This 4-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga and back offers a deep immersion into the landscapes, history, and traditions of southern Morocco. Crossing the majestic Atlas Mountains, visiting ancient kasbahs, exploring the Erg Chebbi desert, vibrant local markets, and the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, this journey is a perfect blend of Berber culture and Saharan nature for an authentic Moroccan experience.
DAY 1
After breakfast, departure from your riad in Marrakech, heading up the winding roads of the Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters — the highest mountain pass in the Atlas. Crossing scenic landscapes and Berber villages, you’ll reach the famous Ait-Ben-Haddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the backdrop for many international films. The journey continues to Ouarzazate, a former French colonial administrative center, home to the renowned Atlas Film Studios, known for epic films like Gladiator and The Mummy. Drive through the fragrant Valley of Roses, famed for its damask rose production, before arriving at the spectacular Dades Gorges. Dinner and overnight in a local riad.
DAY 2
After breakfast, visit the Todra Gorges, famous for their towering 300-meter cliffs. Continue toward Erfoud, the “city of fossils,” thanks to the area’s abundant petrified marine relics. In the afternoon, arrive in Merzouga, gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. After a short rest, embark on a camel ride through the golden sands to a traditional Berber camp. Enjoy a dinner under the stars with live Berber music, featuring drums and nomadic chants. Overnight in a haima tent in the heart of the Sahara.
DAY 3
At dawn, watch the sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast and a camel ride back to Merzouga. Visit Rissani, an ancient city known for its authentic traditional market. Travel through the lush Draa Valley, one of Morocco’s largest oases, dotted with palm groves and Berber kasbahs. Arrive in Ouarzazate in the afternoon with free time to visit the Atlas Studios. Dinner and overnight in a riad in the heart of this captivating southern city.
DAY 4
The day starts with a visit to the Kasbah Taourirt, once a noble residence and now a fascinating museum. This masterpiece of earth architecture preserves intricately decorated rooms that tell the city’s history. Afterward, drive back to Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains, passing breathtaking landscapes and timeless villages. Arrival in Marrakech is expected in the late afternoon, marking the end of this four-day journey through the desert, mountains, culture, and Moroccan traditions.
• airport transfers (arrival and departure)
• pick-up from your hotel or riad
• Toyota Prado Land Cruiser / Mitsubishi 4×4 / minivan / minibus with air conditioning
• driver speaking Italian / French / English / Spanish
• fuel, tolls, and associated taxes
• overnight stays and breakfasts in traditional riads
• half board treatment as specified in the itinerary
• camel trekking experience
• 4×4 desert excursion by jeep
• sandboarding experience on the desert dunes
• flights
• lunches
• drinks
• tips (always appreciated)
• entrance fees to museums, monuments, parks, and archaeological sites
• optional travel insurance (recommended)
• anything not expressly mentioned in the “Included” section
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