From Marrakech: 5-Day Private Desert Trip to Zagora & Merzouga

Day 1: Marrakech to Zagora via Ait Ben Haddou and Tinfou Dunes

Begin your unforgettable Marrakech to Merzouga desert adventure with a morning departure from your hotel or riad in Marrakech. Travel through the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tichka Pass (2260 m). Your first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a famous caravan route and stunning example of Moroccan architecture. After a guided visit, enjoy lunch at a panoramic restaurant in Ait Ben Haddou. Then, cross the Anti-Atlas Mountains to Zagora and prepare for a camel trek through the sand dunes of Tinfou. Watch a spectacular sunset before returning to your desert camp for a magical night under the stars accompanied by local music and a campfire.

Day 2: Journey to Merzouga via Tamgroute, Alnif, and Rissani

After breakfast in Zagora, continue your journey to Merzouga. En route, explore the historic village of Tamgroute, known for its ancient library and pottery. Pass through the Tafilalet region and the mineral-rich Bougafer massif, stopping for lunch in Alnif. Then travel via Rissani, taking a sandy track to reach the majestic dunes of Merzouga. Enjoy a camel ride at sunset and savor traditional mint tea by the campfire while listening to nomad songs. Overnight at the foot of the Erg Chebbi dunes.

Day 3: Explore the Merzouga Region and Cultural Highlights

Rise early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the desert. After breakfast, ride camels back to Merzouga where your driver will meet you. Visit Khamlia Village, famous for its Gnaoua music and dance performances, showcasing sub-Saharan African heritage. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then stroll through lush palm groves before visiting the nearby Merzouga Lake, also known as Flamingos Lake. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4: From Merzouga to Dades Valley via Erfoud and Todra Gorges

Travel from Merzouga to Boumalne Dades. Stop at Erfoud, renowned for its date market and fossils. Continue through the oasis villages of Touroug and Tinejdad before arriving at the impressive Todra Gorges. After a short walk to admire the towering rock formations, proceed to the stunning Dades Valley and Gorges for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 5: Return to Marrakech through the Valley of Roses and Ouarzazate

On the final day, head from the Dades Gorges back to Marrakech via the Valley of Roses in Kelaat M’Gouna, famous for its rose festivals and distilleries. Visit the historic Kasbah of Taourirte and stop for lunch in Ouarzazate, nicknamed “Hollywood of Morocco” for its film studios. Cross the High Atlas Mountains once again before arriving in Marrakech, concluding your Marrakech to Merzouga desert adventure around 6 PM.