From Marrakech: Tour To Merzouga 3-Day Desert with Food

Traveling from Marrakech to the Sahara is often on many travelers’ bucket lists, and a three-day tour like this promises a blend of natural beauty, culture, and memorable adventures. We’ve looked into this experience offered by MOROCCO TOURS SAHARA, and while we haven’t done it ourselves, the detailed reviews, itinerary, and reviews paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What immediately draws us to this tour are its authentic experiences—spending a night in a Berber camp with music and dance, riding camels across the dunes, and visiting iconic sites like Ait Benhaddou. We also appreciate the scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains and the opportunity to enjoy traditional Moroccan meals under the stars.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that some travelers found the journey to be long and bus-heavy, with days spent mostly on the road. So, if you’re prone to travel fatigue or prefer shorter travel times, this might be a consideration. Nevertheless, it’s a fantastic pick for those craving an immersive desert experience coupled with cultural sights.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes, and are comfortable with moderate physical activity like camel riding and walking. It’s also ideal if you’re seeking a good value—at $173 per person—including food, accommodations, and guided excursions.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with Berber music, dance, and hospitality.
• Scenic drives through the Atlas Mountains and Dades Gorge that are visually stunning.
• Unforgettable desert moments like camel treks and sunrise/sunset views over the dunes.
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Ait Benhaddou, famous for its film fame and striking kasbahs.
• Comfortable accommodations in both hotels and desert tents, with meals included.
• Long travel days might be tiring for some, especially on the journey back.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Do

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Gorge via Atlas Mountains and Ait Benhaddou

Your adventure kicks off early, with a scenic drive through the majestic Atlas Mountains. The Tizi n’Tichka pass offers breathtaking vistas, and it’s a highlight for many travelers. As you wind through the mountain roads, you’ll get a sense of Morocco’s dramatic terrain, which separates Marrakech from the desert.

A key stop here is the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified village that doubles as a popular film location—think “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.” Walking through its narrow alleyways and ancient kasbahs gives you a real taste of Moroccan history and architecture. Many reviewers praise this stop, saying it’s a “highlight” and worth the visit for its striking visual appeal.

Continuing east, you’ll pass through the lush Dades Valley, known for its fascinating rock formations and picturesque scenery. The day ends at a guesthouse in Dades Gorge, where the setting is tranquil, and the traditional Moroccan dinner is a memorable way to wrap up the day.

Day 2: Dades Gorge to Merzouga – The Heart of the Sahara

On day two, the focus shifts to the desert itself. After breakfast, you’ll explore Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon with towering cliffs and a lively river running through it—an ideal spot for photos and stretching your legs.

The highlight is the journey into Merzouga, where the dunes of Erg Chebbi beckon. The drive itself is scenic, with changing landscapes that show Morocco’s diverse terrain, from rocky gorges to expansive desert plains. Several reviews mention the “beautiful views” and “fabulous landscapes,” making this part of the trip truly special.

Once in Merzouga, the iconic camel trek into the dunes begins. Many travelers find this to be the most memorable moment—riding a camel as the sun begins to set, painting the dunes in shades of orange and gold. It’s a peaceful, almost meditative experience, and the photos are stunning.

Guests are then welcomed into a Berber camp, where they’re treated to warm hospitality and a delicious dinner. The camp experience is a favorite for many, especially when the night sky fills with stars and traditional music surrounds the campfire. Some reviewers mention the “authentic music and dance,” which adds to the special atmosphere. Spending the night in a tent—luxury options are available—allows for a full immersion in desert tranquility.

Day 3: Sunrise and Return to Marrakech

The early morning begins with a sunrise over the dunes—a breathtaking scene that many describe as unforgettable. After breakfast, you’ll start heading back west, with a stop at Ouarzazate’s famous Kasbah Taourirt. This historical site offers a glimpse into Morocco’s architectural history and is often praised for its striking design.

The drive back through the Atlas Mountains is picturesque, giving you time to reflect on the trip’s highlights. Expect to be back in Marrakech by evening, completing a journey that many say is packed with incredible sights and meaningful experiences.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $173 per person covers a lot of ground. You get pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, a driver-guide, accommodations (one night in a hotel and one in a desert camp), meals (two dinners and two breakfasts), camel treks, and entertainment like Berber drums. This makes the overall value quite appealing, especially considering the inclusions of meals and activities.

However, not included are lunch, drinks, and optional local guides in Ait Benhaddou (which cost extra). It’s worth planning for some additional cash if you want a guided walk through the kasbah or souvenirs along the way.

The Transport & Group Size

Traveling in a minibus or minivan, the journey is comfortable and climate-controlled—crucial for such long drives. While specific group sizes aren’t provided, reviews mention “fabulous groups” and good organization, so expect a small to medium-sized tour group, which typically enhances the experience.

Timing & Physical Activity

The trip involves moderate physical activity—camel rides, walking through gorges—so packing light and bringing warm clothes for cooler desert nights is advised. The itinerary’s pace is full but manageable for most travelers, and many reviews highlight the well-organized nature of the trip.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Multiple reviewers underscore the expertise of guides. Mohamed and Ahmed are praised for their kindness and knowledge, making the long days more enjoyable. Travelers frequently mention the stunning landscapes—from the rugged gorges to the sweeping dunes—and how these views make the journey worthwhile.

The authenticity of the desert camp is another highlight. Guests appreciate the chance to listen to Berber music, enjoy delicious Moroccan cuisine, and sleep under a canopy of stars—these moments create lasting memories.

The Value for Money

At $173, this tour includes transport, accommodations, meals, and activities, which many say is an excellent deal for such an immersive experience. While some mention the long bus days, they agree that the trip’s highlights — especially the Sahara adventure — outweigh the fatigue.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after an authentic Moroccan adventure that combines scenic drives, cultural sites, and a night under the stars, this tour offers genuine value. It’s perfect for those who are comfortable with travel days and want to see a wide range of Morocco’s landscapes and sights in a short span.

Travelers eager to experience the Sahara’s magic—with camel rides, campfire nights, and sunrise views—will find it hard to beat. It’s also well-suited for lovers of photography, history, and culture, thanks to stops at iconic sites like Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate.

Finally, for those who value good organization, friendly guides, and included meals, this tour delivers an experience that feels both immersive and accessible. Just be prepared for some long driving stretches, and pack accordingly for the desert’s cool nights and daytime sun.

FAQs

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the trip uses air-conditioned minibuses or minivans, making long days of travel more pleasant.

How physically demanding is the tour? Moderate activity is involved, including camel riding and walking through gorges; packing light and dressing for warm days and cool nights is recommended.

Are meals included? Yes, two dinners and two breakfasts are part of the package, offering authentic Moroccan cuisine to enjoy throughout the journey.

Can I book the desert camp with a luxury tent? Yes, if you select that option, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable tent experience.

What should I bring? Essential items include your passport, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen. Warm clothing is advisable for chilly desert nights.

Is there a guide in Ait Benhaddou? Guides in the kasbah are available for an extra charge, so you can choose to join a guided visit if preferred.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Overall, this 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour offers a well-rounded experience for travelers craving Moroccan landscapes, culture, and adventure. While the journey is lengthy, the sights and moments you’ll collect make it a trip worth considering if you’re eager for an authentic Sahara escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: