Private 3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour

(1266 Reviews)

Tour Overview:

Embark on an exclusive 3 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, where you’ll explore iconic Moroccan landmarks and the serene Sahara Desert. This journey starts in the bustling streets of Marrakech, leading you through the majestic Atlas Mountains to the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, the lush Dades Valley, and the tranquil Tinghir Oasis. Experience the thrill of a sunset camel ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes and spend a magical night under the stars at a traditional Bedouin camp. Led by expert guides, this Marrakech to Merzouga tour promises a blend of adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories, ideal for couples, families, or small groups.

Marrakech to Merzouga 3-Day Desert Safari Highlights:

  • Traverse the majestic High Atlas Mountains and Tizi N'tichka pass.
  • Discover the historic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and the Berber village life.
  • Stroll along the Todra oasis and explore the towering Todgha gorges.
  • Experience a memorable camel ride amidst the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset.
  • Spend the night under the starlit sky in a Merzouga Sahara desert camp.

Itinerary of 3 Days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga:

  • Day 1 : Marrakech → Atlas Mountains → Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou → Dades Valley ( 6 Hours Drive )

    Start your “3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga” with a convenient pickup from your hotel at 08:00 AM, embarking on an exciting drive through the bustling city of Marrakech to the majestic High Atlas Mountains. This 6-hour journey takes you over the famous Tizi n’Tichka pass, where picturesque Berber villages and stunning mountain landscapes await, offering perfect opportunities for breathtaking photos.

    A key highlight of your first day is a visit to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its beautiful traditional Moroccan architecture and its role as a backdrop in many well-known films. Wander through its historic alleys and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this iconic location.

    Next, the tour proceeds to the tranquil Skoura Oasis to explore Kasbah Amridil, renowned for its exquisite Moroccan architecture. Enjoy the peaceful palm groves of Skoura, which provide a serene backdrop that deepens your connection to the local culture. Continue to Kalaa Megouna, famous for its rosewater distillation, offering unique insights into the traditional practices of the region.

    Your day concludes in the dramatic Dades Valley, known for its breathtaking rock formations and historic fortresses. Spend the night in a traditional riad or guesthouse, where you can experience the renowned hospitality that Moroccan culture is known for. This first day combines scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and historical exploration to set the stage for an unforgettable adventure in the Sahara.

  • Day 2 : Boumalne Dades → Tinghir → Merzouga → Sahara Desert ( 4 Hours Drive )

    On the second day of your Marrakech to Merzouga tour, prepare for an exhilarating 4-hour drive that delves deeper into the mystique of the Sahara Desert. Departing from Dades Valley, the journey continues to the lush Tinghir Oasis, where you’ll take a guided stroll and explore the majestic Todra Gorges, renowned for their towering cliffs and spectacular natural beauty.

    Next, the tour heads to Rissani, a town celebrated for its vibrant palm dates market and rich historical significance. Here, you’ll visit the sacred Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, the founder of the Alaouite dynasty, offering a profound insight into the spiritual and historical roots of Morocco.

    The day culminates in Merzouga, a charming desert town that acts as the gateway to the breathtaking Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, you’ll experience the highlight of the Sahara Desert—a sunset camel trek across the shifting sands. This quintessential Saharan activity leads to your desert camp where an evening under the stars awaits. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner accompanied by local music around a campfire, making this not just a tour, but a deep dive into the heart of Moroccan culture and adventure.

  • Day 3 : Merzouga → Draa Valley→ Ouarzazate → Marrakech ( 9 Hours Drive )

    Begin your final day with an optional sunrise climb on the Erg Chebbi dunes, a peaceful moment to savor the desert’s beauty. Following breakfast at the camp, embark on the 9-hour return journey to Marrakech. This drive offers ample time to reflect on the stunning vistas and rich experiences you’ve enjoyed.

    As you travel, you’ll pass through the diverse landscapes of the Draa Valley’s lush palm groves and the rugged terrain of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. A noteworthy stop in Ouarzazate allows you to explore the Atlas Film Studios, one of the world’s largest movie studios, renowned for its key role in international filmmaking and its unique integration with the local environment.

    The drive back is more than just a journey; it’s an opportunity to continue exploring Morocco’s cultural and natural heritage, ensuring that every moment of your tour enriches your understanding of this vibrant country. As you near Marrakech, you’ll carry a collection of vivid memories, a testament to the varied landscapes and cultural encounters of your Marrakech to Merzouga tour.

