7-Day Desert Tour: Marrakech to Sahara & Back

📌 Overview

Seven days from Marrakech and back — the most complete southern Morocco loop. Arrive in Marrakech, cross the High Atlas to Aït Ben Haddou, ride camels into the Erg Chebbi dunes, wind back through Ouarzazate and Telouet, then spend your final days exploring Marrakech’s imperial landmarks. The ideal week for those who want to experience the best of Morocco’s desert and culture.

🗺️ Itinerary

🌅 Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

Welcome to the Red City

Arrive in Marrakech and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, begin your Moroccan adventure with a visit to the Jardin Majorelle and Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Evening at leisure to explore the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Welcome dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant.

🌅 Day 2: Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou to Ouarzazate

High Atlas crossing and UNESCO kasbah

Depart from Marrakech at 9:00 AM, heading towards the High Atlas Mountains. Traverse the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) with breathtaking views. Stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village famous for its role in many films. Continue to Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film capital. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah. Overnight in Ouarzazate.

🌅 Day 3: Ouarzazate to Skoura to Rose Valley to Dades Valley

Palm groves and floral landscapes

After breakfast, visit the Atlas Film Studios. Drive to Skoura, known for its beautiful palm groves and the Amridil Kasbah. Continue to Kelaat M’Gouna, the heart of Morocco’s rose-growing region. Drive to the Dades Valley. Overnight in Boumalne Dades.

🌅 Day 4: Dades Valley to Todra Gorge to Merzouga

Canyon hike and Sahara desert adventure

Start your day with a scenic drive through the Dades Valley, heading towards the Todra Gorge. Explore this stunning canyon with its towering rock walls. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your journey to Merzouga. Upon arrival, embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Overnight in a luxury Bedouin camp.

🌅 Day 5: Merzouga Desert Exploration

Sunrise, 4×4 adventure and Berber culture

Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, explore the desert by 4×4, visiting Khamlia village for traditional Gnawa music. Try sandboarding on the dunes. Visit a nomad family to learn about their way of life. Overnight in the desert camp.

🌅 Day 6: Merzouga to Rissani to Ouarzazate to Telouet

Historic towns and mountain kasbahs

After breakfast, visit Rissani, the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty. Continue through Alnif to Ouarzazate. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah. Continue to Telouet, once the seat of the powerful El Glaoui family. Visit the Telouet Kasbah. Overnight in Telouet.

🌅 Day 7: Telouet to Marrakech

Return through the High Atlas

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains. Stop at scenic viewpoints along the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Arrive in Marrakech by 4:00 PM. Final afternoon at leisure for last-minute shopping or relaxation. Farewell dinner in the city.

✅ Includes

  • Private air-conditioned transportation throughout
  • Professional English/French/Spanish-speaking guide
  • 6 nights accommodation in 3-4 star hotels and luxury desert camp
  • Daily breakfast and 4 dinners
  • Camel trek in Erg Chebbi with sunset and sunrise views
  • 4×4 desert excursion in Merzouga
  • Entrance fees to all mentioned historical sites and attractions
  • Local taxes and service charges

❌ Excludes

  • International flights
  • Lunches and drinks (except water during meals)
  • Personal expenses and shopping
  • Tips and gratuities (recommended: 5-10 EUR per person per day)
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages

ℹ️ Trip Facts

Transport Private minibus (2-12 pax)
Accommodation 3-4 star hotels & luxury desert camp
Meals Breakfast daily, 4 dinners
Start/End Point Marrakech (airport/hotel pickup/drop-off)
Group Size 2-12 people (private groups available)
Best Time to Go March to November
Difficulty Easy to Moderate
Language English, French, Spanish

❓ FAQ

What is the difference between this 7-day tour and the 8-day version?

The 7-day tour is more focused on the essential desert experience, while the 8-day version adds a day trip to the Ourika Valley waterfalls or Essaouira for more variety.

Can I extend this tour to include more destinations?

Yes! Popular extensions include adding a day trip to Essaouira, visiting the Ourika Valley, or extending to Chefchaouen. We can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences.

What should I pack for the desert portion?

Warm clothes for desert nights (temperatures can drop to 5°C/41°F), comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, small backpack for the camel trek, and a power bank.

How many days do we actually spend in the desert?

You’ll spend 2 nights in the desert: one for the camel trek and sunset, and a second for the 4×4 exploration and sunrise. This gives you a comprehensive desert experience.

What is special about Telouet Kasbah?

Telouet Kasbah was once the seat of the powerful El Glaoui family who ruled the region in the 19th century. It’s known for its impressive architecture and strategic location on the old caravan route.

Is this tour suitable for families?

Yes! This tour is family-friendly. The desert camp experience is particularly enjoyable for children, and we can adjust the pace and activities for younger travelers.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

7-Day Desert Tour: Marrakech to Sahara & Back
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