3 Days Desert Tour Marrakech to Merzouga Desert
>> Marrakech Desert Tour 3 Days
Overview:
On this Marrakech desert tour 3 days, we will travel from Marrakech to the stunning Sahara Desert in Merzouga. We will drive through the High Atlas Mountains, stop at Berber villages, and enjoy the views from the Tizi N’Tichka pass. We will visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, explore an argan oil cooperative, and stop in the Valley of Roses.
As we move on, we will see the Dades and Todra Gorges, visit Berber villages for henna tattoos , wear traditional clothes, and explore Fossil City and dates fruits, then head to ride camels through the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset. We will spend a night in a desert camp under the stars and return to Marrakech through the scenic Draa Valley.
Highlights:
- Explore traditional Berber villages and the scenic Tizi N’Tichka pass.
- Visit an argan oil cooperative and learn how this famous oil is produced.
- Explore the UNESCO listed Ait Ben Haddou and enjoy lunch there.
- Pass through Ouarzazate, visit the Noor solar energy plant, and stop at the film studios.
- Visit the rose oil cooperative in the Valley of Roses.
- Explore Dades Gorge, Todra Gorges, and the rock formations of Monkey Fingers Mountain.
- Visit a Berber village for henna tattoos and traditional clothing experiences.
- Experience a camel ride at sunset and sleep in a Berber camp under the stars.
Informations:
- Place to begin: your riad/hotel in marrakech
- Place to end: your riad/hotel in marrakech
- Period: 3 days/ 2 nights
- Departure time: 8/9 am
THIS IS THE ITINERARY OF THE 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert :
Day 1: Marrakech-ait ben haddou-Ouarzazate-Dades valley
Our Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Trip 3 days, we will Departure from Marrakech at 8:00 and travel through the scenic High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we will stop at Berber villages where you can take in panoramic views and learn about the traditional way of life.
Then, our journey continues to the Tizi N’Tichka Pass, the highest road pass in Morocco. We will stop here to admire the stunning views and take some amazing photos of the mountain landscapes.
After that, we will visit a local argan oil cooperative, where you will learn about the production of Morocco’s famous argan oil. Here, you can see how the women take out the oil and create natural products, and you can also buy some argan oil directly from the source.
Our next stop is the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This old fortified village has been featured in many famous films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. We will explore the kasbah and enjoy a traditional lunch in a local restaurant.
After lunch, we will head to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco” for its film studios. We will also see Noor Ouarzazate, one of the largest solar energy plants in the world.
Afterward, we will pass through Skoura Oasis, famous for its palm groves and old kasbahs. Our next stop is the Valley of Roses, where you will visit a rose oil cooperative. Here, you can learn how rose oil is made from locally grown roses.
Finally, by evening, we will arrive in Dades Valley. You will enjoy dinner and stay overnight in a traditional riad, surrounded by the beautiful Dades mountains.
Day 2: Dades gorge – todra gorge – Erfoud - Merzouga
After breakfast, we will explore the scenic Dades Gorge and visit the unique rock formations known as Monkey Fingers Mountain, where you can take photos and enjoy the natural beauty.
Our next stop is the breathtaking Todra Gorges, where cliffs rise up to 300 meters high. We will take a walk through the gorge, which is popular with rock climbers, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
After that, we will stop in Tinjdad for a traditional Moroccan lunch, where you can relax and enjoy local cuisine.
After lunch, we will visit a local Berber village, where you can get henna tattoos, try on traditional Berber clothing, and learn about the rich Berber culture.
Then, we will pass by the Jorf irrigation channel, an ancient underground water system, and visit the town of Erfoud, famous for its date farms and fossils. You’ll have a chance to see the locally made fossils and taste some fresh dates.
In the late afternoon, we will arrive in Merzouga, where you will enjoy a camel ride into the Sahara Desert. You will watch the stunning sunset over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi before arriving at our desert camp. We will enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, listen to Berber music, and sleep in a comfort tent under the Milky Way.
Day 3: merzouga – alnif – tazarine – agdz – Marrakech
On the last day of 3 days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert, we will wake up early to see the spectacular sunrise over the Sahara dunes, then ride camels back to Merzouga for breakfast.
On our journey back to Marrakech, we will pass through the towns of Alnif and Tazarine, stopping for scenic views and to explore the local culture.
Then, we will continue through the Draa Valley, famous for its rich palm groves and old kasbahs, before stopping for lunch in the Valley of Roses.
After that, we will make our final stop in Ouarzazate, where you can visit the Taourirt Kasbah or relax before our drive back through the High Atlas Mountains. We will arrive in Marrakech in the evening, end our 3 day desert adventure.
- pick up and drop-off at your hotel/riad
- our A/C modern 4x4 or van/minivan.
- drivers/guides speaking English....
- clean vehicle A/C with air condition along the way
- visit some interesting place along the way
- fuel
- first night at private room hotel/riad with "dinner & breakfast"
- sunset camel ride in sahara desert erg chebbi
- second night at private tent on sahara desert erg chebbi camp
- All stops and tours as described in the itinerary.
- lunches, drinks
- entrance the monuments
- personal expenses
- local guids in any
Before you go
- Clothing: Bring light clothes for the warm daytime, and a jacket or sweater for the cool nights in the desert. Comfortable shoes are important for walking.
- Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Camera: Bring a camera to take pictures of the beautiful places, especially the sunrise and sunset in the desert.
- Cash: Bring some cash for small purchases and tips, as credit cards may not be accepted in some places.
- Personal Items: Pack any personal items like toiletries and medicines that you might need during the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is included in the 3 day desert tour?
The 3 day desert tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional driver, and guide, accommodation in a riad in Dades Valley (with dinner and breakfast), a night in a desert camp (with dinner and breakfast), a camel ride in the Sahara Desert, and all sightseeing stops along the way.
2. How far is the drive from Marrakech to Merzouga sahara?
The drive from Marrakech to Merzouga is about 560 kilometers. The trip takes place over two days, with plenty of stops to explore the mountains, valleys, and villages along the way, making the long drive more enjoyable.
3. What is the best time of year to take the 3 day desert tour?
The best time to take the 3 day desert tour is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when temperatures are modest and comfortable. Summer months can be very hot in the desert, while winter nights can be cold, but the days are delightful.
4. Is the camel ride comfortable?
Camel rides can feel a little rough at first, but it’s a fun and unique experience. The ride usually lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours. Wearing comfortable clothes and bringing a scarf for the wind will make the ride more enjoyable.
5. Can I bring my children on the tour?
Yes, the tour is family friendly and suitable for children. Kids will love the camel ride and exploring the desert. However, long drives may be tiring for very young children, so it’s best to plan some activities to keep them entertained during the trip.
6. What type of accommodation is provided?
On the first night, you will stay in a traditional riad or hotel in Dades Valley, which includes a private bathroom and dinner. On the second night, you will stay in a desert camp in Merzouga, with comfortable tents, blankets, and all the basics for a comfortable night under the stars.
7. Do I need any special clothing for the desert?
You don’t need special clothing, but it’s important to dress comfortably. Light, breathable clothes are good for the daytime, while a jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings in the desert. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
8. Will there be vegetarian food options?
Most tours can prepare special healthy diet requests, including vegetarian meals. Let your tour driver know about your healthy diet requests in advance so they can prepare meals that suit your needs.