PRIVATE OUARZAZATE TO MERZOUGA DESERT TOUR -2 DAYS
Ouarzazate to Merzouga luxury Desert Tour – 2 Days: Overview:
Perfect for travelers seeking a brief yet enriching adventure, this 2-day desert tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga showcases the stunning beauty and cultural richness of southern Morocco. Traverse the scenic routes along the southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains and immerse yourself in unforgettable experiences, from camel trekking to stargazing in the serene desert night.
This journey begins with a visit to Skoura’s lush oasis and the historic Kasbah Amredhil, followed by the fragrant Valley of the Roses and the striking rock formations in the Dades Valley. A tranquil riverside walk sets the tone for your arrival at the mesmerizing Merzouga dunes. Here, a camel ride across the golden sands brings you to a breathtaking sunset, culminating in an evening of traditional nomad music around a campfire. Rest in a private tent beneath a star-studded sky, reflecting on the day’s wonders.
The second day greets you with a magical desert sunrise, followed by a scenic return journey. Explore Berber villages, traverse a dramatic mountain pass featured in Hollywood films, and marvel at the diverse landscapes of the Dra’a Valley, dotted with palm groves, adobe kasbahs, and timeless settlements. This short but impactful tour promises memories that will last a lifetime.
2-Day Merzouga Desert Tour from Ouarzazate – Highlights:
- Kasbah Amredhil & Skoura Oasis: Visit the iconic fortified Kasbah Amredhil and explore the charming Skoura Oasis.
- Kel’aa M’gouna & Damascene Rose Co-operatives: Discover the local Damascene Rose co-operatives in the picturesque town of Kel’aa M’gouna.
- Dades Valley & Toudgha Gorges: Experience the natural beauty of Dades Valley and the breathtaking Toudgha Gorges. Learn about the ancient “Khettara” water channel, a marvel of Berber engineering.
- Sunset Camel Ride & Sandboarding: Enjoy a thrilling camel ride at sunset, try sandboarding, capture unique desert photos, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of Berber music.
- Luxury Camp Experience: Indulge in a delicious dinner under the starlit sky, followed by a peaceful night in your private tent in a luxury camp in Erg Chebbi.
- Dra’a Valley & Berber Villages: Journey through the scenic Dra’a Valley, known for its lush palm groves and traditional Berber villages, offering an authentic glimpse of local life.
- Agdz & Palm Dates: Stop in Agdz, a renowned Berber village celebrated for its exquisite palm dates, before crossing the majestic Anti-Atlas Mountains.
Merzouga Desert Tour from Ouarzazate – Itinerary
Day 1: Ouarzazate to Merzouga Erg Chebbi
Embark on a morning journey at 8:30 AM, departing from Ouarzazate towards the stunning Dades Gorges. Along the way, you’ll pass the Oasis of Skoura, a picturesque area known for its abandoned kasbahs nestled among palm trees. A stop at the beautifully restored Kasbah Amredhil is a must. This traditional adobe kasbah, made from natural materials, offers a glimpse into the life within these unique structures. Adobe is renowned for its ability to maintain comfortable temperatures—warm in winter and cool in summer—due to the thickness of its walls.
Next, you’ll continue to Kelâat M’Gouna, the famous Valley of Roses, where you can explore locally crafted cosmetics made from the valley’s abundant rose petals. These rose-based products are highly regarded and make for wonderful souvenirs.
Your journey continues through the Dades Gorges, a natural marvel formed millions of years ago when the area was submerged beneath the sea. Sediment accumulated around coral reefs, forming sandstone and limestone rocks that now define the spectacular landscape. After some exploration, enjoy a relaxing lunch in this lush and scenic valley.
Next, the tour takes you through the Ziz Valley, renowned for its annual Date Festival each November. You’ll also pass through Erfoud, a city famous for its fossil discoveries, and Rissani, a historic town where the once-thriving desert capital of Sijilmassa stood from the 14th to 18th centuries. Sijilmassa was a key point for trade, especially in gold and slaves, and caravans from the Sahel passed through here.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to take a camel ride through the majestic Sahara Desert. As the sun sets over the towering dunes, the view is truly breathtaking. The dunes rise to 250 meters, offering an unforgettable experience.
End the day with dinner and a luxurious overnight stay at a desert camp, complete with modern bathrooms and beautiful Moroccan decor. This unexpected comfort amidst the serene dunes promises a truly special experience.
Day 2: Merzouga – Ouarzazate
Rise early to experience a mesmerizing desert sunrise, where the shifting colors and shadows create a one-of-a-kind spectacle. Take a moment to wander through the dunes and fully immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this magical desert setting.
Afterward, return to the camp for a delicious breakfast, and then continue your adventure towards the Dra’a Valley. On your way, you’ll pass through Tazzarine, a village famously featured in the film Babel. Shortly after, stop in N’Qob for a delightful lunch.
The journey then takes you to Tansikht, where you’ll cross the Dra’a River and follow the ancient caravan route north. Enjoy a brief tea or coffee break before venturing off-road for a closer look at local life in the oases, where towering palm trees and historic villages dot the landscape. Just after this turn, ask your driver to stop so you can marvel at dinosaur footprints embedded in the rock along the road.
At Agdez, situated at the top of the Draa Valley, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Kasbah Tamnougalte, the oldest kasbah in the valley. This ancient fortress is still home to 13 families, offering a glimpse into traditional life.
The road back to Ouarzazate takes you over the Tizi-n-Tinfifte mountain pass, where breathtaking views of unique rock formations await at an elevation of 1,660 meters. Your Ouarzazate to Merzouga dunes tour concludes around 6:00 PM, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s desert landscapes.
What is included in this Erg Chebbi desert tour from Ouarzazate:
- Transport in a private air-conditioned vehicle; 4×4 TX or deluxe van and fuel
- Experienced local English/French/Spanish/Italian-speaking Berber and nomad driver-guide
- Overnight in a luxury camp with private toilet and shower, lamps, carpets and traditional furniture
- meals: breakfast, dinner – with vegetarian and vegan options available
- A camel ride with a guide. And if you wish to do some sandboarding, just speak to the camp staff!
- An option to go to and return from the camp by 4×4
- Luggage service to the camp and all accommodation
- Berber drumming and music
- Free time to explore the sites such as Dra’a Valley, Kasbah Tamnougalte, for walks, photos, and tea/coffee breaks
- The opportunity to ask the driver to stop when and where you wish
- Tea, coffee and mineral water in the desert
What is not included:
- Drinks
- Tips
- Extras