Sahara Desert Excursion from Marrakech Overview :
A Sahara Desert excursion from Marrakech is more than a tour. It is a deep and peaceful journey into the heart of Morocco. You will see the beauty of the sand dunes, visit famous places like Ait Ben Haddou, and enjoy the silence of the desert.
You will meet kind local people and drink mint tea with them. Whether it is your first time in Morocco or not, this trip will stay in your heart forever.
We highly recommend this tour if you want to visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco. It is one of the best ways to learn about the culture, nature, and life in the desert.
- Duration : 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Starting Location : Marrakech
- Ending Location : Marrakech
- Departure : Everyday
Sahara Desert Excursion from Marrakech Highlights (What You Will See)
- High Atlas Mountains
- Ait Ben Haddou (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Ouarzazate (Hollywood of Africa)
- Dades Valley and Todra Gorge
- Camel ride at sunset
- Erg Chebbi sand dunes
- Sleeping under the stars in a desert camp
- Mint tea with local Berber people
Why Choose a Sahara Desert Excursion from Marrakech?
Marrakech is one of the best cities to start your Sahara desert tour. The city is close to famous desert areas, and there are many transportation systems to choose from. A Sahara Desert excursion from Marrakech lets you escape the busy city and explore the real Morocco.
You will pass through the High Atlas Mountains and Middle Atlas Mountains. You will visit ancient villages, meet local people, and sleep in a desert camp. This trip is a deep and peaceful experience.
Day by Day Itinerary for Sahara Desert Excursion from Marrakech
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Drive Distance: Approx. 320 km / 7 hours
Your Sahara desert excursion from Marrakech begins early in the morning from Marrakech. As you leave the city behind, you’ll travel across the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which rises to 2,260 meters. The drive offers breathtaking views and chances to stop for mint tea and panoramic photos overlooking traditional Berber villages.
Midday, you’ll arrive at the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This iconic ksar has been featured in movies such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia. You’ll explore its narrow alleys, clay architecture, and towers with a local guide.
Continuing to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa,” you’ll pass by the Atlas Film Studios and the historic Taourirt Kasbah. Afterward, the road leads you through the palm groves of Skoura and the scenic Valley of Roses.
By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Boumalne Dades, where you’ll spend the night in a traditional guesthouse or hotel in the heart of the Dades Valley. Dinner will be served with local Moroccan dishes.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Erfoud – Merzouga – Erg Chebbi Dunes
Drive Distance: Approx. 280 km / 6 hours
After breakfast, the day begins with a drive through the winding roads of Dades Gorge, where you’ll witness the unique rock formations known as “Monkey Fingers.” The route continues to Tinghir, a small town surrounded by palm trees and overlooked by ancient mud-brick ksars.
You’ll then visit the dramatic Todra Gorge, a favorite among rock climbers. The gorge’s sheer limestone cliffs reach heights of 300 meters and are perfect for a short walk or photos along the cool riverbed.
The journey continues through Tinjdad and into the town of Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops and date markets. Soon after, you’ll reach Merzouga, where the golden sand dunes of Erg Chebbi rise into the horizon.
In the late afternoon, you’ll switch to camelback for a one-hour trek into the heart of the dunes. As the sun sets, the desert comes alive with color. You’ll arrive at a desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner, live Berber music, and a peaceful night sleeping under the stars in a private tent.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Draa Valley – Agdz – Ouarzazate
Drive Distance: Approx. 370 km / 7 hours
You’ll wake early to catch the sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes, one of the most magical moments of the journey. After breakfast at the camp, you’ll return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4.
Next, you’ll stop in Rissani, the former capital of the Tafilalt region and a bustling traditional market town. This is a great opportunity to discover the local souks and try regional dates and spices.
Your route then continues through Alnif and into the expansive Draa Valley. This lush area is filled with palm groves, kasbahs, and small villages. You’ll pass through the town of Agdz, a peaceful stop at the foot of the Anti-Atlas Mountains.
By the evening, you’ll return to Ouarzazate for dinner and an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel or guesthouse.
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Tizi n'Tichka Pass – Marrakech
Drive Distance: Approx. 200 km / 4.5 hours
On the final day of your Sahara desert excursion from Marrakech, after breakfast, you’ll make your way back to Marrakech. Depending on timing and interest, you may stop again at Ait Ben Haddou for a second visit or explore the historic Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate.
As you cross back over the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, you’ll have one last chance to admire the breathtaking mountain views and small Berber villages. Arrival in Marrakech is expected by late afternoon, where your driver will drop you off at your accommodation.
Tour Gallery
Tour Map:
What is Included and Excluded in Sahara Desert Excursion from Marrakech
Included :
- Comfortable transportation by 4x4 or minibus
- English or Spanish-speaking local guide
- Hotel in Dades Valley
- Camel ride in Erg Chebbi
- One night in a desert camp
- Breakfasts and dinners
Excluded :
- Personal expenses
- Drinks
- Lunches
- Beverages
Tips for the Sahara Desert Excursion from Marrakech
When you go on a Sahara Desert excursion from Marrakech, it’s important to dress the right way. During the day, it gets hot, so you should wear light clothes. But at night, the desert becomes cold, so bring a jacket to stay warm. You will also need sunglasses, sunscreen, and something to cover your head, like a scarf or a turban. These will help you stay protected from the strong sun.
Before you leave the city, make sure your phone and camera are fully charged. In the desert, electricity may not always be available. It’s also a good idea to carry cash with you, since many places do not accept bank cards. While you enjoy meeting locals along the way, always be polite. Ask before taking photos of people and respect their traditions. This helps you enjoy your trip and show respect at the same time.
Best Time to Take This Tour
The best time to visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is not too hot or too cold. July and August can be very hot. In winter, nights can be very cold, especially in the desert camp. Always check the weather before you go.
Note :
Please note that this is simply a recommended itinerary. If it doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to contact us. We can create a custom itinerary based on your preferences and how long you’ll be staying. We offer personalized tours all around Morocco.
Cancellation policy for the Sahara Desert Excursion from Marrakech
For a full refund, kindly cancel your sahara desert excursion from Marrakech at least 7 days before the scheduled date. If the cancellation occurs within 7 days of your trip, the deposit becomes nonrefundable. Nevertheless, it remains valid for future use if you choose to reschedule. To initiate the cancellation process, please send us an email or text us via WhatsApp
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How far is the Sahara Desert from Marrakech?
The Sahara Desert is about 560 km from Marrakech. It takes around 9 to 10 hours to reach Merzouga by car.
Can I do a one-day trip from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert?
No, a one-day trip is not possible. The distance is too long. You need at least 3 days to enjoy the Sahara Desert excursion from Marrakech.
Is it safe to take a Sahara Desert excursion from Marrakech?
Yes, it is very safe. The tours are run by experienced local guides who know the area well.
Should I choose Merzouga or Zagora?
Merzouga has bigger sand dunes and is better for a full Sahara desert experience. Zagora is closer to Marrakech but has smaller dunes.
What is the best mode of transport?
A private 4×4 is the most comfortable. Group tours in minibuses are also available and cheaper.
What should I bring on the trip?
You should bring light clothes for the day and warm clothes for the night. Also, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera. Do not forget your passport and some cash.
