Embark on an extraordinary 5-day Morocco desert tour from Marrakech, where you will traverse diverse landscapes, immerse yourself in rich Moroccan culture, and experience the allure of the Sahara Desert. This journey promises an unforgettable blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty, making it the perfect choice for anyone seeking an authentic Moroccan experience.
Spectacular Landscapes: High Atlas Mountains, Sahara Desert, Draa Valley, and Todra Gorge.
Cultural Experiences: Visits to Ait Benhaddou, kasbahs, and Berber villages.
Unique Activities: Camel trekking, desert camping, and sunrise over the dunes.
Authentic Moroccan Cuisine: Enjoy traditional meals at riads, camps, and local guesthouses.
Itinerary
Day 01 :
Marrakech to Dades Valley via the High Atlas Mountains
Crossing the High Atlas Mountains
The adventure begins with a departure from Marrakech, heading east toward the majestic High Atlas Mountains. As you ascend the winding roads of the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, soak in panoramic views of Berber villages, terraced farmlands, and rugged mountain peaks.
Visit Ait Benhaddou
En route, stop at the historic Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its well-preserved kasbahs. Explore this fortified village, which has served as the backdrop for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Walk its ancient streets and learn about its fascinating history.
Ouarzazate: The Hollywood of Africa
Continue to Ouarzazate, also known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Here, visit the iconic Taourirt Kasbah and, if time permits, the renowned Atlas Film Studios.
Journey to Dades Valley
In the afternoon, travel through the Valley of Roses before reaching the stunning Dades Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional riad or hotel, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Day 02 :
Dades Valley to Merzouga via Todra Gorge
Todra Gorge: A Natural Wonder
Start the day with a visit to Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon with 300-meter-high cliffs. Take a leisurely walk along the river and marvel at the natural beauty of this unique site.
Scenic Drive to Merzouga
The journey continues through palm groves and desert landscapes. Stop at Erfoud, known for its fossil-rich terrain, before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert.
Camel Trekking and Desert Camp
As the sun sets, embark on an unforgettable camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, where golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see. Reach a luxury desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, live Berber music, and stargazing under the vast desert sky. Spend the night in a comfortable tent, surrounded by the silence of the desert.
Day 03 :
Merzouga to Agdz via Alnif and the Draa Valley
Sunrise Over the Sahara
Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the dunes, a magical moment that you’ll cherish forever. After breakfast at the desert camp, return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4.
Exploring Alnif and the Draa Valley
Travel through the rugged Saghro Mountains, stopping in Alnif, a town famous for its fossils. Continue to the lush Draa Valley, the largest palm grove in Morocco. Along the way, admire traditional Berber villages and ancient kasbahs.
Overnight in Agdz
Arrive in the charming town of Agdz, located at the heart of the Draa Valley. Spend the night in a cozy guesthouse and enjoy a delicious homemade dinner.
Day 04 :
Agdz to Ouarzazate via the Draa Valley
Draa Valley Exploration
Begin the day with a scenic drive through the Draa Valley, renowned for its endless palm trees and traditional mud-brick villages. Stop at the historic Kasbah Tamnougalt, a fortress with a fascinating history.
Return to Ouarzazate
Travel back to Ouarzazate, where you can visit any sites you may have missed earlier, such as the Cinema Museum or enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local café.
Day 05 :
Ouarzazate to Marrakech
Scenic Return Journey
Retrace your route back to Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas Mountains once again. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes and make a final stop for photos at the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Arrival in Marrakech
Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon, where your 5-day desert adventure concludes. Take time to reflect on the unforgettable memories you’ve made during this incredible journey.
Cost
The Cost Includes
Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Professional English-speaking guide and driver.
Accommodation in riads, hotels, and a luxury desert camp.
Daily breakfast and select dinners.
Guided tours in Fes and Marrakech.
Camel trekking experience in the Sahara Desert.
The Cost Excludes
Lunches and drinks
Entrance fees to sites
Tips for guides and drivers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a private or shared tour?
The 5-day tour is typically private, giving you a personal driver/guide and flexible travel pace. Shared group departures may be available on request.
What type of accommodation is included?
You will stay in a combination of:
Riads or boutique hotels in Dades or Ouarzazate
Luxury or standard desert camp in Merzouga (private tents with full facilities)
Hotels/riads in Middle Atlas areas depending on the itinerary
Is camel trekking in the desert included?
Yes — you’ll enjoy a sunset camel trek in the Erg Chebbi dunes. A sunrise camel ride is usually available the next morning.
What meals are provided during the tour?
Breakfasts are included daily
Dinner is included at the desert camp (and sometimes at the Dades or Ouarzazate hotel) Lunches and drinks are not included.
Does the tour end back in Marrakech?
Yes — this 5-day desert tour is a round-trip, starting and ending in Marrakech, passing through Dades Valley, Todgha Gorge, Merzouga, and the High Atlas Mountains.