5 Days desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

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

Your journey begins with a scenic drive across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified village famous for its role in films and series. Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” before heading to the stunning Dades Valley, where you’ll spend the night in a charming hotel or riad. —

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga – Erg Chebbi Dunes

After breakfast, travel through the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” to the magnificent Todra Gorge. Walk between its towering 300-meter cliffs, then continue to the desert town of Merzouga. In the afternoon, embark on a camel trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes, arriving at your luxury desert camp in time for a spectacular sunset. Enjoy a traditional dinner, Berber music around a campfire, and a night under the stars. —

Day 3: Merzouga – Khamlia Village – Nomadic Families – Merzouga Lake

Wake up early for a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast at the camp, explore the surrounding area. Visit the village of Khamlia to experience Gnawa spiritual music, interact with nomadic families to learn about their lifestyle, and see the seasonal Merzouga Lake (if water is present). You’ll have the option to spend a second night in the desert or in a hotel at the dunes’ edge. —

Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani Market – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate

After a final Sahara sunrise, begin your journey back towards Ouarzazate. Stop at the traditional market in Rissani, then travel through the breathtaking Draa Valley, famous for its vast palm groves and ancient kasbahs. The scenic drive offers countless photo opportunities before arriving in Ouarzazate for the night. —

Day 5: Ouarzazate – Telouet Kasbah – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

On the final day, take an alternative route through the High Atlas. Visit the fascinating Kasbah of Telouet, a once-glorious fortress that controlled the ancient trade routes. Enjoy a final journey through the majestic mountains, arriving back in Marrakech in the late afternoon with unforgettable memories of your Sahara adventure.