Marrakech to Merzouga 3-Day Tour Price

Number of Participants: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7-9 10-13 14-17
Price per person: 575€ 325€ 245€ 215€ 185€ 165€ 155€ 145€ 125€

What's Included in Your Marrakech to Merzouga Tour:

  • Transportation in a modern, air-conditioned 4x4 or van, with an English-speaking driver/guide.
  • Pick-up service from your hotel or Riad in Marrakech.
  • First night accommodation at Auberge Panorama or Hotel Babylon, in a private room with air-conditioning, including dinner and breakfast.
  • Sunset and sunrise camel rides in the stunning Erg Chebbi.
  • An overnight stay at a private tent in a Sahara desert camp in Erg Chebbi, inclusive of dinner and breakfast.
  • Drop-off service at your Marrakech hotel or the nearest accessible location if your Riad is not reachable by car.

Not included:

  • Beverages
  • Entrance fees, if applicable.
  • Fees for local guides, if used.
  • Lunches during the tour.

Marrakech to Merzouga 3 Days Tour Map

Map outlining the route for a private 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, passing through Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, Dades, Tinghir, and Tazarine.

Know Before You Go

  • The cost of the tour is dependent on the size of your group.
  • We offer the flexibility to extend this tour to a 4-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, should you prefer.
  • Please note that the driving times mentioned exclude stops for sightseeing, photo opportunities, or meals.
  • Be prepared for a lengthy drive on Day 3 as we journey back from Merzouga to Marrakech.
  • Our 4x4 vehicles comfortably accommodate up to four adults. For groups of five or more, a van will be provided.
  • We recommend starting your desert adventure between 07:30 and 08:00 AM on the first day.
  • Sandboards are readily available for you to use at your leisure
  • Solo travelers are welcome to join our shared 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Far is Merzouga from Marrakech for Desert Tours?

Travelers planning a desert tour often ask, ‘How far is Merzouga from Marrakech?’ The journey covers 560 kilometers (348 miles). This scenic trip is typically divided into two days with a delightful stopover in Dades Valley, allowing you to soak in the serene beauty. The return trip includes a full day’s drive back to Marrakech, ensuring you experience the diverse Moroccan landscape.

What is the Duration of the Camel Trek from Merzouga to Erg Chebbi Desert Camp?

The length of the camel ride from Merzouga to the Erg Chebbi desert camp typically varies depending on the season and the timings of sunrise and sunset, which are influenced by daylight saving time changes. On average, the journey to the camp for the sunset ride takes about an hour, and similarly, the return ride during sunrise the following day also lasts approximately an hour. This schedule allows for the most scenic experience of the desert’s natural beauty at these tranquil times of the day.

 

 

 

What Kind of Vehicle is Utilized for the private Marrakech to Merzouga 3-Day Tour?

In the Marrakech to Merzouga 3-Day tour, the type of vehicle employed is tailored to the size of the group for optimal comfort and convenience. For smaller groups, comprising up to four individuals, we provide modern, air-conditioned Toyota Land Cruisers. These vehicles are known for their reliability and comfort, ensuring a pleasant journey. For larger groups, we recommend spacious 7 or 16-seater vans. These vans offer ample legroom and sufficient space for luggage, making them ideal for bigger parties. It’s important to note that the entire route from Marrakech to Merzouga is paved, ensuring a smooth and comfortable drive throughout your adventure.

Do Merzouga Desert Camps Offer Private Bathrooms?

In the Merzouga desert camps, the availability of private bathrooms depends on the type of accommodation you choose. If you opt for an upgrade to the luxury camp, you’ll have the convenience of a private bathroom inside your tent. This offers an added level of comfort and privacy. However, for the standard camping option, bathrooms are shared and are located outside your tent. This setup ensures that all guests have access to necessary facilities while experiencing the authentic desert camping atmosphere.

Is it Possible to Forego the Camel Ride to the Erg Chebbi Desert Camp?

Yes, you have the option to skip the traditional camel ride to the Erg Chebbi desert camp. Instead, you can opt for a more modern and comfortable journey in a 4×4 vehicle. This alternative is available for an additional fee of 30 Euros for the round-trip transfer. However, if you choose to upgrade to the luxury desert camp, this 4×4 return transfer is included at no extra cost, providing a seamless and convenient experience without the additional expense.

 

 

 

Is Quad Bike Rental Available in Merzouga?

Absolutely, you have the opportunity to rent quad bikes in Merzouga for an adventurous exploration of the Erg Chebbi dunes. There are numerous providers offering high-quality quad bikes and dune buggies, perfect for an exhilarating ride across the desert landscape. Your guide can assist you in arranging this experience. Payment for the quad bike rental is made directly to the supplier in Merzouga. Typically, the cost is around 50 Euros per quad bike per hour, providing an exciting way to experience the beauty of the dunes.

Availability of Electrical Outlets in the Comfortable Merzouga Camp

In the comfortable Merzouga Sahara desert camp, guests will find electrical outlets available for their use. These outlets are conveniently located in the public areas, including the restaurants and the camp’s courtyard. This allows for charging electronic devices and using small electrical appliances. However, it’s important to note that the camp operates on electric generators, which are typically turned off around midnight. Therefore, it’s advisable to plan your charging needs accordingly to ensure your devices are powered up before the generators are turned down for the night.

