Culture Morocco Tours

3 Days Tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga Desert

3 Days Tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga Desert

3 Days Tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga Desert

Overview:

The 3 days tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga, where you’ll delve into the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of Morocco desert region. Our journey begins in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” where we’ll explore the Roses Valley and charming Berber villages like Skoura, El Kelaa des MGouna, and Boumalne Dades. Passing through Tinghir, Todra Gorges, and Erfoud, we’ll arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the desert.

In Merzouga, your camel awaits to lead you to a Berber camp, where you’ll spend the night immersed in the nomadic Berber lifestyle under the vast desert sky. Over the following days, our adventure continues with visits to Khamlia, the village of the Gnaoua people, and a nomad family in their tent. We’ll traverse through Agdz, Alnif, Tazarine, and the captivating Draa Valley, adorned with countless Berber Kasbahs. Our journey concludes back in Ouarzazate late in the afternoon, leaving you with cherished memories of Morocco captivating landscapes and vibrant culture. Book your trip today!

Itinerary:

Day 1: Ouarzazate – Roses Valley – Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert

The 3 days tour from Ouarzazate to the Merzouga Desert, commencing around 08:00. Our route traverses the Skoura Oasis and Roses Valley, celebrated for its renowned Festival of Roses. Passing through picturesque Berber villages like Skoura, El Kelaa des M’Gouna, and Boumalne Dades, we venture towards Merzouga, home to the expansive Erg Chebbi dunes, among the largest in Morocco.

Our journey unfolds amidst a diverse tapestry of landscapes, from majestic mountains to verdant valleys and palm groves, culminating in the vast expanse of the desert. En route, we explore the Berber village of Tinghir and visit the awe-inspiring Todra Gorge, where cliffs soar to heights of 600m, just 10m apart. Continuing our journey, we pass through Berber villages like Tinjdad and Erfoud, the capital of fossils and dates.

Upon reaching Merzouga, we go on a camel trek to a Berber camp nestled amidst the sands of Erg Chebbi. Spanning 20 km in length and 5 km in width, these dunes are revered as the highest in North Africa, offering a unique and diverse environment. After a memorable camel trek of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, we arrive at the camp, where well-equipped Berber tents await, ensuring a comfortable stay. As the sun sets behind the dunes, savor a nomadic Berber dinner amidst the desert ambiance, followed by traditional Berber drumming under the starlit sky. It’s a night destined to be etched in memory.

Day 2: Tour around Merzouga Desert

Your camel man will rouse you early in the morning to witness what may well be the most breathtaking sunrise of your life. As you trek back to the village of Merzouga, soak in the unique beauty of the Erg Chebbi dunes, each moment shifting with the changing light. Arriving late morning in Merzouga, immerse yourself in the desert life as you visit the nomads in their traditional goat hair tent.

Next, venture to Khamlia to encounter the Gnawa people, originally brought from Sudan as slaves, and delve into their music and lifestyle. Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at a traditional family restaurant. Nearby, the serene lake of Merzouga awaits, home to diverse bird populations. You may also explore the nomad wire house, offering Berber handicrafts at prices often lower than in urban centers. Enjoy a free afternoon before retiring for the night at the hotel, cherishing the day’s unforgettable experiences.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert – Alnif – Tazarine – Draa Valley – Agdz – Ouarzazate

Following breakfast at the hotel, we go on a journey to explore the Draa Valley, renowned as the longest river in Morocco, adorned with quaint villages and concealed kasbahs. En route, we make stops to marvel at the magnificent landscape and unique geological formations, immersing ourselves in the diverse beauty of the surroundings. From the captivating allure of the infinite desert to the scenic green valleys and traditional villages, each moment offers a captivating experience.

Traversing the Anti Atlas Mountains, we reach Ouarzazate by afternoon, where our tour culminates. Reflecting on the unforgettable landscapes and cultural encounters, we bid farewell to the enchanting beauty of Morocco countryside, concluding our memorable journey.

Included

  • Private tour & Transportation with A/C and seat-belt.
  • Pick you up & drop off at your accommodation in Ouarzazate.
  • 1 night accommodation in desert camp.
  • 1 night hotel accommodation in Merzouga.
  • Experienced driver/guide English speaking.
  • Fuel, tolls and all associated expenses.
  • Dinners and breakfasts (Vegetarians are welcome).
  • Camel warden.
  • Camel ride for 1 hour. (If you are not interested to ride the camels, it is possible to drive you to the camp with the 4×4).
  • Sand boards ( available in the camp without charge).

Not Included

  • Airfare (Flight Ticket)
    Noon meal. (Possibility of picnic or restaurants).
  • Drinks at the meals.
  • Tips and personal miscellaneous expenses.
  • Entry fees to Monuments / Museums / Kasbahs
  • Travel insurance
  • Anything not mentioned in the program

Tour Map: