3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech (Merzouga)
This is Morocco's most popular desert tour: 3 days / 2 nights from Marrakech to the Merzouga dunes, through the south's finest scenery. A legendary route combining kasbahs, gorges, palm groves and an unforgettable night in the Sahara.
The 3-day / 2-night Marrakech → Merzouga desert tour follows a classic route: Day 1, Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate then the Dadès gorges; Day 2, the Todra gorges and arrival in Merzouga with a night at camp after a camel ride; Day 3, sunrise then the return to Marrakech. Plan around €90-160/person in a group.
Day-by-day itinerary
| Day | Programme | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Marrakech → Tizi n'Tichka pass → Aït Ben Haddou (UNESCO) → Ouarzazate → Dadès valley and gorges | Hotel/kasbah in the Dadès gorges |
| Day 2 | Todra gorges → Tinghir → Road of a Thousand Kasbahs → Merzouga → camel ride at sunset | Camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes |
| Day 3 | Sunrise over the dunes → breakfast → long drive back to Marrakech (via Ouarzazate) | — |
It's a packed itinerary: the first two days are rich in scenery, the third is mainly the return (8-9 h drive). See the full Merzouga desert guide.
What's usually included
- Transport in an air-conditioned 4x4 or minibus, driver.
- 1 night in a hotel/kasbah + 1 night at camp.
- Breakfasts and dinners (half board).
- Camel ride at sunset.
Often not included: lunches, drinks, some site entries, tips, and the luxury camp upgrade.
How much does it cost?
| Option | Indicative price/person |
|---|---|
| Shared group (3 days) | €90-160 |
| Luxury camp (supplement) | +€50-150 |
| Private tour (by group) | on request, higher |
Prices vary by season, comfort level and group size. Always check what's included before booking.
Book the 3-day Merzouga tour· GetYourGuide
See desert tours on Viator· Viator
Also read: sleeping in the desert, which desert to choose and the best time.
FAQ — 3-day desert tour from Marrakech
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In short
The 3-day Marrakech → Merzouga tour is the best way to experience the Sahara without arranging the logistics yourself. Two days of spectacular scenery, a magical night in the dunes: a Morocco must-do, best booked from October to April.
