3 days tour Merzouga from Marrakech and back

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley

Morning:

• Departure from Marrakech: Start early in the morning to make the most of your day.

• Tizi n'Tichka Pass: Drive through the High Atlas Mountains, passing through the scenic Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260 meters above sea level). Stop at panoramic viewpoints to enjoy the stunning mountain landscapes.

Mid-Morning:

• Aït Benhaddou: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Benhaddou, a traditional mud-brick ksar (fortified village) famous for its appearance in numerous films like "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones." Explore the narrow streets and learn about the history of this iconic location.

Afternoon:

• Ouarzazate: Continue to Ouarzazate, often called the "Gateway to the Sahara." Visit the Taourirt Kasbah, one of the most impressive ksars in Morocco. Optionally, you can visit the Atlas Film Studios, where many Hollywood movies have been filmed.

Late Afternoon:

• Skoura Oasis: Drive through the Skoura Oasis, known for its beautiful palm groves and numerous kasbahs, including the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil.

Evening:

• Dades Valley: Arrive in the Dades Valley, also known as the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs." Stay overnight in a traditional guesthouse or hotel.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga (Erg Chebbi)

Morning:

• Dades Gorges: After breakfast, visit the dramatic Dades Gorges, a series of rugged canyons carved by the Dades River. Enjoy a short hike or take photos of the stunning rock formations.

• Todra Gorges: Continue to Todra Gorges, another breathtaking canyon with towering cliffs up to 300 meters high. The area is popular for rock climbing and walking along the river.

Mid-Morning:

• Tinghir Oasis: Drive through the lush Tinghir Oasis, where you can admire the contrast between the green palm trees and the surrounding desert.

Afternoon:

• Erfoud: Stop in Erfoud, known for its fossils and the date festival. You can visit a fossil workshop to see how these ancient creatures are preserved and crafted into beautiful items.

Evening:

• Merzouga: Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. In the late afternoon, embark on a camel trek into the Sahara Desert to witness the mesmerizing sunset over the dunes.

Night:

• Desert Camp: Spend the night in a traditional Berber camp in the desert. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, music around the campfire, and stargazing in the clear desert sky.

Day 3: Merzouga to Marrakech

Early Morning:

• Sunrise over the Dunes: Wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara Desert, an unforgettable experience. Afterward, return to Merzouga by camel or 4x4.

Morning:

• Rissani: Visit the nearby town of Rissani, known for its traditional market (souk) and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, the founder of the Alaouite dynasty.

• Drive Back: Begin the drive back to Marrakech, retracing your route through the fascinating landscapes of the Draa Valley.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Ouarzazate: Stop for lunch in Ouarzazate, where you can enjoy a meal while reflecting on the desert experience.

Late Afternoon:

• Return to Marrakech: Continue the journey through the High Atlas Mountains, with the option to stop for breaks at scenic viewpoints.

Evening:

• Arrival in Marrakech: Arrive back in Marrakech by the evening. You’ll have time to rest and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed.