Marrakech to Merzouga – Dadès Gorge & Sahara Desert (Multi-Day)

Overview

This multi-day journey is the ultimate way to experience Morocco's dramatic landscapes, from the High Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara. The route passes through Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate's film studios, the Rose Valley, the Dadès Gorge and the Todra Gorge before reaching Merzouga at the edge of the desert.

The adventure culminates in a camel trek across the dunes to a traditional Berber camp, where travelers spend the night under the stars after a dinner accompanied by local music around a campfire.

Itinerary

Day 1

1. Depart from Marrakech – Head south toward the High Atlas Mountains in the direction of Ait Benhaddou.
2. Ait Benhaddou Kasbah – Stop to explore this UNESCO World Heritage ksar and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the village.
3. Ouarzazate Film Studios – Optional stop to visit the cinema studios where many famous films have been shot.
4. Rose Valley – Scenic drive through the valley, known for its rose cultivation and panoramic landscape views.
5. Dadès Gorge (Overnight) – Arrive, check into accommodation, explore the gorge and enjoy dinner with valley views.

Day 2

1. Todra Gorge – Short visit to this dramatic canyon, with towering cliffs and a brief walk.
2. Local Market Stop – Browse a nearby town or market for scarves and other desert essentials.
3. Lunch en Route to Merzouga – A stop at a local restaurant on the way to the desert.
4. Arrive in Merzouga – Check in and prepare for the camel trek into the dunes.
5. Sunset Camel Trek – Ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes, timed to catch the desert's golden sunset light.
6. Berber Camp – Dinner & Campfire (Overnight) – Traditional dinner with local music and a campfire evening, staying overnight in a Berber tent.

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Day 3

1. Depart from Merzouga (Approx. 9 to 10h) – After breakfast, begin the long drive back to Marrakech.
2. Lunch & Stretch Break – A short stop en route to rest and eat.
3. Arrive in Marrakech (Evening) – End of the multi-day adventure.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most comfortable desert temperatures for camel trekking and camping, striking the best balance between warm days and manageable desert nights. Summer days can be extremely hot, while winter nights can be very cold — pack warm layers for the evenings, even if the days remain pleasant.

Tips

Time Management: stick to the schedule to accommodate all stops and still return to Marrakech on time.
Comfort: bring snacks, water, and dress comfortably for the drive and various activities.
Flexibility: road conditions and traffic can affect travel times, so a little flexibility can help accommodate any unforeseen delays.

Good to Know

• Duration Multi-day, approx. 3 days / 2 nights (one night near Dadès Gorge, one night in the desert camp)
• Good for adventure travelers, photographers, first-time Sahara experience
• Includes transport, guide, camel trek, desert camp accommodation, dinner and campfire
• Not included some meals en route (lunches)

Prices

All the transport we offer for this excursion is private, for greater comfort and a premium service. We pick you up at your accommodation and bring you back (door-to-door service).

Price per vehicle:

• 1–4 people (4x4): 7,000 DH (€700)
• 5–8 people (Van): 7,000 DH (€700)
• 9–20 people (Minibus): 8,400 DH (€840)

Please note: Pickups from outside Marrakech are available at an additional cost — please let us know your accommodation location when making your reservation.