Merzouga desert 3 days 02 nights & bivouac & camel ride

Experience the Magic of Morocco’s Sahara in 3 Days with Camel Trekking & Berber Bivouacs

Travelers interested in exploring Morocco’s southern Sahara often look for an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, authentic cultural encounters, and a touch of luxury — all without breaking the bank. This 3-day desert tour from Marrakech offers just that, taking you through iconic landscapes like the High Atlas, Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, and the mesmerizing dunes of Erg Chebbi. With a balance of sightseeing, culture, and genuine desert experiences, it’s a memorable way to see Morocco’s diverse southern regions.

What we like most about this tour is its affordability at $98 per person, making it accessible for many budget travelers. The itinerary includes key highlights such as crossing the Tizi N’Tichka pass, visiting UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, and riding camels at sunset in the erg dunes. Plus, the night spent in a traditional Berber bivouac adds an authentic touch few other tours offer. That said, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention organizational hiccups, so travelers should go in with flexible expectations. This experience suits travelers craving a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, especially those comfortable with longer travel days and some variability in service.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $98, the tour offers great value for a comprehensive desert experience.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visits to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and Todra Gorges bring Morocco’s history and landscapes to life.
• Authentic Desert Stay: Spending a night in a Berber bivouac under the stars provides a memorable cultural encounter.
• Camel Ride & Sunset Views: Riding through Erg Chebbi’s dunes during sunset is a highlight for many travelers.
• Long Travel Days: Expect significant driving, so patience and comfortable transport are key.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the scenery and cultural stops, some mention organizational issues and group dynamics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the 3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour

Day 1: From Marrakech to Ouarzazate via the High Atlas

The journey begins early in the morning, with a drive across the High Atlas Mountains. Our route takes us over the famous Tizi N’ Tichka pass, which peaks at 2,260 meters. The drive offers impressive views of rugged mountains, terraced fields, and scattered villages, making this a scenic drive that sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Next stop is the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient fortified village has served as the backdrop for numerous movies and TV series, including “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.” Walking through its narrow alleys, you can imagine the centuries of history embedded in its mud-brick walls. The visit is usually brief but packed with photo-worthy moments.

From there, the tour continues to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa,” where you might see the impressive Kasbah Taourirt and film studios. While some travelers enjoy this cinematic connection, others might find the time short, especially if they’re keen to explore more deeply. After a light sightseeing stop, the journey heads into the Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic rock formations and kasbahs. Dinner and overnight stay take place here, setting the stage for the desert crossing ahead.

Insight from reviews: While the itinerary promises a lot, Marina appreciated the scenic drive and the chance to see the landscape’s diversity, but she also noted that some parts could be rushed.

Day 2: From Dades Valley to the Sahara Dunes

This is the longest travel stretch, covering approximately 250 km, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. After breakfast, the group departs for Tinghir and the stunning Todra Gorge — a narrow canyon with towering cliffs that plunge dramatically into the river below. It’s perfect for photos and a quick walk to stretch your legs.

Next, the journey takes you through Tinjedad, Touroug, and Erfoud, known for date palms and fossil-rich lands. Lunch is typically enjoyed in Erfoud, giving travelers a chance to relax and refuel before heading into the desert.

Arriving at Merzouga, the real adventure begins. Here, you’ll mount camels (or hop on a 4×4 if preferred) and traverse the erg Chebbi dunes. The camel ride itself can last around an hour, offering ample time to take in the shifting sands and panoramic views. The highlight? Watching the sunset over the dunes — a truly unforgettable moment that photographers and nature lovers alike will cherish.

The night is spent in a Berber desert camp or a nomadic-style tent, where you can enjoy traditional music, local food, and a sky full of stars — an authentic taste of desert life. Several reviews, including Muriel’s, mention the charm of sleeping under the stars, although some found the camp facilities basic.

From reviews: While most appreciate the scenic camel ride and the chance to sleep in the desert, David had concerns about the organization, mentioning that he was surprised to find out that sandboarding and luggage handling weren’t included in the original price, which could catch travelers off guard.

Day 3: From the Desert Back to Marrakech

The final day involves a long, 530 km trip back to Marrakech. After breakfast, the tour departs from the desert, passing through the Draa Valley and heading north. Along the way, you’ll cross desert landscapes dotted with oases, offering glimpses of traditional Berber life.

