5-Day Sahara Desert Adventure from Marrakech
Two Magical Nights in the Heart of the Moroccan Desert
Overview
Step into the soul of Morocco with this 5-day Sahara desert journey from Marrakech. Travel through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, explore ancient kasbahs, and cross dramatic valleys and gorges before reaching the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. With two nights in the Sahara — one in a traditional nomadic camp and one in a luxury desert lodge — this experience blends culture, nature, and unforgettable adventure.
Tour Highlights
- Traverse the High Atlas Mountains and Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Explore the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah (UNESCO)
- Discover the dramatic landscapes of Dades & Todra Gorges
- Ride camels into the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset
- Spend two unique nights in the Sahara — one under canvas, one in comfort
- Visit Berber towns like Merzouga, Rissani, and Nkob
- Return via the lush palm groves of the Draa Valley
Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech ➝ High Atlas ➝ Ait Ben Haddou ➝ Dades Valley
Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Stop for photos along the way before visiting the ancient fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue east through Ouarzazate and the Valley of Roses, then settle in for the night among the dramatic rock formations of the Dades Valley.
Overnight: Traditional guesthouse or kasbah in Dades
Included: Private transport, guide, accommodation, dinner & breakfast
Day 2: Dades ➝ Todra Gorge ➝ Merzouga ➝ Camel Trek to Desert Camp
After breakfast, drive to the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge — a favorite for climbers and photographers. Continue toward the Sahara, passing through Erfoud and Merzouga. Meet your camel caravan and ride into the dunes of Erg Chebbi, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular desert sunset. At camp, experience Berber hospitality with music around the fire and dinner under the stars.
Overnight: Nomadic-style desert camp (standard or luxury)
Included: Breakfast, camel trek, dinner, accommodation
Day 3: Desert Exploration ➝ Khamlia Village ➝ Luxury Desert Lodge
Rise early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, then return by camel or 4×4. Spend the day exploring the desert area: visit Khamlia village for live Gnawa music, meet local nomads, or enjoy optional activities like sandboarding or quad biking. Later, check into a peaceful desert lodge or boutique kasbah for your second night in the region — this time with extra comfort.
Overnight: Luxury lodge or boutique kasbah near Merzouga
Included: Breakfast, dinner, local visits, accommodation
Day 4: Merzouga ➝ Rissani ➝ Alnif ➝ Nkob ➝ Agdz or Ouarzazate
After a relaxed morning, depart the Sahara and stop in Rissani, known for its traditional souk and historical significance. Travel through the volcanic landscapes of the Anti-Atlas, passing Alnif and Nkob, a village known for its fortified architecture. Continue through the Draa Valley, a palm-filled oasis stretching hundreds of kilometers, and arrive in Agdz or Ouarzazate for the night.
Overnight: Traditional kasbah or hotel
Included: Breakfast, dinner, accommodation
Day 5: Agdz/Ouarzazate ➝ Return to Marrakech
After breakfast, begin your return to Marrakech via scenic mountain roads. Along the way, enjoy final views of Morocco’s diverse terrain — from arid plateaus to green valleys. Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon, where your driver will drop you off at your accommodation.
Included: Breakfast, private transport, drop-off in Marrakech
What’s Included
- Private, air-conditioned transport with English-speaking driver
- Camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes
- 4 nights of accommodation (guesthouses, desert camp, and lodge)
- 4 breakfasts & 4 dinners
- Local cultural experiences & guided kasbah visit
- All fuel, taxes, and tolls
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Scarf or turban for desert wind
- Sunglasses and sunblock
- Warm layers (desert nights can be cold)
- Camera or smartphone