You probably have heard about the Moroccan Sahara Desert. Perhaps you have browsed through pictures of people riding camels over golden sand dunes or sitting by a campfire under the starry sky in the desert.
It is the kind of experience that sticks with you.
But how to actually make that happen? This is one of the best ways.
Our 5-day Marrakech Desert itinerary will have you moving through mountains. Villages. Valleys.
You will see a lot. You will meet people. And you will feel small in the best way imaginable.
Keep on reading to see the adventure that awaits.
Day 1: Traveling from Marrakech to Ouarzazate
Your journey commences in Marrakech as you depart the city early in the morning and venture into the High Atlas Mountains region.The route ascends towards a pass known as Tizi n’Tichka where temperatures can drop significantly at over 2 000 meters, above sea level during the spring season.
The road meanders past quaint Berbers communities. Presents vistas along the way.You’ll pause occasionally. For a cup of tea or simply to admire the scenery.
One of the destinations is the Kasbah of Telouet, which appears somewhat dilapidated yet retains glimpses of its history. Such as tiled walls, intricately carved doors and now empty courtyards that once bustled with activity.
Afterward you’ll venture into the Ounila Valley where its peaceful and serene.The vibrant red rocks stand out against the farmlands scattered around.Eventually you’ll arrive at Ait Benhaddou,a site renowned for its age and fame; countless movies have been filmed here.
You can grab a bite to eat here. Then explore the historic paths before heading up to enjoy a breathtaking view, from the summit.
By the time the sun starts to set you’ll reach Ouarzazate, your destination, for the night a serene city with streets and a stunning backdrop of mountains. If you have some time you might want to explore the Taourirt kasbah, a popular spot, for tourists.
Day 2 : From Ouarazazate to the Todra Gorge
As you set out on your journey, towards the east following breakfast the scenery gradually transforms around you. Passing through Skoura, where majestic palm trees sway beside the kasbahs leading travelers, through the Valley of Roses.
In spring the whole area is filled with fragrances and its beauty and tranquility remain consistent all year round preserving its spaciousness and traditional way of life.
The Dades Gorges make for a spot to stop and have lunch on your trip giving you a chance to relax and stretch your legs amidst the reddish rock formations that almost look out of this world.
The trip concludes at Todra Gorge, in the evening an towering place where the cool air lingers and your voice reverberates against the stone walls creating an ambiance for visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll, along the riverbed before dining.
The next day will be spent at a guesthouse or a quaint inn.
Day 3 : Journey from Todra Gorge to Merzouga
After strolling in the palm groves in the morning and continuing the drive onwards you’ll notice a decrease, in town sightings and vast open areas unfolding before your eyes. The Ziz Valley emerges like a ribbon weaving its way through the brown scenery.
Around noon you’ll take a break, in Rissani or Erfoud, for lunch, where they cultivate dates locally.. If it happens to be market day you can expect to encounter a scene with donkeys and carts transporting goods like spices and even used shoes for sale.
You’ll transition to riding camels in Merzouga, where the journey, through the dunes unfolds leisurely and peacefully with only the soft sound of hooves on the sand accompanying you as you make your way, towards the camp just before nightfall arrives.
The meal is comforting and hearty – tagine, with baked bread and oranges, for a sweet finish before the night sky darkens and the stars begin to twinkle above.
Day 4 : from Merzouga Desert to Agdez
Shine before sunrise to catch the view of the dunes as the day begins anew but don’t forget to bundle up for the chilly morning air.
After having breakfast in the morning and enjoying a camel ride to Merzouga village. Then it’s time to hit the road again! The journey back westward commences as you make your way through villages like Tazzarine and N’kob, along the route. Both nestled amidst terrains and lush date palm groves.
You will take a break for lunch on the journey as things seem to be moving at a relaxed speed now with less focus on sightseeing and more on introspection.
Later you will reach Agdez, in the Dra Valley, a strip of green hemmed in by hills, with sprawling palm groves extending for miles where you can spend the night at a kasbah or guesthouse.
Day 5 : From Agdez to Marrakech
On the day of your journey in Marrakech you make your way back to the city by road which is quite a long drive but offers some last minute attractions along the way such as crossing the Tizi n’Tichka pass and passing through Ouarzazate again Some tourists opt to visit the Fint Oasis if they have some extra time; it’s a charming detour, with breathtaking scenery.
By the time the sun starts to set and evening approaches. Surely you will find yourself back in Marrakech once more. The atmosphere of the city seems livelier at this hour. More vibrant and colorful than before. After spending days under skies and quiet sand dunes the transition to bustling streets feels a bit abrupt yet it also serves as a grounding reminder of everyday life.
This 5 days Marrakech desert tour itinerary is offering an experience without feeling hurried allowing you to delve into regions of the country.
Feel free to get in touch with us to reserve your exciting journey!