3-Day Merzouga Desert Excursion from Marrakech with Camel Trek

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Marrakech to Merzouga – Atlas Mountains & Scenic Stops
4 stops
1
High Atlas Mountains
Departure begins at 07:00 from your hotel, riad, or private residence in Marrakech. The journey starts in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver who will assist with luggage. As the city streets fade behind, the route heads toward the High Atlas Mountains, offering views of local neighborhoods, olive groves, and traditional Berber villages. The ride provides a comfortable start, allowing time to relax and enjoy the changing landscapes as Marrakech transitions into mountain scenery.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
2
Tizi n Tichka
Drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, reaching over 2,200 meters above sea level. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of rugged mountains, deep valleys, and scattered Berber villages with terraced fields. Stops are available for photographs, short walks, and to breathe in the fresh mountain air. The pass is a highlight of the day, showcasing the dramatic landscapes that separate Marrakech from the Sahara.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
3
Ait Ben Haddou
Visit the famous fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, renowned for its traditional mud-brick architecture and historic ksar layout. Explore the exterior and main streets at a leisurely pace, capturing photographs of the clay buildings, narrow alleys, and defensive towers. Ait Ben Haddou has been featured in numerous films and TV productions, offering a unique glimpse into Morocco’s architectural heritage. Optional entry to the ksar interior can be arranged for those who wish to explore further.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
4
Boumalne Dades
Continue the journey toward Boumalne Dades with stops at scenic viewpoints, small Berber villages, and roadside markets. This section of the drive highlights the dramatic transition from the Atlas Mountains to the desert plains. Opportunities are available to photograph the changing landscapes, interact briefly with locals at small villages, and enjoy the calm, open vistas of Morocco’s southern regions. The driver ensures comfort and a steady pace as the road winds toward the edge of the Sahara.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Merzouga Desert Adventure – Camel Trek & Desert Camp
4 stops
5
Boumalne Dades
Begin the day with a hearty Moroccan breakfast at the hotel in Boumalne Dades, including freshly baked bread, traditional pastries, local cheeses, olives, honey, and mint tea or coffee. Take a moment to enjoy the surrounding scenery of the desert foothills, mountains, and Berber villages visible from the hotel. This breakfast provides energy for the desert journey ahead, and staff can assist with any last-minute preparations or luggage handling for the camel trek.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
6
Erfoud
Stop in Erfoud, a desert town known for its extensive fossil deposits and artisan workshops. Located along the route toward Merzouga, Erfoud sits near the edge of the Sahara and offers a chance to see how ancient marine fossils are transformed into decorative pieces and jewelry at local workshops. The landscape here transitions from rocky plains to palm‑lined oasis areas, providing a contrast of desert environments. Enjoy photo opportunities around the palm groves, meet local artisans, and learn about the region’s geological history before continuing toward the golden dunes of Merzouga and Erg Chebbi.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
7
Erg Chebbi Dunes
Upon arrival at the Merzouga desert, mount well-trained camels for a guided trek across the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes. The camel caravan is led by a local guide who ensures safety and provides tips for handling the camels. Explore the towering sand dunes, enjoy the tranquility of the Sahara, and capture stunning photographs of the golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see. Watch the sunlight create dramatic shadows on the dunes and feel the rhythm of camel travel. The trek allows access to hidden valleys, unique dune formations, and sweeping desert panoramas, offering an unforgettable experience of Erg Chebbi’s vast and mesmerizing landscapes.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
8
Merzouga
Arrive at a comfortable desert camp designed in traditional Berber style, featuring spacious tents with bedding, private or shared facilities, and a serene atmosphere surrounded by dunes. Enjoy a panoramic sunset from the dunes before settling into the camp. Evening activities include a traditional Berber dinner served under the stars, with dishes such as tagine, couscous, and freshly baked bread. Optional activities include a short walk in the desert, storytelling by local guides, and observing the night sky, which is exceptionally clear and ideal for stargazing. The camp offers a quiet, immersive experience of desert life and culture.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Merzouga Desert to Marrakech – Scenic Return Journey
4 stops
9
Merzouga
Start the day with a traditional breakfast at the desert camp in Merzouga, featuring Moroccan bread, pastries, tea, coffee, and fresh fruits. Enjoy the early morning desert ambiance as the sun rises over the dunes. This is also the perfect time for photography, capturing the golden sands and the tranquil desert environment. The camp staff will assist with luggage and preparations for the return journey.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
10
Erg Chebbi
For those who took a camel trek into the dunes on Day 2, return to the Merzouga base on camelback. This short ride allows one last experience of Erg Chebbi’s vast dunes and provides another opportunity for photographs. The camel guide ensures safety and comfort during the ride, and the rhythm of the camel walk gives a peaceful perspective of the desert before boarding the vehicle.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
11
Fossiles d'Erfoud
Stop in Erfoud along the return route to explore the town’s famous fossil workshops. Learn about the region’s ancient marine fossils and see artisans craft decorative pieces and jewelry. The surrounding oasis areas and desert landscapes provide excellent photo opportunities and insight into local life. This stop breaks up the drive and offers a brief cultural and educational experience before continuing toward Marrakech.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
12
Marrakech
Drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass on the way back to Marrakech. Enjoy panoramic mountain views, traditional Berber villages, and terraced valleys. Short stops along the route allow for photos and brief walks to stretch and appreciate the dramatic landscapes. The journey provides a comfortable and scenic conclusion to the desert adventure.
1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Service animals allowed
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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