3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
Discover the Sahara on a 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour, featuring camel trekking and dunes.
Explore the Sahara on a Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
Discover the beauty of southern Morocco on our 3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour, a journey through spectacular mountain scenery, historic kasbahs, and the vast landscapes of the Sahara. From the lively atmosphere of Marrakech to the peaceful golden dunes of Merzouga, this excursion offers a wonderful introduction to Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Travel across the High Atlas Mountains, passing traditional Berber villages and dramatic mountain roads before reaching Ouarzazate, known for its historic kasbahs and distinctive desert scenery. Continue through the Valley of Roses and the Dades Valley, where striking rock formations and lush palm groves create some of southern Morocco’s most impressive landscapes. Explore the remarkable Todra Gorge before heading toward the Sahara Desert.
Arriving in Merzouga, discover the magnificent dunes of Erg Chebbi, famous for their golden sands and ever-changing colors. Enjoy a camel ride across the desert, watch the sunset over the dunes, and spend the night in a desert camp beneath the star-filled Saharan sky.
Combining scenic drives, cultural encounters, and desert activities, this 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is an excellent way to explore the highlights of southern Morocco. Experience the region’s traditional hospitality, admire its remarkable natural scenery, and discover the unique atmosphere of the Moroccan Sahara.
Please note:
- This tour can also start from Ouarzazate or Fes, upon request.
- We recommend packing light for the journey. Bring a small backpack with essentials such as water, sunscreen, and a camera. If possible, leave any unnecessary luggage at your accommodation to enjoy a more comfortable and hassle-free desert excursion.
Highlights of 3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
The 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour takes you through diverse landscapes, traditional villages, historic kasbahs, and the spectacular sand dunes of the Sahara Desert. Here are some of the highlights you can expect along the way:
- High Atlas Mountains: Cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, stopping along the way to admire panoramic views of the mountain peaks and surrounding valleys.
- Historic Kasbahs and Traditional Villages: Discover Morocco’s rich history and architectural heritage with a visit to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its traditional earthen architecture and historic fortified village.
- Dades Valley and Todra Gorge: Explore the dramatic rock formations of the Dades Valley and admire the towering canyon walls of Todra Gorge, two of southern Morocco’s most impressive natural attractions.
- Diverse Landscapes of Southern Morocco: Enjoy a changing panorama of rugged mountains, arid plateaus, lush palm groves, and rocky desert landscapes as you travel from Marrakech toward the Sahara.
- Camel Trekking in Erg Chebbi: Upon reaching Merzouga, experience a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Admire the changing colors of the sand at sunset and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Sahara Desert.
Why Trek with Morocco Hike Tours
Tourism has been our hobby since childhood, starting in 1994. Over the years, we have continuously improved our experience by accompanying groups all over Morocco. In 2003, we began leading groups officially as licensed guides under Number 420. Finally, in 2018, we established a fully licensed Travel Company based in Marrakesh, operating under license number 10P/19.
This ample experience that we will share with you will undoubtedly guide you to an unforgettable tour in Morocco.
TOUR ITINERARY
Embarking on this captivating journey, we’ll be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes that unfold, showcasing the majestic mountains, enchanting gorges, and graceful palm trees. As we traverse the scenic route, we’ll have the pleasure of exploring notable attractions like the historic Kasbah and the picturesque Ksar of Ait Benhaddou village, each steeped in rich cultural significance.
Our expedition continues, leading us to the vibrant city of Ouarzazate, where a brief respite allows us to soak in the local atmosphere. Setting forth from Ouarzazate, our path unfolds toward the captivating Dades and Roses Valleys, where the terrain transforms into a surreal lunar landscape, creating a truly otherworldly experience. As the day draws to a close, we find ourselves in the tranquil embrace of Dades Valley.
- Overnight stay at the hotel at an altitude of 1700meters.
- The distance covered on the drive, 6h
- Meals: B . D
After visiting the Toudgha Gorges and valley, we proceeded to Merzouga via Erfoud. we follow our desert tour through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Sahara Desert continues as we explore the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. We engage in exhilarating activities such as camel ride tour, allowing us to glide down the golden slopes and experience the thrill of the desert. As the day unfolds, we immerse ourselves in the rich culture of the nomadic communities.
Upon our arrival at Merzouga desert sand dunes we set out on a camel trek, this time to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the vast desert expanse. The changing colors of the sky create a magical spectacle as the sun gradually emerges on the horizon. After our camel excursion, we reach our camp located in the feeth of Merzouga dunes.
The evening unfolds with a delightful dinner featuring local cuisine, accompanied by traditional music around a campfire. Under the starlit desert sky, we share stories and experiences with fellow travelers, creating lasting memories of our adventure in this enchanting corner of Morocco. we can also enjoy the last moment of the day by a a short self-guided walk around the camp in this amazing and peacful place where the serene desert ambiance lulls us into a peaceful night’s sleep, ready for new adventures on the morrow.
- Overnight stay at the hotel at an altitude of 1000meters.
