3-Day Marrakech desert tour
Overview
Experience an unforgettable escape from the vibrant city of Marrakech with our 3-Day Desert Tour . In just three days, you’ll be captivated by the magic of the Sahara Desert, where golden dunes stretch endlessly and the sunsets and sunrises are nothing short of breathtaking.
Prepare for an incredible desert adventure with our private 3-day tour from Marrakech . Ride camels across the stunning Erg Chebbi sand dunes , immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert, and spend a night under a star-studded sky in a luxury desert camp .
Dive deeper into this remarkable journey by exploring all the details of our 3-day Marrakech desert tours —crafted to offer you an authentic, luxurious, and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Key Highlights of the 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains : Journey through breathtaking landscapes and enjoy stunning views as you traverse this iconic mountain range.
- Explore Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah : Discover this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a legendary fortified village featured in famous films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones .
- Discover Dades Gorge and Todra Canyon : Marvel at the dramatic cliffs of Dades Gorge and the towering red rock walls of Todra Canyon—perfect for photos and exploration.
- Camel Trekking in Erg Chebbi Dunes : Ride camels across the golden sands of the Erg Chebbi dunes, immersing yourself in the magic of the Sahara Desert.
- Witness Sunset and Sunrise Over the Dunes : Experience the unforgettable beauty of the desert during golden hour, with vibrant colors painting the horizon.
- Starry Night in a Luxury Desert Camp : Spend a peaceful night under a blanket of stars in a luxurious desert camp, complete with modern comforts.
- Travel Along the Draa River : Follow the path of Morocco’s longest river, surrounded by palm groves and serene desert landscapes.
Why Choose Our Private 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech?
Embarking on our private 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga with Morocco Echo Travel ensures an unforgettable desert adventure. This customized journey offers the comfort of a private vehicle and the expertise of an experienced driver/guide who will accompany you every step of the way. From Marrakech to Merzouga and back, your guide will share fascinating insights into Morocco’s rich culture, history, and traditions.
Our private 3-day Marrakech desert tour is designed to provide an authentic and personalized desert experience. Enjoy a fully flexible itinerary tailored to your unique interests, needs, and budget. You’ll also have the freedom to choose your accommodations, ensuring they align perfectly with your preferences. To discover more about the incredible experiences that await, explore the suggested itinerary for this tour below.
Why Choose Our Shared 3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech?
Joining our small shared 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded travelers from around the world while exploring the breathtaking beauty of Morocco’s desert. To ensure an intimate and authentic experience, our group tours are limited to a maximum of 10 participants , allowing for a more personal and immersive adventure.
While transportation is shared, your comfort and privacy remain a top priority. You’ll enjoy your own private room in a charming hotel in the Dades Valley and a private tent in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga, complete with modern amenities for a restful stay. For a deeper understanding of what this shared group desert tour entails, explore the full details of our shared 3-day desert tour from Marrakech below.
Marrakech Desert Tour 3 Days Itinerary
Explore the detailed itinerary for our 3-day Marrakech desert tour below to discover the journey’s unforgettable highlights. From crossing the High Atlas Mountains to camel trekking in the Erg Chebbi dunes, every moment is crafted to immerse you in Morocco’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.
If you’d like to customize the itinerary or extend your adventure, we’d love to hear from you! Simply let us know your preferences by completing the contact form below, and we’ll tailor the experience to match your wishes.
Day 1: Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Ben Haddou → Dades Valley
Start Your Adventure: Your 3-day Marrakech desert tour begins with an 8:00 am pick-up from your riad or any location in Marrakesh. Leaving the city behind, we’ll journey through the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains , crossing the iconic Tizi-N-Tichka Pass , which stands at an impressive 2,260 meters (7,415 feet) above sea level. Along the way, we’ll make stops to admire charming Berber villages and take in the stunning mountain landscapes.
Explore Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah: Next, we’ll visit the world-famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of traditional Moroccan architecture. This ancient fortified village has been the backdrop for many blockbuster films and TV series, including Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Babel (2006), Prince of Persia (2010), Game of Thrones (2012), and the recent documentary David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet (2020). You’ll have plenty of time to explore this historic site and soak in its timeless charm.
Lunch and Scenic Drive to Dades Valley: After a delicious traditional lunch, we’ll continue south along the scenic “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” toward Dades Valley . Along the way, we’ll pass through picturesque locations like Ouarzazate , Skoura , and the fragrant Valley of Roses in Kalaat M’Gouna , known for its annual rose festival.
Arrive in Dades Valley: In the afternoon, we’ll reach Dades Valley , where you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel of your choice. If time allows, we’ll visit the unique rock formations known as the “Monkey Fingers” , a natural wonder that adds to the valley’s charm. If not, we’ll include this stop on Day 2.
