Marhaba Marruecos

4 days from Ouarzazate to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech

4 days from Ouarzazate to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech

Introduction

The 4-day route from Ouarzazate to the Merzouga desert ending in Marrakech is a unique experience that combines dazzling landscapes, ancient culture and the magic of the Sahara desert. Along the way, travelers will enjoy the legendary Kasbahs, breathtaking gorges, and two nights in the heart of the Merzouga desert, before arriving in the vibrant city of Marrakech.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Departure from Ouarzazate

We begin our adventure in Ouarzazate, the city of a thousand kasbahs and a starting point towards the desert. After an early breakfast, we head east, passing through some of the most spectacular landscapes in southern Morocco.

Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou

Our first stop is the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified village that has been used as a set in numerous film productions. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this place is an architectural gem offering an impressive view of its clay towers and narrow streets.

Valley of the Roses and Dades Gorges

We continue to the Valley of the Roses, famous for its rose fields, which are used to produce oils and perfumes. Here we’ll make a brief stop before heading to the imposing Dades Gorges, known for their red rock formations and mountains. We will spend the night in a local riad, surrounded by the nature and tranquility of this wonderful valley.

Day 2: Todra Gorges – Merzouga

Todra Gorges

After a delicious breakfast, we head to the spectacular Todra Gorges, where the cliffs reach heights of up to 300 meters. This place is popular among climbers and offers breathtaking views that make this stop an unforgettable experience.

Journey to Merzouga

Later, we begin our journey to the desert, crossing traditional Berber villages and the Ziz Valley Palm Grove, an extensive area of palm trees that signals the proximity of the Sahara. After a journey full of contrasting landscapes, we arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the imposing dunes of Erg Chebbi.

Camel ride and night in the desert

Upon arriving in Merzouga, we will switch to camels to begin an unforgettable adventure towards the camp in the heart of the dunes. We will enjoy the sunset over the dunes of Erg Chebbi, and upon arriving at the camp, we will be greeted with a traditional Moroccan dinner and a magical night under the stars.

Day 3: Merzouga – Night in the desert

Sunrise over the dunes

The third day begins with one of the most spectacular moments of the trip: the sunrise over the Sahara dunes. The golden tones of the sun illuminate the sand mountains, creating a landscape that is hard to forget. After enjoying this natural spectacle, we return to the camp for a traditional breakfast.

Exploration of the Merzouga region

During this day, you will have the opportunity to explore the Merzouga region and its surroundings. We will visit some nomadic villages and learn more about their lifestyle. We will also explore the nearby Lake Merzouga, a surprising site in the middle of the desert that, during the rainy season, attracts migratory birds such as flamingos.

Second night at the camp

We will spend the afternoon at the camp, enjoying the serenity of the desert. Another opportunity for a walk through the dunes, this time on foot, before once again enjoying a dinner under the starry sky.

Day 4: Merzouga – Marrakech

Return to Rissani and Erfoud

After an early breakfast, we say goodbye to the desert and head towards Rissani, a historic city and former capital of the Tafilalt region. Here, you can explore the traditional market and see the famous ksar of the city, which remains a trading hub in the region. From Rissani, we continue to Erfoud, known for its fossils and stone-derived products.

Journey to Marrakech

As we move west, we cross the High Atlas Mountains, with their spectacular views and snow-capped peaks in winter. We will stop to rest and enjoy lunch before continuing to Marrakech, one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Morocco. We will arrive in Marrakech in the afternoon, where our incredible 4-day adventure from Ouarzazate concludes.