Morocco Desert Tour from Ouarzazate to Erg Chebbi dunes

Your journey begins in Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert and home to several famous film studios and historic kasbahs. Leaving behind the city, we head towards the striking Dades Valley, where you’ll be captivated by the changing scenery as we travel through a landscape dotted with palm groves, rugged mountains, and traditional Berber villages. You’ll pass by the Skoura Oasis, a lush, verdant area filled with beautiful date palms and the iconic Kasbah Amridil, a 17th-century stronghold that offers a glimpse into Morocco’s fascinating history.

The day continues with a scenic drive through the Valley of Roses, renowned for its annual Rose Festival and aromatic rose distilleries that produce luxurious rosewater. We’ll make a stop to explore the valley and learn more about the local rose production process. As we approach Tinghir, the landscape transforms into a beautiful tapestry of green gardens, and you can enjoy a leisurely walk through the lush palm groves before we arrive at the town itself. In Tinghir, you’ll spend the night at a traditional guesthouse, where you’ll be welcomed with warm Moroccan hospitality and treated to a delicious homemade dinner featuring local specialties. The night will be a perfect opportunity to unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.

After a hearty breakfast, we set off to explore the captivating Todgha Gorges, one of Morocco’s most spectacular natural wonders. Towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically on either side of the narrow gorge, creating a stunning setting that is perfect for a morning stroll. The Todgha Gorges are a paradise for climbers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, and you’ll have time to take in the beauty of the area and capture memorable photos.

Continuing our journey, we drive through a series of small towns and traditional Berber villages, each offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. We pass through Tinjdad and Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops and bustling souks, where you can see the craftsmanship that goes into transforming ancient fossils into beautiful decorative items. Erfoud is also famous for its dates, and we’ll have a chance to sample some of the best dates in Morocco.

As we approach Merzouga, the sight of the towering Erg Chebbi dunes in the distance signals the start of your desert adventure. In Merzouga, you’ll have time to relax before embarking on an unforgettable camel ride into the golden sands of the Sahara. As the sun begins to set, you’ll ride your camel across the vast dunes, watching as the landscape transforms with the changing colors of the evening sky. Arriving at a traditional Berber camp, you’ll be welcomed with mint tea and shown to your comfortable tent. After a delicious dinner, you’ll gather around the campfire under a canopy of stars, listening to traditional music and storytelling by local Berber guides. The night in the desert is an experience unlike any other, offering a profound sense of peace and connection to nature.

Wake up early to witness a breathtaking Sahara sunrise over the dunes—a magical moment that you’ll remember forever. After breakfast at the camp, we ride back to Merzouga, where our vehicle will be waiting to take us back to Ouarzazate. On our return journey, we’ll pass through several quaint villages and make stops at notable locations, including Alnif and Nkob, each offering unique insights into traditional Berber life.

We’ll take a break in Agdz, a charming town located at the foot of the Jebel Kissane mountain. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely walk through the lush palm groves of the Draa Valley, the longest river valley in Morocco, and see the traditional irrigation systems that sustain the local agriculture. As we continue towards Ouarzazate, we’ll pass through the dramatic landscapes of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking views and numerous photo opportunities.

Your journey concludes in Ouarzazate, where you will carry with you the unforgettable memories of the desert—the majestic dunes, the warm hospitality of the Berber people, and the stunning natural beauty of Morocco. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or experiencing the Sahara for the first time, this 3-day tour will leave you with a deep appreciation for the magic and wonder of the Moroccan desert.