 

 

 

Electricity Outlet Availability in Merzouga Luxury Camp?

Yes, in the Merzouga luxury camp, guests have access to electric outlets both in the restaurant area and inside their tents. This ensures convenience for charging electronic devices or using small electrical appliances during your stay. It’s important to be aware that the camp relies on electric generators for power, which are typically turned off around midnight. Therefore, it’s advisable to plan your electricity usage accordingly, ensuring all necessary devices are charged before the generators are switched off for the night.

Does the Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp Offer Air Conditioning?

Yes, our luxury camp in Merzouga is equipped with air-conditioned tents, ensuring your comfort throughout the year. During the winter months, the tents are heated for a cozy environment, while in the summer, they are cooled to provide a refreshing retreat from the heat. This added luxury of climate-controlled tents is available for an additional fee of 20 Euros per person, enhancing your desert experience with the utmost comfort.

 

 

 

Is Camel Riding Comfortable?

Camel riding might initially appear to be uncomfortable, but it’s often a matter of getting used to the experience. With a bit of practice and acclimatization, many find that they can ride camels quite comfortably. The key is to relax and adapt to the camel’s unique gait, which can be an enjoyable part of the adventure once you get the hang of it.

What Should You Wear for a Camel Ride in Merzouga?

For a camel ride in Merzouga, it’s advisable to wear full and loose-fitting clothing, which is particularly important in the hot desert climate. If you opt for shorts, ensure they are long enough to provide adequate coverage. To enhance your comfort and protect yourself from the sun, remember to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Additionally, comfortable shoes are essential for the ride. These clothing choices and accessories will help make your camel ride experience more enjoyable and safe from the desert elements.

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1266 Reviews
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EVE. B

Family Traveller

This well-organized, spectacular 3-day journey from Marrakesh to Merzouga was unforgettable! Lahcen was wonderful as our guide for myself and my two children, ages 17 and 21. He was incredibly informative and professional, making the entire trip enjoyable. Although there’s quite a bit of driving required to see everything in such a short timeframe, it was absolutely worth it. We felt safe throughout, thanks to Lahcen’s skilled driving. The dunes and camel riding were the standout highlights of our trip. We can’t wait to return and explore more of Morocco—hopefully soon!

April 9, 2024

Ferran. P

Family Traveller

What a fantastic way to explore a vast area of Morocco with a private driver/guide. Hassan, our guide, was outstanding. He spoke quite good English and was very accommodating to our eclectic requests. “Can we stop and go in that marketplace? Of course!” “Can we visit that nomad family on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere? Of course!” The journey through the Atlas Mountains was both stunning and fascinating, offering views of Berber villages and ancient Kasbahs. A major highlight was the camel ride (around an hour with stops) to our Tent Camp in the desert. At night, the stars were incredible to behold while lying on a dune. Our tent was quite comfortable, complete with an in-tent shower and toilet. The food was tasty as well. The only drawback was that the tent became very warm at night, lacking any airflow or fan. In hindsight, we regret not upgrading to the luxury air-conditioned tent, which would have made our stay even more comfortable. There were many beautiful stops throughout the trip. The drive back on the last day was long (9 hours), but overall, I highly recommend this experience.

March 21, 2024

Natalie Brooks

Group Traveller

We opted for a private tour for our group of 4, and we had a great time. The long hours in the car were made much more comfortable by having the minivan exclusively for us. Our driver, Abdel, was not only cautious on the road but also exceptionally kind to us (thank you, Adbel!). The tour itself was quite enjoyable, with the desert arrival being a highlight. The camp accommodation was also excellent. Despite a misunderstanding, Marrakech Desert Trips handled it remarkably well. Their assistance is top-notch, so you can trust them without any concerns.

August 28, 2023

Oliver Reed

Couple Traveller

We had an incredible three-day adventure exploring the southeastern region of Morocco. This tour goes beyond just the Sahara and the desert camp – we encountered numerous breathtaking places and experiences that will leave lasting memories. Choosing a favorite among them is impossible. Our skilled driver and guide, Hassan, remained composed, friendly, and helpful throughout. He not only ensured our safety while taking us to these impressive locations but also generously shared insights and patiently answered our questions. We highly recommend this tour (we opted for a private one) and Hassan as a driver and guide without any hesitation. In short, it was a flawless experience – we only wish we could’ve extended our stay at the desert camp in the erg-chebbi dunes for another day and night.

August 25, 2023

Chloe Sullivan

Couple Traveller

The experience was truly incredible. We made several stops at various places during the journey – villages, gorges, oases – and spent the night in a lovely auberge. Everything was flawless.

August 24, 2023
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