Explore the south east with this 5 Days Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour. Visit Ait Ben Haddou, stay in Dades Valley, spend 2 nights in Merzouga Desert with camel trekking, and return via Alnif, Nkob, Agdez to Ouarzazate.
Our 5 Days Marrakech to Merzouga south east retreat is ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences with a touch of adventure. You’ll explore the majestic High Atlas Mountains, the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, the lush valleys of Dades and Todra, and spend 2 nights in Merzouga Desert for camel trekking, stargazing, and optional ATV adventures.
Unlike the classic routes, this tour returns to Marrakech through Alnif, Nkob, and Agdez, passing beautiful landscapes and authentic Berber villages. The journey is paced with 1 night in Dades Valley, 2 nights in the desert, and a relaxing final night in Ouarzazate before returning to Marrakech.
Depart Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (~2260 m). Stop for panoramic views and Berber villages along the way. Visit the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, then continue through Ouarzazate before following the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs to the Dades Valley. Overnight in a riad or guesthouse.
Driving distance: ~325 km
Driving time: ~6.5 hours
After breakfast, explore the winding Dades Gorges and continue towards Tinghir and the dramatic Todra Gorges, famous for their 300m-high canyon walls.
By afternoon, reach Merzouga Desert, where your camels will be waiting for a sunset trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Dinner and overnight in a traditional desert camp under the stars.
Driving distance: ~270 km
Driving time: ~5.5 hours
Today is dedicated to desert discovery. After sunrise, set off on a 4x4 excursion to explore nomadic settlements, fossil fields, and the Gnawa village of Khamlia.
Optional desert adventures include ATV quads, dune buggies, and horse riding across the dunes. After an exciting day, enjoy another night in the desert (camp or desert riad).
Leave the dunes and travel west through Alnif and the palm groves of Nkob, a charming Berber village dotted with over 40 kasbahs. Continue through Agdez, following the Draa Valley, before arriving in Ouarzazate for the night.
Driving distance: ~370 km
Driving time: ~6 hours
After breakfast, explore Taourirt Kasbah or Atlas Film Studios (optional) before the return drive across the High Atlas Mountains. Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon, marking the end of your desert adventure.
Driving distance: ~200 km
Driving time: ~4 hours
