5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Tour Details

Experience the Sahara desert in its entirety with our comprehensive 5-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. This itinerary provides the ideal amount of time to go beyond the surface, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the landscapes and culture without feeling rushed.

You will journey by camel into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes, spend unforgettable nights stargazing in a desert camp with the locals, and discover the Berber local life in southern Morocco. For travelers seeking a deep and authentic connection with the desert’s breathtaking beauty and rich traditions, this 5-day adventure is the perfect choice.

Highlights of the Tour

5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
  • Dramatic High Atlas Mountain crossing
  • UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou
  • Ouarzazate film studios & kasbahs
  • Overnight stay in the scenic Dades Valley
  • Awe-inspiring Todra Gorge canyon walk
  • Iconic sunset camel trek in Erg Chebbi
  • Vibrant desert sunrises & sunsets
  • Incredible Sahara stargazing experience
  • Private luxury desert camp accommodation
  • Off-road adventure to meet desert nomads
  • Authentic Moroccan souk visit

Itinerary

5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Day 1: Marrakech → Ait Ben Haddou → Ouarzazate → Dades Valley

We start our 5 days desert tour from Marrakech passing through the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). We will make some stops to enjoy the landscapes in the mountains. Our main stop of the day is the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and filming location for Gladiator, Game of Thrones and many others. After, we continue to Ouarzazate, the “Gateway to the Sahara,” where you can visit the Atlas Studios, the biggest one in Africa (optional).

The journey then takes us through the Valley of Roses, known for growing the roses, before arriving to the Dades Valley, where we spend the night in a traditional Riad with dinner.


Day 2: Dades Valley → Todgha Gorge → Merzouga Desert

After breakfast, we drive via the Todra valley toward the stunning Todgha Gorge.  A canyon of 300m-high cliffs tower above a winding river. Where you can enjoy a perfect  short walk. We then journey toward the Sahara, passing through Erfoud, known for its fossil facturies.

By afternoon, we reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, you’ll mount a camel and trek into the golden sands, watching the sunset over the desert. At night, we stay in a luxury desert camp, enjoying traditional Berber music, a delicious dinner, and endless stars.


Day 3: Day of Desert Exploration: Nomads and Landscapes

An early start is recommended to enjoy the breathtaking sunrise from a nearby dune. After a delicious  breakfast at the camp, your deep exploration of the Merzouga region begins. Boarding our 4×4 vehicle, we will venture off-road to meet a nomadic Berber family who still live in old tents. This is an authentic experience in which we have a cup of tea to learn about their resilient lifestyle, and gain a unique insight into their rich culture.

The expedition continues to the historic mining village of Mefis where the frenchs used to live. Then we heah to Khamlia village to experience the powerful, spiritual rhythms of Gnawa music played by Gnawa people who are originlly brought from Mali and Sudan as refugees. For lunch you will have the chance to try the typical dish of the area called the Berber pizza. 

Depending on the season, we may also visit the Lake of Merzouga, a temporary haven for migratory birds. We will proceed to your Riad at the edge of the dunes for check-in and a free afternoon. You can relax by the pool or you can do some desert activities such as Atv quads or Buggies. Later, dinner will be served at the Riad.

For travellers who want the option to spend another magical night at the desert camp is also available.


Day 4: Merzouga → Rissani  →  Agdez  → Ouarzazate

After enjoying breakfast at the Riad. We start our Morocco desert tour  toward Rissani or Sijlmassa, the ancient cradle of Morocco’s ruling dynasty and a historic crossroads for Saharan trade caravans. If we come a cross Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday which are the market days in the city. We will explore one of the oldest authentic traditional souk in Morocco. Where you can see a local atmosphere.

From Rissani, we travel onward through the stunning Draa Valley, following the river of palms through Agdez. This beautiful route leads us to Ouarzazate, where we will arrive in the afternoon and check into our accommodation for dinner and overnight.


Day 5: Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah →  Telouet Kasbah → Marrakech

Following a final breakfast at your riad, our last day of the 5 days desert tour from Marrakech begins with an exploration of Ouarzazate, named also as the ‘Hollywood of Africa’. We will discover the city’s cinematic landmarks, including the historic Taourirt Kasbah.

