Mountains — one of the least visited yet most stunning regions in Morocco.

Descend into the Draa Valley

Travel through the expansive Draa Valley, where palm groves, ksour, and traditional kasbahs line the fertile riverbanks. This valley is the longest in Morocco and a vital agricultural zone.

Return to Marrakech via Ouarzazate

After a lunch break in Agdz or Ouarzazate, cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass once more to arrive back in Marrakech in the evening. The tour ends with hotel drop-off and memories to last a lifetime.

What’s Included in the Tour

• Comfortable private 4×4 vehicle or minibus with air conditioning

• Experienced English-speaking driver/guide

• 4 nights’ accommodation (1 in Ouarzazate, 1 in Dades, 2 in Merzouga)

• Camel trekking and desert camp experience

• Dinner and breakfast each day

• Berber music performance in desert

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Marrakech

Why Choose the 5 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Tour

• More time to explore: No rushing — you get time to enjoy each stop.

• Two nights in Merzouga: Deeper desert immersion with both camp and lodge stays.

• Authentic cultural experiences: Visit real nomad families, explore Berber villages, and enjoy local music.

• Stunning diversity: Mountains, valleys, kasbahs, oases, and dunes in one tour.

• Private and customizable: Travel at your own pace with the comfort of a private tour.