5 Days Morocco Desert Tour From Marrakech
5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
5 Days Morocco Desert Tour Leave the bustling souks of Marrakech behind and embark on a five-day expedition into the heart of ancient Morocco. This unforgettable journey is a passage through time, taking you across the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains, past ancient kasbahs, and into the silence of the world’s largest desert.
Marvel at the sunset turning the earthen walls of Ait Ben Haddou to gold, a UNESCO site that has set the stage for countless films. Feel the awe of standing in the towering canyons of the Dades and Todra Gorges, where rock faces tell stories millennia old. The climax of your adventure awaits in Merzouga, where you’ll trade the road for a camel and follow a caravan route into the golden sea of the Erg Chebbi dunes. As the sun dips below the horizon,
arrive at a traditional Berber desert camp. Here, under a blanket of impossibly bright stars, you’ll enjoy a feast of authentic cuisine and the timeless rhythm of desert music around a campfire. Wake to a breathtaking sunrise before your return journey reveals the surprising lushness of the Ziz Valley oasis, a final contrast on your way back to Marrakech or onward to Fes./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
mor tour 5 days itinerary
- Day 1: Atlas Mountains & Ait Ben Haddou: Traverse the Tizi n'Tichka Pass and step into history at the UNESCO-listed ksar.
- Day 2: Dades & Todra Gorges: Journey through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs and stand in awe of Todra's 300-meter-high cliffs.
- Day 3: The Sahara Desert: Arrive in Merzouga for a sunset camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes and an overnight stay in a traditional desert camp with dinner and music.
- Day 4: Ziz Valley & Return Journey: Wake for a spectacular sunrise, then travel back through the stunning oasis landscape of the Ziz Valley.
- Day 5: Return to Marrakech or Onward to Fes: Enjoy a scenic drive back to Marrakech or choose to end your tour in Fes./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
Route: Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Ben Haddou → Dades Valley
Overnight: Dades Valley (Hotel/Kasbah)/5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Morning (8:00 AM): Your adventure begins as we depart Marrakech, leaving the city's pink walls behind. We start our ascent into the High Atlas Mountains, navigating the thrilling twists and turns of the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. The landscape transforms rapidly, with panoramic views of Berber villages clinging to mountainsides and ever-changing colors of the rock face.
- Late Morning: We descend from the mountains into the pre-Saharan region. Our first major stop is the legendary Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fortified village of earthen clay architecture that has starred in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. You'll cross the river and walk through its ancient, winding streets, learning about its history as a crucial stop for trans-Saharan caravans.
- Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant with views of the kasbah.
- Afternoon: We continue our journey along the famous "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," following the path of the old caravan routes. We'll drive through the Skoura Oasis, known for its vast palm groves, and make a stop at the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil. Our final destination is the spectacular Dades Valley. We'll wind our way up into the gorge to witness the stunning "monkey fingers" rock formations and enjoy breathtaking views from a strategic vantage point as the sunset light bathes the canyon in gold./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Evening: Dinner and overnight at a charming hotel or kasbah nestled within the Dades Valley.
Route: Dades Valley → Todra Gorge → Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)
Overnight: Luxury Berber Desert Camp
- Morning: After breakfast, we take a short drive to the magnificent Todra Gorge. Here, the river has carved a massive cleft through the mountains, creating a canyon with vertical cliff walls rising up to 300 meters high. You'll have time to walk along the gorge floor, feeling the cool air and marveling at this natural wonder, a paradise for rock climbers.
- Lunch: Lunch will be in the nearby town of Tinejdad or Tinghir.
- Afternoon: The landscape flattens as we approach the desert. We'll pass through Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops, before arriving at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. Here, you'll leave your luggage and meet your camels. The magical sunset camel trek begins, guiding you rhythmically across the silent, golden sands into the heart of the dunes.
- Evening: You'll arrive at your traditional Berber desert camp as the sun sets. The camp features comfortable private tents with proper beds. Enjoy a delicious tagine dinner under a sky ablaze with stars, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of Berber drums around a campfire. This is a night of pure Saharan magic./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
Route: Merzouga & Erg Chebbi Desert Exploration by 4x4
Overnight: Merzouga (Auberge/Hotel)
- Sunrise: Wake up early to witness a sunrise over the dunes—an unforgettable spectacle as the sand shifts from deep purple to brilliant orange.