From there our return to Marrakech takes us on a final breathtaking drive through the High Atlas Mountains. Along this scenic route, we will make a fascinating stop to admire the historic Telouet Kasbah. Your unforgettable 5-day desert adventure concludes as we drop you off at your accommodation in Marrakech.

 

Map

5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Departure & Return Location

  • Pickup: Anywhere in Marrakech
  • Drop-off: Anywhere in Marrakech

Departure Time

  • Approx. 9:30 AM (flexible based on your location/season)

Price Includes
  • Private 4×4 or minivan with A/C
  • Professional driver/guide in your preferred language
  • 4 nights’ accommodation (Riads + desert camp)
  • Meals: 4 breakfasts and 4 dinners
  • Camel trek in Erg Chebbi dunes
  • Sand boarding in the Sahara desert
  • Sunset & sunrise desert experience
Price Excludes
  • Lunches & Drinks
  • Entrance fees to optional sites
  • Personal expenses

Important

Notes about the tour
  • 5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is only a suggested itinerary and can be fully customized to match your intersts, travel style, and schedule. If it does not fit your preferences, simply contact us and we will design a personalized itinerary created just for you.
  • The price of the 5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga may vary depending on several factors, including the number of the travellers, the travel season high or low, and your preferred accommodation category please refer to the accommodation table below.
  • If you want more authentic and local experience with the same duration, you may prefer our 5-day local tour, which includes an extra overnight stay on the way to Marrakech for a more relaxed journey.
  • If this 5-day tour feels to0 short or long, be sure to explore our other  tours from Marrakech to enjoy a suitable Morocco experience.
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    Accommodation

    We have carefully selected a range of accommodations for your 5-day journey to ensure a restful and authentic experience. Every hotel, riad, and desert camp features clean, comfortable rooms with private en-suite bathrooms, available in double, twin, or single occupancy.

    To help us personalize your tour, please choose your preferred accommodation style from the three tiers listed below and let us know your selection when you book.

    Let us know if you are interested to spend two nights in the desert camp instead of the Riad. 

    NightsOption 1Option 2Option 3
    1Riad Gabsi DadesRiad Dades ParadiseEden Boutique Hotel
    2Africa Luxury Camp Caravanserai Luxury CampAntares Desert Camp
    3Riad Azawad Riad Dar Morocco Riad Caravan Serai
    4Riad BouchedorRiad Dar ChamaaOz Palace Ouarzazate

    FAQs

    How do I get to and from the desert camp?

    Your private driver will take you to the desert area, where you will meet the camel team or take a 4×4 transfer to the camp crossing the dunes with a stop a long the way to enjoy a breathtaking sunset.

    The following day, you will have again two included options for the way back, either camels or Jeep. Also you have alternative options with extra charge which are Atv quads or Dune buggy.

    What is the plan once we get to the desert camp?

    After enjoying the camel ride or 4×4 and the sunset over the dunes, You will check into your tent, have dinner, and spending the evening around the bonfire with traditional music played by the local under starry skies.

    The following morning, you can watch the sunrise from the nearby dunes to the camp, have breakfast, and then leave the camp by camel ride or Jeep to continue your Morocco tour.

    What activities can we do during this tour?

    Beside the activities that you have already included in the tour, you can enjoy extra activities as Atv quads, Dune buggy, or horse ride in the Sahara desert. A cooking class can be arranged too in the Sahara desrert with a local family to learn how to prepare the Berber pizza.

    Also you can enjoy a Hike in Dades or Todra Gorges. These activities can be requested during the booking process or during the trip too.

    When is the best time to book this tour?

    The best time to book this tour as it includes the Sahara desert is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to January) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and desert tours.

    • Spring: Green landscapes, comfortable temperatures
    • Autumn: Perfect for Sahara Desert trips
    • Summer: Hot in inland cities, but good for coastal areas
    • Winter: Mild in cities, cold nights in the desert

    How do I find restaurants for lunch during the tour?

    Lunch is generally flexible and is usually not included unless specifically stated in the tour details. Your driver can recommend good local restaurants along the route and stop at suitable places based on your preferences, dietary requirements, and schedule.

    Note that if you have restaurants that you like. Inform your driver and he will be happy to take you there. 

