Explore Merzouga Sahara, Gorges, Kasbahs, Draa Valley & Journey to Vibrant Marrakech.
Discover Merzouga Dunes, Gorges, Kasbahs, Draa Valley & Atlas Mountains
Embark on an incredible 3 days Morocco desert tour from Ouarzazate to Marrakech. During these 3 days and 2 nights, you will visit so many fabulous places in a short time, combining the cinematic allure of Ouarzazate with the deep desert experience and the stunning journey to Marrakech. This tour is ideal for those starting in Ouarzazate and wishing to explore the Sahara before heading to the vibrant "Red City."
The tour starts by exploring the city of Ouarzazate, where you visit the historic Taourirt Kasbah, an ancient mud castle, and also visit the famous film studios where many iconic movies were shot. We then drive to visit the stunning Dades Valley and the dramatic Todra Gorges.
Furthermore, the heart of your journey is the Sahara Desert of Merzouga (Erg Chebbi). Here, you will experience an iconic camel ride across the golden dunes, witness magical Sahara sunsets and sunrises, and spend an enchanting night in a luxury desert camp located in the middle of the desert. A thrilling 4x4 journey exploring the Sahara desert will introduce you to nomad life and Khamlia Gnawa music. You'll also visit the historic Rissani traditional market.
Then, drive along the picturesque Draa Valley and visit the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Finally, cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi-n-Tichka pass. The tour culminates with your arrival in Marrakech.
Your 3 Day Morocco Trip: Daily Highlights
We pick you up from your accommodation or the airport in Ouarzazate early in the morning. Then, we explore the city of Ouarzazate, visiting the renowned Atlas Film Studios where famous movies were shot, and also the impressive Taourirt Kasbah.
We then drive southeast to visit the beautiful Amridil Kasbah, picturesquely surrounded by palm groves in Skoura. Thereafter, we continue to the Roses Valley, famous for its fragrant roses and the annual Rose Festival held in May, where locals offer their rose products, from perfumes and rose water to oil and cosmetic products.
Next, we drive through the Dades Valley, making a stop at a spot overlooking the valley to enjoy the spectacular landscape of the Dades Gorges. We then continue to the Todra Gorges, where the Todra River has carved out a grand, high red cliff-sided canyon through the mountains. Enjoy free time for lunch. Feel free to wander in the gorges and appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
In the afternoon, we reach the Sahara Desert of Merzouga (Erg Chebbi). Here, you will switch to camels for an unforgettable trek across the sandy desert. A stop will be made for you to enjoy the magical sunset on top of a high dune. Then, continue to your luxury desert camp, where you can enjoy traditional Berber drums music while dancing around a crackling campfire, under a vast open sky filled with stars. Dinner and an overnight stay in the camp.
Waking up early this morning is a must-do to contemplate the beautiful Sahara sunrise from the middle of the desert – a truly breathtaking experience. After free time for breakfast at the camp, you will return by camel (or 4x4 vehicle) to Merzouga village to meet your driver.
We dedicate today to exploring the fascinating Merzouga region. This area boasts many incredible sites, from vast sand dunes and wild lakes to ancient mines, fossil areas, and fabulous oases – ideal for various outdoor activities.
Firstly, we start our journey in Merzouga by driving off-road in a 4x4 vehicle to visit an ancient eyeliner mine. Then, we pay a visit to a local nomad family in their traditional, handmade woven tent, learning about their way of life while sharing a Berber tea. Our next destination is the Khamlia village, also known as the Gnawa village, where you will enjoy authentic Gnaoua music and dance performances. Its inhabitants originate from sub-Saharan countries like Mali, Sudan, and Niger. Enjoy free time for lunch in a local restaurant. After that, we take a relaxing stroll through a lush palm tree grove. Then, drive a few kilometers to see the wild lake of Merzouga, also called the flamingos' lake (seasonal). Dinner and an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel in Merzouga.
After breakfast at your hotel, we start the last day of the tour by visiting Rissani town, well-known for its ethnic large souk (market), which is particularly lively on certain days. Then, the adventure continues as we drive through Alnif and then along the scenic Draa Valley, Morocco's longest river valley, dotted with ancient kasbahs and lush palm groves, all the way back towards Ouarzazate. Enjoy free time for lunch.