- The distance covered on the drive, 300km/4h
- Meals: B . D
Wake up before sunrise and climb to the top of the sand dunes, enjoying a therapeutic moment. It’s also a great time to capture beautiful photos. After sunrise, we return to have breakfast. Then, we embark on a long day of driving to Marrakesh. Initially, we drive on the southern side of Saghro Mountain until we reach the small city of Alnif. From there, we head north to join the main road of Tinghir, which we followed the day before until Boumalendades. Continuing outside of Dades and the Rose Valley, after passing Skoura palm groves, we arrive in Ouarzazat. We then return to Marrakesh via the same road as the first day, marking the end of our services.
- The distance covered on the drive, 570km/10h
- Meals: B
3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour Prices
| GROUP SIZE | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRICE / GROUP Standard | €720 | €790 | €880 | €950 | €1,080 | €1,225 | €1,360 | €1,460 | €1,550 |
| PRICE / GROUP Superior | €890 | €1,020 | €1,220 | €1,400 | €1,560 | €1,700 | €1,920 | €2,140 | €2,220 |
PRICE / GROUP — Standard
PRICE / GROUP — Superior
What's Included
- Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle or luxury minivan.
- Experienced driver-guide fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, German, and French. English is the primary language. Other languages can be arranged upon request if you book your desert tour several weeks in advance.
- Pick-up and drop-off: For private tours, pick-up and drop-off are provided at or near your accommodation. For shared tours, pick-up and drop-off take place near Jemaa el-Fna Square.
- One-night stay in a hotel in the Dades Valley, including dinner and breakfast.
- One-night stay in a desert camp in Merzouga, including dinner and breakfast.
- One-hour camel ride at sunset, with free time to explore the dunes on foot.
- Traditional Berber music performance at the desert camp.
What's Not Included
- Meals and accommodation in Marrakech.
- All drinks, including beer, Coke, Fanta, Sprite, and other alcoholic beverages.
- Lunches.
- Travel insurance (essential).
- Tips for local staff and drivers.
- Any other items not mentioned in the “Included” section.
Key Facts
We’ve compiled a selection of frequently asked questions to provide you with further insight into this 3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
Meal Plan & Water
Meals included: three breakfasts, two dinners, with vegetarian and vegan options available,. Water: We advise you to buy mineral water for your safety.
Group Leader & Support Team
The group will be led by a professional and qualified driver who is fluent in English or another language of your preference, depending on the confirmation date. Additionally.
Altitude
This day excursion from Marrakesh to merzouga sand dunes involves going to moderately high altitude. During the course of this 3-day excursion from Marrakesh, you will reach altitudes in excess of 2260 metres. Most people will have no difficulty with this level of altitude.
Expending funds
Plan to hold around £50 per person (or its equivalent in US dollars or Euros) for tips, soft drinks, snacks, and other incidental expenses. Keep in mind that additional costs may arise for souvenirs, and optional activities, so it’s wise to budget for these separately.
While Moroccan Dirhams are not typically available for purchase outside the country, you can conveniently withdraw local currency from ATMs upon your arrival at the airport or in Marrakech. ATMs offer the option to withdraw funds in pounds sterling, dollars, or euros, which you can easily exchange at the airport. Carrying a credit card is advisable for emergencies and additional peace of mind.
Direction on gratuities
Tipping is the customary way to express gratitude to your local guides and crew. It’s important to note that tips do not constitute a part of their wages; rather, they are viewed as a personal gesture of appreciation from group members. We advise our local teams that tips are not obligatory or expected but are rather a reflection of the service provided.
It is customary for the group to collectively decide on the final amount of tips to be distributed among the guides or driver. We suggest that approximately £25 per group member would be an appropriate amount to ensure fair compensation, which you can give directly to them.
Suitcase Allotment
You can, of course, leave any type of baggage at the hotel in Marrakesh, including any items you do not need during this excursion, and pick these up when you return.
Internet access
Upon your arrival at the airport, you can purchase a SIM card for 1 euro, or sometimes it’s free. Then, all you need to do is top it up with an internet option, and you’ll have a connection when needed. We recommend Maroc Telecom as the company, but please keep in mind that in some places, other companies might offer better service. It all depends on the reception in each area.
Group size & Excursion Arrangements
All our tours proposals in Morocco by Morocco hike tours are guaranteed for a minimum of two people. There is a required minimum number of participants to ensure the trip proceeds. Once this minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from ‘Available’ to ‘Guaranteed to run
Health & Vaccinations
If you suffer from a severe allergy, kindly notify the Morocco Hike Tours Team (support) prior to your departure. While we will make every effort to assist you, please note that we cannot ensure an allergy-free environment during Your trip to Morocco. It is imperative that you carry your own allergy treatment, as ‘adrenaline auto-injectors’ are not provided as standard equipment by Morocco Hike Tours leaders and staff. Upon arrival, please inform your leader about your allergy and indicate the location where you store your adrenaline pen.
Vaccinations: It’s advisable to reach out to your physician or travel clinic to verify if any particular vaccinations are necessary for your trip.
