5-Day Marrakech to Sahara Desert Adventure

Overview

An unforgettable 5-day adventure from Marrakech into the heart of southern Morocco, exploring the majestic Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, and the vast golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. This immersive journey takes you off the beaten path through dramatic gorges, lush palm oases, and traditional Berber villages—offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and authentic desert experiences.

Tour Highlights – 5-Day Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakech

• Drive across the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, visiting hidden Berber villages

• Travel along scenic secondary roads through the breathtaking Dades Gorge

• Cross the iconic High Atlas Mountain range with stunning panoramic views

• Discover the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a famous filming location

• Experience a camel trek over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga

• Explore the lush palm groves of the Draa Valley and follow the historic Paris-Dakar rally route

• Marvel at the dramatic gorges of Dadès and Todra, perfect for nature lovers

• Spend a magical night in a traditional Berber desert camp under the stars

• Witness unforgettable sunrises and sunsets over the Sahara Desert’s vast sands

• Meet local Berber communities and learn about their rich culture and traditions

Tour Details

Destination: Sahara Desert, Ouarzazate & Kasbahs
Departure Location: Any location in Marrakech
Return Location: Any location in Marrakech
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Price: Varies depending on the number of travelers

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from Marrakech. Cross the towering High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m) to reach the fortified village of Ait Benhaddou, famed for its stunning kasbahs and as a backdrop for numerous films. After lunch, continue to Ouarzazate, passing through the lush palm groves of Skoura and the beautiful Dades Valley, where you will spend your first night.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga

Following breakfast, continue your Sahara adventure by driving through colorful Berber villages en route to Tineghir, known for its vast palm groves. Visit the majestic Todra Gorge, where you can trek along dramatic canyons soaring up to 300 meters—popular among climbers and nature lovers. In the afternoon, journey onward to the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. Spend the night comfortably at a local riad.

Day 3: Merzouga Sightseeing and Camel Ride

After breakfast, explore the expansive dunes of Merzouga, visit the village of the Gnawa people, and discover the Mifiss mines and the desert plateaus. Meet local Berber nomads and experience their desert way of life. In the afternoon, embark on a memorable 1.5-hour camel trek across the dunes at sunset, arriving at a desert oasis camp. Spend the night in traditional nomadic tents beneath the starry Sahara sky.

Day 4: Merzouga – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate

Awake early to watch the breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After camelback transport to the hotel for breakfast and a shower, visit the historic town of Rissani. Explore key sites including the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif and the surrounding palm groves. After lunch in Nkoub, continue your journey through the lush Draa Valley back to Ouarzazate, where you’ll enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation.

Day 5: Ouarzazate – Telouet – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

Following breakfast, depart for Marrakech, stopping at the traditional Berber village of Telouet in the High Atlas Mountains. Visit the impressive Kasbah el Glaoui before crossing back over the High Atlas range to Marrakech, concluding your unforgettable desert journey.