6 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech
A Journey Through The Heart of Morocco
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Overview
If you’ve only got six days to see the magic of Morocco, this desert tour from Marrakech gives you the perfect slice of the country’s most iconic experiences. This isn’t just about crossing off bucket-list sights; it’s about diving headfirst into Morocco’s rhythm, color, and soul.
Beginning in the bustling heart of Marrakech, this 6-day desert tour from Marrakech takes you through cinematic landscapes, centuries-old kasbahs, and golden desert dunes that stretch endlessly into the horizon. Whether you’re drawn to history, culture, nature, or adventure, this is for you.
| Duration | Departure Time & Location | Arrival Time & Location | Price Per Guest |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Days and 5 Nights | 8:30 AM from Marrakech | 18:00 in Marrakech | From 450 EUR |
Top Highlights of 6 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech
Here are the top highlights of the 6-day tour from Marrakech:
- Atlas Mountains & Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Enjoy sweeping views as you cross the scenic High Atlas Mountains via Morocco’s highest road pass.
- Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou.
- Dades Gorges: Spend the night surrounded by the dramatic rock formations of the Dades Valley.
- Todra Gorge: Stroll through the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge, a favorite spot for climbers and nature lovers.
- Erg Chebbi Dunes: Take in the breathtaking beauty of the golden dunes in Merzouga’s vast Sahara Desert.
- Sunset Camel Trek: Ride a camel across the sands at sunset for an unforgettable desert experience.
- Overnight Desert Camp: Sleep under the stars in a traditional Berber camp located deep in the dunes.
- Berber Dinner & Campfire: Enjoy a warm meal and live music around the fire at your Sahara camp.
- Fes Guided Tour: Explore Fes with a local guide and uncover the secrets of its ancient medina.
- Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca: Tour one of the largest mosques in the world, perched dramatically over the Atlantic Ocean.
Tour Gallery
Below is the itinerary for the 6-day Marrakech to Merzouga tour:
Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Gorges via Ouarzazate
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Marrakech ➜ Tizi n’Tichka Pass ➜ Telouet ➜ Ait Benhaddou ➜ Ouarzazate ➜ Valley of Roses ➜ Dades Gorges
Distance: 325 km
Key Stops:
- Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m)
- Telouet Kasbah
- Ait Benhaddou
- Ouarzazate (Atlas Film Studios & Taourirt Kasbah)
- Valley of Roses (Kalaat M’Gouna)
- Dades Gorges
Day Highlights & Experiences
Journey Through the High Atlas
The adventure begins with an early departure from Marrakech. As we head southeast, we’ll cross the Tizi n’Tichka, the highest road pass in Morocco.
Visit the Isolated Telouet Kasbah
Our next stop is Telouet Kasbah, once the seat of the powerful El Glaoui family. Though partially in ruins, its crumbling beauty and decorative interiors give a glimpse into Morocco’s feudal past.
Explore Ait Ben Haddou
We then continue to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar famous for its mudbrick architecture and cinematic history. From Gladiator to Game of Thrones, this fortress has starred in some of the world’s most iconic films.
Discover the Film Capital – Ouarzazate
Next, we arrive in Ouarzazate, also known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” You’ll pass by Atlas Film Studios, where countless desert scenes have been shot, and visit Taourirt Kasbah, a grand example of traditional architecture.
Drive Through the Valley of Roses
As we continue east, we’ll travel through the Valley of Roses, known for its fragrant rosewater production. In spring, the valley blooms with thousands of pink flowers, but its charm lasts year-round with scenic villages and lush oases.
Arrive at Dades Gorges
By evening, we reach the majestic Dades Gorges. Enjoy dinner and a peaceful overnight stay in a traditional riad or hotel located in the valley.
Day 2: Dades Gorges to Erg Chebbi Dunes
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Dades Gorges ➜ Tinghir ➜ Todra Gorge ➜ Tinjdad ➜ Erfoud ➜ Rissani ➜ Merzouga
Distance: 269 km
Key Stops:
- Todra Gorge
- Ziz Valley Drive
- Erfoud
- Rissani
- Erg Chebbi Dunes
Day Highlights & Experiences
Canyon Walk at Todra Gorge
After breakfast, we leave Dades and head toward Todra Gorge, one of Morocco’s most spectacular natural canyons. Towering cliffs on both sides make this a favorite for photographers and hikers. You’ll enjoy a short walk along the riverbed surrounded by dramatic rock walls.
Scenic Drive Through Ziz Valley
Continuing east, we pass through Ziz Valley, a lush ribbon of palm groves and villages stretching along the river. It’s a refreshing contrast to the dry desert landscape.
Fossils and Markets in Erfoud & Rissani
Our next stop is Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil workshops. You’ll get a glimpse into how ancient marine life, now embedded in stone, is polished and transformed into beautiful souvenirs.
A short drive takes us to Rissani, a former capital of the Tafilalt region. You’ll visit its bustling local market, known for fresh produce, spices, and traditional crafts.
Into the Sahara: Erg Chebbi Dunes
By late afternoon, we arrive in Merzouga, at the edge of the towering Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, your camel will be waiting to take you across golden sands as the sun begins to set.
