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Merzouga Desert Activities

5 Days Desert Tour Marrakech to Essaouira Overview:

The 5-day expedition from Marrakech to Essaouira via the gorgeous Merzouga desert offers a unique blend of desert adventures and coastal charm.

During these 5 days and 4 nights, you’ll explore the interesting places in Morocco. The journey commences in Marrakesh, allowing you to discover the High Atlas Mountains, the winding Tizi N Tichka road, explore the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, venture through the Valley of Roses, Dades Valley, and enjoy the natural landscapes of the palm trees.

Furthermore, the tour continues to the Merzouga desert, where you’ll experience camel trekking into the golden dunes, spend a night in a desert camp amid the serene desert landscape, and witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises over the dunes.

Moreover, explore the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, known as the Hollywood of Africa, with its significant historical monuments. Finally, The journey concludes in the peaceful coastal town of Essaouira.

5 Days Desert Tour Marrakech to Essaouira Info:

Departure time: At 8:00 AM
Departure point: Marrakech accommodation or airport
Trip style: Private Sahara Tour
Tour Length: 5 days/4 nights
Ending time: Around 07:00 PM
Ending Point: Your accommodation in Essaouira

5 Days Marrakech to Essaouira Sahara Trip Highlights:

Traverse the majestic High Atlas Mountains
Breathtaking views along the scenic Tizi n'Tichka pass
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Aït Ben Haddou
the desert gateway, Ouarzazate
The historic Taourirt Kasbah
Atlas Film Studios
Marveling at the unique rock formations
Experience the simplicity of Merzouga village
Serene landscapes of the Erg Chebbi dunes
Camel trek to the heart of the desert
Relish in a vibrant sunset over the dunes
Spending a night in a traditional desert camp
Mint Tea with nomads
Flamingo lake
Explore Hassi Labied’s palm trees
Savor the coastal breeze of Essaouira

Itinerary of 5 Days Desert Tour Marrakech to Essaouira:

Day 1: Marrakech - Atlas Mountains - Dades Gorges

The 5 days Desert Tour Marrakech to Essaouira offers an unforgettable exploration of Morocco’s stunning scenery and vibrant cultural diversity.

The journey begins with an early pickup from accommodations in Marrakech approximately at 8:00 AM, then crossing the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi N Tichka snaky road.

Along the way, stops will be at the mountain’s viewpoints to enjoy the panoramic views of Berber villages at the edge of the mountains such as Ait Ben Ammar village and Toufliht.

Furthermore, the adventure continues to the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, an ancient mud-brick village recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987, the strategic location and impressive architecture have established it as a famous destination for travelers around the world, in addition, numerous movies filmed in Morocco have chosen Aït Ben Haddou as a backdrop, including the Islamic epic drama movie ‘‘The Message’’ (1976), the British-Italian epic film ‘‘Jesus and Nazareth’’ (1977), and the 1981 British fantasy adventure movie ‘‘Time Bandits’’.

After lunch at the Kasbah, our journey continues to Boumalne Dades, passing through the Hollywood of Africa Ouarzazate, the date palms of Skoura, and Kalaat M’gouna which hosts the annual Festival of Roses, usually held in the first week of May or the last week of April, with a huge lively celebration of the rose harvest, beauty contests, traditional music, and a unique dance called Ahidous or Ahwach.

Finally, we reach Boumalne Dades and spend the night in the Dades Gorges, with accommodation providing dinner and breakfast at the hotel.

Day 2: Dades Valley - Merzouga Desert - Camel ride

After breakfast, we depart from Boumalne Dades and make our way to the highlight of the tour, the Merzouga desert.

Additionally, there will be a break to try the traditional Amazigh (Berber) dress for photographic opportunities.

After lunch in Touroug village, we continue our journey through El Jorf and Erfoud towards the different and most incredible region in Morocco.

Finally, reaching the village of Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Subsequently, commence a camel trek to the heart of the desert, relishing the serene ambiance of being in the middle of golden dunes and watching a breathtaking sunset from one of the highest dunes as well as trying a fun activity which is sandboarding on sand.

After the sunset, we continue to the desert camp where you’ll be greeted with a cup of mint tea and your private tent, in addition to a traditional Moroccan dinner beneath a star-filled sky, and listening to Berber drumming sessions around the campfire, and witness shooting stars.

Day 3: Explore the Desert - Nomads - Khamlia village

A fresh day begins, let the splendor of the dynamic desert sunrise bring joy to your heart. After breakfast, we start a 4×4 off-road exploration to explore the wonders of the Merzouga region.

Our initial destination is the visit to nomadic families, nice people who lead a humble life in traditional woven tents, well-known for their exceptionally warm hospitality towards tourists and strangers.

Subsequently, we explore the ancient Eyeliner Mines or Kohl Mines, an eye cosmetic that has been used by Amazigh (Berber) women to make the eyes more seductive and attractive, in addition, it was historically believed to offer protection from the sunshine.

