2 Days Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga
An Unforgettable Sahara Adventure
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Overview
If you only have two days in Morocco and you’re dreaming of the Sahara, this 2 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is for you. This is an adventure packed into 48 hours you’ll never forget.
This Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour features mountain passes, endless sands, Berber hospitality, scenic landscapes, and more. If you’re ready for a short but powerful escape, this is it.
| Duration | Departure Time & Location | Arrival Time & Location | Price Per Guest |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 days and 1 night | 7:00 AM from Marrakech | 18:00 in Marrakech | From 145 EUR |
Top Highlights of Marrakech to Merzouga 2-Day Tour
These are the top highlights of the 2-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga:
- Atlas Mountains & Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Drive through the scenic High Atlas Mountains and cross Morocco’s highest road pass.
- Erg Chebbi Sand Dunes: Marvel at the vast golden dunes of Erg Chebbi as you approach the edge of the Sahara.
- Sunset Camel Trek in Merzouga: Ride a camel into the desert at sunset.
- Overnight Berber Camp Stay: Stay in a traditional desert camp with a hearty Moroccan dinner and a campfire with Berber music.
- Ait Benhaddou Kasbah: Optional stop at Morocco’s most iconic ksar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tour Gallery
Itinerary for the 2-Day Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
Below is the tour Itinerary for 2 days Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour:
Day 1: Marrakech to Merzouga via Tizi n'Tichka Pass
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Marrakech ➜ Tizi n’Tichka Pass ➜ Tinjdad ➜ Jerf ➜ Erfoud ➜ Merzouga
Distance: 560 km
Key Stops:
- Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Tinjdad
- Jerf
- Erfoud
- Merzouga (Camel Trek & Desert Camp)
Day Highlights & Experiences
High Atlas Crossing and Desert Landscapes
We’ll begin our desert journey with an early morning departure from Marrakech, driving into the majestic High Atlas Mountains. As we ascend the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, North Africa’s highest mountain road at 2,260 meters, we’ll make photo stops to admire the panoramic views of the dramatic peaks.
Through the South’s Oasis Towns
Our route continues southeast as the terrain shifts from alpine to arid. Passing through the palm-filled town of Tinjdad and the village of Jerf, we’ll witness the transformation of the landscape into wide desert plains and ancient irrigation systems that still feed the region’s oases.
We’ll arrive in Erfoud by late afternoon, known as the gateway to the Sahara. This frontier town is renowned for its fossil workshops, date markets, and its historical role in desert trade routes.
Camel Caravan into the Erg Chebbi Dunes
In the early evening, we’ll reach the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, where your camel caravan awaits. Ride your camel into the vast sea of golden dunes just as the sun begins to set.
Evening at the Desert Camp
As night falls, we’ll arrive at our Berber desert camp. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, followed by live drumming around the campfire. Far from city lights, the stars above the dunes offer a dazzling night sky you won’t forget.
Day 2: Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) to Marrakech
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Merzouga ➜ Rissani ➜ Nkob ➜ Agdz ➜ Atlas Mountains ➜ Marrakech
Distance: 561 km
Key Stops:
- Sunrise Over the Dunes
- Rissani
- Nkob
- Agdz
- High Atlas Mountains
Day Highlights & Experiences
Desert Sunrise and Camel Trek
We’ll begin our final day in the Sahara with an early wake-up to experience one of Morocco’s greatest natural sights, sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Afterward, we’ll return to the edge of Merzouga by camel or 4×4 vehicle, depending on your preference.
Historic Market Town of Rissani
Our first major stop is in Rissani, once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Sijilmasa. Here, we’ll explore the town’s lively traditional souk, famous for dates, spices, and donkeys.
Yes, it’s one of the few places where livestock is still traded in open-air markets. Rissani also holds strong ties to the Alaouite dynasty, Morocco’s current royal family.
Oasis Villages and the Draa Valley
From Rissani, we’ll journey west through Nkob and Agdz, a scenic route that winds past countless kasbahs, palm oases, and remote Berber villages. This stretch along the Draa River Valley showcases some of southern Morocco’s most authentic and untouched landscapes.
Crossing the High Atlas Mountains
In the afternoon, we’ll climb once again into the High Atlas Mountains, crossing scenic mountain passes and winding roads that offer sweeping views and final glimpses of Morocco’s diverse geography.
Return to Marrakech
We’ll arrive in Marrakech by evening, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel or riad. Your desert tour concludes here, full of lasting memories, unforgettable views, and the timeless spirit of Morocco’s Sahara.
