About 3 Days Marrakech Desert Tour

 

A 3-day Marrakech desert tour is a highly popular and rewarding experience for visitors to Morocco, offering a fantastic opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, historical sites, and the iconic Sahara Desert.

These tours typically journey from Marrakech to the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga, involving significant travel but packing in a lot of unforgettable experiences.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from a typical 3-day Marrakech desert tour:

 * Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley.

   * Morning Departure: Tours usually start early from Marrakech, heading towards the High Atlas Mountains.

   * Tizi n’Tichka Pass: You’ll cross this winding mountain pass, offering breathtaking panoramic views and opportunities to see traditional Berber villages.

   * Aït Benhaddou Kasbah: A major highlight is a stop at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a fortified village renowned for its earthen architecture and as a filming location for many movies (e.g., Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia). You’ll have time to explore.

   * Ouarzazate: Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara” or “Hollywood of Morocco,” with opportunities to see film studio.

   * Dades Valley/Gorges: The day typically ends with an overnight stay in a hotel or guesthouse in the Dades Valley, known for its stunning rock formations and lush palm groves.

 * Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga (Sahara Desert)

   * Todra Gorge: After breakfast, you’ll visit the dramatic Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon with towering cliffs, perfect for a short walk.

   * Rissani: You might make a stop in Rissani, a historic town known for its lively market.

   * Merzouga & Erg Chebbi: In the afternoon, you’ll reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, the highlight of your desert adventure begins.

   * Camel Trekking: You’ll embark on a camel trek across the golden sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, experiencing a magical sunset from atop a dune.

   * Desert Camp: You’ll arrive at a traditional Berber desert luxury camp for an overnight stay.

   * Evening at Camp: Enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner, stargazing in the clear desert sky, and often traditional Berber music and drumming around a campfire.

 * Day 3: Merzouga back to Marrakech.

   * Sunrise in the Desert: Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Sahara dunes, a truly unforgettable sight.

   * Return Camel Trek: After breakfast, you’ll camel trek back (or be transferred by 4×4) to Merzouga to meet your driver.

   * Long Drive Back: The day involves a long drive back to Marrakech, retracing much of the route through Ouarzazate and the High Atlas Mountains. You’ll likely arrive back in Marrakech in the early evening.

 * High Atlas Mountains: Stunning scenery and Berber villages.

 * Aït Benhaddou Kasbah: UNESCO World Heritage Site, ancient fortified village.

 * Dades Valley & Todra Gorge: Dramatic landscapes and canyons.

 * Camel Trekking: A quintessential desert experience.

 * Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi): Sunset, sunrise, sandboarding, and stargazing.

 * Berber Culture: Experience traditional hospitality, food, and music at the desert camp.

Important Considerations:

 * Driving Time: Be prepared for significant driving time, especially on the first and third days. The distances are considerable (Marrakech to Merzouga is roughly 560 km or 348 miles one way).

 * Tour Type: You can choose between shared group tours (more budget-friendly) or private tours (more flexible and personalized). variety of accommodations types.

 * Accommodation: Typically includes one night in a hotel/guesthouse in the Dades Valley and one night in a desert camp. “Luxury” camps usually offer private tents with en-suite bathrooms and hot water, while standard camps are more basic.

 * Meals: Most tours include dinners and breakfasts. Lunches are usually at your own expense at designated stops.

 * What to Pack: Layers of clothing (temperatures vary greatly between day and night in the desert), comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, small backpack, toiletries, camera, and cash for snacks, drinks, and tips.

 * Best Time to Visit:

   * Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are generally considered the best times due to mild daytime temperatures (20-30°C / 68-86°F) and pleasant nights.

   * Winter (December to February) is cooler, with chilly nights (often below freezing), but fewer crowds and crisp air for photography.

   * Summer (June to August) is extremely hot (often exceeding 45°C / 113°F), making outdoor activities challenging. It’s generally advised to avoid the desert during these months unless you are prepared for intense heat.

Reviews and Tips:

 * Reviews often highlight the unforgettable desert experience (camel rides, sunsets, stargazing) as the absolute highlight.

 * Many appreciate the well-organized nature of the tours and the knowledge of drivers/guides.

 * Some common points in reviews include:

   * Long drives: A frequent comment, but often seen as a necessary trade-off for the experience.

   * Luxury camp worth it: Many recommend upgrading to a luxury desert camp for more comfort and amenities (private bathrooms, hot water).

   * Cash is useful: For tips, souvenirs, and lunches, as card payments might not always be available, especially in smaller establishments.