4 Days Merzouga Desert Tour from Marrakech
Explore the Sahara on a 4-day Merzouga desert tour from Marrakech, crossing the Atlas Mountains and enjoying a camel ride among the golden dunes.
Discover the Magic of the Merzouga Desert From Marrakech
Discover southern Morocco on this 4-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, crossing the High Atlas Mountains and exploring the spectacular landscapes of the region. Along the way, visit traditional Berber villages and admire the historic Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, renowned for its traditional earthen architecture.
Continue through the palm groves of Skoura, the Valley of Roses, and the scenic Dades Valley. Explore the impressive Todra Gorges, where towering rock walls reveal the natural beauty of southern Morocco, before heading towards the Sahara Desert.
In Merzouga, discover the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes, enjoy a camel ride across the golden sands, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the Sahara. After exploring the desert, travel back through southern Morocco to Marrakech, completing a journey filled with diverse landscapes, cultural discoveries, and authentic Moroccan experiences.
Highlights of 4 Days Merzouga Desert Tour from Marrakech
4 days desert tour to merzouga from Marrakech is a popular itinerary that takes you through diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and the mesmerizing Sahara Desert sand dunes. Here’s a general outline of what you can expect during this excursion:
- High Atlas Mountain landscape: Stop at the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest point in the Atlas Mountains, to enjoy panoramic.
- Visit Kasbahs and Traditional Villages: Along the way, you may have the chance to visit historic kasbahs (fortified villages) such as Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These ancient structures provide insight into Morocco’s rich history and architecture
- Dades Valley and Todra Gorge: Some excursions may also pass through the Dades Valley, known for its stunning rock formations, and the Todra Gorge, where you can explore narrow canyons and appreciate the natural beauty.
- Diverse Landscapes: The landscape changes dramatically as you travel. You’ll encounter arid plains, lush oases, and rocky deserts, providing a variety of picturesque scenes.
- Camel Trekking in Erg Chebbi: Merzouga is famous for its towering sand dunes in Erg Chebbi. A highlight of the excursion is often a camel trek into the desert to witness the mesmerizing sunset or sunrise over the dunes.
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
Your adventure begins with a morning departure from Marrakech, crossing the magnificent High Atlas Mountains along winding roads surrounded by spectacular scenery and traditional Berber villages. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes as you make your way towards Ouarzazate, where you’ll stop for lunch. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Cinema Museum or explore the historic Kasbah of Taourirt and discover a little more about the region’s rich heritage.
In the afternoon, continue your journey through the beautiful landscapes of southern Morocco, passing charming villages and the fragrant Valley of Roses. As you approach the Dades Gorges, admire the dramatic rock formations and rugged mountain scenery that make this region so special. Arrive in the Dades Valley in the late afternoon and settle into your hotel, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains.
- Overnight: Hotel in the Dades Valley (approximately 1,700 m).
- Driving time: Approximately 6 hours, excluding stops and visits.
- Meals: Dinner.
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/4hs
- Meals: B . D
Wake up before sunrise and climb to the top of the sand dunes, savoring a therapeutic moment. It’s also a great time to capture beautiful photos. After sunrise, we return to have breakfast and then commence our desert tour, driving to Risani. Here, we’ll take a break to visit a local and typical market with an important date exposition. We continue our journey, crossing the southern side of Saghro Mountain, traversing Saharan and African landscapes. Along the way, we pass through oases and small towns until we reach Draa Valley—a highlight of southern Morocco with palm groves and old villages (Ksar) lining the valley. We ascend Saghro Mountain to its highest point, Tinifift at 1660m, offering breathtaking views as far as the eye can see. We then proceed to Ouarzazate.
- Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel at an altitude of 1256meters.
- The distance covered on the drive, 372km/5hs
- Meals: B . D
After breakfast, we set off to begin our day by visiting Ksar Ait Benhaddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a mesmerizing example of southern Moroccan architecture, with its ancient mud-brick buildings and intricate designs that seem to transport you back in time. Walking through the narrow winding streets, you can feel the rich history and culture embedded in every corner.
We’ll then drive along the picturesque Ounilla Valley, a region known for its breathtaking vistas and vibrant, terracotta-colored hillsides. The journey takes us through Telouet villages, we’ll cross several charming settlements, each with its own distinct character. The landscape transforms, revealing the diverse beauty of Morocco, from the rugged mountains to the fertile valleys. This desert tour is not just a physical one but a deep tour through the cultural tapestry that makes this country so captivating.
We’ll eventually reach the Tichka Pass, a mountain pass that stands at an impressive altitude. The panoramic views from the pass showcase the greatness of the Atlas Mountains, with their snow-capped peaks and sweeping valleys. Continuing our descent from the pass, we’ll wind our way through the mesmerizing foothills, and our desert tour will conclude as we make our way back to Marrakech.
- Marrakesh is at an altitude of 500 meters.
- The distance covered on the drive, 200 km/4hs
- Meals: B
4 Days Merzouga Desert Tour from Marrakech Prices
| GROUP SIZE | PRICE / PERSON |
|---|---|
| 2 people | €435 |
| 3 people | €415 |
| 4 people | €395 |
| 5 people | €375 |
| 6 people | €355 |
| 7 people | €335 |
| 8 people | €320 |
What's Included
- Transportation by 4x4 vehicle or minivan with a driver who speaks basic English.
- Accommodation for 3 nights on a half-board basis: 2 nights in hotels in the Dades Valley and Ouarzazate, and 1 night in a standard desert camp in Merzouga. You can upgrade to a luxury desert camp in Merzouga for an additional €50 per person, per night.
- One-hour camel ride in the Merzouga Desert.
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 4 Days Merzouga Desert Tour from Marrakech
Meal Plan & Water
No meals Lunches are included during this 4-day excursion from Marrakech. Your time is free and flexible. You may arrange with our driver to have lunch with a local Berber family. 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 speaks English or another language of your preference, depending on the confirmation date. Additionally.
Altitude
This 4-day excursion from Marrakesh to Merzouga desert involves going to moderately high altitude. During the course of this trip you will reach altitudes in excess of 2660 metres driving from Marrakesh to Ouarzazate via Atlas Mountain. Most people will have no difficulty with this level of altitude.
Expending funds
Plan to hold around £100 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 £20 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 Marrakech, 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
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 the time of the desert, 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 in December and January, so remember to pack a fleece jacket. While rainfall is uncommon in this area of Morocco, being a Sahara Desert region. During the summer, temperatures range between 30°C and 45°C during the day, and 20°C to 30°C at night.
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 Merzouga excursion from Marrakesh operates year-round and offers flexibility to depart on any date of your preference. Additionally, this 4-Day excursion from Marrakesh to Merzouga provides the option to combine with other excursions for a more comprehensive experience.
Booking Procedure & Payment
Please select the trek or tour that piques your interest, then reach out to us via email to initiate a discussion regarding your preferred tour and to verify its availability. Once we have agreed upon the specifics of your tour or 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 or tour.
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.
Rent a quad In Merzouga desert: 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.