3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour (Erg Chebbi)

From Marrakech to the Sahara: 3-Day Merzouga Journey

Tour Overview

This expedition is a comprehensive 3-day, 2-night road trip connecting the imperial city of Marrakech to the legendary Erg Chebbi sand dunes near Merzouga. The trip is defined by dramatic changes in scenery, taking you from high-altitude mountain passes (Tizi n’Tichka) to ancient earthen villages, vast palm groves (Draa Valley and Dades Valley), and culminating in the spectacular, high golden sand dunes of the Sahara. The highlight is the sunset camel trek into the dunes and spending the night in a traditional desert camp.

duration: 3 days / 2 nights

main destination: erg chebbi dunes, near merzouga (iconic high golden sand)

travel focus: high atlas mountains, aït benhaddou, dades gorge, todra gorge, desert camel trek

accommodation: 2 nights (guesthouse/hotel night 1; desert camp night 2)

difficulty: medium (long driving hours required to reach the desert)

best for: those seeking the classic, photogenic sahara dune experience

early morning departure from marrakech, beginning the long but scenic drive.

the main focus of the day is crossing the high atlas mountains via the tizi n’tichka pass (2,260m).

you will stop to explore the unesco site of kasbah aït benhaddou before continuing past ouarzazate and following the famous road of a thousand kasbahs.

the journey concludes as you arrive at your guesthouse or hotel in the dades gorge or the nearby town of tinghir for dinner and an overnight stay.

 

the day starts with a drive through the stunning dades valley, followed by a stop to visit the impressive, towering cliffs of the todra gorge.

you will then continue driving through the pre-saharan landscapes towards the desert town of merzouga.

in the late afternoon, the adventure truly begins as you meet your camel guides for the magical camel trek into the erg chebbi dunes.

after watching the spectacular sunset from a high dune, you will proceed to the desert camp for a traditional berber dinner, music around the campfire, and an overnight stay in your private tent.

the final day begins with an optional early rise to climb the dunes for the unforgettable desert sunrise.

after breakfast, you will return via camel (or 4×4, depending on the camp) to merzouga. from there, you start the very long journey back to marrakech (a drive of 8–10 hours). stops for lunch and rest will be made throughout the day. expect a late evening arrival and drop-off back at your accommodation in marrakech.

The Private Golf, Spa & Coastal Estates package includes:

  • Accommodation: Four (4) nights in confirmed Private Villas, Luxury Suites, or Premier Resort Accommodation.

  • Transportation: All private, executive, air-conditioned transfers between airports, courses, and cities (Marrakech to Coast).

  • Golf: Three (3) guaranteed $18$-hole Green Fees at Morocco’s top courses (pre-booked and confirmed).

  • Spa: One (1) Deep Tissue Sports Massage and one (1) Signature Hammam/Spa Treatment.

  • Service: Dedicated local Private Concierge for the duration of the trip, handling all bookings and logistics.

  • Meals: Daily Gourmet Breakfasts at the resort/estate.

 

 

Everything You Need to Know: Merzouga Tour FAQs

be prepared for very long driving days (7 to 10 hours) on days 1 and 3. the second day is broken up by the dune activities. 

the best months are march to may and september to november. summer (june-august) is intensely hot (40°c+), and winter nights are very cold. 

night 1 is in a mid-range hotel/guesthouse. night 2 is in a private tent at a desert camp (options range from standard to luxury). 

typically, dinner and breakfast are included for the 2 nights. lunch is usually excluded and is purchased at restaurants along the route. 

pack warm layers for the cold desert night, light clothing for the day, closed shoes for walking, sunscreen, and water.

Witness the Golden Dunes, Explore Ancient Kasbahs: Plan Your Merzouga Adventure Today

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