- Morning (After Breakfast): Today is dedicated to exploring the secrets of the desert by 4x4 Jeep. Our discovery tour includes:
- Visit to a Gnawa Village: The Gnawa are descendants of former slaves from Sub-Saharan Africa, known for their unique spiritual music.
- Fossil Workshop: See local artisans polishing and crafting beautiful items from ancient fossils.
- Khamlia Village: Experience the lively and soulful music of the Gnawa people with a performance in their village.
- Nomadic Family Visit: Share a glass of mint tea with a nomadic family and gain insight into their traditional way of life.
- Merzouga Lake: A seasonal flamingo lake (water levels depend on the time of year).
- Lunch: Enjoy a Berber pizza (Madfouna) in a local village or return to your auberge.
- Afternoon: Free time to relax by the hotel pool, try sandboarding down the dunes, or simply soak in the serene desert atmosphere.
- Evening: Dinner and overnight at a comfortable hotel/auberge at the foot of the dunes./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
Route: Merzouga → Rissani → Draa Valley → Zagora
Overnight: Zagora
- Morning: After breakfast, we bid farewell to the golden dunes of Merzouga. We drive to the historic town of Rissani, the founding place of the Alaouite dynasty (the current ruling monarchy of Morocco). If it's a market day (Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday), you'll experience the vibrant, authentic local souk.
- Mid-Day: Our journey continues westward into the Draa Valley. This is one of Morocco's most stunning routes, a breathtaking ribbon of green cutting through the arid landscape. The road is lined with a continuous belt of palm trees, ancient ksour (fortified villages), and kasbahs.
- Afternoon: We stop at various viewpoints to admire the vast Tinfou Dunes and the ever-changing scenery of the Draa Valley. The drive itself is a highlight, showcasing the dramatic contrast between desert and oasis.
- Evening: Arrival in Zagora, a desert town famously marked by the old sign "Tombouctou 52 Jours" (Timbuktu 52 Days by camel). Dinner and overnight in a hotel in Zagora./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
Route: Zagora → Ouarzazate → High Atlas Mountains → Marrakech
- Morning: We begin our return journey, first driving through the remainder of the stunning Draa Valley before starting our ascent into the Anti-Atlas Mountains. The landscape here is more rugged and mineral-rich, with striking black volcanic rock and jagged peaks, offering a different beauty from the High Atlas.
- Late Morning: We descend towards Ouarzazate, known as "the door of the desert." Here, you'll have the option to visit the famous Atlas Film Studios, where many Hollywood blockbusters have been filmed.
- Lunch: Lunch in Ouarzazate.
- Afternoon: We begin our final climb, crossing the High Atlas Mountains once more via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. Take in the last magnificent views of the mountains and valleys.
- Late Afternoon: Estimated arrival back in Marrakech, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation, filled with memories of an epic Moroccan adventure./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
5 days itinerary from marrakech
5 days morocco tour
- Transportation:
- Comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle or minivan for the entire tour duration.
- Professional, experienced English/French-speaking driver.
- Fuel, tolls, and all associated transportation costs.
- Camel Trek: A camel ride for each person at Erg Chebbi (Merzouga) to reach the desert camp (approx. 1-1.5 hours).
- 2. Accommodation (4 Nights):
- Day 1: Night in a hotel or kasbah in the Dades Valley (standard rooms with private bathrooms).
- Day 2: Night in a luxury Berber desert camp at Erg Chebbi (private tent with beds and bedding provided).
- Day 3: Night in a hotel/auberge in Merzouga (standard room with private bathroom).
- Day 4: Night in a hotel in Zagora.
- 3. Meals (as per itinerary):
- Breakfast: 4 breakfasts (Days 2, 3, 4, 5).
- Dinner: 4 dinners (Days 1, 2, 3, 4).
- Special Meals: Dinner and breakfast at the desert camp are included.
- 4. Guided Visits & Activities:
- Day 3: Half-day 4x4 desert tour around Merzouga (including visits to Khamlia village, nomadic families, and fossil sites).
- Stop and visit at Ait Ben Haddou.
- Scenic stops at Dades Gorge, Todra Gorge, and Draa Valley viewpoints.
- Flights & Entry Visa:
- International airfare to and from Morocco.
- Morocco entry visa fees (if applicable).
- 2. Lunches & Drinks:
- Lunches: All lunches are not included (approx. 70-150 MAD / $7-15 per person per day).
