2-Day Merzouga Desert Tour from Marrakech

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Todra Gorges – Merzouga (Camel Trek & Desert Camp)

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech typically between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM. Leaving early is essential because the driving distance on this route is significant and you need to reach the dunes in time for the sunset camel trek.

You’ll head south, climbing through the High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 metres) the highest road pass in North Africa. Traditional Berber villages line the slopes and the views grow more expansive with every turn of the road.

The first major stop is the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou—a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most celebrated historic fortifications. Built from clay and straw, this ancient ksar has appeared in countless international productions including Gladiator, Game of Thrones and Lawrence of Arabia. You’ll have time to walk through the ancient village and take in the spectacular views.

Continue through Ouarzazate—Morocco’s “Hollywood”—with a brief stop at the Taourirt Kasbah and the famous Atlas Film Studios. The journey then takes you through the Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses, with its fragrant rose gardens. You’ll pass through the dramatic Todra Gorges, where towering limestone cliffs rise on either side. You’ll have a short walk along the riverbed to experience this natural wonder.

By late afternoon, the first dunes of Erg Chebbi appear dramatically against the horizon. You’ll arrive in the village of Merzouga, on the edge of the Sahara. Here, you’ll pack a small overnight bag—your main luggage stays in the vehicle—and mount your camel for a sunset trek across the golden dunes. The camel ride takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, with a stop on a high ridge to watch the sunset transform the sand into a breathtaking display of colour.

You’ll arrive at a traditional Berber desert camp, where you’ll be welcomed with mint tea. After a delicious Moroccan dinner, gather around the campfire for Berber drumming and music under one of the world’s darkest skies. You’ll spend the night in a private tent, surrounded by the serene silence of the Sahara.

Driving distance: Approximately 560 km
Driving time: Approximately 10–11 hours (including stops)
Meals: Dinner AND breakfaast included
Overnight: Berber desert camp in Erg Chebbi

Day 2: Merzouga – Sunrise – Camel Ride Back – Draa Valley – Marrakech

Wake up early for one of the most magical moments of the trip: sunrise over the Sahara dunes. Watch as the first light of day transforms the golden sands into a breathtaking display of colour. After breakfast at the camp you’ll ride the camels back to Merzouga or return by 4×4 if you prefer—where you can freshen up with a shower at a local hotel before beginning the long but scenic journey back to Marrakech.

The return route often takes a different path, passing through the spectacular Draa Valley—Morocco’s longest valley—famous for its palm oases, kasbahs, and fortified villages. You’ll travel through the historic towns of Rissani, Nkob, and Agdz, with stops for lunch and photo opportunities along the way.

The drive continues over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, with one last chance to admire the dramatic mountain scenery before descending toward Marrakech.

You’ll arrive back in Marrakech in the evening, typically between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, where the tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation.

Driving time: Approximately 9–10 hours (including stops)
Meals: Breakfast included
Overnight: Not included (arrival in Marrakech)