    Is one night enough in the Sahara Desert?

    For most travelers, one night in the Sahara is enough to experience the highlights, including the desert sunset, camel ride or 4×4 transfer, dinner at the camp, traditional music, and sunrise the following morning.

    However, if you prefer a slower experience, we can arrange an additional night in the desert. This gives you more time to relax and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

    Can I choose different accommodation options?

    We offer different accommodation categories depending on the tour, your budget, and your travel preferences. You can choose from the available options shown in the accommodation table. However, If you have other places where you wish to stay just inform us and we will do our best to book them.

    Are these tours safe for women or solo female travelers?

    Yes, our Morocco tours are safe for women and solo female travelers. Morocco is a popular destination for solo travelers, including women, and millions visit every year without issues.

    Can you accommodate dietary requirements?

    Please let us know about any dietary requirements or food allergies when booking, and we will do our best to accommodate them. Morocco has many options for vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary preferences.

    Can I skip stops along the way?

    Since our tours are private and customizable, you can request to skip certain stops or spend less time at places that are not of interest to you. We can also use that time to add another destination, activity depending on the route and available time, or simply make the day more relaxed.

    Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
    ALEXIS EDITH N profile picture
    ALEXIS EDITH N
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    Alex Nava Cabañas We just returned from an unforgettable 5-day private tour from Tangier to Marrakech with Trips for Morocco, and it truly exceeded all our expectations. From start to finish, everything was perfectly organized, comfortable, and filled with unique experiences that we will treasure forever.Our driver and guide, Hassan, was simply outstanding. From the moment he picked us up in Tangier, he made us feel welcome and safe. His professionalism, kindness, and deep knowledge of Moroccan culture, history, and hidden gems turned the trip into so much more than just sightseeing. He was always attentive to our needs, flexible with our schedule, and went above and beyond to make sure we had the best experience possible.The itinerary was perfectly designed, allowing us to explore some of Morocco’s most breathtaking destinations. Starting in Tangier, we made our way to the magical blue town of Chefchaouen, where wandering the charming streets felt like stepping into a dream. From there, we continued to the historical city of Fes, where we discovered its ancient medina, vibrant markets, and incredible craftsmanship.The highlight of our journey was, without a doubt, the Sahara Desert experience. Riding camels over the golden dunes of Merzouga, watching a stunning sunset, and spending the night under a sky full of stars in a desert camp was truly magical. It’s an experience that words can hardly capture.On the way to Marrakech, we passed through the magnificent Dades Gorge, with its dramatic landscapes and winding roads—another unforgettable stop. Finally, we arrived in Marrakech, full of incredible memories, beautiful photos, and a much deeper appreciation for Morocco.Every accommodation arranged for us was comfortable and authentic, with warm hospitality that made us feel right at home. The blend of local experiences, cultural insights, and scenic drives made the trip both relaxing and enriching.We cannot thank Hassan and Trips for Morocco enough for making this journey so special. If you are considering a trip to Morocco, look no further—this is the company to book with. It was truly the trip of a lifetime, and we recommend it 100%!
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    Dunia L profile picture
    Dunia L
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    Unforgettable Morocco Tour! A perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Tanger, Chefchaouen, and Fès were a great start, followed by the majestic Sahara experience. The Todra Gorge and Ait Ben Haddou were breathtaking, and Marrakesh was the perfect finale. Each stop was unique and impressive – highly recommended!And a big shoutout to our guide and driver Hassan who made our tour even better! If you have the chance to get him as your guide consider yourself very lucky :)!
    Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
    amy h profile picture
    amy h
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    Unforgettable Experience with TFM! My friends and I had an amazing trip with Trips For Morocco, and we would like to express our full satisfaction with the tour. At first, we were unsure which company to choose, as there were so many options. Luckily, we chose Trips For Morocco—and we couldn’t have made a better decision!Everything was perfectly organized. The accommodations were fantastic, and the car was clean and comfortable. We also had knowledgeable local guides at several sites, which added great value to our experience.A special thanks goes to our driver and guide, Hassan, who truly made this trip unforgettable. He patiently answered all our questions and always made sure we were doing well. His dedication and kindness made a huge difference.Thank you to the entire team for making this trip exceed our expectations. If you’re unsure which company to go with, choose Trips For Morocco. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an authentic and enjoyable local experience!