- Drinks: All beverages (water, soft drinks, coffee, tea outside of scheduled stops) are not included. It is recommended to buy large water bottles for the journey.
- 3. Entrance Fees & Optional Activities:
- Entrance fees to specific sites (e.g., Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate, etc.) are typically not included.
- Optional activities such as sandboarding, quad biking, or hot air ballooning are at an extra cost.
- 4. Tips & Personal Expenses:
- Tips for the driver, camel guides, and camp staff (tipping is customary and appreciated).
- Personal purchases (souvenirs, snacks, etc.).
5-Day Morocco Desert Tour
Before the Tour /5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
1. What is the best time of year to do this 5 Days Morocco Desert Tour?
The ideal times are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the daytime temperatures in the desert are pleasant, and the nights are cool but not freezing. Summer (June-August) can be extremely hot, while winter (December-February) offers sunny days but very cold nights.
2. What should I pack for the desert 5 Days Morocco Desert Tour?
Clothing: Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes for the day. Warm layers (fleece, jacket) are essential for the cold desert nights, especially in winter. A hat, sunglasses, and a scarf for sun and sand protection.
Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking and sandals for the camp.
Essentials: Sunscreen, lip balm, a reusable water bottle, a power bank (limited charging at camp), toiletries, wet wipes, and any personal medication.
Extras: Headlamp or flashlight, camera, and a sense of adventure!
3. Is the 5 Days Morocco Desert Tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, with consideration. The long drives can be tiring for young children. The camel ride and walking on sand can be challenging for those with limited mobility. However, many tours can be customized. For elderly travelers in good health, it is a fantastic experience. Please discuss any concerns with our team
4. Do I need a visa for Morocco?
Citizens of the EU, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. Always check the latest requirements with your local Moroccan embassy before traveling./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
5. What is the difference between a standard and a luxury desert camp?
Standard Camp: Offers a more basic, authentic experience with shared bathroom facilities (often in a separate block) and simpler tents.
Luxury Camp: Features larger, well-furnished private tents with comfortable beds and private ensuite bathrooms (with a toilet and shower). It often includes more amenities and a higher standard of service./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
During the 5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
6. How long are the driving days?
Driving times vary, but expect between 4 to 7 hours of driving on some days, broken up by frequent scenic stops, photo opportunities, and visits to sites. The journey is part of the experience, offering stunning landscapes./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
7. What kind of vehicle will we be traveling in 5 Days Morocco Desert Tour?
You will travel in a modern, air-conditioned 4×4 Toyota or pajero sport (or similar) for private tours or a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan for small groups. This is essential for navigating the mountain passes and desert terrain.
8. Are meals included? What about dietary restrictions?
As per the itinerary, breakfasts and dinners are included, typically featuring traditional Moroccan cuisine like tagine and couscous. Lunches are not included, allowing you flexibility. Most operators can accommodate dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) if you inform them in advance./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
9. Is there Wi-Fi and electricity on the tour?
Wi-Fi is generally available at the hotels in the valleys but is unreliable or non-existent in the desert. Electricity is available at all hotels to charge your devices. At the desert camp, luxury camps often have charging points in the tents or a central charging station, while standard camps may have limited or no electricity./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
10. What are the bathroom facilities like at the desert camp?
Luxury Camp: Your private tent will have an ensuite bathroom with a flush toilet, sink, and shower (with hot water).
Standard Camp: Bathrooms are typically shared and located in a separate block. They are usually clean and functional, with western-style toilets and basic shower facilities./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
Money & Practicalities
11. What is the currency, and how much cash should I bring?
The currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Credit cards are accepted in some larger hotels, but cash is essential for lunches, drinks, souvenirs, tips, and entrance fees. We recommend bringing a mix of cash (Euros/USD can be exchanged easily) and using ATMs in Marrakech before departure./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
12. Is it customary to tip?
Tipping is a common and appreciated practice in Morocco. It is customary to tip your driver, camel guides, and camp staff at the end of the tour. The amount is at your discretion, based on your satisfaction.
13. Is Morocco safe for tourists?
Yes, Morocco is considered a very safe country for tourists. The people are known for their hospitality. However, as with travel anywhere, it’s important to exercise common sense: keep an eye on your belongings, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night./5 Days Morocco Desert Tour
14. What language is spoken? Will there be an English-speaking guide?
The official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber). French is widely spoken. Your driver will be fluent in English (and often French) and will act as your translator and cultural interpreter throughout the tour.