Overnight Stay: Spend the night in a cozy hotel in Dades Valley , enjoying the serene surroundings and preparing for the next day’s adventures. Driving Details:
- Distance: Approximately 353 km
- Driving Time: Around 6 hours 30 minutes (including stops)
Day 2: Dades Valley → Tinghir Oasis → Todra Gorge → Merzouga Desert
Start Your Day with Adventure: After a delicious breakfast, we’ll begin the second day of your 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga . Our first stop is Tinghir , where we’ll pause at a scenic viewpoint showcasing stunning Berber villages surrounded by lush palm groves in the Tinghir Oasis . Nearby, you’ll explore the impressive Todra Gorge , a towering 300-meter-high canyon carved into the landscape. Take a peaceful walk beneath its dramatic cliffs before continuing your journey to the Merzouga desert .
Camel Trekking and Sunset Magic: Upon reaching Merzouga in the afternoon, your unforgettable camel trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes begins. As you ride through the Sahara, you’ll pause on a high dune to witness a breathtaking sunset over the endless waves of sand—a moment that captures the true magic of the desert.
Luxury Desert Camp Experience: After the camel trek, you’ll arrive at your luxury desert camp , where you’ll be warmly welcomed with a refreshing cup of traditional mint tea. Relax in your private tent or take some time to explore the serene surroundings. In the evening, indulge in a delicious Moroccan dinner under the stars. Afterward, gather around a cozy campfire to enjoy traditional Berber music, drumming, and storytelling , creating memories beneath the star-studded sky.
Overnight Stay: Spend the night in a luxury desert camp of your choice, where comfort meets authenticity in the heart of the Sahara. Driving Details:
- Distance: Approximately 310 km
- Driving Time: Around 5 hours (including stops)
Day 3: Merzouga Desert → Draa River → Ouarzazate → Marrakech
Start Your Day with a Magical Sunrise: Today, we highly recommend waking up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise from the nearest high dune near your camp. This serene moment, with the golden light casting over the Erg Chebbi dunes, is the perfect way to begin your final day in the desert. Afterward, enjoy a delicious breakfast at the camp before heading back to Merzouga town . You can choose to return either by camel or in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle , depending on your preference.
Journey Back to Marrakech via the Draa River: From Merzouga, we’ll begin our journey back to Marrakech , taking a scenic route along the Draa River , Morocco’s longest river, stretching an impressive 1,100 kilometers . This alternative route offers stunning views of lush palm groves and serene desert landscapes. Feel free to ask your driver to make stops whenever you’d like to stretch your legs or take photos.
Lunch and Scenic Drive Through the High Atlas Mountains: We’ll stop for lunch in Ouarzazate , the “Gateway to the Sahara,” before continuing our drive to Marrakech via the majestic High Atlas Mountains . Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of the rugged mountain landscapes as we make our way back to the vibrant city of Marrakech.
End of Your 3-Day Desert Adventure: Finally, we’ll drop you off at your accommodation in Marrakech, marking the end of this unforgettable 3-day Marrakech desert tour . Driving Details:
- Distance: Approximately 560 km
- Driving Time: Around 9 hours (including stops)
What’s Included and Excluded in the Tour
- Included
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech
- Transportation in an A/C modern 4×4 SUV, van, or minibus
- English-speaking driver or a driver with an English-speaking tour guide (alternative languages available upon request)
- Accommodations for the first and second nights
- Meals included: 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts
- Camel trekking excursion
- Sandboarding activity
- Excluded
- Lunches: Meals during lunchtime are not included, giving you the flexibility to choose your own dining preferences.
- Beverages: Drinks are not covered, allowing you to select your preferred refreshments along the way.
- Tips (Optional): Gratuities for your driver or guide are not mandatory but always appreciated if you feel they enhanced your experience.
- Entrance fees (when applicable)
MAP
Accommodations
When you book our 3-day desert tour from Marrakech , your package includes carefully selected accommodations for your overnight stays in the breathtaking Dades Valley and the mesmerizing Merzouga desert .
To ensure an unparalleled desert experience, we exclusively offer luxury desert camps featuring private tents, en-suite bathrooms, and modern amenities. Unlike basic camps with shared facilities, our accommodations are designed to provide maximum comfort and a truly memorable stay under the stars.
During the booking process, you can customize your experience by selecting your preferred accommodation options. To simplify your decision, we’ve curated three exceptional luxury camp choices , each offering unique charm and world-class comfort for your journey.
| Options | First Night (Dades Valley) | Second Night (Merzouga Desert) |
|---|---|---|
| First Option | Hotel Babylon Dades | Africa Luxury Camp |
| Second Option | Dar Blues | Caravanserai Luxury Desert Camp |
| Third Option | Eden Boutique Hotel | Desert Luxury Camp |
We understand that every traveler has unique preferences, which is why we offer complete flexibility when it comes to your accommodations. For example, you can choose to spend your first night at Hotel Babylon Dades in the picturesque Dades Valley and your second night at Desert Luxury Camp in the heart of the Merzouga desert.
If you have specific accommodation preferences or would like to mix and match options from our list, please don’t hesitate to let us know. Our team is committed to ensuring all arrangements align perfectly with your wishes, providing you with a seamless and personalized travel experience.
The price of the Marrakech Desert Tour 3 Days
Our 3-day Marrakech desert tour starts at €150 per person for larger groups. However, the total cost may vary based on several factors, including group size, accommodation preferences, and travel dates.
- Group Size Matters: The price of €150 per person applies to groups of 17 or more travelers . For smaller groups, such as two people, the cost starts at €215 per person .
- Customized Pricing: To receive an accurate and personalized quote tailored to your specific group size and preferences, we encourage you to contact us via the form below. Our expert team will promptly provide detailed pricing information to ensure your needs are met.
Booking Your Tour
To book your tour or inquire about our services, please use the form below to send us an email. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible—typically within 24 hours.
If you don’t hear from us within 24 hours, feel free to reach out directly via WhatsApp or call us at +212 671 960769 .
We’re excited to help you plan your adventure and look forward to hearing from you soon!
Important Information to Know Before You Go
Dietary Preferences
When making your reservation, please let us know about any dietary preferences or special requirements, such as vegetarian or vegan options. This allows us to cater to your needs throughout the trip. Our guides carefully select restaurants known for their fresh and high-quality meals to ensure your well-being. If you have a specific restaurant in mind, feel free to share it with your guide—they’ll be happy to accommodate your choice. Your comfort and dining satisfaction are our priorities.
Private or Shared Tour Options
This is primarily a private tour , but if you’d like to join a small group, you can opt for our shared 3-day desert tour from Marrakech .
Flexible Itinerary Options
- Drive Directly to Merzouga on Day 1: If you prefer, you can drive directly to the Merzouga desert on the first day. This allows you to dedicate the second day to exploring the desert extensively, following the detailed schedule of the 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga .
- Reduce Driving Time: The third day of the tour involves extensive driving. If you’d like to minimize long drives, consider upgrading to the 4-day Marrakech desert tour , which provides more time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Maximize Your Experience
To make the most of your desert adventure, we highly recommend dedicating a full day in Merzouga . This is especially ideal if you choose the 4-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga or the 5-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga , allowing for deeper exploration and unforgettable experiences.
Ending or Starting in Fes
- This 3-day Marrakech desert tour can end in Fes by selecting the Marrakech to Fes desert tour .
- Alternatively, you can start in Fes and finish in Marrakech with our Fes to Marrakech desert tour .
2-Day Desert Tour Option
If you’re short on time, you can opt for the Marrakech desert tour 2 days . However, please note that this option involves significant driving and is not recommended for those seeking a relaxed experience.
Extra Activities for Your Desert Tour
In addition to securing your 3-day Marrakech desert tour , you can elevate your adventure by adding optional activities and tours. These extras are available before, during, or after your main desert tour, allowing you to customize your journey to match your interests.
If any of these activities appeal to you, simply let us know during the booking process. Our team will be delighted to assist in organizing your selections and ensuring a seamless experience tailored to your preferences.
Before the Tour
- Airport transfers
- Hot Air Balloon ride in Marrakech
- Marrakech guided tour
- Day trip to Essaouira
- Day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls
- Day trip to Ourika Valley
During the Tour
- A professional photographer
- Romantic dinner in the desert
- Romantic desert proposal setup
- Quad biking activity
- Buggy driving activity
After the Tour
- Airport transfers
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get to the desert from Marrakech?
The road trip from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert, specifically to Merzouga , takes approximately 9 hours . To make the journey more comfortable and enjoyable, we include an overnight stay in the scenic Dades Valley , breaking up the drive. On the third day, you’ll continue your adventure as you travel back to Marrakech.
Is it possible to avoid the camel ride to the desert camp?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to ride a camel, we offer a convenient alternative. You can travel to the camp in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle at no additional cost. We’ll ensure your transfer is smooth and stress-free because your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities!
Are there bathrooms available in the camp?
Absolutely! All the camps we offer are luxury accommodations, ensuring your comfort with private en-suite bathrooms for your convenience.
What type of vehicles are used for the 3-day tour from Marrakech?
Great question! The vehicle we provide depends on the size of your group. We offer a range of comfortable options, including the Toyota Prado Land Cruiser TX , Ford 8-seater van , and Mercedes Benz Sprinter minibus , which is perfect for groups of eight to seventeen passengers. Rest assured, all our vehicles are designed for comfort and reliability, ensuring a smooth journey throughout your tour.
How far in advance should we book this tour?
The early bird catches the worm! To secure your spot and ensure availability, we recommend booking your tour as soon as possible. Popular tours tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons, so planning ahead is key to guaranteeing your place.
How do I pay for the tour?
Our payment process is simple and hassle-free. To confirm your reservation, we require a small deposit, which can be paid easily via PayPal , bank transfer , or Wise at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due on the first day of your tour, in cash, directly to your knowledgeable driver/guide. For your convenience, you can pay in euros , US dollars , or the equivalent in dirhams .
Still Have Questions About Our Morocco Itineraries?
If you have a question that isn’t answered here, don’t hesitate to contact us! We’ll respond within 24 hours. If you don’t hear back from us promptly, feel free to send us a WhatsApp message or call us directly at +212 671 960 769 . We’re here to help make your Moroccan adventure unforgettable!
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