5 Days Morocco Desert Tour from Marrakech

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley via the High Atlas Mountains

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

The adventure begins with a departure from Marrakech, heading east toward the majestic High Atlas Mountains. As you ascend the winding roads of the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, soak in panoramic views of Berber villages, terraced farmlands, and rugged mountain peaks.

Visit Ait Benhaddou

En route, stop at the historic Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its well-preserved kasbahs. Explore this fortified village, which has served as the backdrop for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Walk its ancient streets and learn about its fascinating history.

Ouarzazate: The Hollywood of Africa

Continue to Ouarzazate, also known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Here, visit the iconic Taourirt Kasbah and, if time permits, the renowned Atlas Film Studios.

Journey to Dades Valley

In the afternoon, travel through the Valley of Roses before reaching the stunning Dades Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional riad or hotel, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga via Todra Gorge

Todra Gorge: A Natural Wonder

Start the day with a visit to Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon with 300-meter-high cliffs. Take a leisurely walk along the river and marvel at the natural beauty of this unique site.

Scenic Drive to Merzouga

The journey continues through palm groves and desert landscapes. Stop at Erfoud, known for its fossil-rich terrain, before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert.

Camel Trekking and Desert Camp

As the sun sets, embark on an unforgettable camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, where golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see. Reach a luxury desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, live Berber music, and stargazing under the vast desert sky. Spend the night in a comfortable tent, surrounded by the silence of the desert.

Day 3: Merzouga to Agdz via Alnif and the Draa Valley

Sunrise Over the Sahara

Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the dunes, a magical moment that you’ll cherish forever. After breakfast at the desert camp, return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4.

Exploring Alnif and the Draa Valley

Travel through the rugged Saghro Mountains, stopping in Alnif, a town famous for its fossils. Continue to the lush Draa Valley, the largest palm grove in Morocco. Along the way, admire traditional Berber villages and ancient kasbahs.

Overnight in Agdz

Arrive in the charming town of Agdz, located at the heart of the Draa Valley. Spend the night in a cozy guesthouse and enjoy a delicious homemade dinner.

Day 4: Agdz to Ouarzazate via the Draa Valley

Draa Valley Exploration

Begin the day with a scenic drive through the Draa Valley, renowned for its endless palm trees and traditional mud-brick villages. Stop at the historic Kasbah Tamnougalt, a fortress with a fascinating history.

Return to Ouarzazate

Travel back to Ouarzazate, where you can visit any sites you may have missed earlier, such as the Cinema Museum or enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local café.

Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech

Scenic Return Journey

Retrace your route back to Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas Mountains once again. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes and make a final stop for photos at the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.

Arrival in Marrakech

Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon, where your 5-day desert adventure concludes. Take time to reflect on the unforgettable memories you’ve made during this incredible journey.