5 Days Desert Tour From Marrakech

Day 1: Marrakech – Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Aït Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Skoura Oasis

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, as we venture through the awe-inspiring High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), the highest in Morocco. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of rugged peaks, terraced farms, and traditional Berber villages.

Aït Benhaddou – The Iconic Fortress Village

We stop at the legendary Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most photographed places in Morocco. Walk through the ksar’s maze of earthen buildings, explore its history, and climb to the top for sweeping views of the valley. This ancient village has been featured in numerous films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

Skoura Oasis – The Valley of Kasbahs

Continue to Ouarzazate, the “Gateway to the Desert,” where you can optionally visit Atlas Film Studios or the Taourirt Kasbah. We then head to the nearby Skoura Oasis, known for its palm groves and crumbling kasbahs hidden among the greenery. Enjoy dinner and overnight in a traditional riad in Skoura.

Day 2: Skoura – Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga

Scenic Drive Through the Valley of Roses

After breakfast, we pass through the beautiful Valley of Roses, where thousands of fragrant Damask roses bloom each spring. Visit local cooperatives to see how rose products like oils and soaps are made.

Dades Valley and Todra Gorges

We then follow the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs into the dramatic Dades Valley, stopping at picturesque viewpoints over the red canyons. After lunch, we continue to Todra Gorges, where vertical cliffs rise more than 300 meters. A walk through this natural wonder offers a cool break and spectacular photo opportunities.

Arrival in Merzouga – Sunset Camel Trek

By late afternoon, we reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, you’ll mount your camel for a trek into the desert, led by experienced camel handlers. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sand glows in warm hues of orange and red.

Overnight in Desert Camp

Enjoy a night under the stars in a luxury desert camp with private tents, Berber cuisine, music by the campfire, and the vast, starry sky above you.

Day 3: Merzouga – Nomadic Villages – Gnaoua Music – Free Day in the Sahara

Sunrise and Exploration

Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, we begin a 4×4 excursion around Erg Chebbi, exploring desert landscapes, fossil beds, and nomadic communities living in the arid wilderness.

Cultural Visit to Khamlia Village

We visit Khamlia, a village inhabited by descendants of sub-Saharan slaves, where you’ll experience the unique rhythm of Gnaoua spiritual music. It’s a moment of cultural richness and connection with Morocco’s diverse heritage.

Lunch and Leisure Time

After lunch, enjoy free time to relax or try optional activities like sandboarding, quad biking, or a tranquil walk through the dunes. Your second night in the desert allows for a deeper immersion into the serenity of the Sahara.

Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Alnif – Draa Valley – Agdz

Depart the Desert via Rissani & Alnif

After breakfast, we return by camel or 4×4 to the village of Merzouga. On our way north, we pass through Rissani, a vibrant market town known for its history and connection to Morocco’s royal dynasty. We then drive through the rocky desert plains of Alnif and reach the lush Draa Valley.

Draa Valley – Morocco’s Longest River

Following the Draa River, we wind past palm groves, ancient mud-brick kasbahs, and Berber settlements. This scenic stretch of southern Morocco is rich in date farming and traditional architecture. Enjoy dinner and overnight in Agdz, a charming village nestled at the foot of the Anti-Atlas Mountains.

Day 5: Agdz – Anti-Atlas – Ouarzazate – Marrakech

Through the Anti-Atlas Mountains

Our return journey to Marrakech begins with a drive through the Anti-Atlas Mountains, a rugged and lesser-visited range with stunning geological formations. We reconnect with the road to Ouarzazate, where we stop for a final visit or lunch.

Arrival in Marrakech

In the afternoon, we descend back through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass into Marrakech, arriving in the early evening. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or riad, filled with unforgettable memories of your 5-day Moroccan desert adventure.

What’s Included in the Tour

• Transportation in an air-conditioned private 4×4 or minibus

• English-speaking driver/guide

• Pick-up and drop-off in Marrakech

• 4 nights of accommodation:

  • 1 night in Skoura Oasis (guesthouse/riad)

  • 1 night in Merzouga desert camp (luxury tent)

  • 1 night in Merzouga hotel or second night in desert camp

  • 1 night in Agdz (guesthouse/riad)

• Camel ride into the dunes at sunset and return ride

• All dinners and breakfasts

• 4×4 desert tour in Merzouga region

• Visits to kasbahs, gorges, valleys, and nomad families