5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga via Ouzina & Draa Valley
Embark on a unique 5-day adventure from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert, exploring remote landscapes, authentic Berber villages, and iconic Moroccan highlights.
Travel across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, and discover Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Continue through the vast Draa Valley and Zagora, then follow part of the legendary Paris–Dakar route to reach the untouched Ouzina Desert.
Experience camel trekking in the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes and spend a magical night in a desert camp. Return to Marrakech عبر scenic valleys and gorges, including Todra and Dades.
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – Zagora
We will pick you up at the agreed location in Marrakech and begin our journey across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260 m), with stops for panoramic views. We visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic kasbahs, featured in films such as Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. Afterwards, we continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” and drive through the Tizi n’Tinifift pass towards the Draa Valley, home to one of the largest palm groves in Morocco. Arrival in Zagora for dinner and overnight stay in a charming riad.
Day 2: Zagora – Paris-Dakar Track – Ramlia – Ouzina Desert
After breakfast, we leave the Draa Valley and head towards the remote Ouzina Desert following part of the historic Paris–Dakar rally route. Along the way, we pass through isolated villages, dry lake beds, and nomadic areas, offering a true off-the-beaten-path experience. Arrival in Ouzina in the afternoon. Enjoy a peaceful sunset over the dunes, followed by dinner and traditional music. Overnight stay in a desert lodge or kasbah.
Day 3: Ouzina – Khamlia – Erg Chebbi – Merzouga (Camel Trekking)
After breakfast, we continue through desert tracks towards Merzouga. We stop in Khamlia village, known for its traditional Gnawa music and rich cultural heritage. Afterward, we reach the impressive Erg Chebbi dunes. In the afternoon, enjoy a camel trek into the desert. Watch the sunset from the dunes before arriving at your desert camp. Dinner, local entertainment, and overnight stay in a Berber tent under the stars.
Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, we depart towards Rissani, a traditional market town. We continue to Tinghir and visit the stunning Todra Gorges, with towering canyon walls reaching up to 300 meters. In the afternoon, we drive to the Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations and beautiful scenery. Dinner and overnight stay in a riad or hotel.
Day 5: Dades Valley – Roses Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
After breakfast, we travel through the Valley of Roses and the Skoura palm grove, famous for its hidden kasbahs. We continue to Ouarzazate and then cross the High Atlas Mountains again via the Tizi n’Tichka pass. Arrival in Marrakech in the late afternoon. End of the tour.
What’s Included
- Private air-conditioned transport
- Professional driver/guide
- Fuel
- 3 nights in hotel or riad (dinner & breakfast included)
- 1 night in desert camp (dinner & breakfast included)
- Camel trekking experience in the Sahara Desert
- Sandboarding in the dunes
- Off-road desert experience (Paris-Dakar route & Ouzina)
Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
- Flight tickets
- Entrance fees to monuments
- Accommodation in Marrakech
- Optional activities
Have extra days in Morocco? Take a look at our other tours and make the most of your journey with us. 6 Days from Marrakech, 5 Days from Marrakech.