The shared 3-day tour from Marrakech to the Merzouga dunes is the most popular way to see the Sahara on a budget. You travel in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus with a small group of travelers from around the world, a local driver and Berber camel guides. Here is what each day looks like.
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Benhaddou – Dades Valley
- Pick-up from your riad or hotel in Marrakech early in the morning.
- Crossing of the High Atlas by the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260 m) with photo stops.
- Visit of the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou, famous from many films.
- Lunch stop, then drive through Ouarzazate and the Valley of Roses.
- Dinner and night in a hotel in the Dades Valley.
Day 2: Todra Gorge – Merzouga – camel ride – desert camp
- Morning walk in the impressive Todra Gorge, with walls up to 300 m high.
- Drive via Erfoud and the palm groves of the Tafilalet to Merzouga.
- Late afternoon camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes to watch the sunset.
- Dinner, Berber drums and a night under the stars in the desert camp.
Day 3: Sunrise – return to Marrakech
- Wake up early for the sunrise over the dunes, then ride back to Merzouga for breakfast.
- Long drive back to Marrakech (about 9–10 hours with stops), arriving in the evening.
Good to know
- Total distance is about 1,100 km round trip, so the third day is mostly driving. If you prefer a slower pace, choose the 4-day shared tour from Marrakech.
- If you continue north, the 3-day shared tour from Marrakech to Fes ends in Fes instead of coming back.
- Bring a warm layer for the desert night, a scarf for the sand and some cash for drinks and tips.
- Not sure whether to share or go private? Read shared or private desert tour.
See all our shared desert tours from Marrakech, including the 3-day shared Marrakech desert tour, or contact us to check availability for your dates.