3days/2Nights: Merzouga Sahara Desert Tour

Planning a trip to Morocco and craving an authentic desert adventure? This 3-day, 2-night Merzouga Sahara tour promises a blend of scenic landscapes, cultural encounters, and unforgettable desert nights. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of what travelers can expect.

Three things stand out: the incredible views from the Atlas Mountains, the chance to stay overnight in a traditional Berber camp, and the seamless transport arrangements that make this trip accessible. Plus, at just around $40 per person, this experience offers remarkable value for those eager to explore Morocco’s iconic Sahara. One potential consideration is the long travel hours, so if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer leisurely pacing, this is something to keep in mind.

This tour appeals most to travelers looking for a budget-friendly, immersive desert experience combined with Morocco’s cultural highlights. It’s ideal for adventurous souls who want a taste of the Sahara without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers excellent value for a 3-day desert adventure in Morocco.
• Includes transport, accommodation, meals, and camel rides, so no hidden costs.
• Guided stops at UNESCO-site Ait Benhaddou and Todra Gorges showcase Morocco’s cultural and natural beauty.
• Overnight camel safari and Berber camp stay provide a truly authentic desert night experience.
• Group size up to 40 travelers balances social fun and manageable logistics.
• Flexibility for travelers outside pickup zones with options for meeting points or contacting the provider.

A Practical Look at the Itinerary

This tour is crafted to give travelers a taste of Morocco’s diverse landscapes — from bustling Marrakech to the serene Sahara dunes. It begins early, with a 7 A.M. pickup, which means an early start but also the chance to maximize sightseeing throughout the day.

Day 1: From Marrakech to the Atlas and Beyond

The journey begins by leaving the city behind, transitioning from urban streets to the countryside. The drive takes about 45 minutes to reach the highlands, where the atmosphere shifts quickly from city hustle to mountain tranquility. The first highlight is the Tizi n Tichka pass, a spectacular mountain road that offers sweeping views of the Atlas Mountains. The road itself is a thrill, with numerous photo stops for panoramic shots.

Next, the group visits Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its mud-brick kasbahs. This location has been featured in blockbuster films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones, making it a favorite for movie buffs. Here, you’ll have time for a quick lunch and a wander through the ancient streets, enjoying Morocco’s architectural charm.

From there, the tour continues to Ouarzazate, dubbed the “Hollywood of Africa.” The cinema museum and Taourirt Kasbah provide insight into Morocco’s film industry and history. The next stop, the Valley of Roses, is a fragrant and colorful scene, where locals harvest rose oils used in perfumes and cosmetics. This stop isn’t just sweet-smelling but also gives insight into traditional Moroccan craft and commerce.

Finally, the day culminates at the Dades Gorges, where the striking rock formations resemble giant fingers or toes, depending on your perspective. The scenery is otherworldly, and the overnight at a hotel in this area offers a chance to rest and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Day 2: From the Scenic Gorges to the Sahara

The morning starts with a brief revisit to Dades Gorges, lingering over the magnificent views. The trip then moves eastward to the town of Tinghir, where a guided tour explores the oasis and the famed Todra Gorges. The narrow canyons are a highlight for their towering cliffs and the quiet beauty of the oasis.

The drive from Tinghir to Merzouga is longer, passing through Erfoud and Rissani. These towns deepen the sense of Morocco’s desert life, with Rissani known for its lively markets and local flavor. Arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara, excitement builds.

The highlight of the day is the camel ride into the dunes, timed to catch the sunset. The 45-minute trek provides stunning views of the shifting sands and the vast, open sky. Once in camp, guests are treated to dinner under the stars, accompanied by folkloric music and dance. Sleeping in traditional Berber tents makes for an authentic experience, and many reviews note the magic of this night — quiet, peaceful, and deeply memorable.

Day 3: Return with a Dawn in the Desert

Early the next morning, a sunrise camel ride allows travelers to see the desert awakening. After breakfast, you’ll leave the dunes and head back toward Marrakech. The return journey includes interesting stops, like the High Atlas Mountains, where a scenic restaurant offers a chance for a Berber meal amidst mountain views.

The final stretch includes a short refresh stop at Ait Barka village, giving travelers a chance to rest before the long drive back to Marrakech. The trip concludes around 7:30 P.M., with drop-offs at your hotel or riad.

