2-Day, 1-Night Desert Trip to Merzouga from Ouarzazate

Planning a quick escape into Morocco’s iconic Sahara desert can feel overwhelming with so many options. This 2-day, 1-night trip from Ouarzazate to Merzouga offers a practical mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and culture — all at a reasonable price of $141 per person. While not flawless, it provides a solid introduction to desert life and the rugged landscapes that make Morocco unique.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic experiences like camel rides at sunset, walking through stunning gorges, and camping under the stars. Plus, the chance to soak in sights like the Todra Gorges and the dunes of Erg Chebbi offers a genuine taste of Sahara magic. The trip’s main highlight is the overnight stay in a desert camp, where you’ll enjoy local music and Moroccan hospitality.

One thing to consider is that the tour can sometimes feel rushed, with reviews mentioning short camel rides or limited time at key stops. It’s best suited to travelers with a flexible mindset who want a taste of the Sahara without spending days on the road. If you’re after a quick, scenic adventure with memorable moments, this experience fits the bill.

Key Points

• Authentic desert camp experience with traditional music and Berber hospitality
• Scenic highlights including Todra Gorges and Erg Chebbi dunes
• Camel rides during sunset or sunrise add a memorable touch
• Includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a professional driver
• Cost-effective for a two-day Sahara escape
• Some reviews mention organizational quirks and shorter rides than expected

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Journey in Ouarzazate

Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive through the famous road of 1,000 Kasbahs, a route lined with ancient fortresses and vibrant kasbah villages. This is a great way to get a sense of Morocco’s historical architecture and rural landscapes. Expect your driver to be professional and comfortable, providing a smooth ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, a relief given Morocco’s warm climate.

Tineghier Village & the Jewish Kasbah

Next, you’ll pass through the quaint Tineghier village and glimpse the Jewish Kasbah, adding a cultural layer to your journey. These stops aren’t just photo ops—they’re windows into local lifestyles and history, making the drive more meaningful rather than just a transfer.

Lunch at Todra Gorges

Arriving at the Todra Gorges around lunchtime, you’ll have the option to enjoy a meal while soaking in breathtaking canyon views. The gorges are a highlight for nature lovers, with towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations. Many reviews note that the walk through the gorges is a favorite part of the trip, offering fresh air and stunning scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Gorges and Surroundings

After lunch, the tour often includes a walk through these impressive gorges, giving travelers time to admire the natural beauty and take photos. This part of the trip is appreciated by visitors like Jasmine, who mentioned that, despite minor organizational hiccups, everything generally went well.

Heading to Erfoud and Merzouga

Continuing eastward through Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil crafts, you’ll get a sense of the local economy and craft traditions. This stop is also a transitional point before reaching Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara dunes.

Sunset at Merzouga and Optional Lunch

Arriving in Merzouga, there’s an option to enjoy lunch or relax before heading into the dunes. The highlight here is the sunset camel ride, which many reviewers say is unforgettable. The camels are usually calm and gentle, but some guests have expressed concerns about safety or short rides—these are worth noting if you’re seeking a longer trek.

The Dunes and Desert Camp

As evening approaches, you’ll saddle up and walk or ride camels into the Erg Chebbi Dunes. The camp experience is often described as a highlight: traditional Berber tents, music, and dinner under the stars. Reviewer “GetYourGuide traveler” described it as “superb and comfortable,” with local music adding a lively touch. You’ll likely enjoy a dinner filled with Moroccan flavors and perhaps some nomadic guitar or drums.

Sunrise in the Desert

Early the next morning, a walk over the dunes to catch the sunrise is a popular activity. The view behind the Algerian border is often cited as spectacular, with golden sands stretching endlessly. After breakfast, you’ll prepare to head back to Ouarzazate, retracing your route through Erfoud and the Gorges.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle operated by a professional driver
• Camel ride into the dunes
• One night in a desert camp with dinner and breakfast
• Meals—dinner and breakfast with vegetarian options available
• All applicable taxes are covered

Not Included

• Lunches (though optional stops are available)
• Drinks (alcoholic and soft drinks)
• Entry fees for certain sites
• Travel insurance (recommended separately)

Practical Tips

• Bring your passport or ID for border crossing and security checks
• Pack comfortable shoes for walking and exploring
• A hat and sunscreen are essential for daytime desert heat
• Weather-appropriate clothing means layers—desert temperatures can fluctuate
• No alcohol or drugs are allowed during the tour due to safety and local regulations

The Experience from Reviews

Feedback from travelers highlights a mixed but generally positive picture. Many loved the guides like Redwan, who are praised for their knowledge and positivity, making the journey more engaging. Hassan, the driver, gets commendations for his pleasant demeanor.

Guests appreciate the authenticity of the desert camp, describing it as comfortable and lively with traditional music. However, some reviewers, like Laure, mention organizational issues—such as short camel rides, poor communication, and rough treatment upon arrival. These are important considerations if you’re expecting a seamless, luxury experience.

Others found the trip well worth the price, especially for the scenery, the chance to see the Todra Gorges, and the magic of sleeping under the stars. The sunrise and sunset, in particular, appear to be universal highlights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a cost-effective, authentic Sahara adventure. It suits those who are flexible, appreciate scenic drives, and enjoy simple camping with local music. It’s a good fit for first-timers seeking a quick desert fix without the hassle of longer tours.

However, if you’re after luxury accommodations, longer camel rides, or a more structured itinerary, you might find this tour a bit rushed or basic. Those with mobility issues or who prefer a more leisurely pace should also consider their comfort level, especially since some reviews mention short rides and limited time at stops.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day trip from Ouarzazate to Merzouga packs in a lot of Morocco’s iconic sights and experiences into a manageable schedule. It offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and genuine desert life — perfect for travelers on a budget or short on time.

While not perfect, the tour’s strengths lie in its authenticity, scenic drives, and the guide’s local knowledge. The desert camp experience, with traditional music and starry nights, remains a memorable highlight.

If you’re looking for a balanced adventure that provides a taste of Sahara life without committing to a multi-day journey, this tour is worth considering. Just stay flexible, keep expectations realistic, and enjoy the incredible scenery and warm Moroccan hospitality.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included with vegetarian options, making it easier to accommodate dietary preferences.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card, comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

How long is the camel ride?
The camel ride into the dunes is generally short, but it is a highlight for many. Some reviews mention it being brief, so if you’re seeking a longer trek, consider this when booking.

Are the stops well-organized?
Most travelers find the stops well-timed, such as at Todra Gorges and Erfoud, though a few reviews mention minor organizational issues or delays.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, the tour offers the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility with travel plans.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most travelers, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems, due to the nature of camel rides and quick transfers.

What’s the quality of the desert camp?
Many reviewers describe the camp as comfortable with traditional Berber tents, music, and authentic Moroccan hospitality.

Can I see the sunrise in the dunes?
Yes, many travelers enjoy a morning walk to watch the sunrise, often behind the Algerian border.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring water and any other beverages you prefer. Alcohol is not permitted.

What’s the overall value for money?
At $141, the trip offers a fair balance of scenic views, cultural experiences, and comfort, especially considering its short duration and inclusions.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical introduction to Morocco’s Sahara with highlights that will stay with you long after the sands settle. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of desert life, willing to accept some organizational quirks, and eager to experience Moroccan culture in a lively setting. If you’re after a straightforward adventure with authentic moments, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: