4 Days from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

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

High Atlas Mountains and Tizi n’Tichka Pass
We start early from Marrakech, crossing the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the famous Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260 m), a scenic road with breathtaking views of Berber villages and fertile valleys.

Visit to Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
We make an essential stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a fortified adobe city featured in major films and series such as Game of Thrones and Gladiator. Its adobe towers and desert surroundings make this kasbah one of Morocco’s most photogenic places.

Ouarzazate and the Valley of Roses
After lunch in Ouarzazate, also known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” we continue along the Route of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through the Skoura palm grove and the Valley of Roses, famous for its rosewater production.

Accommodation in the Dades Valley
We end the day in the Dades Valley, staying in a cozy riad overlooking the gorges. Enjoy a traditional dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga

Exploring the Todra Gorges
After breakfast, we visit the spectacular Todra Gorges, a natural canyon with vertical walls reaching up to 300 meters, perfect for a light hike and stunning photography.

Journey to the Desert: Erfoud and Rissani
We continue toward the desert, passing through Erfoud, famous for its fossils, and Rissani, an important traditional commercial center. Here you can witness the authentic life of southern Morocco and its strong Berber heritage.

Arrival at Merzouga and Camel Ride
Upon arrival in Merzouga, the Erg Chebbi dunes welcome us. We mount camels for an unforgettable sunset ride across the golden dunes.

Night in a Berber Desert Camp
We dine under a star-filled sky at a traditional desert camp, enjoying Berber music around the fire before sleeping in nomad tents (standard or luxury, depending on preference).

Day 3: Merzouga – Khamlia – Nomads – Tisserdmin Oasis – Erg Chebbi

Sunrise over the Dunes and Breakfast
We wake up early to witness the unforgettable sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, we begin a day full of cultural and natural discoveries.

Khamlia Village and Gnawa Music
We visit Khamlia village, inhabited by descendants of slaves from sub-Saharan Africa. Here, we enjoy a live performance of Gnawa music, a deeply spiritual and rhythmic tradition rooted in southern Morocco.

Meeting Nomadic Families
We head into the desert mountains to visit Berber nomadic families, sharing tea and learning about their resilient, wise way of life.

Oasis and Dune Panorama
We pass through the Tisserdmin oasis and finish the day with a 4×4 tour around the dunes—perfect for photography and adventure.

Second Night in the Desert
We return to the camp for dinner and rest for a second night under the Sahara sky.

Day 4: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Middle Atlas – Ifrane – Fez or Return to Marrakech

Route North: Ziz, Azrou, and Ifrane
After breakfast, we leave the desert heading to the Ziz Valley, full of date palm groves. The journey continues through the Middle Atlas, passing Midelt, the cedar forest of Azrou (home to Barbary macaques), and the alpine town of Ifrane, known as “Morocco’s Switzerland.”

Arrival in Fez or Marrakech
By the end of the day, we arrive in Fez or, if chosen, back in Marrakech, closing an unforgettable journey through the heart of authentic Morocco.

What’s Included in the 4-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour?

• Private transportation in air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan

• Spanish-speaking local driver/guide

• Accommodation in riads and desert camp

• Camel ride on the Erg Chebbi dunes

• Included breakfasts and dinners

• Cultural visits and scenic stops

A Journey for the Soul: Discover Morocco Through Its Landscapes and People

This 4-day route from Marrakech to the Merzouga desert is the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature, tradition, and the Moroccan soul. Ideal for couples, groups, or solo travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes, authentic experiences, and unforgettable moments.