A 5-day desert tour from Marrakech offers an immersive and comprehensive journey through southern Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains to the vast dunes of the Sahara. The Sahara desert adventure from Marrakech typically begins with a drive across the stunning Tizi n’Tichka pass to the fortified village of Aït Benhaddou before continuing to the Rose Valley and Dades Valley. The second day involves exploring the dramatic rock formations of the Dades and Todra Gorges before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. The highlight of the trip is the third day, dedicated to a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to spend a magical night at a traditional Berber desert camp under a sky full of stars. The final two days are spent on the return journey, often taking a different scenic route through the Draa Valley with its endless palm groves and a stop in Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco,” before concluding the 5 days desert tour back in Marrakech. This extended itinerary allows travelers to experience the full breadth of the region’s beauty and culture at a more leisurely pace than shorter tours.
Your 5 day desert tour from Marrakech kicks off in the morning, traversing the High Atlas Mountains towards Ouarzazate and over the mesmerizing winding road of Tizi N’tichka, where you’re likely to spy pure Berbers with their livestock.
After descending past charming mountain villages, we’ll reach Ait Ben Haddou in the countryside of Ouarzazate city. Marvel at and photograph the architectural wonder of Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts one of Morocco’s finest kasbahs. Many blockbusters have been filmed here, including Lawrence of Arabia and Game of Thrones.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant overlooking the Kasbah or in Ouarzazate, ensuring you have a good meal. After, you’ll have a chance to explore one of the largest Atlas Studios in Africa. Where a bunch of famous movies were filmed.
Next, we take the road of a thousand Kasbahs, passing by Skoura Oasis and the Kalaat M’gouna, or Rose town as it is called locally. This town is famous for its Rose Valley and the annual festival, which is held here in May.
Our journey today concludes at Boumalne Dades, where you will encounter the dry and rugged Dades Valley, dotted with oases of figs, olives, date palms, and castellated mud houses—hugging the slopes. Check into your hotel overlooking the valley.
Today’s driving distance: Approximately 313 Km / 194 Miles
Today’s driving time: Approximately 5 hrs
After breakfast as usual, we will commence our journey by visiting the rock formation, known as the monkey paws, then venture towards the oasis of Tinghir. Tinghir is famous for its oasis landscapes, particularly the Tinghir oasis, where lush palm groves contrast with the arid desert surroundings. The palm groves have been cultivated for centuries and are integral to the local way of life.
We drive beside and along Todra Valley, which is full of palm groves and surrounded by traditional kasbahs (fortified villages) and old mud-brick buildings, which give visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s historical architecture.
Getting to the Gorge, a stunning canyon carved by the Todra River, with towering cliffs that are popular for rock climbing, hiking, and photography. Nature lovers would take their breath away by its spectacular landscapes.
Next, we continue our journey through the Saharian oasis with Berber villages to reach Merzouga desert. Along the way, there’ll be an optional stop at a Berber family shop to dress traditionally and get a Henna tattoo for photography. Possible to purchase a headscarf for your camel ride experience.
Arrive at Merzouga village in the late afternoon, where your camels will be awaiting you. Hop on a 1-hour camel ride en route to a traditional Berber-style tented camp. Your well-experienced camel leader will make sure to stop at the top of the dunes to watch the sunset. Later, check into your tent, enjoy the Berber hospitality (mint tea). A hearty dinner will be served at your camp, followed by live music around a bonfire. Later, enjoy a chance to stargaze under dark desert skies tonight.
Today’s driving distance: Approximately 246 Km / 152 Miles
Today’s driving time: Approximately 3 h 44 minutes
Rise early and climb a high dune nearby to witness a glorious sunrise like no other. Break your fast at the camp, then cross the awe-inspiring sand dunes back either by camels or a 4WD Vehicle. Meet your driver and enjoy a 4-hour 4-wheel vehicle excursion to explore the area.
Begin your journey by attending a nomadic Berber family on the edge of the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Share a cup of mint tea with them beneath their goat fur tents while knowing about their lifestyle in this harsh desert. Toys, candies, or second-hand items are highly recommended to bring and would be appreciated. On our way, we’ll make a quick stop at the abandoned village of Mifis, located on a high plateau of hamada (rocky desert) with a huge panoramic view of the sea of dunes and varied desert landscapes. Nearby, there are some mines where locals still find different minerals such as Kohl, which is an ancient eye cosmetic widely used as eyeliner to make eyes look more seductive and is worn by men and women.
Next, we go to Khamlia village, which is famed for its Gnaoua people, and these people are known for their lifestyle music. Entertain yourself with ancient live music before having lunch in a local restaurant nearby.
