4 DAYS DESERT TOUR FROM MARRAKECH
A 4-day desert tour from Marrakech is a fantastic way to explore the diverse landscapes of Morocco, from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert. Here’s a sample itinerary for a 4-day tour:
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
- Departure: Leave Marrakech early in the morning and cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260m), enjoying stunning views.
- Ait Ben Haddou: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, a famous fortified village and filming location for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
- Ouarzazate: Stop in Ouarzazate, known as the « Hollywood of Morocco, » and visit the Atlas Film Studios if time permits.
- Dades Valley: Continue to the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic rock formations and lush oasis. Overnight in a hotel or riad.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi)
- Todra Gorge: Drive to Todra Gorge, a stunning canyon with towering cliffs, perfect for a short walk or photos.
- Erfoud: Pass through Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops, and continue toward the Sahara Desert.
- Merzouga: Arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll switch to camels for a trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Watch the sunset over the dunes and spend the night in a luxury desert camp. Enjoy traditional Berber music and a star-filled sky.
Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate
- Sunrise: Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, then return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4.
- Rissani: Visit the traditional market in Rissani (market days are Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday) and explore the town’s history as the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty.
- Draa Valley: Drive through the scenic Draa Valley, famous for its palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
- Ouarzazate: Return to Ouarzazate for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Ouarzazate – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
- Return Journey: Travel back to Marrakech via the High Atlas Mountains, with stops for photos and breaks.
- Arrival in Marrakech: Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening.