3-Day Desert Tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga and Marrakech
Minimum Participants
1
Duration
3 Days
Tour from
Ouarzazate
Overview
This 3-day adventure is perfect for travelers who want to explore the magic of Morocco’s southeastern desert landscapes and the famous Atlas Mountains, ending in the vibrant city of Marrakech. The tour combines dramatic gorges, palm-lined valleys, golden dunes, and authentic Berber culture, with plenty of opportunities for camel rides, desert camp experiences, and breathtaking photography.
You’ll journey through remote regions of Draa and Tafilalt, discover ancient kasbahs, cross vast deserts, and experience traditional Berber hospitality. The tour concludes with a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, providing a stunning contrast between desert plains and lush mountain landscapes before reaching Marrakech.
Highlights
- Explore the Valley of Roses and Dades Valley
- Walk the dramatic Todra Gorges
- Discover Erfoud and the Tafilalet oasis
- Camel trek and sunset in the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Overnight in a desert camp under the stars
- Drive through N’Kob and the Draa Valley
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech
Itinerary
3-Day Desert Tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga and Marrakech
Day 1: Ouarzazate – Valley of Roses – Dades Valley – Todra Gorges
The journey begins with a morning departure from Ouarzazate. Your route passes through Skoura, a scenic oasis dotted with historic kasbahs. Next, visit the Valley of Roses, renowned for its fragrant flowers and locally-made rose products such as oils and perfumes. From here, take an off-road path to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes en route to the Dades Valley. Stop for lunch and explore the valley’s scenic gorges, gardens, and unique rock formations. Continue to the Todra Gorges, where dramatic cliffs create a spectacular backdrop. Overnight near the gorge.
Day 2: Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, enjoy a short walk in the Todra Gorges, appreciating the towering cliffs and narrow canyon paths. Continue eastward, passing through Tinghir, Tinjdad, and the lush Tafilalet oasis near Erfoud. Along the way, discover traditional irrigation channels and fossil workshops in Erfoud. Lunch is served in a local Berber village before arriving at Merzouga, on the edge of the Sahara. Here, embark on a camel trek to watch the desert sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Return to your desert camp for dinner and a night under the stars.
Day 3: Merzouga – N’Kob – Draa Valley – High Atlas – Marrakech
Rise early to enjoy the sunrise over the sand dunes, a truly unforgettable sight. Begin the return journey by heading west toward N’Kob, traveling along scenic routes dotted with ancient kasbahs. Continue through the Draa Valley, famous for its palm groves and traditional Berber villages. Afterward, cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi-n-Tichka pass, enjoying panoramic views of rugged peaks, valleys, and remote villages. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening, concluding your 3-day desert adventure.
Included
Private or small-group transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
Professional, licensed driver and/or local guide (according to the tour)
Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, riad, or agreed meeting point
Accommodation (hotels, riads, desert camps) as specified in the itinerary
Breakfasts & Dinners (depends on the type of accommodation you choose)
Activities and experiences stated in the itinerary (quad biking, camel trekking, excursions, etc.)
All fuel, road tolls, and parking fees
Local assistance and 24/7 customer support during your tour
Excluded
International or domestic flights
Travel insurance and personal expenses
Drinks and meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Entrance fees to monuments and attractions (unless stated otherwise)
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and staff (optional but appreciated)
Optional activities not listed in the tour program