Overview
Discover the untamed beauty of southeastern Morocco on this immersive 3 Days tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga desert & Zagora. Perfect for photographers, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts, this journey takes you through the heart of the Draa Tafilalt region, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. From the dramatic peaks of the Anti-Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara, every moment of this tour offers an authentic glimpse into Morocco’s desert heritage.
- Duration: 3 days/2 nights
- Start: Ouarzazate
- End: Ouarzazate
- Tour Style: Private
Highlights of the 3 Days tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga desert & Zagora
- Explore the legendary Atlas Film Studios, Morocco's cinematic heart in Ouarzazate
- Experience two distinct desert landscapes: Zagora's rocky terrain and Merzouga's golden dunes
- Witness mesmerizing sunsets and sunrises over the Sahara Desert
- Discover the hidden oases and ancient kasbahs along the Draa Valley
- Immerse yourself in Berber culture through music, cuisine, and traditional hospitality
- Marvel at the dramatic Todra Gorges carved by ancient rivers
- Journey through the fragrant Valley of Roses and palm-filled oases
Why private 3 Days tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga desert & Zagora
This carefully crafted itinerary combines the best of Morocco’s desert experiences, offering a unique opportunity to explore both the Zagora and Merzouga regions. Unlike standard tours, this expedition takes you off the beaten path, allowing you to discover hidden gems and experience authentic desert life. Professional guides share deep cultural insights while ensuring comfortable travel through some of Morocco’s most spectacular landscapes.
itinerary
Our 3-day adventure spans diverse terrains and cultural experiences, each day carefully planned to maximize your desert exploration. From ancient kasbahs to rolling dunes, every moment offers opportunities for discovery and adventure.
Day 1: Ouarzazate ⇢ Agdez ⇢ Zagora
Your desert odyssey begins in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s “Hollywood,” where we explore the impressive Taourirt Kasbah and famous Atlas Film Studios. Following the ancient caravan routes, we journey through the Anti-Atlas Mountains to the historic village of Agdez. The route reveals spectacular views of the Draa Valley’s endless palm groves, creating a green ribbon through the desert landscape. After a traditional Berber lunch, we continue to Zagora, the historic “Gateway to the Desert.” The day culminates with a sunset camel trek into the desert, followed by an evening of traditional music and stargazing at our desert camp.
Travel distance: 167 KM
Places to see: Taourirt Kasbah, Atlas Studios, Agdez village, Draa Valley, Zagora desert camp
Highlights: film studios, palm oases, camel trek, traditional music, starlit desert
Day 2: Zagora ⇢ Merzouga
After breakfast among the dunes, we embark on a fascinating journey from Zagora to the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes of Merzouga. We traverse varying desert landscapes, passing through traditional villages that seem frozen in time. Lunch in the authentic village of Alnif offers a taste of local cuisine. The afternoon drive through Rissani, once a major Saharan caravan center, leads us to the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, your camel trek takes you deep into the Sahara for an unforgettable sunset experience, followed by dinner and traditional Berber entertainment at our luxury desert camp.
Travel distance: 301 KM
Places to see: Taghbalt, Alnif, Rissani, Erg Chebbi dunes
Highlights: changing desert landscapes, traditional villages, sunset camel trek, Berber camp experience
Day 3: Merzouga ⇢ Todra Gorges ⇢ Ouarzazate
Wake early to witness the sun painting the dunes in golden hues. After breakfast, we begin our return journey, first stopping in Erfoud to discover the fascinating world of fossil marble craftsmanship. The dramatic Todra Gorges await, offering excellent opportunities for short walks and photography. We continue through the Valley of Roses, where precious rose water has been produced for centuries. Our route back to Ouarzazate follows the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through the lush Skoura palm grove, providing a fitting end to your desert adventure.
Travel distance: 364 KM
Places to see: Erfoud fossil workshops, Todra Gorges, Valley of Roses, Skoura palm grove
Highlights: desert sunrise, geological wonders, rose plantations, historic kasbahs
Gallery
Inclusive and Exclusive of the tour
Inclusive
- Pick-up at your Hotel or Riad.
- Comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4, van/minibus.
- Driver/guide speaking English
- Exciting camel trekking
- Experience through the Erg Chebbi dunes
- 2 Dinners
- 2 Breakfasts
Exclusive
- Lunches
- Beverages
- Entrance fees, when needed
- Tips (optional)
- Anything not in inclusive
Price of 3 Days tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga desert & Zagora
Map of the tour
Book this tour now
Know Before You Go
When making your reservation, please be sure to communicate any dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences. Rest assured, we are committed to accommodating your specific meal preferences during your trip to ensure an enjoyable dining experience.
Throughout the desert tour, your guide will recommend lunch stops at local restaurants offering fresh, healthy options. However, if you have a particular restaurant in mind, feel free to inform your guide, and they will gladly assist in making it part of your journey.
For those seeking an added thrill, consider exciting activities like quad biking or buggy driving in the stunning Erg Chebbi Dunes. If you’re interested in these exhilarating desert experiences, just let your guide know, and they’ll help arrange the perfect adventure to enhance your trip.
To make the most of your desert experience, consider upgrading to our 5-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. This extended itinerary includes an extra night in Dades Gorges and another night in Ouarzazate, allowing you more time to explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Morocco. This tour breaks up the longer drive and offers a more relaxed pace, making it an ideal choice for those looking to fully experience the journey.
If you’re limited on time, a 4-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga might be a great option. This 4-day desert tour offers a perfect balance of exploration and adventure, giving you ample time to explore the Merzouga desert and its surroundings.
For those with only three days to spare, our 3-day desert tour from Marrakech provides a faster yet fulfilling experience. Please note, however, that this option includes just one night in the desert, ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience Morocco’s desert landscapes without the extended driving.
If you have an even tighter schedule, the 2-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is an excellent choice. Although shorter, it still provides a glimpse into the magic of the desert, with the highlights of Merzouga and the Sahara dunes.
No matter your choice, our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable desert adventure tailored to your interests and schedule.
Food Alergies
Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions you may have. We provide helpful information for vegans and vegetarians and will do our utmost to accommodate your needs, ensuring this information is communicated to your driver and hotels.
However, please be aware of the following considerations: We cannot guarantee the absence of allergen traces in containers, bags, or kitchens, as Morocco’s food standards may differ from those in your country. If any member of your tour has severe allergies, it is advisable to bring appropriate food items. Additionally, we cannot control potential insect encounters.
We recommend exercising extra caution in any uncertain situations.
FaQ
What type of vehicles are used for the trip ?
What a great inquiry! “Private desert trips” require comfortable transportation. For groups bigger than 8, we employ Land Cruiser TXs, Ford 8-seater vans, Mercedes Bens Sprinter minibuses, and a variety of other comfortable vehicles.What a great inquiry! “Private desert trips” require comfortable transportation. For groups bigger than 8, we employ Land Cruiser TXs, Ford 8-seater vans, Mercedes Bens Sprinter minibuses, and a variety of other comfortable vehicles.
How far in advance should we book this tour ?
Making your vacation plans as soon as you can is encouraged because the early bird gets the worm.
How to pay for the tour ?
Initially, we ask that a small deposit be given to our account via PayPal during the booking procedure. Second, the balance must be paid in cash and should be handed to our driver/guide on the first day of the tour in euros, dollars, or the equivalent in dirhams.
How do i take my luggage to the camp?
At the start of your camel trek, a 4×4 vehicle will convey your luggage. As a result, your bags will be there when you arrive at the camp.
Is it possible to have vegetarian food or vegan food?
Serving vegan or vegetarian food is possible. On the first day of your trip, please email me or let your driver/guide know as soon as you can.
I don’t want to ride camels to the camp, how i do I reach the camp?
If you don’t want to ride a camel, we can transport you to the camp in a 4 × 4 vehicle.
