Tour Overview
Merzouga Desert · Atlas Trekking · Guided Adventure8 days of Morocco exploration through stunning landscapes, experiencing camel rides, desert camps, and authentic Berber culture. This carefully curated journey offers the perfect balance of adventure and comfort in Morocco's magnificent Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains.
Our 8 day trekking tour from Marrakech to Merzouga offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Morocco. From the bustling markets of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert, this trek has been specifically designed to showcase the most spectacular aspects of Moroccan culture and nature while ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the journey.
We invite you to take a scenic route through the High Atlas Mountains via spectacular mountain passes. This adventure combines comfortable accommodations with authentic cultural experiences. You'll have the opportunity to witness stunning sunsets over golden dunes, sleep under star-filled skies, and learn about traditional Berber culture from local guides.
This 8-day desert trekking tour has been designed as an accessible adventure with moderate stages, allowing time to explore dunes, oases, gorges, and experience authentic encounters with Berber communities. Whether you're an experienced trekker or new to desert adventures, this journey offers something truly special for everyone.
Tour Highlights
What makes this Merzouga Desert trek unique- Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains with breathtaking views
- Visit Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Cross the stunning Dades Valley and Todra Gorge
- Discover the traditional lifestyle of Sahara Desert Berber communities
- Experience camel trekking in the magnificent dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Magical evenings at desert bivouacs with traditional dinners around campfires
- Witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises over golden sand dunes
- Visit traditional Berber villages and learn about local culture and traditions
- Explore the Draa Valley with its extensive palm groves
Detailed Itinerary – 8 Days
Sample program, adaptable to your preferencesMarrakech – Tizi n'Tichka Pass – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate
Depart from Marrakech and cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m). Visit the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and backdrop for many films. Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara." Overnight in a traditional riad.
Ouarzazate – Skoura – Dades Valley – Todra Gorge
Visit the Skoura oasis with its numerous kasbahs. Travel through the Valley of Roses to the impressive Dades Valley with its stunning rock formations. Continue to Todra Gorge, where 300-meter-high cliffs create a spectacular narrow canyon. Overnight in a hotel near the gorge.
Todra Gorge – Rissani – Merzouga – Erg Chebbi
Travel through palm groves and desert landscapes to Rissani, the former trading capital. Continue to Merzouga, where you'll switch to camels for a trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Watch the sunset from the dunes before arriving at your desert camp. Dinner and overnight in a traditional Berber tent under the stars.
Full Day in Merzouga Desert
Experience a full day in the desert. Visit a nomadic family to learn about their lifestyle. Explore the desert landscape by 4x4, visiting fossil sites and an oasis. Return to camp for relaxation before another magical sunset. Evening around the campfire with traditional music.
Merzouga – Rissani – Alnif – Tazzarine – Draa Valley
After sunrise in the dunes, return to Merzouga village. Travel through fascinating desert landscapes to Alnif and Tazzarine. Enter the Draa Valley, Morocco's longest river valley, with its extensive palm groves and traditional kasbahs. Overnight in a guesthouse in the valley.
Draa Valley – Agdz – Ouarzazate
Explore the Draa Valley further, visiting traditional villages and kasbahs. Stop in Agdz before returning to Ouarzazate. Optional visit to the Atlas Film Studios. Overnight in a riad in Ouarzazate.
Ouarzazate – Telouet – High Atlas – Marrakech
Take an alternative route through the Ounila Valley, visiting the Kasbah of Telouet. Cross the High Atlas Mountains again via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. Return to Marrakech in the late afternoon. Overnight in a riad in the medina.
Marrakech – Departure
Free time to explore Marrakech's famous sights: Djemaa el-Fna square, the souks, Bahia Palace, or the Majorelle Garden. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
What's Included / Not Included
To prepare your budget comfortably- All transportation in comfortable vehicle
- 7 nights accommodation (riads, hotels, desert camp)
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Camel trek in Merzouga desert (one per person)
- Breakfast daily, 4 dinners as per itinerary
- All entrance fees to monuments and sites
- Desert camp accommodation with dinner & breakfast
- International flights to/from Morocco
- Lunches and drinks
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Tips for guides and staff
- Personal expenses and optional activities
Practical Details
Duration, level, seasons & participantsTour Route Map
Explore the Marrakech to Merzouga trekking routeFrequently Asked Questions
Some answers before you goThe tour is rated as moderate, with comfortable transportation between locations and gentle walking in desert conditions. The camel trekking is suitable for beginners. Some optional short hikes are available but not required. Participants should be in reasonable physical condition.
Summer months in the Sahara Desert can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). From October to May, temperatures are more comfortable for exploring, typically ranging from 15-30°C (59-86°F) during the day. Spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant weather.
You'll stay in comfortable riads and hotels in cities and an authentic desert camp in Merzouga. Accommodations are selected for comfort and authentic Moroccan character. The desert camp provides proper tents with beds, shared bathroom facilities, and traditional meals.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, light-colored clothing for sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Evenings can be cool, especially in desert and mountain areas, so pack layers including a warm jacket. A reusable water bottle is recommended to stay hydrated throughout your journey.
The Erg Chebbi dunes are among the highest and most spectacular in Morocco, reaching up to 150 meters in height. Their golden-orange color and dramatic shapes create a truly magical atmosphere, especially at sunrise and sunset. The dunes cover about 50 square kilometers, offering a vast and awe-inspiring landscape.
Morocco is a Muslim country with conservative traditions, especially in rural areas. We recommend dressing modestly, particularly when visiting villages and religious sites. Women should consider covering shoulders and knees. It's respectful to ask permission before photographing local people. Your guide will provide additional cultural guidance.