This 4-day desert adventure from Errachidia to Marrakech offers an unforgettable experience through Morocco’s southeastern landscapes. Travel through the stunning Ziz Valley, explore the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga, and cross the High Atlas Mountains.
Important Note: If you arrive late in Errachidia, we can arrange overnight accommodation and explore the desert the following day, making it a 4-nights tour.
Day 1: Arrival in Errachidia – Transfer to Merzouga
Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Errachidia Airport or from your accommodation. You’ll embark on a scenic drive through the vast landscapes of the Ziz Valley, known for its lush palm groves and dramatic gorges. Along the way, enjoy photo stops and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
Arrive in Merzouga by late afternoon and check into your desert accommodation. Relax, sip on traditional Moroccan tea, and witness the mesmerizing sunset over the golden dunes. Dinner will be served at your camp or lodge, followed by a night under the starlit desert sky.
🚗 Distance: 130 km (81 miles)
⏳ Driving Time: ~2 hours (excluding stops)
🏡 Overnight: Luxury Desert Camps in Merzouga OR Accommodation in Merzouga town (HB)
Day 2: Merzouga – Nomadic Villages – Khamlia – Erg Chebbi Exploration
Wake up early to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the dunes, a sight you’ll never forget. After breakfast, the day is dedicated to exploring the Merzouga region, known for its rich culture and stunning desert scenery.
The first stop is a 4×4 desert excursion, where you’ll visit nomadic families living in traditional tents, offering a glimpse into their simple yet fascinating way of life. You’ll then head to the M’fis mines, an old French mining village with a unique history.
Next, visit Khamlia village, home to the Gnawa people, who are descendants of sub-Saharan African slaves. Here, you’ll enjoy a performance of traditional Gnawa music, a spiritual and rhythmic sound that is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture.
Afterward, you’ll explore a seasonal desert lake (Dayet Srij), which, when full, attracts migratory birds like flamingos. In the afternoon, you can relax at your camp or try some sandboarding on the dunes before enjoying another peaceful night in the desert.
🏡 Overnight: Luxury Desert Camps in Merzouga (HB)
Day 3: Merzouga → Rissani → Todra Gorge → Dades Valley
Wake up early for an optional sunrise camel ride, an incredible way to experience the serene beauty of the desert. After breakfast, return to Merzouga by 4WD, with the option to upgrade your transfer to a quad bike or dune buggy for an extra adventure.
The first stop is Rissani, a historic town known for its authentic souk, where locals trade dates, spices, and handicrafts. After exploring Rissani, continue to Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil workshops.
Your journey then takes you to the Todra Gorge, where towering canyon walls rise up to 300 meters (984 feet). Enjoy free time to walk along the river and admire the stunning scenery.
🚗 Distance: 270 km (168 miles)
⏳ Driving Time: ~5 hours (excluding stops)
🏡 Overnight: Dar Blues OR Riad Paradise Dades OR Xaluca Dades OR Hotel Dar Ahlam OR Hotel Babylone Dades OR Eden boutique hotel (HB)
Day 4: Dades Valley → Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → Marrakech
After breakfast, drive through the scenic Rose Valley, home to fragrant rose fields and Morocco’s famous rose water distilleries. Continue to the Skoura Oasis, a picturesque palm grove dotted with well-preserved kasbahs.
Next, visit Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco.” Stop at the famous Atlas Film Studios, where movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed.
The highlight of the day is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, one of Morocco’s most famous fortified villages. Wander through its mud-brick alleyways and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscapes.
Your journey continues across the High Atlas Mountains, winding through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), offering spectacular panoramic views.
By evening, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, where your driver will drop you off at your riad or hotel, marking the end of an unforgettable desert adventure.
🚗 Distance: 320 km (199 miles)
⏳ Driving Time: ~6 hours (excluding stops)
What’s Included
✔️ Private comfortable transport (4×4 or minibus) with an English-speaking driver
✔️ 1/2 night in a traditional riad or hotel (private room) in Dades Valley
✔️ 1/2 night in a luxury desert camp (private tent) in Merzouga
✔️ Camel trek or 4WD transfer into the desert dunes
✔️ Sandboarding (optional & free)
✔️ Dinner & breakfast daily
✔️ Live traditional Berber music at camp
What’s Not Included
❌ Lunches & drinks
❌ Entrance fees to optional attractions
❌ Personal expenses
