Dunes and Dreams: A 5-Day Morocco Desert Tour Adventure

5-day Morocco desert tour from Marrakech to merzouga trips

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary adventure through the mesmerizing Moroccan desert! Our 5-day Morocco desert tour promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Sahara. From the rolling dunes of Erg Chebbi to the historic towns along the way. This Morocco Desert tour is a gateway to the enchantment of Morocco’s desert landscapes. Join us as we explore the endless seas of sand, experience Berber hospitality, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades

Our 5-day Morocco desert tour begins in Marrakech, where we will gather for the first time. This historic city was once the capital of Morocco’s ancient monarchs and holds the title of being the capital of the Maghreb Union. We’ll commence our journey at 8 am, driving through the
magnificent High Atlas Mountains, home to the highest peak in Morocco, Mount Toubkal, towering at 4,167m. As we traverse the Tizi N’Tichka pass, we’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the diverse landscapes.

During our journey, we’ll take a tea or coffee break at one of the Amazigh Hamlets. Our next stop is the village of Ait Ben Haddou, where we’ll explore the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient structure recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987. This Kasbah, along with the entire region, has played a significant role in the film industry, featuring in renowned movies such as “The Man Who Would Be King” in 1975 and many others. Ait Ben Haddou also served as a fortress on the Salt Road, where caravans traded slaves, gold, ivory, and salt. We’ll savor a delightful lunch featuring the region’s specialty cuisine before continuing our journey towards the Dades Valley. En route, we’ll pass through Kalaat Magouna, a town known for its vast fields of roses that bloom magnificently in May. As we enter the Dades Valley, we’ll encounter charming Amazigh villages nestled among the gorge-like landscape. This valley, shaped over time, provides us with an ideal spot to spend our first night.

5-day Morocco desert tour from Marrakech to merzouga trips

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Jorf – Erfoud – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Desert)

Following a satisfying breakfast, we embark on the next leg of our Morocco desert adventure. The caravan continues through the Dades Valley, offering us glimpses of remarkable rock formations like the famous “monkey toes” and picturesque Kasbahs blending harmoniously
with nature. We’ll then venture into the Tinrghir region, exploring the breathtaking Todra Valley and its panoramic landscapes adorned with charming Amazigh villages. A highlight of the Todra Valley is a leisurely walk along the river, surrounded by towering red cliffs reaching a staggering height of 300 meters, attracting rock climbers from around the world. Our lunch break awaits either in Rissani or Erfoud, two Sahara oases, before we proceed to Merzouga, a village embraced by the golden sands of Erg Chebbi. Upon arrival, we’ll be
welcomed with traditional mint tea and then journey into the desert to spend the night in a camp.

Day 3: Merzouga – Off-road – Nomad Families – Old Berber Villages – Merzouga

Rise early in the morning to witness the captivating sunrise and the ever-changing colors of the golden dunes. Afterward, we’ll ride our camels back to Merzouga, where a hotel awaits with refreshing showers and a delicious breakfast. Following this, we’ll embark on a visit to
the villages surrounding the Erg Chebbi dunes, including Hassi Labied, Merdani, Khamlia, and M’fis. Along the way, we’ll meet friendly locals who will share their desert customs and traditions with us. The sandy terrain may offer encounters with desert reptiles and mammals. Our next destination is Khamlia, also known as the Gnawi village, which was inhabited by black people from various African countries who were once enslaved but have now integrated into Moroccan society.

The people of Khamlia will greet us warmly, offering traditional tea prepared in the desert manner known as “Amazigh whiskey,” accompanied by their enchanting Gnawa music. Continuing our journey, we’ll head toward the Algerian border, capturing a panoramic view of the golden dunes before enjoying a picnic lunch under the shade of a tree. The adventure continues as we visit the nomadic families residing in Amazigh tents, caring for their herds in the region. On our way back to Merzouga, where we’ll have dinner and spend the night at a hotel, we’ll pass through volcanic rock formations and marvel at the picturesque Yasmina Lake, encircled by dunes (especially stunning inspring).

5-day Morocco desert tour from Marrakech to merzouga trips

Day 4: Merzouga – Errisani – Alnif – Nkob – Agdz – Ouarzazate

Early in the morning, our guide will wake you up to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the golden sands of Merzouga. Soon after, we’ll return to the village on our camels, where you can freshen up with a revitalizing shower and enjoy a delicious breakfast at the auberge. Our
journey then takes us towards Ouarzazate, where we will spend the night and explore this magnificent cinematic destination known as the “Hollywood of Morocco.” You’ll have the opportunity to capture photographs of the iconic monuments that have served as backdrops
for numerous films. En route, we’ll pass through diverse landscapes and villages, including Errisani, home to the Mausoleum of the first sultan of Morocco’s current Dynasty, Moulay Ali Cherif (the grandfather of Mohammed VI). We may pause for lunch in one of the
charming villages along the way. For other desert tour options from Marrakech, please refer to our website.

Day 5: Ouarzazate – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

On the following morning, after a delightful breakfast. We’ll embark on our journey from Ouarzazate, passing through the picturesque Valley of Roses, where acres of rose fields fill the air with their fragrance (best experienced in May). Our drive will lead us to Inghram. A fortified village known as Ait Ben Haddou, where we’ll pause for lunch. The village derives its name from the Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987 and a prominent filming location for renowned movies such as “Lawrence of Arabia,” “Gladiator,” and “The Mummy.” Our next stop is Tizi Ntichka, a winding mountain road that offers spectacular views from its summit. Finally, we arrive in Marrakech, known in the Tamazight language as Amour N Akouch, or the land of GOD. In the evening, our driver will pick you
up from your designated location. Marking the end of our 5 -day Morocco desert tour from Marrakech.