Marrakech to the Sahara and back
The classic 7-day Morocco tour from Marrakech: kasbahs, gorges, two nights in Merzouga by the Erg Chebbi dunes and a day to discover Marrakech.
- Marrakech
- Aït Benhaddou
- Dades Gorges
- Merzouga
- Agdz
- Ouarzazate
- Marrakech
Perfect for: First trip to Morocco · Couples · Families · Photography lovers
On request – free, no-obligation quote
Highlights
- Aït Benhaddou kasbah (UNESCO)
- Dades and Todra gorges
- Camel ride and nights in the desert
- 4x4 around Erg Chebbi
- Guided visit of Marrakech
- Sunrise balloon flight (optional)
Why choose this tour
- 1
The desert without rushing
Two nights in Merzouga: sunset on the dunes, starry sky and a full day in the Sahara.
- 2
Marrakech included
Start and end in Marrakech, with a last day in the city and the optional balloon flight.
- 3
The right pace
Stages planned to avoid too much driving, with stops at the best places.
Day-by-day programme
-
Day1
Arrival in Marrakech
Airport welcome and transfer to the riad. Free evening in Jemaa el-Fna square.
Night: Marrakech
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Day2
Marrakech → Aït Benhaddou → Dades Gorges
Tizi n'Tichka pass, the UNESCO kasbah of Aït Benhaddou, then Skoura and the Valley of Roses to the Dades Gorges. Long day, about 6 h 30.
Night: Dades Gorges
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Day3
Dades Gorges → Todra Gorge → Merzouga
Walk in the Todra Gorge, then on to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Camel ride at sunset. About 5 hours.
Night: Desert camp
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Day4
A day in the Merzouga desert
4x4 around Erg Chebbi, Gnawa music in Khamlia and a visit to a nomad family.
Night: Merzouga
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Day5
Merzouga → Agdz → Ouarzazate
Back by the southern road through Alnif and N'Kob to the palm groves of the Draa Valley at Agdz, then Ouarzazate. About 6 h 30.
Night: Ouarzazate
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Day6
Ouarzazate → Marrakech
Back to Marrakech over the High Atlas. About 4 hours. Free afternoon.
Night: Marrakech
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Day7
Sunrise balloon (optional), Marrakech and departure
On request, a sunrise hot air balloon flight over Marrakech. Then a guided visit of the medina: souks, Bahia Palace and Majorelle Garden. Airport transfer in the evening. End of tour.
Driving times are approximate. The programme can be changed.
We can add a day where you like: one more night in the desert or in a city, or one more stop along the way. Tell us what you would like and we prepare the programme.
Ask for the 8-day versionWhat is included
- Transport with driver for the whole tour (private or shared in the group)
- 6 nights in riads, hotels and a desert camp
- Sunset camel ride in Merzouga
- 4x4 ride around Erg Chebbi
- Guided visit of Marrakech
- Marrakech airport transfers
Not included
- International flights
- Hot air balloon flight (optional, on request)
- Tips and personal expenses
Meals and hotel level (standard, comfort or luxury) are agreed together in the quote.
When to go
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Ideal Good Very hot
January and February: low season, fewer tourists and often cheaper flights. Sunny days and cool nights in the desert: bring a warm jumper.
In high season (March–May and September–November) we recommend booking early.
Questions about this tour
How many hours do we drive per day?
Usually 4 to 6 hours, with stops for photos, lunch and visits. The longest day is Marrakech → Dades Gorges.
Where do we sleep in the desert?
In a tented camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes. The camp level (standard or comfort) is chosen in the quote.
Can I make it an 8-day tour?
Yes, we can add a day: one more night in the desert or in Marrakech.
Ask about this tour
Tell us your dates and how many you are: we reply with the programme and a quote.
- Local guides (Italian-speaking on request)
- Private or group: you choose
- A night in the Merzouga desert
- Quick reply with programme and quote