Afterwards, we’ll go to the oasis where we can walk through local garden communities and get to know more about the plantations in the area. Depending on the season, we also pass by Merzouga lake or Lake Dayet Srij, as known locally. This lake attracts flamingos and different birds.
Free time to try some different extra activities such as quad bikes & buggies. Your friendly driver will ensure that you cover the area before taking you to check into your hotel on the edge of Erg Chebbi dunes, where you can take some time to reflect on your trip so far.
Today’s driving distance: Approximately 20 Km / 12miles
Today’s driving time: Approximately 4 hrs
After a restful night and delightful breakfast at the hotel, we’ll farewell the sand dunes heading west on the back desert towards Ouarzazate city. The first stop will be in Rissani town, known for its traditional market. Your driver will be your guide to wander this ancient caravan market, where spices smell in every corner.
Continue our fascinating trip through the oasis of Tafilalet, and beside the medieval city of Sijilmasa, to reach Alnif, a small town surrounded by acacia trees and palm trees. In this area, we might see wild and owned animals.
Around midday, we will reach Nkob for lunch, then drive along the Draa Valley, the longest valley in Morocco. A stop in a panoramic view overlooking palm trees will be made, appreciating the natural landscapes of the valley.
Eventually, we arrive at your hotel in Ouarzazate, offering a haven of activated windows, tranquility, and comfort. Concluding the day, a hearty dinner awaits, followed by a restful night.
Today’s driving distance: Approximately 366 Km / 227 Miles
Today’s driving time: Approximately 5 hrs
In the morning, we will embrace our day with a visit to the well-preserved Taourirt Kasbah in the city. This Kasbah was first built in the 17th century by the Imzwarn, a powerful Berber family. It was taken over and expanded by the Glaoui family in the 19th century, which was famously the pasha of Marrakech during the entirety of French Colonial Rule over Morocco in the 20th century.
Ascend into the High Atlas, enjoying dramatic mountain scenery and views of typical Amazigh, or Berber, villages. Stop in Telouet Kasbah, a kasbah along the former route of the caravans from the sub-Saharan to Marrakech.
Arrive in Marrakech in the afternoon, concluding our 5-day desert tour from Marrakech with drop you off at your preferred accessible place, thus our tour service ends.
Today’s driving distance: Approximately 193 Km / 119 Miles
Today’s driving time: Approximately 3 h 28 minutes
Embark on an unforgettable 5 day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga! Your friendly English speaking driver/guide picks you up on time from your riad, airport or where you’re staying in Marrakech. This meticulously crafted Morocco desert tour that promises an authentic Sahara desert adventure begins, as you depart from Marrakech and traverse the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into traditional Berber villages.
After interesting multiple stops in the Atlas Mountains, we descend onto Ouarzazate city, known locally as the Hollywood Of Africa. Here, we will have a chance to explore the most iconic historical sites of the city. You’ll visit the Atlas Studio, the largest film studio in Africa. This cinematic paradise has been the backdrop for a slew of famous movies and series, including big names like Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and The Mummy, not to mention blockbuster series such as Game of Thrones and Vikings. Following this, you’ll discover Taourirt Kasbah, a fortified Kasbah that stands as a remarkable example of traditional southern Moroccan architecture.
Lunch will be served at your leisure then, we continue our journey through the Valley of Thousands Kasbah and Skoura oasis. In Skoura, you’ll visit the Amridil Kasbah, this kasbah was built by a Berber family in the 17th century, and still has some ancient and traditional materials that the family used. Visit the exterior and interior of the Kasbah and admire the spectacular view over the palm tree groves from the terrace.
Follow the road of Thousand Kasbah to reach Rose Valley in the Kalaat M’gouna. This town is famous for its damask roses that bloom in spring. An annual festival of roses is being celebrated here in the first week of May, where you can find some rose oil, water and different products. Later, enjoy The scenic drive culminates in the picturesque Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations and lush oases, providing a perfect first stop on your desert tour. Check into your hotel that will be your home for 2 nights, unwinding with a delicious meal and recharging for the hike adventure that lies ahead.
Today’s driving distance: Approximately 313 Km / 194 Miles
Today’s driving time: Approximately 5 hrs
Your journey today is dedicated to exploring the natural wonders of the Dades Valley. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing hike through its captivating gorges known as the monkey fingers and experience a truly authentic cultural encounter by visiting local nomads residing in mountain caves.
After having a flavor breakfast, your local mountain guide will invite you for an amazing hike. Be prepared for climbing and crawling beneath rocks while water is running. Traverse the Monkey paws besides the valley toward the nomad Berber families, while knowing about vegetation in the valley. Every step you take or turn you make will amaze you.
