6 Day from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

Discover Southern Morocco – 6 Day from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert

This 6 Day from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert is a beautifully curated experience that takes you from the vibrant souks of Marrakech to the heart of the Moroccan Sahara. You’ll pass through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, explore UNESCO-listed kasbahs, wander through lush valleys, and camp under the stars in the golden Erg Chebbi dunes.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Morocco desert adventure, this itinerary blends nature, culture, and adventure in one seamless journey.

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate

Depart Marrakech in the morning, Starting your 6 Day from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert, heading southeast through the High Atlas Mountains via the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass. This scenic drive offers panoramic views and charming Berber villages scattered across the hillsides.

Your first major stop is Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic ksars in Morocco. Famous for its earthen clay architecture and cinematic history, it’s been featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. You’ll explore the maze-like alleys and climb to the top for views of the surrounding valley.

Continue to Ouarzazate, also known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Visit the Atlas Film Studios or Taourirt Kasbah, depending on your interest and timing. Dinner and overnight in Ouarzazate.

Included: Transport, guide, entrance to Ait Ben Haddou, dinner, accommodation

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Skoura – Valley of Roses – Dades Valley

After breakfast, head toward the Skoura Oasis, where ancient kasbahs sit among palm trees and traditional farming communities. Visit Kasbah Amridil, one of the most beautifully restored fortresses in the region.

Next, pass through the fragrant Valley of Roses, famous for its pink blossoms in April and local rosewater production. Continue through winding roads and dramatic landscapes as you reach the stunning Dades Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.”

Explore the impressive rock formations and spend the night in a local kasbah or guesthouse with traditional dinner included.

Included: Breakfast, transport, local visits, dinner, accommodation

Day 3: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga

Today’s drive takes you deeper into the south. After breakfast, travel to the Todra Gorges, where 300-meter-tall cliffs form a spectacular canyon. You’ll have time to explore the gorge, take a short walk along the river, and enjoy a relaxed lunch.

Continue through desert towns like Erfoud, known for fossils and dates, before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. This is where your true Marrakech to Sahara Desert tour begins.

At sunset, mount your camel and begin your camel trekking in Merzouga across the golden sands. The silence of the desert, broken only by the rhythmic steps of the camels, is a soul-stirring experience.

Arrive at your desert camp nestled in the dunes. Enjoy mint tea, a hearty Moroccan dinner, and Berber drumming under the stars.

Included: Breakfast, camel ride, dinner, desert camp

Day 4: Merzouga Exploration – Khamlia – Nomads – Rissani

Wake early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast at the camp, hop in a 4×4 to explore the surrounding desert region.

Visit the village of Khamlia, home to the Gnawa people known for their spiritual music, and enjoy a traditional performance. You’ll also meet Berber nomads living in tents and learn about their desert lifestyle.

In the afternoon, visit Rissani, the region’s historic market town and the original capital of the Alaouite dynasty. Return to your guesthouse in Merzouga for dinner and overnight.

Included: Breakfast, 4×4 tour, music show, local visits, dinner, accommodation

Day 5: Merzouga – Alnif – Nkob – Agdz

After breakfast, leave the Sahara behind as you head west through arid but scenic landscapes. Travel through Alnif and Nkob, where you’ll see traditional mudbrick villages, desert valleys, and palm groves.

Arrive in Agdz, a quiet town along the Draa Valley, known for its vast date palms and ancient kasbahs. Dinner and overnight in a charming riad or guesthouse.

Included: Breakfast, transport, dinner, accommodation

Day 6: Agdz – Ouarzazate – High Atlas – Marrakech

Your final day takes you back north toward Marrakech. Retrace your path through Ouarzazate and cross the High Atlas Mountains again via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.

You’ll arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon or early evening. Your enriching 6 Day from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert ends with drop-off at your accommodation.

Included: Breakfast, transport