Overview

Experience the magic of the Moroccan Sahara on this unforgettable 4-day journey from Marrakech to Erg Chebbi. Travel through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, explore ancient kasbahs, visit traditional Berber villages, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and landscapes of southern Morocco. This tour includes stays in authentic guesthouses and a night in a luxury desert camp surrounded by towering dunes.

Highlights

• Scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains and Berber villages
• Guided visits to Kasbah Telouet and the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
• Traditional Moroccan meals and hospitality in locally owned guesthouses
• Hike through the stunning Dades Valley and the dramatic Todra Gorges
• Sunset camel ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Sandboarding, drumming, and stargazing at a luxury desert camp
• Journey through the palm-filled Draa Valley and ancient caravan routes

What's Included

• Private transport in an air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan
• English-speaking nomad driver-guide
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Marrakech
• Three nights’ accommodation (one in a luxury desert camp)
• Daily breakfast and dinner (vegetarian and vegan options available)
• Camel ride in Erg Chebbi and optional sandboarding
• Berber music and campfire drumming in the desert
• Guided walks and time to explore at key locations
• Tea and coffee in the desert camp

Not Included

• Lunches
• Entrance fees
• Optional local guides
• Tips

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Gorges

Begin your desert adventure with a morning departure from Marrakech. Travel through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, stopping to admire panoramic views and small Berber villages. Visit the historic Kasbah Telouet, once the stronghold of the powerful El Glaoui family. Continue through the Skoura Oasis to explore the restored Kasbah Amridhil. Journey along the scenic Road of a Thousand Kasbahs and the Valley of the Roses before arriving in the beautiful Dades Valley. Overnight in a local riad overlooking the valley.

Day 2: Dades Gorges to Merzouga

After breakfast, enjoy a morning walk in the Dades Valley to see its lush oases and local life. Head to the Todra Gorges for a short hike through its dramatic cliffs. After lunch overlooking the gorge, travel to Erfoud, where you can visit a fossil workshop and see the ancient khettarat water system. Arrive in Merzouga in the afternoon and begin your camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Watch the sun set from the top of the dunes before arriving at your luxury desert camp for dinner and a night of music under the stars.

Day 3: Merzouga to Ouarzazate

Wake early to witness sunrise over the dunes. After a camel ride back and breakfast, depart through the desert villages of Rissani, Alnif, and Tazzarine. Stop for lunch in N’Qob before continuing through the Draa Valley, filled with palm groves, kasbahs, and traditional Berber homes. A short off-road drive takes you along the riverbank for great views of the oasis. Cross the Anti-Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tinfifite Pass to reach Ouarzazate. Overnight in a charming riad.

Day 4: Ouarzazate to Marrakech

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Kasbah Taourirt, once home to the ruling Glaoui family. Then explore the nearby Atlas Film Studios, where many famous films were shot. Continue to the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site used as a location for numerous Hollywood films. After lunch and free time to explore the kasbah, drive back over the High Atlas Mountains, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way. Arrive in Marrakech by early evening.

*This 4-Day Marrakech to Erg Chebbi Desert Tour can be customized to create a personalized experience.