3 Days Trip Merzouga Desert (Privet or Shared room option)

Explore the Moroccan Sahara with this three-day adventure from Marrakech, balancing cultural sights, scenic drives, and unforgettable desert moments. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly journey or a more private experience, this tour offers a solid taste of Moroccan desert life and history.

What I love about this trip? First, the chance to ride a camel across those iconic golden dunes at sunset — truly breathtaking. Second, exploring the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, a place packed with stories and stunning clay architecture. And third, the opportunity to wake up early and witness the desert’s sunrise from the top of a towering dune is pure magic.

One thing to keep in mind? The journey involves long days of travel, so if you’re not a fan of road trips, this might feel a bit tiring. Still, the scenery and experiences tend to make up for the hours spent on the road.

This tour is perfect for travelers craving authentic Moroccan culture, stunning desert landscapes, and a taste of adventure — all at a very accessible price point.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic camel ride across Erg Chebbi Dunes for classic desert photos and serenity
Visit to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient kasbahs
Scenic drive through Atlas Mountains and valleys, offering spectacular viewpoints
Overnight stay in a desert camp, with dinner around the fire and stargazing
Flexible options, including private or shared accommodations
Value-for-money experience, with transportation, camel rides, and guided visits included

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Erfoud

Day 1: Marrakech to the High Atlas and Ouarzazate

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your Marrakech hotel, setting out on a journey that already promises plenty of visual treats. The drive through green valleys and arid deserts highlights Morocco’s diverse landscape, culminating at the Tizi nTichka pass, the highest in North Africa. From here, the views of the Atlas Mountains are spectacular, often described as a natural roller coaster of peaks and valleys.

A highlight is the visit to Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified city that has served as a backdrop for countless films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. With a local guide, you’ll wander through narrow alleys, admire the impressive earthen architecture, and learn about its historical significance. Many reviewers cite this as a truly unforgettable stop, with one highlighting the “amazing craftsmanship of the kasbahs” and the “storytelling that brought history alive.”

Lunch isn’t included, but nearby restaurants offer hearty Moroccan fare if you wish to try local dishes. Afterward, the tour continues to Ouarzazate, a center for Moroccan cinema, where you could opt to visit the famous film studios. The day concludes at the Dades Gorges, where the dramatic rock formations and winding river make for scenic photos. A stop at the Rose Valley offers a chance to see how rose water is produced, another authentic Moroccan experience.

Day 2: From Mountains to the Sahara

Rising early, you’ll head toward the Todra Gorges, a favorite spot for rock climbers but equally scenic for all travelers. The towering cliffs and lush palm oases offer a stark contrast to the desert ahead. Many guests mention how peaceful this part of the journey is, with a sense of anticipation building as you leave behind the mountain scenery.

From here, the tour follows ancient caravan routes, passing through old desert villages. Traveling through these areas reveals how traditional life persists amid the changing environment. Arriving in Erfoud, known for its fossils and black marble, adds a geological element to your trip.

Finally, you arrive at the Merzouga Desert, where your camels await. Riding a camel across the erg chebbi dunes is the heart of this experience. Many reviews talk about how “the camel ride is surprisingly comfortable” and “the views at sunset are absolutely stunning.” The camp hosts a Berber dinner around a campfire, often complemented by traditional music, and some guests mention how the night sky seems to stretch forever, filled with stars.

Day 3: Sunrise and Return to Marrakech

The early morning wake-up call is rewarded with a desert sunrise from the top of a dune—a moment that leaves a lasting impression. Many travelers describe it as a “magical, almost spiritual experience.” After breakfast, you have the choice to ride dromedaries again or hop into a 4WD back toward Marrakech, depending on your preference and package.

The return journey is long but scenic, with stops for lunch and brief breaks, making sure you get a chance to stretch and reflect on your adventure. While the drive back is tiring, many reflect on the memorable moments rather than the hours spent on the road.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transportation, Accommodation, and Value

Transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, with a professional driver ensuring safety and smooth progress. The group size varies depending on whether you opt for private or shared rooms, but both options are designed to keep logistics straightforward.

Accommodation ranges from local hotels or riads on the first night, providing a taste of Moroccan hospitality, to the desert camp — which is a highlight for most guests. The camp offers a rustic yet immersive experience, with the option to choose private or shared tents, providing flexibility for different comfort levels.

At just $98 per person, the overall value is impressive considering the inclusions: transportation, camel rides, and guided visits. Extra costs are limited to lunches, drinks, and optional extras like cinema studio visits or private guides. Many reviewers note that the price reflects a fair balance between affordability and quality, especially given the diversity of experiences packed into the three days.

There's plenty more to explore in Erfoud

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

You’ll love the guided visits to key sites like Ait Ben Haddou—many guides are quite knowledgeable and enthusiastic, enriching your understanding of local history and architecture. The camel ride is surprisingly smooth, and many describe the dunes as “more beautiful than expected,” especially at sunset.

Keep in mind that long hours on the road mean you should prepare for some fatigue. Packing a towel and camera, as recommended, will be useful for comfort and capturing memories. The early desert sunrise is a must-see, so set your alarm.

Feedback from travelers highlights the stunning views, delicious Berber meals, and the friendly camp hosts, making the overnight stay a highlight of the trip. That said, some mention that the journey can be physically demanding, so a good level of fitness helps.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits budget-conscious travelers who want an authentic Moroccan desert experience without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for those eager to see iconic sights like Ait Ben Haddou and Todra Gorges, and who enjoy scenic drives and culture. Adventure seekers will love the camel rides and early sunrise, while history buffs appreciate the detailed stops along the way.

It’s also suitable for first-timers or solo travelers, as the group dynamic often fosters camaraderie. However, those with mobility issues should review the long drives and uneven terrain at the camp.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Merzouga Desert tour offers an impressive mix of Morocco’s highlights with great value for the price. It balances scenic drives, cultural stops, and authentic desert experiences, making it perfect for travelers seeking a genuine taste of Moroccan life and landscapes. The knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and the unforgettable night under the stars really do make this a trip worth considering.

If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized desert adventure that captures the essence of Morocco, this tour delivers — especially at its accessible price point. It’s best suited for those keen on cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and a bit of adventure, all wrapped in a manageable itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation for the entire trip, including pickup and drop-off from your Marrakech hotel.

Can I choose between private and shared rooms?
Yes, there are options for both private and shared accommodations, offering flexibility based on your budget and preference.

What should I bring?
Packing a towel and camera is recommended, especially for capturing the desert sunrise and other scenic moments.

Are guides included?
While the tour includes guided visits to sites like Ait Ben Haddou, it does not include a dedicated guide for the entire trip. You’ll be accompanied by a professional driver.

Is food included?
Lunches and drinks are not included, but at the desert camp, you can enjoy traditional Berber meals around the campfire. You may want to bring snacks or plan to buy meals along the way.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, desert trips are often most enjoyable in cooler seasons — spring and fall — to avoid extreme heat or cold.

This 3-day adventure from Marrakech unlocks Morocco’s desert beauty and cultural richness at a price that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, it offers enough highlights and authentic moments to make your journey truly memorable.