3-Day Desert Tour: Essaouira → Merzouga → Marrakech

Experience Morocco from Ocean Breezes to Sahara Sands and Back to the Imperial City

Essaouira to Merzouga Sahara Desert in 3 Days Overview:

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day private journey that begins in the laid-back coastal town of Essaouira, winds through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, and scenic oases—before reaching the magical Merzouga Desert.

Ride camels into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, sleep in a traditional desert camp under the stars, and return to the vibrant energy of Marrakech.

Tour Itinerary: Best Essaouira to Sahara Desert Tour – 3 Days

DAY 1: ESSAOUIRA – MARRAKECH – AIT BEN HADDOU KASBAH – OUARZAZATE

We depart from Essaouira at 8:00 AM, heading east toward Marrakech, then continuing through the stunning landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.

We'll stop for lunch at the Telouet Kasbah, a hidden gem in the mountains. In the afternoon, we travel to the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and filming location for movies like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Jesus of Nazareth.

After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, we continue to Ouarzazate, where we'll spend the night in a comfortable hotel or riad.

DAY 2: OUARZAZATE – TODGHA GORGES – ERFOUD – MERZOUGA DESERT

After breakfast, we visit the historic Kasbah of Taourirt in Ouarzazate before continuing through the scenic Rose Valley and Dades Valley.

We'll stop at the impressive Todra Gorges, where you can enjoy a walk through the dramatic canyon and have lunch in the area.

Our journey continues via Tinjdad to Erfoud, a region known for its rich fossil deposits. By late afternoon, we arrive in Merzouga, at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes.

Here, we switch to camels for a magical ride into the dunes, stopping to enjoy the sunset from the top of a high dune. We then head to our desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner, music by local nomads, and an unforgettable night under the stars.

DAY 3: MERZOUGA – RISSANI – DRAA VALLEY – OUARZAZATE – MARRAKECH

You'll be woken early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, a must-see desert experience. After riding camels back to Merzouga, enjoy breakfast and a shower at the hotel.

We then drive through the Tafilalet palm grove and pass through Rissani, known for its traditional market.

Continuing along the scenic Draa Valley, we arrive in Ouarzazate for a lunch break and some free time.

In the afternoon, we head back to Marrakech, arriving by evening. Drop-off at your riad or preferred location.
End of our services.