3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour via Dades Valley – Return to Marrakech
Overview:
Embark on an unforgettable 3-day adventure through the heart of Morocco, from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the golden dunes of Merzouga. Journey through the High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, lush oases, and dramatic gorges—culminating in a magical night under the Sahara stars.
📅 Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Highlights:
- Cross the majestic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m)
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou
- Visit Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa”
- Wind through the dramatic Valley of Roses and Dades Gorge
Itinerary:
Your desert journey begins with an early pickup from your Marrakech accommodation. Travel southeast across the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, stopping for panoramic views and photo opportunities.
Continue to the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village and filming location for classics like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Enjoy a guided tour through its clay architecture and learn about its historical significance.
After lunch, head to Ouarzazate, known for its film studios and ancient kasbahs. The route then leads to the fragrant Valley of Roses, especially vibrant in spring, before arriving at the breathtaking Dades Gorge, where your traditional guesthouse awaits.
Overnight: Boutique riad or guesthouse in Dades Valley
Meals: Dinner
📅 Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga – Erg Chebbi Desert Camp
Highlights:
- Walk through the stunning Todra Gorge
- Ride camels into the heart of the Sahara
- Watch the sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Experience Berber hospitality and drumming under the stars
Itinerary:
After breakfast, continue your journey to the Todra Gorge, where you’ll enjoy a walk through towering canyon walls rising up to 300 meters—a paradise for photographers and climbers.
By midday, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, on the edge of the mighty Sahara. After a brief rest and traditional mint tea, mount your camel for an unforgettable trek through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi as the sun begins to set.
Arrive at your luxury desert camp, where you’ll be greeted with traditional music and mint tea. Enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner by the campfire, followed by an evening of Berber music under a canopy of stars.
Overnight: Luxury or standard Sahara camp (options available)
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
📅 Day 3: Merzouga – Alnif – Tizi n’Tichka – Marrakech
Highlights:
- Sunrise camel ride
- Scenic drive through southern Morocco
- Optional stops in Alnif, Agdz, or Kasbah Telouet
Itinerary:
Rise early to catch the sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast at camp. After a camel ride back to the village, your driver will begin the return journey to Marrakech via a different route for a richer experience.
Travel through the remote desert towns of Rissani and Alnif, with options to stop in Agdz or visit the lesser-known Kasbah Telouet, a hidden gem along the old caravan route.
Arrive in Marrakech in the evening, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation with incredible memories and camera rolls full of desert magic.
Meals: Breakfast
Estimated Arrival in Marrakech: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
✅ Tour Includes:
- Private air-conditioned transport with an English/French-speaking driver
- 1 night in Dades Valley (dinner & breakfast)
- 1 night in a luxury/standard desert camp (dinner & breakfast)
- Camel trek at sunset and sunrise
- Guided visit to Ait Ben Haddou
- Bottled water during transport
❌ Not Included:
- Lunches & drinks
- Entrance fees to optional attractions
- Personal expenses & tips
🧭 Why Choose This Tour?
This handcrafted itinerary blends Morocco’s most iconic landscapes with cultural depth and authentic moments. Perfect for travelers seeking more than just a desert photo—this is a journey into the soul of Morocco.