From Marrakech: Private 5-Day Zagora & Merzouga Desert Tour

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Zagora and Tinfou Dunes

Begin your Marrakech to Merzouga desert adventure with a morning departure from your hotel or riad in Marrakech. First, you will travel through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tichka Pass (2260 m). Next, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a spectacular site along the ancient caravan route. After a guided tour of the kasbah, enjoy lunch at a panoramic restaurant in Ait Ben Haddou. Then, drive across the Anti-Atlas Mountains towards Zagora. Upon arrival, prepare for a camel trek to the Tinfou dunes where you can admire a breathtaking sunset over the sand dunes. Finally, return to your desert camp to spend a magical night under the stars with traditional music around the campfire.

Day 2: Zagora – Tamgroute – Alnif – Merzouga

After breakfast, depart from Zagora and head towards Merzouga. Along the way, stop at Tamgroute, known for its ancient library and unique green pottery. Continue your journey through the mineral-rich Bougafer Massif until you reach Tazarin, where you will enjoy lunch in Alnif. Next, pass by Rissani and take a sandy track that leads you directly to Merzouga. Here, you will embark on a camel ride to watch the sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Later, savor traditional mint tea by the campfire, accompanied by nomadic songs. Overnight stays are arranged near the dunes.

Day 3: Explore Merzouga and Surroundings

Start the day early by watching a stunning sunrise in the desert. After breakfast, return by camel to Merzouga, where your driver will be waiting. Today’s activities include a visit to Khamlia Village, famous for its Gnawa music and dance performances. The inhabitants originally come from Sub-Saharan Africa. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before strolling through the lush palm groves nearby. Additionally, you’ll visit Merzouga Lake, a seasonal habitat known for flamingos. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4: Merzouga – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Following breakfast, travel to Boumalne Dades with a stop at Erfoud, famous for its date market and fossils. Then continue through the small oasis villages of Touroug and Tinejdad before arriving at the spectacular Todra Gorges. After a delicious lunch, take a short walk in this geological wonder. Later, drive to the stunning Dades Valley and gorges where you will have dinner and spend the night.

Day 5: Dades Valley – Valley of Roses – Ouarzazate – Marrakech

On your final day, depart after breakfast and head towards Marrakech via Ouarzazate, often called Morocco’s “Hollywood.” Along the way, visit the beautiful Valley of Roses in Kelaat M’Gouna, renowned as the capital of roses. Then explore the Taourirt Kasbah and stop for lunch in Ouarzazate. Continue your journey over the High Atlas Mountains and arrive in Marrakech by early evening, thus concluding your unforgettable desert adventure.