Tour Itinerary Map
Tour Includes & Excludes
Price Includes:
- Transportation: Private AC vehicle with pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation
- Driver/Guide: English-speaking and experienced driver/guide
- Camel Ride: Camel trekking in Erg Chebbi (One camel per person)
- Accommodation: Overnight in a desert camp (standard or luxury tent)
- Meals: 1 Dinner and 1 breakfast
- Alternative Transfer: 4×4 transfer available on request instead of camel trekking
Price Excludes:
- Meals: Lunches and drinks
- Personal Expenses: Tips, souvenirs, and optional purchases
- Optional Activities: Excursions or experiences not included in the itinerary
Available Tour Options
Marrakech to Merzouga Tour: 5 Things You Can’t Miss
Marrakech to Merzouga Tour: 5 Things You Can’t Miss
While the tour is short, it’s packed with unforgettable moments. Here are five highlights that make this Marrakech to Merzouga tour truly special.
Scenic Drive through the High Atlas Mountains
From the moment you leave Marrakech, the road winds up into the High Atlas, Morocco’s most dramatic mountain range. As you climb the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, expect breathtaking views, small Berber villages clinging to hillsides, and photo stops that capture the rugged beauty of this route.
Camel Trek across the Erg Chebbi Dunes
Riding a camel into the heart of the Sahara is a timeless Moroccan experience. The Erg Chebbi dunes stretch out like waves of golden sand, and the gentle sway of your camel offers a peaceful rhythm as you cross the landscape.
Witnessing a Sahara Sunset & Sunrise
The desert sky transforms at dusk and dawn. Both desert sunset and sunrise moments are ideal for photography or simply quiet reflection.
Overnight Stay in a Berber Desert Camp
An integral part of the journey—an overnight stay in a traditional desert camp. Enjoy a warm Moroccan dinner, listen to the rhythms of Berber drums around the fire, and rest under the stars in a nomadic-style tent.
Exploring Rissani’s Traditional Market
Rissani is a historic town known for its vibrant market culture. This is one of the few places in Morocco where you’ll still find live animal trading, spice merchants, and date stalls all in one place.
How to Prepare for Marrakech to Merzouga Trip?
How to Prepare for Marrakech to Merzouga Trip?
- Pack Smart: Pack light but include warm clothes for the night as desert temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
- Prepare for the Desert: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a scarf to protect yourself against the desert sun and wind.
- Charge Your Devices: Charge your phone and camera beforehand, or bring a portable charger.
- Bring Cash: Carry some Moroccan dirhams for souvenirs, snacks, or tips.
- Choose Comfortable Footwear: Wear shoes suitable for both travel and camel rides.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep a refillable water bottle with you.
- Inform Us about Dietary Needs: Let us know in advance if you have specific dietary restrictions.
FAQs Answered
The camel trek typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours each way, taking you deep into the dunes in time for sunset and again for sunrise if you return by camel the next morning.
Yes, the tour is suitable for families or older travelers. Camel rides are optional, and 4×4 vehicles can be arranged for added comfort and convenience.
You’ll stay in a traditional Berber desert camp with private tents. Camps are equipped with basic comforts, including proper bedding, shared or private bathrooms (depending on the camp), blankets, and a communal dining area.
Absolutely. You can customize the package to your liking, such as including additional stops, upgraded accommodations, or transport options like 4×4 transfers.
The best time to take this tour is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when temperatures are comfortable for both daytime travel and overnight desert stays.
Reserving a tour is simple: reach out to us, select your desired tour, and provide a small deposit to confirm your booking. Please review our booking policies for more details.
Our Customers Reviews
The Best Trip Of Our Lives
It is a wise choice to choose this 2 days and 1-night tour through the Merzouga desert.
the guide Hassan is very attentive and friendly, the accommodations are very good, the night in the desert you have enough comfort in the tent.
I would repeat with a stay of with more than a day in the desert because this was truly one of the best trips of our lives.
A Wonderful Experience
Last week, we enjoyed a 2-day desert trip, visiting Risani, Ouarzazate, and the vast desert.
Our guide and driver, Omar, was polite, respectful, friendly, and attentive, making it an excellent experience. Said, our contact, ensured we felt safe throughout.
We had close cultural interactions, including a delicious lunch at a local home.
Thank you for our first visit to Morocco. We will return with the same company and highly recommend them!
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What's Next?
Interested in adding more experiences to your journey? Take a look at these wonderful day trips you can enjoy either before or after your main tour.
Related Marrakech Desert Tours
Important Note:
Our proposed desert tours from Marrakech can be modified and designed according to your requirements and needs, feel free to contact us.