Get to the nomad Berber families after 2 hours of hike. Meet the Berber family with their livestock in the middle of the Atlas Mountains. You will be welcomed by a cup of tea in one of their caves, and you will get to know more about their lifestyle from your Berber guide. Berbers are known for their hospitality and friendliness. It is simply possible to have lunch with them just inform your guide.
In the afternoon, you’ll trek back to your hotel for a relaxing afternoon. If time permits, your driver will escort you on his comfortable vehicle for an optional science drive on his comfortable vehicle toward Dades gorge in the button of the valley. Capture the winding road or Zigzag of Tasadrine before driving you back to your hotel for a restful night.
Break your fast, then we commence our journey, venturing towards the oasis of Tinghir. Tinghir is famous for its oasis landscapes, particularly the Tinghir oasis, where lush palm groves contrast with the arid desert surroundings. The palm groves have been cultivated for centuries and are integral to the local way of life.
We drive beside and along Todra Valley, which is full of palm groves and surrounded by traditional kasbahs (fortified villages) and old mud-brick buildings, which give visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s historical architecture.
Getting to the Gorge, a stunning canyon carved by the Todra River, with towering cliffs that are popular for rock climbing, hiking, and photography. Nature lovers would take their breath away by its spectacular landscapes.
Next, we continue our journey through the Saharian oasis with Berber villages to reach Merzouga desert. Along the way, there’ll be an optional stop at a Berber family shop to dress traditionally and get a Henna tattoo for photography. Possible to purchase a headscarf for your camel ride experience.
Arrive at Merzouga village in the late afternoon, where your camels will be awaiting you. Hop on a 1-hour camel ride en route to a traditional Berber-style tented camp. Your well-experienced camel leader will make sure to stop at the top of the dunes to watch the sunset. Later, check into your tent, and enjoy the Berber hospitality. A hearty dinner will be served at your camp, followed by live music around a bonfire. Later, enjoy a chance to stargaze under dark desert skies tonight.
Today’s driving distance: Approximately 246 Km / 152 Miles
Today’s driving time: Approximately 3 h 44 minutes
Today, break your fast at the camp and start your journey from the Merzouga desert, a breathtaking sea of sand dunes, and head towards Ouarzazate city, passing by Rissani, Alnif, Draa Valley and some more ancient Berber villages along.
In the ancient town of Rissani, we will explore its authentic market, known locally as souk. After exploring the traditional market, that used to be the caravan Market and where you can observe the handcraftshipmen, and shepherds with their livestock.
Continuing our journey through the vast, arid landscapes, where you’ll witness the unique and resilient acacia trees scattered across the plains near Alnif. These trees are a testament to the region’s harsh yet beautiful environment. The route then takes us through the Draa Valley, a stunning oasis that stretches along the Draa River. The valley is a ribbon of lush date palm groves, traditional adobe villages, and kasbahs, which offer a sharp and beautiful contrast to the surrounding desert. As we wind our way through the valley, you’ll be captivated by the dramatic landscapes, the striking mudbrick architecture, and the vibrant local life.
Finally, our journey culminates at our hotel in Ouarzazate, a city known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” famous for its film studios and the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Kasbahs.
Today’s driving distance: Approximately 366 Km / 227 Miles
Today’s driving time: Approximately 5 hrs
Start your journey by visiting the magnificent Kasbah of Taourirt. This architectural marvel is a symbol of the city and a testament to the power of the Glaoui family, who controlled the region and its vital trade routes in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
From there, we will drive to the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a stunning fortified village, or ksar. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987, it is considered a prime example of traditional pre-Saharan earthen architecture. This Kasbah Mostly recognizable modern attribute. Its well-preserved, ancient beauty has made it a favorite filming location for numerous Hollywood blockbusters and popular television series. Movies such as Game Of Thrones, Laurence Of Arabia,…. Your driver/guide will lead you on a comprehensive tour of this kasbah, navigating through its well preserved rammed clay alleyways and taking in the stunning views from the top.
Following , we will drive through the scenic High Atlas Mountains on a former salt caravan route to Telouet, a journey filled with dramatic scenery of rugged peaks and traditional Berber villages. Here, we will explore the mesmerizing Palace of Pasha Glaoui (exterior & interior). From there, we continue our journey through the spectacular winding road of Tizi Ntichka to reach Marrakech, concluding our 5 day desert tour from Marrakech. Your driver will make sure to drop you at your accommodation in Marrakech or the accessible closed point.
