8-Day Morocco Desert Journey: From Marrakech to the Dunes of Merzouga
Day 1: Welcome to Marrakech
Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, your private driver will greet you and escort you to your hotel or riad.
Depending on your arrival time, you may start exploring the lively medina, discovering its colorful souks and vibrant atmosphere.
Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 2: Explore the Imperial City
Today, dive into the history and culture of Marrakech. Visit iconic landmarks such as:
Koutoubia Mosque
Bahia Palace
Saadian Tombs
Jemaa El Fna Square, the beating heart of the medina
Wander through the maze of souks and enjoy the sights and sounds that make Marrakech unforgettable.
Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 3: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Zagora
Depart early and cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, stopping for panoramic views.
Explore the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar known for its unique clay architecture.
Continue through Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Sahara”, before driving along the lush Draa Valley to reach Zagora, a charming oasis town.
Overnight in Zagora.
Day 4: Zagora – Rissani – Merzouga Desert
Leave Zagora and head deeper into the Sahara. Visit the Tafilalt Oasis and the town of Rissani, once an important caravan hub.
Arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll begin your camel trek across the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi dunes. Watch the sunset over the sands before arriving at your luxury desert camp.
Enjoy dinner by the campfire, accompanied by traditional Berber music under a sky full of stars.
Overnight in a luxury desert camp.
Day 5: Discover Merzouga & Local Culture
After breakfast, explore Merzouga’s stunning desert surroundings:
Visit nearby Berber villages
Discover the musical traditions of Khamlia, known for its Gnaoua music
Explore a desert oasis and learn about nomadic culture
Return to the camp for another night of local cuisine and live music beneath the stars.
Overnight in a desert camp.
Day 6: Merzouga – Todgha Gorge – Dades Valley
Wake up early to witness a beautiful desert sunrise. After breakfast, leave the dunes behind and head to the dramatic Todgha Gorge, known for its towering canyon walls and green palm valley.
Continue to the scenic Dades Valley, filled with unusual rock formations and Berber villages.
Overnight in Dades Valley.
Day 7: Dades Valley – Skoura – Marrakech
Travel along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through the Valley of Roses and the palm groves of Skoura.
Visit the historic Kasbah Amridil, one of Morocco’s best-preserved fortresses.
Stop for lunch in Ouarzazate before crossing the High Atlas Mountains once more, arriving back in Marrakech in the late afternoon.
Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 8: Departure from Marrakech
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your scheduled transfer to the airport.
Take with you unforgettable memories of the Moroccan desert, ancient kasbahs, and vibrant cities.
🌟 Tour Highlights:
Marrakech Discovery – Explore landmarks, souks, and the famous square of Jemaa El Fna.
High Atlas Crossing – Drive through North Africa’s highest mountain pass.
Ait Ben Haddou Visit – Walk through the ancient fortified village used in famous films.
Scenic Draa Valley – Admire one of Morocco’s longest valleys lined with palm groves.
Authentic Zagora – A quiet desert town and gateway to deeper Sahara adventures.
Sahara Desert Camel Ride – Trek across the dunes at sunset and sleep in a desert camp.
Berber Village Visits – Learn about local life and musical heritage in Khamlia.
Todgha Gorge Exploration – Towering canyon walls and lush oasis landscapes.
Dades Valley Wonders – Stunning natural formations and Berber hospitality.
Kasbah Amridil – A journey into Morocco’s architectural past.
Cultural Immersion – Traditional music, local cuisine, and authentic accommodation.
Fully Guided Experience – Comfortable transport and expert guides throughout.
✅ What’s Included
Private, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle
Multi-lingual driver-guide
Fuel for the full journey
7 nights’ accommodation:
Traditional riads and hotels
2 nights in a luxury desert camp
Breakfasts and dinners throughout (except dinners in Marrakech)
Camel ride through Erg Chebbi dunes
Guided visit of Marrakech’s historic medina
All transfers including airport pickup and drop-off
❌ What’s Not Included
International flights
Midday lunches and drinks
Entrance fees to monuments and attractions
Tips and personal expenses