After that, we drive to visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah. This fortified village is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has served as a backdrop for numerous epic films including Gladiator, Alexander, The Mummy, and TV series like Game Of Thrones.
Finally, we drive through the spectacular Tizi-N-Tichka pass (2260m) and the majestic High Atlas Mountains to reach Marrakech in the late afternoon/early evening. The tour ends with a drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech or the airport.
End of the desert tour.
This is an exclusive private one-way tour, commencing in Ouarzazate and concluding in Marrakech. This itinerary is perfectly suited for travelers starting their journey from Ouarzazate, wishing to experience the Sahara Desert, and then continue to the vibrant city of Marrakech. Your luggage will be safely transported with you.
Tour Customization: This 3-day itinerary is designed for an action-packed desert and cultural experience. If you have specific interests or wish to adjust the pace slightly, please contact Africa Excursion to discuss possibilities.
Pricing Details: The cost of your 3-day Ouarzazate to Marrakech tour is determined by factors such as the number of travelers in your private group and the season of your visit. The desert camp included is a luxury standard. For a precise and personalized quotation, please get in touch with us.
Travel Times & Pace: Please note that Day 1 involves a significant drive from Ouarzazate through various gorges to reach Merzouga, and Day 3 involves a long drive from Merzouga to Marrakech with several important sightseeing stops. This is an itinerary designed to maximize your experience within the 3-day timeframe.
Visualize Your Journey from Ouarzazate via Merzouga Sahara to Marrakech
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Ouarzazate, often called the "Gateway to the Desert," is strategically located. Starting here allows you to explore its famous film studios and kasbahs on Day 1, then proceed directly towards the Dades and Todra Gorges en route to Merzouga. This makes for an efficient Day 1 packed with southern Morocco's highlights before reaching the Sahara, and then a scenic journey to Marrakech via the Draa Valley and Ait Ben Haddou.
The camel trek is a traditional and iconic way to experience the dunes, typically for sunset and reaching the desert camp. The 4x4 desert exploration (on Day 2) allows you to cover more ground around the Erg Chebbi dunes, visiting diverse sites like nomad families, ancient mines, Khamlia village for Gnawa music, and the seasonal lake, offering a broader perspective of the desert landscape and culture.
The Rissani market is most vibrant on its market days (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays). If your Day 3 falls on one of these days, you'll experience the bustling traditional souk. On other days, the town can still be visited, but the market activity will be less extensive. Your driver will aim to include it if feasible within the day's schedule.
The drive along the Draa Valley is one of Morocco's most scenic routes. You'll see Morocco's longest river valley, characterized by vast oases of date palm groves stretching for miles, interspersed with ancient mud-brick kasbahs and traditional Berber villages. It offers a beautiful contrast to the arid desert landscapes and the High Atlas Mountains.
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A private tour is an itinerary run exclusively for you. On a private trip, you choose. Private tours allow you to travel with people you know, are more flexible when it comes to your group size, travel dates and what your trip includes. In addition, you will have your own tour guide and driver at your disposal.
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Hear from travelers who experienced the magic of Morocco with us.
"Exploring the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The local guides were knowledgeable and friendly, making our trip smooth and memorable."
"The bustling souks in Marrakech were enchanting. Shopping for spices, rugs, and crafts felt authentic, and the food stalls were delicious and budget-friendly."
"Staying overnight in a Berber tent under the stars was magical. The desert silence and the clear sky full of stars made it a peaceful and unique experience."
"The food in Fez was incredible. From traditional tagines to sweet mint tea, every meal was a delightful introduction to Moroccan flavors."
"I loved wandering through the blue streets of Chefchaouen. The town’s peaceful vibe and beautiful colors made it a perfect day trip from Fes."
"Casablanca surprised me with its modernity blended with rich history. The Hassan II Mosque was breathtaking, definitely a must-see."
"The hospitality of the Moroccan people truly made our stay special. Every host went above and beyond to share their culture and stories."
"The coastal town of Essaouira offered a relaxing break from busy cities. The fresh seafood and vibrant medina were highlights."
"Our camel trek across the dunes was both thrilling and peaceful. The sunsets in the desert are something I will never forget."
"Visiting the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis gave me a deeper appreciation of Morocco’s rich history. It was peaceful and well preserved."