Stops at Rissani and Nqob provide additional photo opportunities and cultural insights into rural Morocco. The landscape transitions from desert to more fertile regions as you approach Ouarzazate, where lunch might be served before the final stretch back to Marrakech.

Travel logistics: The return journey is lengthy, so travelers should be prepared for a full day of driving. The tour departs at 7:00 am, and most arrive back in Marrakech in the evening.

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What You Should Know Before Booking

Cost & Value: At $98, this tour is budget-friendly considering the sights and experiences included. However, some reviews highlight extra costs, such as for sandboarding or additional activities, which are not included in the base price. It’s wise to clarify what’s included beforehand.

Transport & Group Size: The journey uses a mini-bus with a driver-guide. While the vehicle is adequate for the trip, some travelers have noted it’s not ultra-comfortable, and longer trips can be tiring. The size of the group isn’t specified, but it’s likely a small to medium group, which impacts the social aspect.

Guide & Language: The tour promises a driver-guide who speaks multiple languages, including English. Still, some reviews mention that the guide did not speak English, which could affect communication. Confirming language preferences at booking might be wise.

Accommodation: Spending one night in a standard desert camp provides an authentic experience, with basic comfort but unforgettable atmosphere. The night in Boumalne Dades is in a hotel or hostel, offering a little more comfort.

Flexibility & Organization: While the itinerary is packed with highlights, some travelers found the organization could improve. Waiting times, group shuffling, and drop-offs in the desert can vary, so patience is key.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This 3-day Sahara adventure offers a fantastic introduction to Morocco’s southern landscapes, culture, and desert life. It’s especially suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore iconic sites like Ait Ben Haddou, Todra Gorge, and Erg Chebbi dunes without breaking the bank. The camel rides and overnight stay in a Berber bivouac add special touches that make the journey memorable.

However, it’s important to be comfortable with long travel days and some unpredictability. If you’re seeking a more luxurious or seamlessly organized experience, you might want to explore other options. But if authentic scenery, culture, and genuine desert nights appeal to you, this tour checks many boxes.

Travelers who enjoyed scenic views, like Muriel, will find this trip rewarding. Those concerned about organization or extra costs should inquire beforehand and prepare for a bit of variability. This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Morocco’s southern Sahara at an accessible price point.

FAQ

Is the price of $98 per person all-inclusive?
No, the price includes transportation, camel rides, two nights in a desert camp, and meals for two days. However, lunches and drinks, entrance fees to certain sites, and optional activities like sandboarding may incur extra costs.

What type of accommodation is included?
You’ll spend one night in a standard desert camp, which offers basic but authentic Berber-style tents. The first night is typically in a hotel or hostel in Boumalne Dades.

Is there an English-speaking guide?
The tour promotes a driver-guide who speaks multiple languages, including English. However, some reviews indicate that guides may not always speak English fluently, so it’s good to confirm this when booking.

Are the camel rides suitable for all ages?
Most travelers find camel riding manageable, but it can be tiring for some, especially children or those with mobility issues. The rides generally last around an hour, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery.

How long is the drive back to Marrakech?
The return journey is approximately 530 km and takes most of the second day, meaning you’ll likely get back in the evening. Prepare for a full day of travel.

What scenery will I see?
Expect a mix of mountain landscapes in the Atlas, the rugged beauty of Kasbahs, lush oases, and the vast, shifting sands of Erg Chebbi. The sunset over dunes is particularly stunning.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers join these group tours. The shared experience of the desert and scenery often leads to new friendships.

Can I do this tour if I have limited mobility?
While most of the tour involves scenic drives, walking, and camel rides, the basic desert camp may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothes for long drives, layers for temperature changes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Don’t forget any personal necessities, as shops in the desert are scarce.

What’s the best time to go?
The tour runs daily, but for the best weather, consider spring or fall when temperatures are moderate. Summers can be very hot, and winters might be chilly at higher altitudes.

This 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour offers a genuine taste of Morocco’s spectacular landscapes and cultural richness. While it’s not without its caveats, the chance to see the Sahara’s golden dunes, sleep under the stars, and explore ancient kasbahs makes it a compelling choice for those craving adventure and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: