3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour
Marrakech → Ait Ben Haddou → Ouarzazate → Dades Valley → Todra Gorge → Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) → Marrakech
Overview
Our most requested itinerary takes you from Marrakech to the high orange dunes of Erg Chebbi and back in three days. It covers the essential sights of southern Morocco: the Tizi n’Tichka pass, the earthen ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, the rose-scented valleys around Kelaat M’Gouna, the Dades Valley and the dramatic Todra Gorge.
The highlight is the arrival in Merzouga, where camels carry you into the dunes for sunset and a night at a desert camp. On the third day you return to Marrakech in one long, scenic drive. With a private vehicle you set the pace, so you can stop for photos, mint tea and lunch whenever you like. If you prefer a calmer rhythm, see the 4-day version, which returns via the Draa Valley.
Tour highlights
- The UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Ben Haddou
- Kasbahs and rock formations of the Dades Valley
- Walk between the towering walls of the Todra Gorge
- Sunset camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Night in a desert camp and sunrise over the Sahara
Day-by-day itinerary
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Day 1
Marrakech – Tizi n’Tichka – Ait Ben Haddou – Dades Valley
Pick-up in Marrakech and drive over the High Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka pass. Visit Ait Ben Haddou, then continue past Ouarzazate, the Skoura palm grove and Kelaat M’Gouna to the Dades Valley for dinner and the night.
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Day 2
Dades – Todra Gorge – Merzouga desert camp
Morning drive to Tinghir and a walk in the Todra Gorge. Continue via Tinejdad, Erfoud and Rissani to Merzouga. In the late afternoon, ride camels into Erg Chebbi to watch the sunset and spend the night at a desert camp with dinner.
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Day 3
Merzouga – Marrakech
Climb a dune for sunrise, ride back to Merzouga for breakfast and a shower, then drive back to Marrakech (about 10 hours with stops) through the Draa and Ouarzazate region and over the High Atlas. Evening arrival in Marrakech.
What’s included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with a driver who speaks English (other languages on request)
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in the departure and arrival cities
- Accommodation for every night of the itinerary (hotel, riad or kasbah and desert camp)
- Breakfast and dinner on each overnight stay
- Camel ride to and from the desert camp where the itinerary includes one
- Fuel, tolls and parking
Not included
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees to monuments and kasbahs
- Local guides in medinas unless stated in your quotation
- Optional activities (quad, 4×4 excursions, sandboarding…)
- Travel insurance and flights
- Tips and personal expenses
Practical information
Accommodation
1 night in a hotel or guesthouse in the Dades Valley, 1 night in a desert camp at Erg Chebbi (standard or luxury camp).
Transportation
Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver for the whole trip. Camel ride to and from the camp.
Departure & arrival
Starts: Marrakech · Ends: Marrakech
- Itineraries can be adjusted: tell us your dates, pace and interests
- Accommodation category (standard, superior or luxury) is chosen when you book
- Long driving days include regular photo, coffee and lunch stops
- Bring warm layers for desert nights, especially from November to March
- Final inclusions, price and payment terms are confirmed in your written quotation
Frequently asked questions
Is the last day very long?
Yes, the return from Merzouga to Marrakech is the longest day of the trip. With a private driver you can stop whenever you need. The 4-day tour splits it in two.
Can this tour end in Fes instead?
Yes. Choose our 3 Days Marrakech to Fes via the Sahara, which follows the same route but continues north from Merzouga.
How long is the camel ride?
Usually between one and two hours each way, depending on the camp’s location.
Request this tour
Send your dates and group details. We reply with a personalised proposal. Your request is not a confirmed booking until we confirm it in writing.
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Tell us your dates and we will prepare a clear, personalised proposal.