Atlas & Desert Escape
Overview
This 4-day adventure from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert lets you experience Morocco’s stunning landscapes — from the High Atlas Mountains and ancient kasbahs to the Sahara Desert dunes. Enjoy camel trekking, desert camping, Berber music under the stars, and charming valleys along the way.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Early morning departure from Marrakech.
Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), with panoramic stops for photos.
Visit the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site featured in many movies (Gladiator, Game of Thrones).
Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa."
Drive through the Valley of Roses and Skoura Oasis to reach Dades Valley.
Day 2
Breakfast at the hotel, then drive to the impressive Todra Gorges, where you can walk between 300m cliffs.
Continue through Tinejdad and Erfoud, known for fossils and dates.
Arrive at Merzouga, gateway to the Sahara Desert.
Meet your camel caravan and ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes to your desert camp.
Enjoy a traditional dinner, Berber drumming, and a night under the stars.
Day 3
Wake early to catch the sunrise over the dunes — a breathtaking moment.
Ride camels or drive back to the village for breakfast and a shower.
Depart through Alnif and Tazzarine, following the scenic Draa Valley, one of Morocco’s longest river valleys.
Continue toward Ouarzazate, known for its film studios and kasbahs.
Day 4
After breakfast, visit the Taourirt Kasbah or Atlas Film Studios (optional).
Return journey to Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains.
Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon.
What's Included
- Pick-up and drop-off in Marrakech
- Private transport in air-conditioned 4x4 or minibus
- English/French-speaking driver-guide
- 2 nights in traditional riads/hotels
- 1 night in desert camp (standard or luxury)
- Camel trek in Merzouga dunes
- Breakfasts & dinners (as mentioned)
- Sandboarding (optional)
What's Excluded
- ✕Lunches & drinks
- ✕Entrance fees (if applicable)
- ✕Tips & personal expenses
Good to Know
- iDeparture: 7:30 AM from Marrakech
- iEnd: Marrakech (evening of Day 4)
- iDistance: ~1,000 km total
- iBring: Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and warm clothes for desert nights
- iCustomization: Can start or end in Fes / upgrade to luxury camp available