3 Days Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga Desert
If you're planning a trip to Morocco, a 3 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert is an essential experience to add to your itinerary. The tour takes you on a journey through the beautiful landscapes of southern Morocco, passing through the spectacular Atlas Mountains, lush oases, and the vast Sahara Desert. In this article, we'll explore the highlights of this tour and show you why it is a must-do when visiting Morocco.
Day 1: Marrakech - Ait Ben Haddou - Ouarzazate - Dades Valley
Your adventure starts in the vibrant city of Marrakech, where you'll be picked up from your hotel or riad. You will begin your journey towards the Atlas Mountains, passing through Tizi n'Tichka, the highest mountain pass in North Africa. Along the way, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Your first stop will be at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient fortified city is a popular filming location for movies and TV shows, including Game of Thrones and Gladiator. You'll have time to explore the narrow alleys and visit some of the traditional kasbahs.
After Ait Ben Haddou, you'll continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Morocco" for its film studios and famous movie sets. You'll have lunch in a local restaurant and then continue to the Dades Valley, known for its scenic landscapes and the famous "Monkey Fingers" rock formations. You'll spend the night in a traditional riad in the valley.
Day 2: Dades Valley - Todra Gorge - Merzouga
After breakfast, you'll continue your journey to the Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon with towering cliffs that is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing. You'll have some free time to explore the gorge and have lunch in a local restaurant.
After lunch, you'll travel to Merzouga, a small town on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Here, you'll switch to a 4x4 vehicle and drive to the desert campsite in the heart of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes. You'll spend the night in a traditional nomadic tent, enjoy dinner around a campfire, and watch the stars in the clear sky.
Day 3: Merzouga - Rissani - Draa Valley - Marrakech
On the final day of your tour, you'll wake up early to catch the sunrise over the dunes and enjoy a traditional Berber breakfast. You'll then ride back to the hotel by camel and continue your journey back to Marrakech.
On the way back, you'll stop at Rissani, an ancient city that was once an important trading hub on the trans-Saharan caravan routes. You'll have the opportunity to visit the local market and explore some of the historic monuments.
Your journey will continue through the Draa Valley, a stunning oasis of palm groves and traditional villages. You'll stop for lunch in a local restaurant and then continue back to Marrakech, where your tour will end.
Conclusion
A 3 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert is an unforgettable experience that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Morocco. From the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, you'll see some of the country's most iconic sights and experience its rich culture and history. Whether you're travelling alone, with friends or family, this tour is a must-do when visiting Morocco.
