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This three-day tour offers an in-depth immersion in the Merzouga desert, taking you from Marrakech through some of southern Morocco’s most striking settings: the High Atlas Mountains, the kasbah of Aït Benhaddou, the golden Erg Chebbi dunes around Merzouga, the Draa Valley and Agdez, and Ouarzazate. You explore the Sahara desert during the day and spend both nights there, go on a personal visit to a nomadic Berber family for an authentic cultural exchange, ride camels across the dunes, try sandboarding, and enjoy mesmerizing sunsets and sunrises over Erg Chebbi — with a full day dedicated to discovering the marvels of the Merzouga desert.
Every itinerary is fully customisable to suit your preferences and pace.
DAY 1: MARRAKECH -> HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS -> AIT BEN HADDOU KASBAH -> MERZOUGA DESERT
Your tour kicks off with us picking you up from your hotel/riad in the morning. As we leave Marrakech, we head towards the Merzouga desert, travelling across the stunning High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we pause to take in the breathtaking views of this amazing place.
We also stop in Ait Ben Haddou to see the famous Kasbah with its panoramic view. This fortified village has been used in many well-known movies and TV shows like Prince of Persia, Gladiator, and Game of Thrones. UNESCO has recognized this ancient village as a World Heritage Site since 1987. After enjoying lunch at a restaurant during our journey, we continue to our final destination.
When we arrive at Merzouga in the late afternoon, you check in to a lovely riad. You’ll have dinner and spend the night there.
Approximate driving distance/time: 560 km / 9 hours
DAY 2: FULL DAY TO DISCOVER THE MERZOUGA DESERT
Today, you can wake up early and watch the stunning sunrise over the expansive Erg Chebbi dunes right from your riad. Once you’ve enjoyed a satisfying breakfast, your adventure in the Merzouga desert commences. Our 4×4 SUV will be ready to transport you to the Berber Nomads that reside beyond the dunes. Our guide will warmly share their way of life and offer insights into their unique cultural practices. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore the hidden village of Mefis, soak in the rhythms of Gnawa music in Khamlia village, and catch a glimpse of the vibrant Lake of Birds if it’s in full view.
Following lunch, you return to your riad, where you can take some leisure time or enjoy a refreshing swim before embarking on an afternoon camel ride to the camp. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable camel journey deep into the heart of the desert. As the sun dips below the dunes, enjoy the exquisite view and try the thrilling sandboarding activity. As the night unfolds, retreat to a luxurious desert camp where a mouthwatering dinner awaits. Experience the enchantment of the desert at night, feeling a deep connection to its timeless magic that has endured for generations.
Approximate driving distance/time: 57 km / 1 hour 15 minutes
DAY 3: MERZOUGA DESERT -> AGDEZ -> MARRAKECH
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your riad, we begin our journey back to the lively city of Marrakech, tracing our route through the scenic Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest valley. Amidst our drive, a stop is scheduled in Agdez, allowing you to relish a panoramic view of this valley adorned with lush palm trees.
During our travel from Merzouga to Marrakech, we’ll also have the chance to stop in Ouarzazate for a fulfilling lunch. After that, our path guides us through the majestic expanse of the High Atlas Mountains again, leading us back to Marrakech. This tour ends as we drop you off at your accommodation.
Approximate driving distance/time: 560 km / 9 hours
IMPORTANT NOTES
THE PRICE
The price varies depending on the number of travelers. The more people join the tour, the lower the price per person can be. Transportation costs are fixed and shared between the travelers. The final price also depends on the accommodation category you choose, such as standard, superior, or luxury. Contact us for an exact quotation based on your group size, travel dates, and preferences.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the tour private or shared?
The tour is a completely private experience. You will travel exclusively with the members of your own group, without joining other tourists. This gives you greater flexibility with the schedule, stops, pace, and overall experience.
How long is the camel ride? What is the alternative to camels?
The camel ride usually takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours to reach the desert camp, depending on the camp location and conditions. If you prefer not to ride a camel, you can be transferred to the camp by 4×4 vehicle at no additional cost. Quad biking and buggy excursions are also available at an extra cost.
Is the desert tent private? Does it have a private bathroom and shower?
Yes. Our luxury desert camp offers private tents equipped with private en-suite bathrooms, including a shower and hot running water.
What happens to our luggage during the camel ride?
During the camel ride, you only need to carry a small backpack with the essentials you need for the night. Your main luggage will be transported by the camp’s 4×4 vehicle and will be waiting for you at your tent when you arrive.
What is the best time to visit Morocco?
The best times to visit Morocco are generally spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, when temperatures are usually pleasant across much of the country. Winter can also be an excellent time to travel, especially for exploring the southern desert regions.
What type of vehicles are used?
We use modern, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles:
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Yes. We can accommodate a wide range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific requests. Please let us know when booking so we can arrange the included meals and stops along the route accordingly.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is suitable for travelers of different ages. Please note that the first and last days involve about nine hours of driving each to reach and return from the desert. Our vehicles are comfortable, and regular stops are made during the journey.
Where does the tour start and finish?
Pick-up is available directly from Marrakech Menara Airport or your accommodation in Marrakech on the first day. The tour begins and ends in Marrakech, with the final drop-off at the airport or your accommodation on the last day. If preferred, the tour can also finish in Fes instead of returning to Marrakech upon request.
Expenses and additional costs
Currency exchange: Euros and US Dollars can be exchanged for Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) at banks, airports, and exchange offices. ATMs are also widely available throughout Morocco.
Cost of meals: Lunches are not included in the tour price and generally cost around 5–20 EUR per person, depending on the restaurant and location.
Bargaining: Negotiating prices in souks and traditional markets is a normal part of shopping culture in Morocco.
BOOKING PROCESS
1. Contact us
Contact us through our contact form, email, or WhatsApp and provide the number of travelers, your approximate travel date, and your preferred accommodation category.
2. Confirm your booking
A small deposit is required to confirm your reservation. Payment can be made through PayPal, Wise, or bank transfer.
The remaining balance can be paid in cash in EUR, USD, or MAD directly to the driver upon arrival.
WHY CHOOSE A PRIVATE MOROCCO TOUR?
A private tour allows you to travel at your own pace, with greater flexibility over departure times, sightseeing stops, breaks, activities, and accommodation choices.
You will have an experienced private driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group, giving you more freedom and comfort throughout the journey. Whether you are traveling as a couple, family, group of friends, or a small private group, the itinerary can be adapted around your interests and travel preferences.
Da viaggiatore solitario ho apprezzato molto la visita alla famiglia nomade e la musica Gnawa a Khamlia. Guida competente e piena di storie interessanti.
Perfect for a family holiday. The camels, the desert camp and the nomadic family made our children happy. Very helpful driver.
I traveled solo and felt looked after the whole time. The 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga itinerary is varied and full of authentic experiences. Highly recommended.
Da viaggiatore solitario ho apprezzato molto la visita alla famiglia nomade e la musica Gnawa a Khamlia. Guida competente e piena di storie interessanti.
A private tour comfortable and safe even with little ones. The nomad visit and the Lake of Birds thrilled everyone. Thank you so much.
