Marrakech to Sahara Desert 5 Days Tour

5 Day Morocco Desert Tour: Marrakech to Merzouga and Erg Chebbi

Overview of the Marrakech to Sahara Desert 5 Days Tour

This immersive 5 day Morocco desert Marrakech to Sahara Desert Tour and the Erg Chebbi dunes offers travelers the chance to experience Morocco’s Sahara Desert in all its glory. Begin with scenic drives through the High Atlas Mountains, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, and explore ancient kasbahs and lush valleys. As you venture south, the desert comes alive—take a camel trek over golden dunes, stay in a traditional Berber camp, and enjoy local music under the star-studded desert sky. This journey provides a deeper understanding of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and welcoming people.

Tour Highlights of :Marrakech to Sahara Desert 5 Days Tour

• Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou Kasbah and the Hollywood-famous Ouarzazate
• Explore the beautiful Skoura Oasis and Valley of Roses
• Walk through the scenic Todra Gorge and Dades Valley
• Experience a camel trek in the vast Sahara Desert at Erg Chebbi
• Visit nomadic families and enjoy traditional music in the desert village of Khamliya
• Catch a breathtaking sunrise over the Merzouga dunes
• Travel through the historic Draa Valley, home to Morocco’s largest palm groves

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Skoura

Depart from Marrakech at 8:00 AM, heading through the High Atlas Mountains. Enjoy the scenic ascent to Tizi n’Tichka, Morocco’s highest pass (2,260m), where you’ll capture panoramic views of Berber villages nestled into the mountain slopes. Continue to Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its captivating clay architecture and famous movie sets. After exploring, proceed to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” where you can stop at the ancient Kasbah Taourirt.

Journey on to the Skoura Oasis, lined with palm groves and old kasbahs, for an overnight stay in a traditional riad. Enjoy the first evening surrounded by Skoura’s enchanting landscape.

Day 2: Skoura – Valley of Roses – Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga

After breakfast, head through the Valley of Roses, stopping to see local crafts and rose-infused products. Continue to the Dades Valley, famous for its rugged cliffs and Berber villages, and then onto the Todra Gorge, a canyon with towering rock walls that make for a stunning walk and photo opportunity.

Later, travel through the towns of Erfoud and Rissani, renowned for their ancient souks and fossils, before reaching the desert village of Merzouga. Settle into a cozy riad and prepare for tomorrow’s desert adventure.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert Exploration – Camel Trek – Desert Camp

Today’s exploration begins with a 4×4 tour around the Merzouga region. Visit the nearby Khamliya village, where you can experience Gnawa music and dance, brought by descendants of sub-Saharan Africans. Stop for tea with a nomadic family, learning about their unique lifestyle and traditions.

In the afternoon, embark on a camel trek over the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings as the sun sets, painting the desert in shades of orange and red. Arrive at your desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber drumming, and a night under the stars in the Sahara.

Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Draa Valley – Agdez

Witness a spectacular sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes before riding your camel back to Merzouga. After breakfast, visit the ancient town of Rissani, a former caravan hub and origin of Morocco’s current ruling dynasty. Explore its bustling souks and historical landmarks.

Continue through the rugged desert landscapes and the Draa Valley, Morocco’s largest palm oasis, dotted with date palms and small villages. Arrive in Agdez, where you’ll walk through the lush palmerie, meeting local farmers and seeing traditional agricultural practices. Overnight in Agdez at a charming kasbah guesthouse.

Day 5: Agdez – Ait Saoun Mountains – Ouarzazate – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

On the final day, enjoy breakfast and then set out through the Ait Saoun Mountains. Take in views of the rocky gorges as you drive back toward Marrakech. Stop for lunch in a local Berber village, where you can experience authentic Moroccan cuisine.

Your journey concludes with a scenic drive back over the High Atlas Mountains, reaching Marrakech by early evening.

What’s Included:

• Accommodation in riads and desert camp
• Transportation with an experienced local driver
• Camel trekking experience in Erg Chebbi
• 4×4 off-road desert tour in Merzouga
• Guided tours at key historical sites
• Meals as outlined in the itinerary

This Marrakech to Sahara Desert 5 Days Tour offers a diverse exploration of Morocco’s landscapes and cultural heritage, perfect for adventurers and travelers eager to experience the heart of the Moroccan Sahara.