5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
note:
You can add more days to explore other destinations or opt for different activities.. Contact us
5-Day Desert tour Itinerary from Marrakech: overview
Embark on an extraordinary 5-day journey from Marrakech to the heart of Morocco’s Sahara Desert. This adventure takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, and Berber villages, leading to the vast dunes of Merzouga.
Enjoy scenic drives, visit iconic sites like Ait Benhaddou and Todra Gorge, and experience the magic of a camel trek into the Sahara, where you’ll spend a night under the stars in a traditional desert camp. This trip offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, leaving you with lasting memories of Morocco’s enchanting desert. 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
Five Days Desert Tour Itinerary From Marrakech
best Desert Tour Itinerary from Marrakech
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Rose Valley – Dades Valley
Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, heading towards the High Atlas Mountains. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and Berber villages. Stop at the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an ancient ksar known for its earthen clay architecture.
After exploring the fortified village, continue towards Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its film studios.
Drive through the Rose Valley, known for its fragrant rose plantations and annual rose festival in Kalaat M’Gouna. The journey continues through the scenic Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic rock formations and winding roads. Overnight stay in a traditional riad or hotel in Dades Valley. 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Khettarat – Merzouga
After breakfast, drive through the Dades Valley, passing by stunning rock formations and ancient kasbahs before reaching Todra Gorge, one of Morocco’s most spectacular canyons with towering rock walls reaching 300 meters. Enjoy some time exploring the gorge, walking along the river, or taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Next, visit Khettarat, an ancient underground water canal system used by Berbers for irrigation. Learn about its historical importance in desert agriculture before continuing your journey to the desert. Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert, where you’ll be welcomed with traditional tea.
In the late afternoon, embark on a camel trek into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, where you’ll witness a stunning desert sunset. Spend the night in a luxury desert camp, enjoying traditional Berber music, a delicious Moroccan dinner, and an unforgettable night under the stars. 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
Day 3: Merzouga Discovery
Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, a must-see experience in the Sahara. After breakfast, explore the surrounding areas of Merzouga, starting with a visit to Khamlia village, home to the Gnawa people, who are known for their unique spiritual music and traditions.
Continue your adventure by visiting nomadic Berber families, learning about their lifestyle,
and experiencing their warm hospitality. Explore the Mifiss mines, a site rich in minerals once exploited by the French, and visit the black desert, where the landscape dramatically shifts to volcanic rock formations.
Later, return to your accommodation for some relaxation or an optional ATV (quad biking) experience on the dunes. Enjoy a second night in the desert, either in a camp or a local riad. 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
Day 4: Merzouga – Alnif – Ait Ben Haddou
After breakfast, leave the desert behind and drive towards Alnif, a small desert town famous for its fossils and rugged landscapes. This route offers spectacular views of the Saghro Mountains, with its unique rock formations and remote Berber settlements.
Continue towards Ait Ben Haddou, retracing part of your earlier route. Upon arrival, you’ll have more time to explore the ancient kasbah, wandering through its narrow alleys and climbing to the top for panoramic views of the Ounila Valley. Overnight stay in a charming riad near Ait Ben Haddou. 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
Day 5: Ait Ben Haddou – Telouet – Marrakech
On your final day, visit the lesser-known but equally impressive Telouet Kasbah, once the residence of the powerful Glaoui family. This kasbah, though partially in ruins, showcases stunning Moroccan architecture with intricate tilework and cedarwood carvings.
Drive back through the Ounila Valley, a picturesque route with stunning landscapes and hidden villages. Enjoy the final stretch through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, with stops for photos and a last taste of the mountain scenery before arriving in Marrakech in the late afternoon. 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
Merzouga Desert Itinerary From Marrakech Tour Packages
What’s Included in the 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech?