What We Love About This Tour

Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visiting UNESCO sites like Ait Benhaddou and the Todra Gorges allows you to connect with Morocco’s rich heritage. The stops in villages like Ait Barka and the valley of roses showcase local craftsmanship and traditions, giving you more than just a surface-level experience.

Stunning Scenery: From the mountain vistas of the Atlas to the sweeping dunes of the Sahara, the visuals are breathtaking. The review from a traveler named Giulia highlighted that “all the stops are in beautiful, interesting places,” which is a testament to the carefully curated itinerary.

Value for Money: For roughly $40, the tour includes transportation, meals, hotel stays, and unforgettable activities like camel rides. The reviews mention the guides’ willingness to share knowledge and the overall cost being more than fair considering the scope of the trip.

Overnight in the Desert: Spending a night under the stars in a Berber tent, with a camel ride at sunset and sunrise, is a highlight many reviewers note as the most memorable part of the journey. It’s genuine Morocco in its purest form.

A Few Caveats

While the scenery and cultural stops are top-notch, some reviewers like Bob noted that “the trip was disorganized at points,” with issues like misassigned buses. Long travel hours are part of the package, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel rushed at times. Also, some of the accommodation in standard options may be basic, so if comfort is a priority, consider opting for higher-tier lodging.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

Transport is via an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickups and drop-offs included from designated Marrakech locations. The group size can be up to 40 travelers, striking a balance between social interaction and manageable logistics. The tour is structured to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a sense of shared adventure.

The shared nature of the trip means you’ll likely meet travelers from different countries, creating a lively, international atmosphere. For those outside the pickup zone, the provider offers options to meet the group directly.

Accommodation and Meals

The tour’s accommodation varies depending on your choice — standard, comfort, or VIP/luxury options. Regardless of the level, the accommodation is included for two nights, with the first in a hotel near Dades Gorges and the second in a traditional desert camp. The comfort level ranges from basic to similar to a 5-star hotel, ensuring options for different budgets.

Meals are included for breakfast and dinner each day, with some reviews praising the quality of local Berber cuisine. Lunches are not included, giving travelers flexibility to explore local eateries or pack snacks.

Pricing and Overall Value

At just over $40 per person, the tour offers a budget-friendly way to see a wide swath of Morocco’s highlights. When you consider transportation, two nights of accommodation, meals, and an overnight camel safari, the overall value is compelling. It’s a way to experience Morocco’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and desert life without breaking the bank.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for budget travelers eager to explore Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural riches. It suits those who want an organized, guided trip with reliable transport and accommodations. If you’re comfortable with long travel days and looking for a genuinely immersive desert adventure, this tour checks many boxes.

However, if you prefer a slower pace, luxury accommodations, or more personalized guides, you might want to explore other options. Still, for the majority, this tour offers a comprehensive, authentic taste of what Morocco’s Sahara has to offer.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at designated Marrakech locations are included, making it convenient to start and finish the trip.

How long is the camel ride?
The camel ride lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes in total, with one ride at sunset and another at sunrise, giving you ample time to enjoy the dunes.

Are meals included?
Breakfast and dinner are provided daily as part of the package. Lunches are not included, so you can explore local eateries or bring snacks.

What should I pack for the desert night?
Bring warm clothing for the desert evening, as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, and don’t forget your camera, hat, and sunglasses.

Is the accommodation in the desert camp comfortable?
The camp offers a traditional Berber experience, with tents and shared facilities. Many reviews describe it as magical, though some note basic amenities.

Can I join the tour if I don’t stay in Marrakech?
Yes, options are available to meet the group at designated points if you are outside the pickup zone.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 40 travelers, balancing social fun with manageable logistics.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the itinerary is generally suitable for most ages, consider the long travel hours and the physical activity involved in camel rides when bringing young children.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent, but if canceled due to bad weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Merzouga Sahara tour from Marrakech offers an eye-opening journey through Morocco’s varied landscapes, blending cultural highlights with the thrill of desert life. The included camel rides, nights under the stars, and visits to iconic sites like Ait Benhaddou make it an unforgettable experience.

The value is undeniable, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary, meals, and accommodations included for such a budget-friendly price. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery without the fuss of independent planning.

While long travel days and basic accommodations might not appeal to everyone, those who want a guided, authentic desert experience will find this tour very rewarding. It’s an excellent introduction to Morocco’s natural beauty and vibrant culture — a trip that will surely leave you with stories to tell for years to come.