3-Day Tour and 2 nights to Merzouga with food & Camel trek

Traveling from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the silent, shimmering sands of the Sahara offers a chance to see a side of Morocco few get to experience. This 3-day tour to Merzouga, rated 5.0 out of 5 by 15 travelers, promises an authentic adventure filled with camel rides, Berber culture, and unforgettable desert skies.

What we love about this trip? First, the opportunity to spend two nights camping in the desert, waking up under a blanket of stars. Second, the friendly guides and drivers who make the journey smooth and informative. Third, the chance to indulge in delicious Berber food and enjoy traditional music in a truly atmospheric setting.

One consideration? The trip covers a fair distance and involves a lot of time on the road, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with long drives and looking for a full immersion experience. Perfect for those craving adventure, cultural discovery, or a memorable desert escape.

Key Points

• Authentic Sahara Experience: Camel treks, desert camping, Berber music, and starry nights
• Excellent Value: $139.37 per person for a comprehensive 3-day adventure
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Includes scenic stops like Erfoud and Todra Gorge
• Knowledgeable Guides: Recognized for friendly, helpful drivers who enhance the trip
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, pickup service, and clear schedule
• Authentic Cuisine: Tasty Berber food and traditional dinners under the desert sky

The Itinerary Breakdown and What You Can Expect

Day 1: Marrakech to Merzouga – Into the Heart of the Sahara

Your adventure begins early, with pickup at 7:00 am in Marrakech, and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle that sets the tone for the journey. The drive to Merzouga can take approximately 10 hours, but it’s far from dull. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to arid plains.

Once in Merzouga, you’ll check into your accommodation, which ranges from standard hotels to more rustic stays. After a hearty Moroccan breakfast, the real excitement begins.

Visitors often mention the warmth of the local area, with popular stops including the charming village of Merzouga itself, famous for local shops and welcoming residents. A highlight is a visit to Khamlia Village, where traditional Gnawa music and dance fill the air—an authentic cultural treat that reviewers have loved. One traveler notes, “The guides were very helpful during the tour,” and this hospitality sets the tone for the whole trip.

The afternoon features an exciting camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Expect to be riding in a line of camels, with the soft hum of their footsteps accompanying you into the vast, shifting sands. As the sun begins to set, you’ll witness a breathtaking Sahara sunset, a moment captured in countless photos and praised by reviewers for its beauty.

Dinner in the camp is a highlight — a delicious Berber meal served under the stars. The camp setting is simple but atmospheric, with traditional Berber music playing and a campfire warming the night. Many reviews mention the quality of the food and the memorable experience of sleeping in the desert, often describing it as a dreamlike, surreal experience.

Day 2: Sunrise, Local Sights, and More Desert Magic

The second day starts with an early wake-up to see the sunrise over the Sahara — a truly iconic moment. The quiet beauty of the desert at dawn makes it worth the early rise, according to travelers who say it’s “unforgettable” and “worth every minute.”

Following breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to the camp and hop on a camel to return to Merzouga village. The journey gives you a chance to soak in the vastness of the dunes one last time and reflect on the surreal landscape.

The afternoon includes visits to notable sites like Erfoud, known for its fossils, and the stunning Todra Gorge—a series of limestone canyons that provide excellent photo opportunities and a respite from the desert heat. Reviewers frequently praise these stops, with one mentioning, “The scenery was breathtaking,” and another saying, “The trip was super complete, with a mix of desert, geology, and mountains.”

In the evening, you’ll enjoy another meal in Merzouga, often at a local restaurant, offering authentic Moroccan cuisine. Some travelers mention the option to try sandboarding on the dunes, which adds a fun, adventurous element to the trip.

Day 3: Rissani, Ksar Ouled Debbab, and Return to Marrakech

The final day begins with breakfast before heading towards Rissani, a lively town famous for its bustling market and historic architecture. Visitors enjoy exploring the ruins of Ksar Ouled Debbab, an abandoned village with a fascinating history and atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.