Today’s driving distance: Approximately 193 Km / 119 Miles
Today’s driving time: Approximately 3 h 28 minutes
Once you book your 5-day desert tours from Marrakech with us, you should expect to stay at authentic hotels and luxury camps in the Sahara desert, including private rooms and ensuite tents with essential amenities, complete with private showers and flush toilets, ensuring a comfortable and private stay. Our guests can choose from various accommodation options, from luxurious suites to all-inclusive resorts. We have narrowed down the best accommodation options to suit all preferences, budgets, services, decorations, and locations. We gathered the top-rated hotels and desert camps in Morocco based on our deep experiences and we’ve organized them by luxury, mid-range, and budget to help you choose the best hotel for your group.
All our accommodations are decorated in Moroccan style. The rooms are clean and well-maintained, providing a truly outstanding experience such as complimentary breakfast, and guests praise the helpful staff, which is the perfect place to unwind after an exploration day full of activities. We constantly allow our guests to match between Our best-selected accommodations also. In case, these accommodations are not available on your requested dates, we’ll book the alternative ones in the same category and let you know in advance. If you have a preferred alternative accommodation in mind, just let us know and we’ll be happy to accommodate your request, ensuring it aligns with your travel plans and preferences. Your comfort and convenience are our priority! We invite you to get in touch with us, selecting the accommodation level and our local team will share the accommodation links.
The price of our 5 day Desert tour from Marrakech varies depending on several factors, including accommodations, the size of your group, and the season of your travel. The more participants in your group, the lower the cost per person, making it ideal for larger groups seeking affordability.
For those who prefer to travel in October, April, or the end of December, we highly recommend contacting us in advance. This will not only help you avoid peak season fees but also provide a greater chance of securing your preferred accommodations during these popular travel periods.
For a pricing quote, we invite you to get in touch with us as soon as you know your dates. Our expert team shall provide the best price that meets your requirements and budget.
We had an unforgettable experience traveling through Morocco and the Sahara with our guide, Mohamed! From exploring the vibrant cities to the breathtaking desert landscapes, his knowledge and passion brought the culture and history to life. He made sure every detail was taken care of, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the country. The camel trek through the dunes and night under the stars was a highlight. I highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for an authentic and enriching adventure!
This is just a note to give you some feedback on my recent trip to Morocco. I had a lovely time and it far surpassed my expectations. Firstly my guide Mustafa was excellent. I always felt safe and he was really helpful and accommodating. On the second last day when I wanted to go to the Jardin Majorelle he managed to fit it into the programme and also I got there before the large queues developed. The accommodation was excellent- the riads were particularly lovely and the overnight stay in the luxury desert camp was truly magical….
Certainly! The 5-day desert tour from Marrakech is enough to explore the hidden gems of the Sahara desert and the southeast in general with an authentic experience. Navigate the rammed clay streets of the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah and Kasbah Amridil in Skoura Oasis. Stretch your legs beneath the massive conyon of Tinghir and chat with nomadic Berber families in the Sahara desert while sipping a cup of tea under their tent.
The best time to visit the Sahara Desert is during the cooler months, from October to April, when temperatures are milder and more comfortable for exploring.
We highly recommend you bring a couple of essential things, such as comfortable and loose clothes for the camel ride, a camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a scarf for your camel ride experience. In addition to that, your 5 day desert tour from Marrakech includes a full day in the desert to meet Berber nomad families in their tents. Moreover, if you have some clothes, toys, or notebooks you do not need anymore in your entire life. Please do not hesitate to bring them for a donation; they’ll appreciate it.
The early bird catches the worm! It’s recommended booking this tour as soon as you know your exact dates of travel. Not only to avoid the high season travel fees, but you’ll have a chance to stay at preferred accommodations.
Definitely yes! All our selected camps are luxurious, guaranteeing your comfort with the added convenience of private ensuite bathrooms.
The first option includes two nights in Sahara desert and full day to explore the desert area by a 4WD vehicle. However, the second option includes one in the Sahara desert but two nights in Dades Valley with a hike to stretch your legs in Monkey fingers and visit the nomadic Berber families in their home caves.
Certainly yes, we offer comfortable 4WD vehicle transfers for guests who prefer not to ride camels. You can enjoy the adventure of reaching the desert camp without the camel trek, but still experience the mesmerizing beauty of the desert.
We prioritize comfort and quality for our guests. The vehicles used for the Morocco Sahara desert tours include Toyota Prado Land Cruiser TX for smaller groups and deluxe minibus for groups of 6 or more. All our vehicles are equipped with air conditioning and ample space to ensure a smooth and comfortable trip.
The distance between Marrakech and Merzouga desert or Erg Chebbi is about 557 kilometers / 346 miles.
Yes, electricity is available at the desert camp. But to bring a power bank and a flashlight.
Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
+212 663 606 413
contact@traversemorocco.com