Desert Camp Experience
After your camel ride, you’ll arrive at a desert camp tucked within the dunes. Settle into your tent, followed by a warm Berber dinner around the campfire with traditional music under a sky full of stars.
Day 3: Explore Merzouga & Nomad Families
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Merzouga area (Desert loop tour)
Distance: ~40 km
Key Stops:
- Khamlia Village (Gnawa Music)
- Mefes Lead Mines
- Nomad Family Visit in the Desert
- Desert Viewpoints & Oases
Day Highlights & Experiences
Musical Morning in Khamlia
We’ll start the day with a visit to Khamlia, a small village known for its vibrant Gnawa music, a spiritual and rhythmic tradition brought by descendants of sub-Saharan Africans. You’ll enjoy a live performance and learn about the cultural roots of this unique desert music.
Mining History at Mefes
Next, we head to the abandoned lead mines of Mefes, where you can explore the quiet remnants of Morocco’s mineral past.
Tea with a Nomad Family
A highlight of the day is meeting local nomad families living in the desert. You’ll be welcomed into their tent for traditional mint tea and a glimpse into their daily life. Don’t miss this authentic and heartfelt cultural exchange.
Scenic Desert Views & Hidden Oases
We’ll continue the loop with stops at desert viewpoints offering vast, open panoramas of the golden dunes. Small desert oases appear like mirages, adding a splash of green to the endless sandscape.
Rest in Merzouga
We’ll return to Merzouga in the late afternoon. Tonight, you’ll stay in a comfortable local riad or hotel.
Day 4: Merzouga to Fes via Azrou and Midelt
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Merzouga ➜ Rissani ➜ Ziz Valley ➜ Midelt ➜ Azrou ➜ Ifrane ➜ Fes
Distance: 467 km
Key stops:
- Rissani Market
- Ziz Valley Palm Groves
- Midelt
- Azrou Cedar Forest
- Ifrane
Day Highlights & Experiences
Morning Market at Rissani
We’ll start the day at the traditional market of Rissani again, once a major stop for caravan traders. You can pick up a souvenir for yourself.
Scenic Drive Through Ziz Valley
We’ll continue the journey through the Ziz Valley, where endless palm groves stretch along the riverbanks. Don’t forget to capture some pictures of this beautiful landscape.
Lunch in the Atlas at Midelt
We’ll pause for lunch in Midelt, a peaceful town nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains. It’s the perfect break to enjoy fresh mountain air and a hearty Moroccan meal before continuing north.
Forest Walk in Azrou
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the cedar forests of Azrou, home to the playful Barbary apes. A short walk under tall, ancient trees might reward you with up-close encounters with these curious monkeys.
The Charm of Ifrane
Later, we’ll explore Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its European-style architecture, tidy parks, and alpine feel. It’s unlike any other town in the country.
Evening Arrival in Fes
As the sun sets, we’ll arrive in the imperial city of Fes. Check in at your local riad or hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Day 5: Fes to Casablanca
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Fes City Tour ➜ Casablanca
Distance: 295 km
Key stops:
- Fes el Bali (UNESCO Medina)
- Al Qaraouine University
- Tanneries & Artisan Workshops
- Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
- Ville Nouvelle
- Attarine Museum
- Moulay Idriss Mausoleum
Day Highlights & Experiences
Morning Walking Tour through Fes Medina
We’ll begin our day with a guided exploration of Fes el Bali, the oldest walled part of the city. This UNESCO-listed Medina is a maze of narrow alleys, bustling markets, and hidden courtyards.
Discover the World’s Oldest University
Our next stop is the University of Al Qaraouine, founded in 859. This historic institution is recognized as the oldest existing and continually operating educational center in the world.
We’ll also visit the Attarine Museum, a former theological school beautifully decorated with zellige tiles and carved woodwork.
Artisans and the Jewish Quarter
Step into the vibrant world of Fes’s traditional industries with a visit to the Chouara Tanneries, where leather is dyed using centuries-old techniques. Then, explore the Mellah, the old Jewish Quarter.
Contrast with the Modern Side of Fes
We’ll continue the tour through Ville Nouvelle, the modern district developed during the French protectorate. Wide boulevards, cafés, and fountains here provide a striking contrast to the ancient Medina.
A Final Visit before Departure
Before leaving Fes, we’ll stop at the Moulay Idriss Mausoleum, which is dedicated to the founder of the city.
Afternoon Drive to Casablanca
In the afternoon, we’ll leave Fes and begin our drive to Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital. Arrive by evening and check in at your hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Day 6: Casablanca to Marrakech
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Casablanca ➜ Marrakech
Distance: 241 km
Key stops:
- Hassan II Mosque of Casablanca
- Marrakech
Day Highlights & Experiences
Morning Visit to Hassan II Mosque
We’ll start our final day with a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the most magnificent landmarks in Morocco. Built partly over the Atlantic Ocean, this mosque features one of the tallest minarets in the world. You’ll have time to explore the impressive courtyard, ornate interiors, and seaside views.