✅ Transportation:
- Private modern 4×4 vehicle or comfortable minibus with air-conditioning
- Professional English/French/Spanish-speaking driver/guide
✅ Accommodation:
- 1 night in a traditional riad/hotel in Dades Valley (private room with ensuite bathroom)
- 2 nights in Merzouga (1 night in a luxury desert camp & 1 night in a desert riad)
- 1 night in a riad/hotel in Ait Ben Haddou (private room with ensuite bathroom)
✅ Meals:
- Daily breakfast & dinners (vegetarian options available)
- Traditional Moroccan dinner in the desert camp
✅ Activities & Sightseeing:
- Guided visit to Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah (UNESCO site)
- Visit to Ouarzazate & film studios (optional entry fees)
- Exploration of Todra Gorge & Dades Valley
- Visit to Khamlia village (Gnawa music experience)
- Visit to nomadic Berber families in the desert
- Camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes (sunset & sunrise experience)
- Sandboarding in the dunes (available upon request)
✅ Other Services:
- Pick-up & drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech
- Bottled water during the tour 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
What’s Excluded from the 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech?
❌ Flights & Travel Insurance
- International and domestic flights
- Travel insurance (recommended for any unforeseen circumstances)
❌ Lunches & Drinks
- Lunch meals during the trip (available at local restaurants, approx. 8-15€ per meal)
- Soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages
❌ Optional Activities & Entrance Fees
- Entry fees to monuments, film studios, and historical sites (approx. 2-7€ per site)
- Quad biking or buggy ride in the desert (available upon request)
❌ Personal Expenses & Tips
- Personal purchases (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)
- Tips for the driver/guide, local guides, and camp staff (optional but appreciated) 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
5-Day Marrakech to Desert Adventure: Explore the Best of Morocco’s Sahara
5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Your 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech
1. What is the best time to take a desert tour in Morocco?
- Best Time: The best time for a desert tour is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather is mild and pleasant during these months, ideal for desert treks and sightseeing. Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot, especially in the desert, while winter (December to February) can be cold at night, but still enjoyable. 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
2. What should I pack for the desert tour?
- Clothing: Light, breathable clothes for the day, warm layers for the chilly desert nights.
- Footwear: Comfortable shoes for walking and sandals for the desert camp.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, hat, camera, power bank, and a small backpack for your belongings during the camel trek. 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
3. Will there be an opportunity to buy food and drinks during the tour?
- Yes, lunches are not included in the tour, but you will stop at local restaurants along the way where you can buy meals. Drinks (both soft drinks and water) are available at these stops, but it’s a good idea to bring your own water for the journey. In the desert camp, dinner and breakfast are included. 5 Days desert Itinerary from Marrakech
4. How long is the camel ride, and is it comfortable?
- The camel ride usually lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours each way, taking you into the desert. While it may not be the most comfortable ride, the experience is unforgettable. Camel riding can be bumpy, so it’s best to wear long pants and bring a scarf to protect your face from the sun and wind.
5. Can I charge my devices during the trip?
- Most desert camps have limited electricity, so it’s advisable to bring a power bank to charge your devices during long drives and at the camp. Some accommodations along the way will have charging facilities, but it’s always better to come prepared.
6. Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
- Yes! During your desert experience, you can opt for activities such as quad biking (ATV rides) and sandboarding on the dunes. Please check with the tour operator for prices and availability.
7. Will I be able to communicate in English or another language?
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and your driver/guide will usually speak English, French, and/or Spanish. In more rural areas, however, Arabic or Berber may be the primary languages spoken. You may want to learn a few basic Arabic or French phrases to make communication easier.
8. Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
- The tour is generally suitable for children and elderly travelers, although the long drives and camel rides may be tiring for some. It’s important to assess your comfort level with the journey and discuss any special requirements with the tour operator beforehand. The camel ride can be adjusted or substituted with 4×4 transport for those who prefer not to ride camels.
9. Can I drink alcohol during the tour?
- Alcohol is not included in the desert tour package. However, if you wish to consume alcohol, some hotels or local markets may sell it. During the desert camp experience, you can bring your own alcohol (if allowed), but it’s important to respect the local culture and avoid public drinking in more traditional areas.
10. Is travel insurance necessary for this tour?
- Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for medical coverage, trip cancellations, and any unexpected situations. Make sure your insurance covers activities like camel trekking and long-distance travel.
11. How can I pay for the tour?
- You can typically pay for the tour using a credit card or through bank transfer. For some smaller tours, cash payment in Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) might be requested. Please confirm the payment methods with the tour provider before your trip.
12. What if I want to customize my itinerary or add extra days?
- yes you can customize your itinerary or extend your stay. You can add more days to explore other destinations or opt for different activities. Contact us
