4 days Desert Merzouga and Marrakech from Ouarzazate

4-Day to the Merzouga Desert and Marrakech from Ouarzazate

Discovering the Merzouga desert and the vibrant city of Marrakech on a 4-day route from Ouarzazate is an unforgettable experience that combines the serenity of the Moroccan Sahara with the bustle and charm of one of Morocco’s most iconic cities. This journey will take you through incredible landscapes, ancient kasbahs, and the impressive dunes of Erg Chebbi, ending in the exotic red city of Marrakech.

Day 1: Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – Rissani – Merzouga

The journey begins early in Ouarzazate, where we head southeast, venturing into the valleys and deserts that characterize this region of Morocco.

Tour of the Draa Valley

Our first stop is the impressive Draa Valley, famous for its endless palm groves and ancient kasbahs. Along the way, you can observe small Berber villages and admire the natural beauty of this fertile area, which contrasts with the surrounding arid landscape. It’s a perfect spot for a photo stop and to enjoy a Moroccan tea in one of the picturesque villages.

Visit to Rissani and local lunch

After touring the Draa Valley, we continue to Rissani, a historic town that was an important trading point on caravan routes. Rissani is famous for its souk, one of the most authentic in Morocco. Here we can enjoy a traditional lunch and learn more about the local Berber culture.

Arrival in Merzouga and camel ride

In the afternoon, we arrive at the impressive Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, the highlight of our first day. Travelers enjoy an exciting sunset camel ride across the golden dunes, reaching the camp in the heart of the desert. Watching the sun set over the sand horizon is an unforgettable experience.

Night in a Berber camp

The night is spent in a traditional camp, where you can enjoy a Moroccan dinner under a starry sky. The jaimas, or Berber tents, offer an authentic experience in the middle of the Sahara, while the desert’s tranquility provides incomparable peace.

Day 2: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

After an early breakfast and the stunning sunrise over the dunes, we head north, passing through spectacular landscapes until we reach the Todra Gorges.

Stop at Todra Gorges

The Todra Gorges are one of Morocco’s natural wonders, with rocky walls reaching up to 300 meters in height. This gorge is a perfect place for a short hike and to admire the natural surroundings. The Todra River, winding through the canyon, offers a refreshing contrast to the towering rocks.

Dades Valley and its kasbahs

After exploring the gorges, we continue to the Dades Valley, famous for its rock formations and ancient kasbahs. The Dades Valley offers stunning landscapes, with its gorges and mountains stretching for miles. Here we enjoy dinner in a traditional riad, spending the night surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains.

Day 3: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

The third day of our journey takes us back towards Ouarzazate, but before reaching Marrakech, we explore one of Morocco’s most iconic sites: Ait Ben Haddou.

Visit to Ait Ben Haddou

After breakfast, we head to Ait Ben Haddou, an impressive kasbah recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient fortified city has been the setting for numerous films such as “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones”. Walking through its alleys is like stepping back in time and discovering Morocco’s rich history.

Exploration of Ouarzazate

On our way back to Ouarzazate, also known as the “Gateway to the Desert”, we make a brief stop to visit the film studios and the Kasbah of Taourirt, one of the most important in southern Morocco.

Crossing the High Atlas to Marrakech

After exploring Ouarzazate, we begin the exciting crossing of the High Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, a winding road with stunning views of the mountains and valleys. We arrive in Marrakech in the afternoon, where travelers can enjoy dinner at one of the city’s traditional restaurants or explore the famous Jemaa el-Fna square.

Day 4: Marrakech – City Tour

The last day of this route is dedicated to discovering the vibrant city of Marrakech, known for its unique mix of old and new, its bustling souk, and its historical monuments.

Visit to the Medina and Jemaa el-Fna Square

We start the day exploring the Marrakech medina, a maze of alleys filled with shops, workshops, and food stalls. The souk is the ideal place to buy artisanal products such as carpets, spices, and jewelry. Afterwards, we visit the famous Jemaa el-Fna square, the beating heart of the city, where travelers can enjoy street performances, musicians, and storytellers.

Palaces and gardens

In the afternoon, we visit some of Marrakech’s most important monuments, such as the Bahia Palace, a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture, and the Majorelle Gardens, an oasis of tranquility amidst the city’s bustle.

Conclusion of the trip

The tour concludes in Marrakech, where travelers can enjoy one last night exploring the city or relaxing in one of its traditional hammams. This final day offers an opportunity to reflect on the adventure lived, which has combined the charm of the desert with the vibrant energy of Marrakech.

The 4-day route from Ouarzazate to the Merzouga desert and Marrakech offers an unparalleled experience that combines the serenity of the Sahara with the cultural richness of Marrakech. From the impressive Erg Chebbi dunes to the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, passing through the fascinating landscapes of the Draa Valley and the High Atlas, this journey will provide you with a unique and comprehensive view of Morocco’s diversity. An adventure that combines the best of Morocco’s nature and culture, perfect for any traveler looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of this incredible country.