Farewell Drive to Marrakech
After soaking in the beauty of Casablanca’s coast, we’ll begin our drive back to Marrakech. Upon arrival, we’ll drop you off at your hotel or the airport, marking the end of your 6-day Moroccan adventure.
Tour Itinerary Map
Tour Includes & Excludes
Price Includes:
- Transportation: A/C vehicle with pick-up & drop-off facilities
- Driver/Guide: Knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation: 4 nights in traditional riads or hotels and 1 night in a private tent at a desert camp in Merzouga
- Meals: Breakfasts and dinners
- Camel Experience: Camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes (one camel per person)
- 4×4 Transfer: 4×4 vehicle transfer (Instead of camel trekking)
- Guided Tour: City Tour in Fes with a licensed local expert
Price Excludes:
- Meals: Lunches and beverages during the tour
- Monument Fees: Optional entry fees to historical sites and museums
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, tips (gratuities), and other personal purchases
- Optional Activities: Experiences not listed in the standard itinerary
Available Tour Options
5 Unmissable Highlights on a Marrakech Desert Tour
5 Unmissable Highlights on a Marrakech Desert Tour
Across six days of diverse landscapes and cultural immersion, here are five unforgettable highlights that define this desert journey.
Sunset And Sunrise Over Erg Chebbi Dunes
The golden light of the Sahara at sunset and the quiet calm of dawn are unmatched. Climb the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi by camel and watch the sky change colors over the sand.
Stargazing at a Sahara Desert Camp
Far from city lights, the desert sky comes alive at night. After dinner around the campfire, step out to gaze at a sky filled with stars. The silence of the dunes and the clarity of the Milky Way make this a magical and peaceful experience.
Exploring Ait Benhaddou – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
This ancient fortified village, made of clay and straw, has stood for centuries. Ait Benhaddou is more than just a photo stop; it’s a connection to Morocco’s long and storied past.
Meeting Nomadic Families in the Sahara
One of the most eye-opening parts of the journey is visiting Berber nomads who live in tents out in the desert. You’ll learn about their way of life, from raising livestock to moving with the seasons.
Scenic Drive through the Atlas Mountains & Todra Gorge
The drive through the High Atlas Mountains is a journey of ever-changing scenery, from green valleys to rocky peaks. As you descend into the Todra Gorge, sheer cliffs rise on either side, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring view.
Handy Tips for a 6-Day Tour from Marrakech
Handy Tips for a 6-Day Tour from Marrakech
- Book Early: Reserve your tour in advance to get the best accommodations and ensure availability during peak seasons.
- Pack Smart: Bring layered clothing for warm days and chilly desert nights. Don’t forget a scarf, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Carry Some Cash: Keep some Moroccan Dirhams on hand for tips, snacks, and souvenirs.
- Get a Power Bank: Electricity may not be consistently available in remote areas.
- Connectivity: Purchase a local SIM card or ensure your roaming plan works.
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural villages, mosques, or interacting with nomadic families.
- Pro Tip: Save space in your bag for local crafts and souvenirs you’ll want to buy along the journey.
FAQs Answered
The camel trek is generally safe for most travelers, but it may be challenging for those with back problems, mobility issues, or for young children. If preferred, a 4×4 vehicle transfer can be arranged instead of riding a camel.
Pack lightweight clothing for the day, a warm jacket for chilly desert nights, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a scarf or hat for sun protection. Don’t forget a camera and any personal medications you may need.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice. It’s best to inform us in advance to ensure proper meal planning at each stop.
Phone signal may be limited in the desert, and Wi-Fi is usually not available at the camp. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty, but you’ll have full connectivity in hotels and cities throughout the rest of the tour.
The ideal times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September through November), when moderate temperatures create perfect conditions for desert exploration. In contrast, the peak summer months bring scorching heat, particularly in Merzouga, while winter nights can be surprisingly chilly.
Reserving a tour with us is easy and straightforward. Just get in touch to select the tour that matches your interests, make a small deposit to confirm your booking, and you’re ready to go. Be sure to review our booking terms for all the details.
Our Customers Reviews
Awesome 6 Day trip from Marrakech
Great experience with Morocco Tours agency! We had a private tour group of 8 university students that spent 6 days, traveling through Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddaou, Quarzazate, the Sahara Desert, Fes, and Chechauen.
Our tour guide was very pleasant knowledgeable about Morocco and made our tour wonderful.
Addi assured us that we had the best experience possible. The accommodation and food were great. Overall, would highly recommend the Morocco Tours agency.
A Journey of a Lifetime
They organized tour guides for major sites, for example, in Fez. Personally, I would not recommend touring Fez without a guide.
He also organized a camel ride into the Sahara desert - an unimaginable experience! And this was our highlight of the whole trip.
All of the hotels were perfect for our group of 4 and all provided us with amazing breakfast spreads each morning.
In brief, I couldn’t recommend this tour agency enough! My friends and I had such a memorable week, all thanks to our great friend.
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What's Next?
Want to add more excitement to your trip? Consider these incredible day trips that you can enjoy either before or after your main tour.
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Important Note:
We personalize our Marrakech desert trips to suit your individual desires and requirements. Reach out to us to design a personalized itinerary just for you.