Passport & Visa
- Less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
- Valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)
- United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco/entry-requirements
- USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Morocco.html
- Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/morocco
- Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/morocco
Getting Ready for Your trip to Morocco
Preparing with some extra physical activity prior to embarking on an active vacation is highly advisable. Enhancing your fitness level beforehand will undoubtedly enhance the overall enjoyment of your trip.
Being in good physical condition and accustomed to walking for 3 to 5 hours on consecutive days is recommended. Engaging in hill walking, incorporating both ascent and descent, serves as optimal preparation. Additionally, activities such as running, cycling, and swimming are beneficial for improving cardiovascular endurance and stamina.
Currency
Morocco’s monetary unit is known as the Moroccan Dirham. Below are some currency exchange rates, which can fluctuate daily:
– 1 Pound Sterling = 12.5 Dirham
– 1 Australian Dollar = 6.5 Dirham
– 1 Canadian Dollar = 7.4 Dirham
– 1 US Dollar = 10.00 Dirham
– 1 Euro = 10.6 Dirham.
Washing Cloths
If you wish to have your clothes washed during your stay in Morocco, it will be possible for an additional fee of 10 Dirhams per item (underwear not accepted) and 4/5 Dirhams per item for ironing.
Weather & Temperature
During this time of the valley of roses, the weather typically offers pleasant conditions with daytime temperatures ranging between 20 and 36°C, and nighttime temperatures dropping to 7 – 10°C. However, there are instances when nighttime temperatures may plummet to as low as 3°C, so remember to pack a fleece jacket. While rainfall is uncommon in this area of Morocco, being a mountainous region, it’s wise to be prepared for occasional showers.
Plastic & Rubbish
Morocco Hike Tours does not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We ensure that all our staff across Morocco work together to reduce this issue and educate those around them. During our desert and mountain treks, we are committed to collecting our rubbish and bringing it back to the big cities. Our footprints are the only thing we should leave behind.
Travel Insurance
To participate in a holiday organized by Morocco Hike Tours, it is imperative that you possess a valid travel insurance policy. This insurance should adequately cover the expenses related to medical treatment and safeguard the value of your holiday in case of cancellation. Prior to obtaining insurance, please verify that the chosen policy provides coverage for the activities and altitudes specified in your itinerary.
In the event that one participant leaves the group for any reason, the customer must assume responsibility for the charges, and no reimbursement will be provided.
Season & Dates
This 3-day excursion from Marrakesh to Merzouga operates year-round and offers flexibility to depart on any date of your preference. Additionally, this 3 days excursion from Marrakech to Merzouga provides the option to combine with other excursions for a more comprehensive experience.
Booking Procedure & Payment
Please select the trek that piques your interest, then reach out to us via email to initiate a discussion regarding your preferred trek and to verify its availability. Once we have agreed upon the specifics of your trek, including its duration, route, and the number of participants, we will proceed to make a tentative reservation, providing you with the dates and associated costs.
To secure your booking, we kindly request a 20% deposit, which can be paid online through a bank transfer in Euros, pounds sterling, or US dollars. The remaining balance is settled upon arrival in Morocco, payable in cash using the same currencies—Euros, sterling, or dollars—at the outset of the trek.
Please note: Should you find it inconvenient to carry cash, you have the option to settle the balance online via bank transfer a few days prior to the departure date.
Cancellation Conditions
Our Cancellation Policy:
- If the trip is canceled at the discretion of our agency, you will be eligible for a full refund of the amount paid.
- If the trip is canceled by you more than 31 days before the trip date, the amount paid will be retained as credit for a future trip, valid for two years (24 months).
- If the trip is canceled by you less than one month (30 days or fewer) before the trip date, the amount paid will be retained as credit for a future trip, valid for one year (12 months).
How should you dress when traveling through small villages?
In areas with low tourist numbers (Berber villages in the desert such as in the Atlas), men are advised to avoid very short shorts, tank tops or loose shirts. The same goes for women, avoiding transparent fabrics and tight-fitting outfits. A scarf on your hair is not essential. You can try to dress in local fashion, which seems better suited to the climate.
Equipment list
This packing guide aims to assist you in organizing your belongings efficiently. It’s advisable to aim for minimal weight when packing your equipment.
Please ensure you have the following items with you:
- Trainers or sandals to wear during your excursion.
- T-shirts / tops / shirts
- Fleece jacket or warm jumper during winter season.
- Sunhat / Warm hat
- Sunglasses
- Daypack 20 litres for your personal equipment
- Sun protection (including lip sun screen)
- Antibacterial handwash
- Camera
- Pen-knife (note: always pack sharp objects in hold baggage)
- Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)
Item to rent:
Car rental: from €40, lease this via Morocco Hike Tours.
Quad rental In Merzouga: From €60/1 hour, Lease via Morocco Hike tours, The price may vary depending on the number of participants, Duration, your departure dates, and availability during the selected period.
Get in Touch
Ready to book this trek, have a question, or want to customize your experience? Send us a message and we’ll get back to you shortly.