3-Day Private Desert Adventure: Marrakech to Merzouga

Day 1: Marrakech – Aït Ben Haddou – Dades Valley

Early morning departure from Marrakech at around 7:00 a.m., heading south through the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, we will stop several times to enjoy breathtaking landscapes, take photos, and relax with a coffee break and freshly squeezed orange juice.

In the afternoon, we visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Ben Haddou, a fortified village made up of traditional Berber kasbahs. This iconic site has been featured in more than 20 international films and was once one of the most important strongholds on the ancient salt route, where caravans transported gold, ivory, salt, and other goods from sub-Saharan Africa to Marrakech and beyond.

The journey continues through Ouarzazate and the Valley of Roses, famous for its delicate rose water and rose oil. You will pass through numerous Berber villages and witness the landscape gradually changing into arid desert scenery, with kasbahs clustered along the hillsides. After crossing the Tamnalt area, arrival in the Dades Gorge, where you will settle into a charming countryside guesthouse nestled in the heart of the valley for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga

After breakfast, we drive toward the impressive Todra Gorge, traveling through a vast geological fault that separates the High Atlas mountain ranges. The sheer rock walls of the gorge rise up to 300 meters high at their narrowest point, creating a dramatic and unforgettable landscape.

We then continue toward the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. As we move deeper into the desert region, the scenery becomes increasingly dry until the golden sand dunes appear on the horizon. By mid-afternoon, we arrive at a desert lodge near Merzouga, where you will meet your camel guide.

Enjoy a camel trek across the dunes to reach the desert camp. Upon arrival, a traditional Moroccan dinner will be served (vegetarian options available), followed by a peaceful evening under the brilliant stars of the Sahara sky. Climb the dunes to watch the moon rise before settling in for the night in a comfortable nomadic tent.

Day 3: Merzouga – Sunrise in the Sahara

Early in the morning, wake up to experience a magical sunrise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi, as the colors of the sand slowly change with the first light of day. After breakfast at the camp, ride back by camel to the lodge in Merzouga.

(The rest of the itinerary can be customized: return to Marrakech, continue toward Fes, or enjoy additional desert activities.)