From Marrakech: 3-Day Merzouga Desert Trip With Camp Stay

The Merzouga Desert is a captivating wonder that draws adventurous travelers to its mesmerizing dunes. This 3-day journey from Marrakech immerses you in the region’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. You’ll discover the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, traverse the dramatic Dades and Todra Gorges, and embark on a camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes. As the sun rises over the Sahara, you’ll have the chance to witness a breathtaking natural spectacle. With experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals, this trip promises an unforgettable escape into Morocco’s desert wilderness. What awaits you on this journey may just surprise you.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Marrakech.

Good To Know

• 3-day excursion from Marrakech to the Saharan Merzouga desert, including a stay in a Berber camp and camel ride.
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage site Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, explore Dades and Todra Gorges, and witness sunrise over the Saharan dunes.
• Discounted price of $88.98 per person, with potential savings up to 15% on the regular price.
• Package includes accommodations, transportation, meals, camel ride, and local guide, with the option to add a Day 1 guide.
• Overall trip rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 314 reviews, with high ratings for transportation quality and value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The Merzouga Desert trip from Marrakech is a 3-day excursion priced at $104.68 per person, with a discounted rate of $88.98 available.

Travelers can save up to 15% on the regular price. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now, pay later" option.

The package includes hotel and desert camp accommodations, air-conditioned transportation, a driver, breakfast and dinner, a camel ride, and a local guide on the second day.

Exclusions are lunches, drinks, and an optional 4WD transport on the first day, which costs an additional 2.5 EUR.

Experience Highlights

This 3-day Merzouga Desert trip from Marrakech offers a chance to visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site, explore popular natural wonders among climbers, witness the magnificent sunrise over the Saharan dunes, and experience a traditional camel ride.

The journey takes you to the UNESCO-protected Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and the spectacular Dades and Todra Gorges, which are renowned among climbers.

The highlight is the sunrise experience at the Great Dune of Sahara, followed by a camel ride through the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes.

Throughout the trip, you’ll savor traditional Berber meals and mint tea, enjoying the local culture.

Itinerary Details

On the first day, the trip departs from Marrakech, winding through the Tizi n’Tichka pass, which rises to an impressive 2,260 meters.

The group will then visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and the city of Ouarzazate before spending the night in the Dades Gorges.

The second day begins with a visit to the Todra Gorges and Erfoud, followed by a camel ride to the Merzouga dunes where travelers can witness the sunset.

That night, the group will stay in a Berber camp.

The final day starts with a sunrise at the Great Dune before the return journey to Marrakech or Fes.

Day 1: Exploring Kasbah and Ouarzazate

A scenic drive from Marrakech takes travelers through the Tizi n’Tichka pass, reaching an impressive elevation of 2,260 meters. The first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a well-preserved fortified city that has served as the backdrop for numerous films. Afterward, the journey continues to Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa" due to its film studios and stunning desert landscapes.

Attractions	Duration	Highlights
Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou	1 hour	Mud-brick architecture, UNESCO site
Ouarzazate	1 hour	Film studios, desert backdrops
Dades Gorges	Overnight	Dramatic canyon landscapes

The day concludes with an overnight stay in the Dades Gorges, setting the stage for the next day’s exploration of the Sahara Desert.

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Day 2: Todra Gorges and Merzouga Dunes

Leaving the Dades Gorges behind, the journey continues eastward towards the famous Todra Gorges.

These dramatic limestone cliffs, popular among climbers, are the main attraction of the day.

After exploring the Todra Gorges, the trip heads to Erfoud, a town known for its dates and fossils.

The highlight of the day is the:

1. Camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes to the Berber camp, where the travelers will spend the night under the Saharan stars.
2. Opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunset over the sweeping dunes.
3. Traditional Berber dinner and mint tea, providing a culture into the local way of life.

Day 3: Sunrise at Great Dune

Early the next morning, travelers rise before the sun to make their way to the towering Great Dune of the Sahara.

They climb the steep, golden slopes, eager to witness the dramatic sunrise over the endless expanse of desert. As the first rays of light peek over the horizon, the dunes are painted in a stunning array of oranges and reds.

Travelers pause to take in the breathtaking panorama, feeling a profound sense of connection with the ancient land. After enjoying this magical moment, they begin the journey back, their spirits lifted by the beauty and serenity of the Sahara at dawn.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Merzouga Desert trip includes a comprehensive package, with pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, an experienced driver, 1 night’s stay in a hotel, 1 night in a desert camp, breakfast, dinner, a camel ride, and a local guide on Day 2.

However, there are a few exclusions:

1. Lunches and drinks aren’t included.
2. A guide for Day 1 costs an additional 2.5 EUR.
3. Optional 4WD transport isn’t part of the package.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Merzouga Desert trip, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 314 reviews. Reviewers particularly highlighted the high-quality transportation (4.7/5) and excellent value for money (4.7/5). They described the journey as a memorable, well-organized experience that provided deep culture.

Metric	Rating
Overall	4.6/5
Transportation	4.7/5
Value for Money	4.7/5

The positive feedback underscores the trip’s ability to deliver an unforgettable desert adventure while ensuring a smooth, cost-effective experience for travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for Solo Travelers?

Yes, the tour accommodates solo travelers. The group size is usually small, allowing for a personalized experience, and solo travelers can share a room or a tent at no additional cost.

Can the Itinerary Be Customized for Private Groups?

The itinerary can be customized for private groups. Travelers can adjust the activities, accommodations, and group size to suit their preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to create a personalized desert experience.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not specified. However, the tour is available for private groups, allowing for customization to suit the group’s needs and preferences. Inquiring about group size options would be advisable.

Are Child-Friendly Activities Available on the Trip?

This 3-day desert trip doesn’t explicitly mention child-friendly activities. However, the camel ride and visiting the UNESCO site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou could be enjoyed by families. Travelers should inquire about any age-appropriate options when booking.

Can I Book This Trip as a Last-Minute Decision?

This 3-day desert trip can be booked as a last-minute decision. The tour operator offers a ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it easy to plan the trip on short notice.

The Sum Up

The 3-day Merzouga Desert trip from Marrakech offers an unforgettable adventure. Travelers can explore stunning landscapes, enjoy local culture, and enjoy a traditional camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes. With experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals, this trip provides a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara Desert. It’s an excellent way to experience the magic of the Moroccan desert.

You can check availability for your dates here: