The first day of your 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga begins with a scenic drive across the Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, we will make several stops to enjoy panoramic views and take memorable photos. You will also visit a local argan oil cooperative to learn about the traditional extraction process and the many uses of this precious oil.
Next, we explore the fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou and its iconic kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable earthen architecture. This historic site has served as a filming location for famous movies such as Gladiator and The Jewel of the Nile, as well as the TV series Game of Thrones.
After lunch in the area, the journey continues to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the gateway to the desert. From there, we travel through the fragrant Valley of Roses, passing the vast palm groves of Skoura and Boumalne Dades.
The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in the Dades Valley.
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart toward Merzouga, traveling through the spectacular Todra Gorges. Along the way, we stop for lunch before continuing our journey deeper into the desert.
As we approach Merzouga, you will be greeted by the impressive golden dunes, where a traditional welcome tea awaits, offering your first taste of authentic Saharan hospitality. Upon arrival at the desert lodge—located at the edge of the dunes—you will leave your main luggage behind and take only what is needed for the night in the desert.
You will then meet your dromedaries and begin a memorable camel trek across the dunes toward the desert camp. Along the way, pause to admire a breathtaking sunset over the Sahara. Upon arrival at the camp, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner accompanied by local music around the campfire.
You will spend the third night of your 5-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour under the stars in the heart of the Sahara.
It is important to get up early to admire the marvelous sunrise in the middle of the desert. Free time for breakfast. Then it’s back to Merzouga by camel, where your driver will be waiting for you. We will spend the day exploring the Merzouga region. The area offers many incredible sites, from dunes, wild lakes, mines, and fossilized areas to fairytale oases. These are ideal places for numerous outdoor activities.
We start our journey to Merzouga with a visit to an old eyeliner mine. Then we visit the nomads in their hand-woven tents. We learn about their way of life over a glass of Berber tea. Our next destination is the village of Khamlia, where we can watch the music and dance of the Gnaouas. The inhabitants come from countries south of the Sahara such as Mali, Sudan, and Niger. Free time for lunch in a restaurant. Then take a walk through a palm grove. We then drive a few kilometers to the wild Oasis of Hassi labiad, Dinner, and overnight stay at the hotel/riad