Following a relaxed lunch, the tour circles back toward Marrakech. The return journey usually takes around 10 hours, but with scenic stops and friendly company, many find it part of the adventure. Reviewers highlight the driver’s friendliness and the smoothness of the trip — one even mentions experiencing a brief sandstorm, describing it as “something you’ll never forget,” thanks to their excellent guide, Abdelilah.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $139.37 per person, this tour packs in multiple memorable experiences: camel rides, desert camping, scenic stops, and authentic Moroccan food. It’s a comprehensive package that offers more than just a short desert ride — it’s an immersion into Sahara life and culture, with guided insights and a well-paced schedule.

Many reviews emphasize the friendly guides and drivers, who enhance the experience with helpful explanations and a cheerful attitude. The group size, capped at 18 travelers, ensures an intimate atmosphere and personalized attention.

The included meals (breakfasts and dinners) add considerable value, especially considering the authenticity and quality of the Berber cuisine. The comfort of air-conditioned transport and the convenience of pickup from Marrakech make it easy to relax and focus on the journey.

While some may find the long drives tiring, the scenic variety and the chance to see Morocco’s diverse landscapes soften the trip’s length. The desert nights — especially sleeping under a blanket of stars — are often cited as the highlight, offering an experience you won’t find on typical Moroccan city tours.

Authentic Experiences Review Highlights

• Stunning Sahara Sunsets and Sunrises: Many travelers describe these moments as “breathtaking” and “unforgettable,” perfect for photography and reflection.
• Guides and Drivers: Several reviewers praise Abdul and Abdilah for their friendliness, safety, and knowledge. One notes that “Abdilah was sunny and fun, available at any time.”
• Cultural Richness: Visits to Khamlia and Rissani give a glimpse into local Berber and Gnawa traditions, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.
• Authentic Food: Reviewers love the Berber dinners and breakfasts, often describing them as “delicious” and “authentic,” adding flavor to the trip.
• Comfort in Simplicity: The desert camp may be basic, but many find it charming and genuinely immersive—sleeping under the stars is a memory many cherish.

Considerations for Travelers

This tour is ideal for those who don’t mind long hours on the road and appreciate a full-day itinerary. It’s perfect if you want a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation in the desert. However, if you’re looking for a luxury experience or have mobility issues, some aspects (like camping and long drives) might require consideration.

The tour is family-friendly and suitable for most travelers, given that most participants can participate and it offers pickup services, making logistics straightforward. Just remember, tips and drinks/lunch are not included, so budget accordingly.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour offers an excellent mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty at a very reasonable price. The camel treks, desert camping, and scenic stops create a well-rounded experience that stays with you long after returning home. With friendly guides, authentic cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a genuine Sahara adventure.

Whether you’re a solo traveler wanting a memorable journey, a couple looking for romance under the stars, or a group of friends eager for adventure, this tour delivers on its promises. It’s a balanced, value-packed option that celebrates Morocco’s desert magic while respecting the importance of comfort and authentic experiences.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Marrakech to Merzouga?
The journey takes approximately 10 hours, but it’s broken up with scenic stops and breaks, making it more comfortable.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll receive three breakfasts and two dinners, allowing you to experience traditional Berber cuisine. Drinks and lunch are not included.

What makes the desert camp experience special?
Sleeping under the stars in a simple, traditional camp creates a unique, memorable atmosphere—many reviewers highlight this as the highlight of their trip.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the group size is capped at 18, fostering a friendly environment.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring comfortable clothing for long drives, a hat and sunscreen for the daytime sun, and warm layers for the desert night.

Is the tour flexible or customizable?
The itinerary is set, but some optional activities like sandboarding may be available, depending on the day’s schedule.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Morocco’s Sahara, blending adventure, culture, and scenic beauty—perfect for those ready to embrace the desert’s quiet magic.