Overview

Embark on our most popular desert tour and experience the vastness and beauty of the Sahara. This 3-day trip takes you from the bustling city of Marrakech, over the High Atlas Mountains, through ancient kasbahs, and into the magnificent sand dunes of Merzouga's Erg Chebbi.

Highlights

Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m)
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou
Walk through the stunning Todra Gorge's towering canyon walls
Experience a sunset camel trek over the golden Erg Chebbi dunes
Overnight in a traditional Berber desert camp with live music
Marvel at a breathtaking desert sunrise over the Sahara
Journey through the lush Draa Valley's palm groves
Visit the Valley of the Roses and Skoura Oasis
Discover the fossil-rich region around Erfoud
Enjoy authentic Moroccan cuisine under the stars

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech → Tizi n'Tichka Pass → Ait Benhaddou → Dades Gorges

Our adventure begins with an early departure from Marrakech, ascending into the High Atlas Mountains. We'll traverse the stunning Tizi n'Tichka pass (2260m), offering breathtaking panoramic views. We then visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified village that has served as a backdrop for numerous Hollywood films. After exploring the kasbah and having lunch, we travel through Ouarzazate, the Skoura Oasis, and the Valley of Roses, finally arriving at the Dades Gorges. You'll spend the night in a charming hotel nestled in the valley.

Day 2: Dades Gorges → Todra Gorge → Erfoud → Merzouga Dunes (Erg Chebbi)

After breakfast, we'll journey towards the Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon carved by the Todra River, perfect for a short walk and exploration. Continuing our drive, we pass through the fossil-rich town of Erfoud before reaching the Sahara's edge in Merzouga. Here, you will swap your vehicle for a camel and trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi to your desert camp. As the sun sets, the landscape transforms into a sea of color. The evening concludes with a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, accompanied by the rhythm of Berber drums.

Day 3: Merzouga → Draa Valley → Ouarzazate → Marrakech

Wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the dunes—a truly unforgettable sight. After breakfast at the camp, you'll ride your camel back to the village of Merzouga to meet your driver. Our return journey to Marrakech takes a different route, following the lush Draa Valley, famous for its extensive palm groves and ancient kasbahs. We will once again cross the High Atlas Mountains before arriving back in Marrakech in the late evening, concluding your epic Sahara adventure.

What's Included

Round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan
Experienced English/French speaking driver/guide
1 night in a hotel in Dades Gorges (dinner & breakfast included)
1 night in a luxury desert camp with private bathroom (dinner & breakfast included)
Camel trek at sunset and sunrise (one camel per person)
All road taxes, tolls, and fuel costs
Hotel/riad pick-up and drop-off in Marrakech
Free time to explore key sites at your own pace
All local taxes and service charges
Bottled mineral water in the vehicle

What's Not Included

Lunches and alcoholic beverages
Entrance fees to historical sites (Ait Benhaddou, Kasbahs, etc.)
Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities
Travel and medical insurance
Optional activities and experiences
Any additional services not specified in the itinerary

Why Choose This Tour?

Ultimate Sahara Experience: Visit the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes, the most spectacular in Morocco
Perfect Itinerary: Carefully crafted to maximize your time and experience
Small Groups: Intimate experience with maximum 12 travelers
Cultural Immersion: Authentic interactions with local Berber communities
Comfortable Travel: Modern, air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers
Flexible Stops: Ample time for photos and exploration at key locations
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides to enhance your experience
Best Value: Comprehensive inclusions at a competitive price

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between this tour and the 2-day Zagora tour? This 3-day tour goes to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, which are the large, iconic sand dunes many people imagine when they think of the Sahara. The 2-day tour goes to Zagora, which has a rockier, flatter desert landscape. The drive to Merzouga is longer, but the experience is often considered more spectacular.

What kind of accommodation is provided? On the first night, you'll stay in a comfortable, traditional hotel in the Dades Gorges. On the second night, you'll be in a Berber desert camp with private tents and shared bathroom facilities. Upgrades to luxury camps with private en-suite bathrooms are often available upon request.

What should I pack? We recommend comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a small backpack for essentials, and a warmer layer for the evenings, as desert nights can be cool, especially in winter.