5 Days desert tour from Marrakech

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley – Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

Departure from Marrakech

Our adventure begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, heading towards the majestic High Atlas Mountains. The journey takes us through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road pass in Morocco, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As we ascend, the landscape shifts from the urban hustle of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the mountains, with traditional Berber villages dotting the landscape.

Exploring Ait Ben Haddou

Our first major stop is at the historic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its well-preserved kasbahs. This ancient fortified village has been the backdrop for many films and is a prime example of traditional Moroccan architecture. We spend time exploring the narrow, winding streets of Ait Ben Haddou, taking in the rich history and stunning views.

Visit to Ouarzazate

Continuing our journey, we arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert” and home to the famous Atlas Film Studios. Here, we visit the Taourirt Kasbah, one of the most impressive and well-preserved kasbahs in Morocco. The kasbah offers a glimpse into the life of the region’s rulers in the past and is a perfect example of Moroccan architectural ingenuity.

Arrival in Dades Valley

As the day comes to an end, we drive to the Dades Valley, also known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” This region is renowned for its dramatic rock formations and fertile oases. We spend the night in a charming riad, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner and the peaceful ambiance of the valley.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga – Journey into the Sahara

Todra Gorge – A Geological Marvel

After breakfast, we depart for the stunning Todra Gorge, a natural wonder with towering rock walls that rise up to 300 meters. The gorge offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for hikers and climbers. We take a leisurely walk through the gorge, surrounded by the sheer cliffs and the sound of the river flowing through the canyon.

On the Road to Merzouga

Leaving the Todra Gorge behind, we continue our journey towards Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. The landscape gradually changes from mountainous terrain to the vast, arid plains that mark the edge of the desert. As we approach Merzouga, the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi come into view, their golden sands shimmering in the sunlight.

Camel Trek into the Sahara

In Merzouga, we prepare for one of the most memorable experiences of the tour: a camel trek into the Sahara Desert. As the sun sets, we mount our camels and begin our journey across the dunes, surrounded by the endless expanse of sand. The tranquility of the desert, coupled with the stunning sunset, creates a moment of pure magic.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

Our day concludes at a traditional Berber camp nestled among the dunes. Here, we are welcomed with warm Moroccan hospitality and enjoy a delicious dinner under the starry sky. The evening is spent around the campfire, listening to traditional Berber music and sharing stories. We spend the night in comfortable tents, experiencing the serenity and beauty of the desert.

Day 3: Exploring Merzouga – A Full Day in the Desert

Sunrise Over the Dunes

The day begins early with a stunning sunrise over the Sahara. The play of light and shadow on the dunes is a sight to behold, as the desert awakens with the first light of day. After breakfast at the camp, we set out to explore the Merzouga area.

4×4 Adventure and Desert Villages

Today’s adventure includes a thrilling 4×4 ride across the desert, visiting nearby villages such as Khamlia, known for its Gnawa music and culture. We meet the local inhabitants and learn about their way of life in this harsh environment, gaining insight into the resilience and hospitality of the Berber people.

Visit to the Oasis of Hassi Labied

We also visit the Hassi Labied oasis, where we see how life thrives in the desert. The lush palm groves and traditional irrigation systems stand in stark contrast to the surrounding dunes, providing a unique glimpse into the ingenuity of the local people. We take a leisurely walk through the oasis, learning about the farming techniques used to cultivate crops in this arid region.

Return to the Desert Camp

As the day draws to a close, we return to our desert camp for another night under the stars. The evening is spent enjoying traditional Berber music, sharing stories around the campfire, and soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the Sahara.

Day 4: Merzouga to Ouarzazate – Retracing Our Steps

Final Camel Trek and Departure from Merzouga

After a light breakfast, we mount our camels one last time for the trek back to Merzouga. The morning light casts long shadows across the dunes, offering a final chance to take in the beauty of the Sahara. Back in Merzouga, we say goodbye to our camels and begin the drive back towards Ouarzazate.

Exploring the Draa Valley

On our return journey, we take a different route, passing through the Draa Valley, known for its palm groves and ancient kasbahs. This valley is the longest river valley in Morocco and has been a key trading route for centuries. We make several stops along the way to admire the scenery and learn more about the history and culture of the region.

Arrival in Ouarzazate

As the day comes to an end, we arrive back in Ouarzazate. We spend the night in a comfortable riad, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past few days. The city, with its historic sites and relaxed atmosphere, offers a perfect end to the day.

Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech – The Journey Home

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains Again

Our final day begins with a hearty breakfast before we set off on the journey back to Marrakech. We retrace our steps through the High Atlas Mountains, taking in the breathtaking views one last time. The journey offers a chance to reflect on the incredible landscapes and experiences that have defined this tour.

Visit to Telouet Kasbah

On the way back, we make a stop at the Telouet Kasbah, a lesser-known yet equally impressive kasbah located in the High Atlas Mountains. This kasbah was once the stronghold of the powerful Glaoui family and offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s feudal past. We explore its ornate rooms and learn about the history of the region before continuing our journey.

Arrival in Marrakech

As the afternoon approaches, we arrive back in Marrakech, where our five-day desert adventure concludes. The city’s vibrant souks, historic sites, and lively atmosphere offer a warm welcome back. The memories of the Sahara, the warmth of the Berber people, and the stunning landscapes of Morocco will stay with us long after we leave.