5-Day Tour from Marrakech Back to Marrakech

Uncover the hidden treasures of Morocco with an in-depth journey featuring multiple nights in the desert, cultural encounters, and scenic routes through the Drâa Valley. Perfect for adventurers seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration, with stops at iconic kasbahs, lush oases, and breathtaking mountain passes.

Overview:

Embark on a captivating 5-day journey through Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes, from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the golden sands of the Sahara. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning High Atlas Mountains, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Ben Haddou, and cinematic Ouarzazate. Journey through dramatic gorges, ancient kasbahs, and oases before reaching the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes. With a combination of cultural immersion, adventure, and scenic beauty, this tour is the perfect way to experience Morocco’s rich heritage and natural wonders.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Aït Ben Haddou → Dades Gorges (6-7 hours drive, 340 km)
After an early departure from Marrakech, the journey takes you through the winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains, passing traditional Berber villages and stunning landscapes. Stop at the iconic Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a fortified city famous for its adobe architecture and featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site, continue through Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” From here, you’ll travel along the scenic Route of 1,000 Kasbahs, passing rose-filled valleys before reaching the serene Dades Gorges for an overnight stay. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at your riad or hotel.

Day 2: Dades Gorges → Todra Gorges → Merzouga → Erg Chebbi Dunes (5 hours drive, 300 km)
Today, explore the dramatic Todra Gorges, where towering rock walls create a spectacular canyon. After some time to take photos, continue through the Ziz Valley, known for its lush palm groves and dramatic oases. After passing Erfoud, famous for its fossils, arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll meet your camels. Enjoy a tranquil trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, one of the largest sand dunes in Morocco. Marvel at the sunset over the golden dunes before arriving at your desert camp, where you’ll experience traditional Berber hospitality, music, and stargazing.

Day 3: Full Day in Merzouga → Cultural Exploration and Optional Activities (Local travel, minimal driving)
Immerse yourself in the desert culture of Merzouga. Start by visiting Khamlia, a small village known for its Gnaoua music, where you’ll hear live performances by local musicians. If you wish, you can take part in optional activities like quad biking, sandboarding, or a 4×4 excursion to discover the desert’s hidden oases and meet nomadic families. The afternoon offers free time to relax and explore at your leisure, before returning to the desert camp for another unforgettable night under the stars.

Day 4: Merzouga → Drâa Valley → Ouarzazate (7-8 hours drive, 370 km)
After a peaceful desert sunrise, the return journey begins as you drive through the scenic Drâa Valley. Known for its impressive palm groves and kasbahs, the valley offers breathtaking views at every turn. Stop to visit ancient kasbahs and take short walks through lush oases. Continue through the rugged landscapes of southern Morocco before reaching Ouarzazate. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore more film studios or relax in a local café. Enjoy a delicious dinner and overnight stay in a riad or hotel.

Day 5: Ouarzazate → Taourirt Kasbah → Marrakech (4 hours drive, 200 km)
Visit the historical Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate, once a strategic trading post. Then, make your way back to Marrakech via the High Atlas Mountains, where the panoramic views are perfect for photos. Arriving back in Marrakech by late afternoon or evening marks the end of your adventure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s landscapes, culture, and hospitality.

Highlights of the 5-Day Desert Tour:

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains and the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, with spectacular views of Berber villages and rugged peaks.
Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a cinematic marvel.
Dramatic landscapes of Todra and Dades Gorges, known for towering canyon walls and lush valleys.
Camel trekking at sunset in the Erg Chebbi dunes, followed by a magical night in a desert camp under the stars.
Cultural immersion in Merzouga with live Gnaoua music and visits to nomadic villages.
Exploration of the Drâa Valley, renowned for its palm groves, kasbahs, and traditional Berber life.
Visit to Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate, a historical site and film location.

Includes:

Comfortable transport in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver/guide.
Camel trek and two nights in a Berber desert camp (dinner and breakfast included).
Half-board accommodation in a riad or hotel in Dades Gorges and Ouarzazate (dinner and breakfast included).
Sightseeing stops along the route with ample time for photography and exploration.

Not Included:

Lunches and drinks.
Tips and optional activities (such as quad biking, sandboarding, or 4×4 excursions).
Entrance fees to attractions like Aït Ben Haddou or Taourirt Kasbah.
Personal expenses or extras.

Reviews:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“This tour was a dream! The journey through the Atlas Mountains was breathtaking, and the sunset camel trek into the dunes was one of the most magical experiences of my life. The desert camp was peaceful and the stargazing was incredible. Our guide was wonderful, and the food was delicious throughout the trip!”
– Emma, Milan

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“An unforgettable adventure! The landscapes were out of this world, especially the Todra Gorges and the dunes of Erg Chebbi. The highlight was definitely the time spent in the desert, with a chance to immerse ourselves in the culture and enjoy the beauty of the Sahara. Highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Morocco!”
– Sam, Sydney

Pack comfortable shoes for walking in the gorges and dunes.
Bring small bills for purchasing local crafts or giving tips.
Use your free time to explore Ouarzazate’s film studios or local markets.

Shared Tour Price: €200 per person.
Private Tour Price: Starting from €500 per person.