About 4 Days Marrakech Desert Tour
A 4-day desert tour from Marrakech is a popular and highly recommended way to experience the diverse landscapes and culture of Morocco, culminating in a night (or two) in the Sahara Desert.
We Quiet Merzouga Desert we have created two tours of 4 days from Marrakech to Merzouga Desert.
These tours typically take you through the High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, stunning gorges, and vast palm groves before reaching the iconic sand dunes of Merzouga (Erg Chebbi).
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from a typical 4-day Marrakech desert tour:
Typical Itinerary Highlights
While itineraries can vary slightly between tour operators, most 4-day tours from Marrakech to the Merzouga Desert follow a similar pattern:
Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley (or Ouarzazate/Skoura)
* Morning: Depart from Marrakech, crossing the dramatic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N’Tichka pass (2,260 meters). You’ll enjoy panoramic views and stop for photos.
* Lunch: Often in or near Ouarzazate, known as “Hollywood of Africa,” where you might visit the Atlas Film Studios or Taourirte Kasbah.
* Afternoon: Continue through the Valley of Roses and the Skoura palm grove, eventually reaching the Dades Gorges for dinner and an overnight stay in a hotel or guesthouse.
Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
* Morning: Explore the Dades Gorges, then head towards the Todra Gorges, another impressive canyon with towering rock walls.
* Lunch: In or near the Todra Gorges.
* Afternoon: Continue towards the Sahara Desert, passing through towns like Erfoud (known for fossils) and Rissani (a traditional market town).
* Late Afternoon/Evening: Arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll switch to camels for a trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes.
This camel ride usually lasts about an hour, allowing you to witness a spectacular desert sunset.
* Night: Arrive at a desert camp (options range from standard to luxury), enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, and experience Berber music around a campfire.
You’ll sleep under a sky full of stars.
Day 3: Merzouga Exploration & Return towards Ouarzazate (or a different overnight)
* Morning: Wake up early to witness the breathtaking Sahara sunrise over the dunes.
After breakfast at the camp, you’ll ride camels (or be transferred by 4×4) back to Merzouga.
* Mid-morning/Afternoon: Depending on the tour, you might have some time to explore the Merzouga area (e.g., visit a nomadic family, the village of Khamlia for Gnawa music).
* Afternoon: Begin the journey back, often stopping in places like Nkob or the Draa Valley (Morocco’s longest river valley, dotted with palm oases and kasbahs).
* Night: Overnight stay in a hotel/riad, often in Ouarzazate or a nearby town.
Day 4: Ouarzazate to Marrakech
* Morning: Visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular filming location for many movies and TV shows.
* Lunch: In or near Ait Ben Haddou.
* Afternoon: Drive back to Marrakech, once again traversing the High Atlas Mountains.
* Evening: Arrive in Marrakech, typically dropped off at your accommodation.
Cost
The cost of a 4-day Marrakech desert tour varies widely depending on:
* Type of tour: Private tours are more expensive than shared group tours.
* Accommodation: Standard camps/hotels versus luxury camps/boutique riads.
* Inclusions: What’s included (meals, entrance fees, guides, specific activities).
* Season: Peak tourist seasons might have higher prices.
Generally, you can expect prices to range from:
* Shared Group Tours: Around $250 – $500 USD per person.
* Private Tours: Can range from $500 – $1500+ USD per person, especially for luxury options or smaller groups.
Most tours include transportation, camel trekking, dinner and breakfast, and overnight stays. Lunches, drinks, and tips for guides/drivers are usually extra.
What to Pack
* Clothing:
* Layers: Desert temperatures fluctuate significantly between day and night. Pack light, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen) for the day, and warm layers (fleece, jacket, sweater) for chilly evenings and mornings.
* Long sleeves and pants: Protect from sun and dust, and are respectful of local customs. Jeans are good for camel riding.
* Scarf/Turban (Cheich): Essential for protecting your face from sun, wind, and sand. You can often buy one locally.
* Swimsuit: All our accommodations has a pool.
* Footwear:
* Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots: For exploring kasbahs, gorges, and walking on uneven terrain.
* Sandals/flip-flops: For relaxing at the camp.
* Sun Protection:
* Wide-brimmed hat: Essential for sun protection.
* Sunglasses: With UV protection.
* High-SPF sunscreen: Don’t forget lip balm with SPF.
* Essentials:
* Water bottle: Stay hydrated. Some tours provide water, but it’s good to have your own refillable bottle.
* Portable charger/power bank: For your electronic devices, as power outlets may be limited.
* Basic first-aid kit: For minor cuts, headaches, etc.
* Wet wipes/hand sanitizer: For convenience.
* Camera: For capturing the stunning scenery.
* Small backpack/daypack: For daily excursions.
* Personal toiletries: Though some luxury camps provide them.
* Cash: For lunches, snacks, souvenirs, and tips.
Choosing a Tour Company
Many reputable companies offer 4-day desert tours from Marrakech. Look for:
* Clear itinerary: Ensure it matches your preferences (e.g., Merzouga and Erg chebbi, specific stops).
* Inclusions: Understand exactly what is and isn’t included in the price.
* Vehicle comfort: Especially for long drives, inquire about the type of vehicle (4×4, minivan).
* Guide/Driver language: Ensure they speak a language you’re comfortable with.
* Flexibility: Some companies offer private tours that allow for more customization.
A 4-day Marrakech desert tour is an incredible way to experience the magic and diversity of Morocco, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Sahara.