Next, explore the village of Khamlia situated on the outskirts of the dunes, the majority of its inhabitants are originally from sub-Saharan countries like Mali, Niger, and Sudan, playing live performances of their traditional Gnawa music using unique instruments such as the guembri, drums, and castanets known as clackers.

After lunch, an opportunity to try the village’s typical dish, the Berber Pizza (optional), we continue to Hassi Labied to admire its flourishing palm trees and gain insights into the Khettara system, an ancient and effective system that efficiently collects nighttime moisture through condensation in the soil, directing it into the irrigation systems of the date palm groves that represent the wealth of this region.

Finally, we conclude the adventurous day with a drive to the hotel in Hassi Labied village.

Day 4: Merzouga Desert - Draa Valley - Ouarzazate

After breakfast, we leave the Merzouga desert and depart to the Hollywood of Africa Ouarzazate.

First, we will make a stop in Rissani, a town that has historical significance which is the birthplace of the current dynasty that governs the kingdom of Morocco nowadays, The Alaouite. The mausoleum of the dynasty’s founder Moulay Ali Cherif is in this beautiful town.

Later, We will pause at the Draa Valley, recognized as one of Morocco’s lengthiest rivers, originating in the High Atlas Mountains and ultimately flowing into the Atlantic Ocean. known for its date palm trees, the valley serves as an important water source for agricultural fields.

Afterward, the tour continues to Ouarzazate, passing through ancient fortified villages called ksour and historic kasbahs. Finally, we arrive in Ouarzazate, often referred to as the Hollywood of Africa, where we spend the night in a hotel.

Day 5: Ouarzazate - High Atlas - Essaouira

On the last day of your unforgettable 5 days Desert Tour Marrakech to Essaouira, you’ll traverse again the High Atlas Mountains with the choice to explore the Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate.

Then, we will journey through the vibrant city of Marrakech, Chichaoua, and Sidi Moukhtar.

During the trip, a pause will be made to enjoy the picturesque view of Essaouira’s charming town.

Following this, it’s just a brief 20-minute drive to reach Essaouira. Finally, the tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel or airport in Essaouira

Marrakech to Essaouira 5 Days Price Includes:

Marrakech to Essaouira Tour 5 Days Price Excludes:

FAQ of 5 days Marrakech to Essaouira Desert Tour

How far is Merzouga from Marrakech?

The distance from Marrakech to Merzouga is around 564 km when traveling by road and typically takes 8 to 9 hours

Is the accommodation in Dades Valley for the first night equipped with private rooms?

Certainly, all rooms at the hotel in Dades Valley are private and air-conditioned during the private tour.

Are we allowed to bring our luggage along?

Certainly, you are encouraged to bring your luggage on the tour. It will be securely stored while you are camping.

What should we pack for the overnight camping experience in the Merzouga desert?

It is advisable to prepare a small backpack with essentials for your night in the desert camp. For the camel ride, consider bringing a scarf, hat, sunglasses, and a pair of jeans or long trousers. In colder seasons, especially from December to March, you can bring warm clothing as it is necessary at night.

Can we opt for an upgrade to a luxury desert camp upon reaching the desert?

Unfortunately, upgrading upon arrival is not feasible. Any upgrades must be arranged online at least 24 hours before the tour’s departure to ensure proper accommodations. It’s important to note that Comfortable and Luxury camps are situated in different locations.

What is the itinerary of the 5-day tour from Marrakech to Essaouira and the desert?

The itinerary typically includes key stops such as Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, the Todra Gorges, Merzouga desert with a camel trek, Erfoud, Tinghir, the Dades Valley, and finally, Essaouira on the Atlantic coast.

What languages are spoken by the guides?

The Marrakech Trips team provides English, Spanish, French, and Japanese-speaking guides

Are entrance fees to attractions included?

No the entrance to monuments fees aren’t included in the scheduled program

Know Before You Go

Before booking the 5 days Sahara Desert Tour from the vibrant city Marrakech to the charming coastal city Essaouira, please check out the following points:

If you want to stay longer in the Desert, such as spending 2 nights camel trekking in the middle of the golden sand dunes, please inform us at the time of booking
You’ll receive a booking confirmation immediately after booking.
Our 5-days Morocco Sahara tour from Marrakech ensures there are no tourist traps 100%.
Our Moroccan desert tours packages have fabulous and transparent prices with no hidden costs.
Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, let your driver or guide who will be with you during the scheduled trip at the beginning of the journey, and they’ll take you to the best places to get the alcoholic drinks.
Do not miss the best prices. Book your Morocco trip with us in advance to secure the best prices.
The journey departs daily around 8:00 AM. We’ll confirm the exact departure time the day before the start of the 5 days tour expedition.
Enjoy additional Sahara desert activities like quad biking or buggies in the Erg Chebbi dunes.
If you have any specific dietary preferences, such as being vegetarian or having food allergies, please inform us at the time of booking so we can ensure your trip is enjoyable and hassle-free.