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    Roberto V profile picture
    Roberto V
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    Great host and hospitality. All the people involved in the tour were amazing... Hassan, our host was one of a kind, keeping us entretained, he is experienced with a lot of different lenguages. Top quality of treatment and safety.
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    Gisele profile picture
    Gisele
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    Fantastic I did the amazing 5 days tour from Tanger to Marrakech with my husband with trips for Morocco. Everything was perfect and well organised. The accommodations were very nice, the guides were knowledgeable and helpful. We had an amazing trip that never will be forgotten. Hassan is the highlight of the tour. He made everything easy and accessible to us. We highly recommended trips for Morocco for your next trip to Morocco.
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    Dianamislang profile picture
    Dianamislang
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    Best 5 day desert tour with Hassan I had the most amazing time in Morocco, and it was all thanks to my incredible guide, Hassan. His passion for the country and its rich history brought every place to life, making the experience truly special. On top of that, his sense of humor kept me laughing throughout the journey, making even the longest days fun and lighthearted. He made sure I saw the best of Morocco while keeping everything engaging and enjoyable. I can't recommend him enough for anyone wanting a memorable, authentic, and fun Moroccan adventure!
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    Nedaa k profile picture
    Nedaa k
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    Hassan the perfect tour guide This was an amazing trip, I had a pleasant time.I was lucky enough to have Hassan as a tour guide. Hassan is the prefect guide; he was very knowledgeable about every place we visited. and helped us with anything that we want. can’t recommend him enough. It was a trip of a lifetime .
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    Lumusa profile picture
    Lumusa
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    Enchanted Morocco: A 10-Day Dream Journey with Trips For Morocco Living my Moroccan fairy tale became a reality thanks to Trips For Morocco! 🇲🇦 Embarked on an incredible 10 day journey starting in the enchanting Marrakesh. Imagine riding camels 🐪 like a true nomad, witnessing the most mesmerizing sunsets, exploring the stunning blue city, traversing ancient routes, marveling at modern Casablanca, and being awestruck by the majestic Hassan II Mosque, not to mention the charming visit to Essaouira and so much more. 🐪 🕌 🌅 The warmth of the people and the breathtaking architecture were beyond belief. Our guide Hassan and our bus driver Sayed quickly turned from strangers into family, making our adventure not just fun but truly captivating. Hassan’s insights into the country’s culture, cuisine, and hidden gems added layers of depth to our experience. 😊 I highly recommend Trips For Morocco to anyone looking to dive deep into the Moroccan essence. There’s no better way to immerse yourself than with locals who know it best. Thank you, Trips For Morocco and Hassan, for an incredible experience. Looking forward to returning for another great journey in Morocco soon. 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️. #TripsForMorocco #MoroccoAdventure #HassanBestTourGuide #CulturalImmersion
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    Pintohh profile picture
    Pintohh
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    Majestic Moroccan Adventure... Our adventure in Morocco, guided by Hassan & driver Syed, was an experience we'll cherish forever! It all began in Casablanca, where we were in awe of the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. Our journey then took us to Rabat, where the historic charm of the Kasbah of the Udayas truly captivated us. Fez offered us vibrant markets and the ancient ruins of Volubilis, each revealing fascinating stories from the past.One of the highlights was the awe-inspiring Todgha Gorges, where towering cliffs left us breathless. The Sahara Desert tour was pure magic, featuring unforgettable camel rides during sunset, thrilling ATV adventures, and a dreamy night of glamping beneath the starry sky. Our bus rides were filled with songs and laughter, turning every journey between destinations into a joyful experience.The trip concluded in the lively heart of Marrakech, where we immersed ourselves in the bustling market life. Thanks to Hassan & Syed, our journey was a treasure trove of memories, leaving us enchanted by Morocco's beauty, culture, and the warmth of its people.
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    Cosmopolitan372828 profile picture
    Cosmopolitan372828
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    Excellent trip We did 10 days was wonderful, Hassan and his people Heloísa, and his driver Saied , are awesome, they planned and organized everything for us, we just enjoyed and had a lot of fun. Thank you Hassan I recommend.

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