4-day Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakech
This desert tour is for travelers who wish to immerse themselves in the varied Moroccan landscapes, including palm oases, the Sahara Desert and beautiful gorges before returning to Marrakech! This itinerary is great for those who love nature or would like to hike and trek in the south of Morocco.
Marrakech – Skoura – Merzouga – Boumalne Dades – Marrakech (4 days / 3 nights)
Trip highlights
- Ait Ben Haddou: UNESCO fortress featured in Gladiator films.
- Ouarzazate studios: Game of Thrones filming locations.
- Rose Valley: Fragrant rose fields near Kelaa M’Gouna.
- Merzouga camel trek: Sunset ride over Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Todra Gorge: Dramatic cliffs for hiking and rock-climbing.
- Dades Valley: Rock formations nicknamed “Monkey Fingers.”
- High Atlas Mountains: Scenic Tizi n’Tchika mountain pass.
- Women’s co-op: Traditional embroidery workshops in Ouarzazate.
Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakech
Day 1: Marrakech – Skoura
Cross the High Atlas Mountains as you follow the Road of 1,000 Kasbahstoward Skoura. Not to be missed: Ait Ben Haddou, a traditional ksar listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and still inhabited today. It’s a fantastic example of a fortified village and has also been the location for such films as Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. Arrive in Ouarzazate, founded by the French and used as an outpost for the French Foreign Legion. It is home to the Taourirt Kasbah, former property of the ruling Glaoui tribe before Morocco took independence from the French. Ouarzazate is also known as Morocco’s Hollywood. Many international movies have featured its surroundings as sets and backdrops, such as Kudun, Kingdom of Heaven and most recently, Games of Thrones. These movie sets are open to the public. Visit a women’s embroidery co-operative to see firsthand the intricate craft. Continue to Skoura, a beautiful oasis with palm groves and the Kasbah Amridil. It dates from the 17th century and is still inhabited today. Fun fact: it graces Morocco’s 50 dirham bill.
Day 2: Skoura – Merzouga
Breathe in the scent of Kelaa M’Gouna, as you pass through the RoseValley. Though the name means “fortress”, this village is best known for its rose agriculture and distillation. Finally, arrive in Merzouga to head out into the Sahara Desert. The rocky flat landscape quickly gives way to rolling sand dunes. Enjoy a sunset camel trek before your night under the stars in your private desert tent. The swaying gait of your camel among the quiet peacefulness of the desert is typically the most favorite experience in Morocco.
Day 3: Merzouga – Todra- Boumalne Dades
Wake up early for any desert sunrise photo opportunities amidst the golden sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, then meet up with your driver. Today’s first stop: Todra Gorge. With its dramatic steep cliffs bordering the road, Todra Gorge is a natural starting point for the area’s hiking trips and rock-climbing expeditions. Close-by is Tinghir, a bustling yet charming town. Then journey to Boumalne Dades via the Dades Valley spotted with ksour and palm trees and Berber villages.
Day 4: Boumalne Dades – Marrakech
Boumalne Dades is famous for its interesting rock formations, known locally as Monkey Fingers. Appreciate the winding road out of Boumalne Dades when you arrive at the top of Dades Gorges and gaze upon the serpentine route. Then continue on your way to and through the Tizi n’Tchika mountain pass through the High Atlas Mountains as you return to Marrakech.
Tour Overview
- Day 1: Marrakech – Skoura
- Day 2: Skoura – Merzouga
- Day 3: Merzouga – Todra- Boumalne Dades
- Day 4: Boumalne Dades – Marrakech
Frequently asked questions
Private transport, camel trek, desert camp stay, guided visits to Ait Ben Haddou, Todra Gorge, and Skoura’s kasbah. Breakfasts, accommodations (desert tents/hotels), and stops at Rose Valley, Ouarzazate film studios, and Dades Valley are covered.
Yes! Rides last 1–1.5 hours at sunset. Guides ensure safety with helmets and brief training. Kids love the desert camp experience with Berber music and stargazing.
Drives average 4–6 hours, broken by photo stops, hikes, and cultural visits. Comfortable vehicles with AC make mountain passes like Tizi n’Tchika enjoyable.
Breakfasts at hotels/camps are included. Lunches/dinners are at local restaurants (costs extra). Try tagine, couscous, or vegetarian medfouna. Notify us about dietary needs in advance.
Lightweight clothes, sunscreen, hat, closed-toe shoes, and a jacket for chilly nights. A scarf protects against sand. Don’t forget your camera!
Yes! Options include luxury tents with private bathrooms. Standard camps offer cozy beds, shared facilities, and campfire dinners under the stars.
Yes! Options include luxury tents with private bathrooms. Standard camps offer cozy beds, shared facilities, and campfire dinners under the stars.
