Marrakech to Merzouga Sahara Desert Tour with Camel Ride

Summary

High Atlas Mountain Crossing & Berber Village Experience

Get ready to cross Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, wander ancient kasbahs like Ait Ben Haddou, ride camels at sunset in Merzouga, and sleep beneath endless desert stars. This tour blends lively local encounters with peaceful moments in nature—perfect if you want real adventure plus comfort along the way.

What’s the experience like?

“Is that snow up there?” someone asked as we wound our way out of Marrakech, and sure enough, the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains still wore a dusting even in spring. Our driver kept up a steady stream of stories about Berber life as we passed tiny villages clinging to the hillsides. By midday, we were walking the narrow paths of Ait Ben Haddou, sunlight bouncing off ancient mud walls while kids played soccer in the shade. Lunch was slow-cooked tajine on a rooftop—steam rising into the dry air, with views over the old ksar and its palm-dotted valley.

The next morning started early; I could hear distant roosters before breakfast was even served in Dades Valley. Tinghir Gorge was cooler than I expected, with water rushing between steep cliffs and nomad families tending goats nearby. Our guide introduced us to a shepherd who showed us his cave home—he laughed when we tried to pronounce “Todgha” correctly. Later that day, as we reached Merzouga, the sand felt warm underfoot and camels waited quietly for us. Sunset painted everything gold while our little caravan moved deeper into the dunes.

Nights in the Sahara are something else—quiet except for drumming around the campfire and bursts of laughter from fellow travelers. Dinner under a sky packed with stars tasted even better after a long day on the road. Around midnight, some of us climbed a dune just to watch shooting stars; it’s true what they say about desert silence—it’s almost loud. The last morning came too soon, but there was time for one more mint tea before heading back toward Marrakech through Ouarzazate’s film studios and winding mountain roads.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Marrakech to Dades Valley

• Visit Ait Benhadou Kasbah and light trek
• Lunch with Tajine and Moroccan menu
• Overnight in hotel in Boumaln or Goerge Dades
• Dinner with fresh Moroccan meal

Day 2 — Dades Valley to Merzouga

• Breakfast at Dades Kasbah
• Visit Tinghir Gorge and nomads
• Stop for lunch at Todgha Gorge
• Camel ride at Merzouga sunset
• Check-in to desert camp tents
• Dinner under stars with Berber music
• Midnight dune climb for stargazing
• Overnight in desert camp

Day 3 — Merzouga to Marrakech

• Breakfast in Merzouga camp
• Visit Ouarzazate studios and Kasbat Ait Ourir
• Cross Atlas and Tichka Mountains with photo stops
• Return to Marrakech hotel or square

Top questions

Is this Marrakech to Merzouga Sahara tour suitable for families?

Yes, families are welcome—children can ride camels or travel by pram or stroller if needed. The pace is relaxed and accommodations are comfortable.

Are meals included during the desert tour?

Main meals like dinner at camp and some lunches are included; you’ll enjoy traditional Moroccan dishes such as tajine along the route.

How accessible is this Sahara tour for people with mobility needs?

The tour is wheelchair accessible throughout, including transportation options and most stops along the way.

What should I pack for an overnight stay in Merzouga desert camp?

Bring layers for cool nights, sunscreen for daytime, comfortable shoes for walking on sand, and a camera—you’ll want photos of those sunsets!

What’s included

Your journey covers round-trip transport from Marrakech in an accessible vehicle, two nights’ accommodation (one hotel stay in Dades Valley or Boumalne Dades depending on availability plus one night in a Merzouga desert camp), camel rides at sunset and sunrise, all main meals during your stay—including that unforgettable rooftop tajine—and guidance from locals who know every twist of these mountain roads and sandy trails.