From Marrakech : 2 Day Stay in Merzouga with Food and Camel Trek

Exploring the Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour: An Authentic Moroccan Adventure

While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the comprehensive reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of a truly memorable trip. This 3-day journey from Marrakech to the Sahara promises striking landscapes, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences under the desert stars.

What we love about this tour? First, the well-planned itinerary that balances scenic stops, cultural visits, and adventure activities. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides—reviewers consistently mention drivers like Mohammed, Hassan, Hakim, and Yassin, who go out of their way to make the journey smooth and engaging. Third, the value for money with included meals, camel rides, and cozy accommodations at a reasonable price.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a fairly long and active trip, with multiple stops and a fair amount of time on the road. Travelers who prefer a relaxed pace might find it a bit intense, but for those eager to see a broad slice of Morocco in a short time, it’s perfect.

This tour suits adventurous souls eager to explore Morocco’s iconic landscapes, experience authentic Berber culture, and enjoy fun activities like sandboarding and camel trekking. It’s ideal for first-time visitors looking for a comprehensive, budget-friendly Sahara experience.

• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visits to UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate’s film studios provide a deep sense of Moroccan history.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the High Atlas, the Draa River palm groves, and the Sahara’s endless dunes.
• Guides and Group Size: Experienced guides like Yassin and Youssef are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with groups capped at 17 travelers for intimacy.
• Inclusive Experience: Meals, camel rides, sandboarding, and overnight camping are included, adding excellent value.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles in a 4×4 or minivan make long drives comfortable.
• Authentic Experiences: Sleeping in private tents at the desert camp, watching sunrise and sunset from dunes, and enjoying traditional Berber entertainment make this trip special.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Marrakech to Merzouga via Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate

The journey kicks off early at around 7:00 am, with pickup arranged by the tour provider. Your first stop is the Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its ancient kasbahs and role as a Hollywood filming location. We loved the way guides explained the history and significance of the site while you get free time to explore or snap photos. Keep in mind, admission tickets aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you want to go inside.

Next, you’ll head to Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Here, you’ll find a cinematic vibe, with many film studios and sets showcasing Morocco’s dramatic landscape. After a hearty lunch, the adventure continues along the Draa River, passing through lush palm groves and ancient Kasbahs. Reviewers often highlight this stretch as a scenic highlight, offering a taste of Morocco’s desert trading routes and historic settlements.

Finally, you arrive in Merzouga for your first night’s stay at a desert lodge. Staying close to the dunes promises easy access for sunset viewing and camel rides. The lodge offers a comfortable, ensuite room with A/C — a relief after a day of travel.

Day 2: Desert Adventures and Night in the Sahara

Wake up early to catch a desert sunrise—a spectacle many reviewers described as unforgettable. After breakfast, you’ll have free time, with some taking a dip in the lodge’s pool or exploring the surroundings.

The main highlight is the camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, which visitors rave about. The camels are well cared for, and the rides are timed for sunset and sunrise, giving you that quintessential Sahara experience. Guides like Muhammad and Hassan are praised for their friendliness and professionalism, making the rides smooth and enjoyable.

Following the camel trek, you’ll settle into your desert camp. Reviewers mention that even the “cheaper” camps offer a cozy, authentic experience, with private tents and traditional Berber dinners. Some guests opt for luxury tents, which add a bit more comfort. The evening features a Berber show with reels, music, and dancing—adding a lively cultural element to your desert night.

Day 3: Return with Scenic Stops and a Desert Sunrise

The third morning begins with another spectacular sunrise over the dunes, offering perfect photo opportunities. After breakfast, you’ll leave the desert behind and head towards Todra Gorge. This area is famous for its towering cliffs and narrow, winding river valley, making it one of Morocco’s most beautiful natural sites.

A stop in Erfoud, known for fossils, offers a quick cultural and geological perspective before continuing through the Tafilalt oasis, a historic irrigation system that reveals how life thrived in this arid landscape.

Lunchtime at Todgha Gorge allows for some free exploration or simply soaking in the views. The return trip to Marrakech is a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, and you’ll arrive back in the city in the late afternoon or evening, completing the 3-day loop.

Practical Details and Value

The $128.93 per person price covers a lot. Transportation in air-conditioned vehicles ensures comfort during the long drives, while the inclusion of meals, desert camping, and activities like sandboarding make this a solid deal.

The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the walking, camel riding, and the potential for some uneven terrain at stops like Todra Gorge. The group size maxing out at 17 helps maintain a personal feel, allowing guides to give more tailored attention.

Guides like Yassin and Youssef are especially praised for their engaging explanations and caring attitude. Many reviewers mention how their guides made the experience come alive with stories and local insights, enhancing the cultural richness of the trip.

While the tour is well-structured, the long days and multiple stops mean you’ll want to come prepared for some travel fatigue. However, the scenic stops, friendly guides, and activities like camel trekking and sandboarding make it all worthwhile.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

Reviewers highlight the authenticity of the desert night, with private tents and traditional Berber dinners creating a genuine Sahara vibe. The sunrise and sunset camel rides are often described as the trip’s highlights, with many noting the peaceful, almost surreal atmosphere at dawn and dusk.

The stops at Ait Ben Haddou and Todra Gorge add cultural depth and stunning visuals, making the journey more than just a scenic drive. Several reviewers mention the knowledge and friendliness of guides as a key reason the trip felt so personal and enriching.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip appeals most to adventurous travelers eager to see a broad cross-section of Morocco—mountains, deserts, oases—without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It’s great for those wanting a cost-effective Sahara experience that combines scenery, culture, and adventure activities.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, leisurely trip with lots of downtime, this might feel a little packed, but for those who thrive on exploration and new sights, it’s perfect.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off in Marrakech, making it convenient to start your adventure.

What’s the accommodation like?
The first night is in a private ensuite room with A/C at a lodge near Merzouga. The second night is in a desert camp with private tents, with options for luxury tents if desired.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included for both nights. Lunches are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or buy at stops.

How long are the drives?
Long drives are part of the experience, but air-conditioned vehicles help keep it comfortable. The total duration is around 3 days, with some days being primarily travel.

Can I participate in sandboarding?
Yes, sandboarding is included and is a favorite activity for many reviewers.

Is there free time during the trip?
Yes, there are moments of free time, such as at Ouarzazate, Todra Gorge, and in the desert camp.

What are the main highlights?
Camel rides at sunset and sunrise, spending a night in the desert, visiting Ait Ben Haddou, and enjoying the scenic landscapes of the Dades Valley and Todra Gorge.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and layers for temperature changes, especially for early mornings and evenings in the desert.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, natural beauty, and desert adventure, all at a reasonable price point. It’s especially suitable for those eager to tick off Morocco’s iconic sights while enjoying authentic activities like camel riding and desert camping. Guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the long drives more engaging.

While it’s a fairly active trip, the experience of seeing Morocco’s diverse landscapes—mountains, oases, and dunes—makes every moment worth it. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or revisiting Morocco’s Sahara, this tour promises unforgettable memories.

In essence, this journey is a gateway to experiencing the magic of Morocco’s desert landscape with genuine cultural depth, making it a worthwhile choice for adventurous, culturally curious travelers.