3 days private excursion from Marrakech to Merzouga: an unforgettable immersion in the Moroccan desert
A private excursion from Marrakech lasting three days offers an unforgettable passage into the soul of southern Morocco. This remarkable journey weaves through towering mountains, ancient kasbahs steeped in history, lush green valleys, and the shimmering golden dunes of the Sahara. Traveling across the majestic High Atlas, you’ll experience the enchanting magic of spending a night beneath the vast desert sky—each moment crafted to create lasting memories that will forever touch your heart.
Highlights of the trip
- Crossing the Atlas Mountains and the Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2260m)
- Visiting the famous UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
- Explore the lush valleys of Skoura, Mgouna and Dadès
- Discovery of the impressive Todra Gorges
- Camel ride at sunset in the Erg Chebbi dunes
- An authentic night in a Berber tent in a nomad camp
- A unique sensory experience combining local traditions and spectacular landscapes
Detailed itinerary
📍Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
At 8 a.m., your private driver will collect you from your hotel or riad in Marrakech to begin a scenic private excursion from Marrakech through the Atlas Mountains. The Tizi-n-Tichka pass reveals breathtaking panoramas of lush valleys dotted with traditional Berber villages perched on the hillsides.
Your first must-see stop is the Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a striking adobe fortress recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famously featured in numerous films. After exploring this historic site, continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” where you can visit the renowned film studios and the impressive Kasbah of Taourirt.
The route then leads you through Skoura and the fragrant Valley of the Roses, before arriving at the dramatic Dades Gorges. End your day with a delicious dinner and a peaceful night’s stay in a cozy riad or hotel tucked away in the valley’s heart.
📍 Day 2: Dades – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga Dunes (Erg Chebbi)
After a breakfast framed by stunning mountain views, continue your journey toward the breathtaking Todra Gorges—a true haven for hikers and photographers alike, where towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters create an unforgettable backdrop.
From there, continue to Erfoud, a town famed for its ancient fossils and desert heritage — a sign that the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are just ahead.
The magic of the desert comes alive as you set off on a peaceful camel ride toward your camp nestled among the dunes. Settle into your cozy surroundings and witness the sun melting into the golden sands. The evening promises a traditional Moroccan dinner, soul-stirring Berber music, and a magical night beneath the vast, star-studded sky.
Accommodation :
- Standard option: Traditional Berber camp
- Superior option: Luxury camp with comfortable tents
📍Day 3: Merzouga – Alnif – Nkob – High Atlas – Marrakech
Waking up in the heart of the Sahara during your private excursion from Marrakech is an unforgettable moment. With the first light of dawn brushing the dunes, the desert stirs quietly, bathed in a golden hush. After a warm, traditional breakfast at the camp and a refreshing shower, you’ll prepare for the return journey.
You can choose to ride back to Merzouga on a camel or in a 4×4, retracing your path through the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi. The return journey to Marrakech winds through the rugged, mineral-rich landscapes of Alnif and Nkob, offering scenic stops to absorb the untamed beauty of southern Morocco.
This final leg of your private excursion from Marrakech is filled with emotion, stunning vistas, and reflections on the unique experiences you’ve just lived—Etching into your memory the starlit desert nights, the warmth of Berber traditions, and the timeless allure of the Moroccan Sahara.
What is included/excluded
✅ Included in the private excursion from Marrakech :
✔️Private transportation in 4×4 or minibus with air conditioning
✔️Guide with professional driver
✔️Fuel and travel expenses
✔️1 night in a hotel in the Dades Valley (dinner and breakfast)
✔️1 night bivouac in the desert (dinner and breakfast)
✔️Camel ride
✔️Optional activities (sandboarding)
Not included in the private excursion from Marrakech:
❌Lunches and drinks
❌Entrance to monuments and complementary activities
❌Accommodation in Marrakech
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)– Private Excursion from Marrakech
📌What type of accommodation do you have?
You have the flexibility to choose between two options for your private excursion from Marrakech. The standard package includes comfortable, authentic hotels and a charming traditional desert camp. If you’re looking for something more refined, opt for the superior option, featuring handpicked boutique hotels and a luxury camp nestled in the dunes, complete with all modern comforts.
📌What is the weather like in Merzouga?
Merzouga has a desert climate: summers are intensely hot, with temperatures soaring during the day, while winter nights can be chilly and crisp. Spring and autumn offer the most balanced and pleasant conditions—perfect for enjoying the Sahara’s breathtaking landscapes.
📌How do I book?
Booking is simple. Just contact our team directly to check availability. To secure your booking, a small deposit is needed, with the remaining balance payable closer to your travel date.
Let the silence of the dunes, the golden landscapes, and the unforgettable desert sky turn your private excursion from Marrakech into the adventure of a lifetime. We’ll take care of everything—so you can simply enjoy the magic.
