From Marrakech to the desert: Heading to the sand dunes of Merzouga
Even if this trip may appear to be short one, it is full of opportunities to discover the variety of languages, landscape, sights and cultures of the south east of this fascinating country. Indeed, by the end of those 5 days we will have explored the beautiful views of the high Atlas Mountains, learned the history of sought Morocco during the protectorate, experienced the grandiose feeling of the Sahara, tasted different local meals and assist to a unique atmosphere of Marrakech. In short, this is one of those experiences that one ends with the hope to start another one as soon as possible.
In brief:
- Journey’s length: 5 days
- Physical level: ***
- Included meals:
- Price:
Interests:
- Views of the Atlas Mountains
- Dades gorges
- Todra's gorges
- Sand dunes of Merzouga
- The red city of Marrakech
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Itinerary
Day 01
Marrakech
Our first meeting will take place in the hotel that we will have booked for you in Marrakech. We usually spend this first night planning for the journey together and introducing our participants smoothly to the vibes and environment of the country. Please let us know if you need us to arrange a pick up from the airport of Marrakech.
Included Services:
- Night in a hotel (BB)
Non-included services
- Dinner
- Pick up from the airport
Day 02
From Marrakech to Kelaa M'Gouna
After breakfast, we will start the journey crossing the high Atlas range. During the drive we will assist to some beautiful contrasts of color. At the middle of this range, we will stop to visit “Kasbah Telouet”; a historical castle that built to serve as the palace of the leader of the area during the French protectorate. Lunch will be in a local restaurant around the old palace.
Our drive of the afternoon follows the valley of Onila, which used to be the same road that caravans follow from the Sahara to Marrakech a couple of centuries ago. The journey ends in the valley of roses where we will stay for the night in a Kasbah (guest house).
Included services:
- Night in a Kasbah (BB)
- Lunch
- Dinner
6 hours journey by car.
Day 03
Gorges of Dades to Merzouga dunes
After breakfast, we will leave Kelaa M’Gouna to Dades valley and its gorges known for their unusual forms /shapes of rocks. We will resume the journey to Merzouga where a camel driver will be awaiting us for a camel ride to the tents in the heart of the dunes.
Included services:
- Camel ride in the sand dunes
- Night in tents
- Dinner
- Lunch
Non-included services
- Lunch
- Dinner
Night in tents on half board.
6 hours by car and 40 minutes by camel.
Day 04
From the golden dunes of Merzouga to Ouarzazate via Draa valley
Very early in the morning and most preferably before breakfast, the camel driver will lead us to a strategic spot where we will contemplate the sunrise. After a short break, we will go back to the guesthouse where we left the car to have breakfast then drive to Alnif and N’Kob. When we get there, we will stop for lunch before we continue the journey all along the valley towards Ouarzazate city to spend the night in a magnificent guesthouse.
Included services:
- Night in a guest house (BB)
- Dinner
- Lunch
Day 05
Ouarzazate to Marrakech
After breakfast, we will drive back to Marrakech crossing the high Atlas mountains again in order to reach our Riad in Marrakech around 1pm. Afterwards, you will be allotted some “me-time” to rest before lunch is served. The rest of time will be spent discovering the city of Marrakech. For this purpose, we have planned a guided walk to some the most interesting landmarks of Marrakech (i.e. Bahia Palace, the medina and the square of Jamaa Lefna.)
As this will be our last night together, we highly recommend having a dinner or a toast for the trip together. We finally hope that this experience will be unforgettable for you and that you will recommend it for your acquaintances and loved ones who would love to enjoy the same journey.
Included services:
- Night in a guest house (BB)
- Dinner
- Lunch
N.B: Please not that we can arrange a pick up for you from the Riad to the airport if you need one (just let us know ahead of time). Also, if you still have time and you happen to be interested in further exploring the country you can join one of our optional tours to a coastal city namely Essaouira to relax and spend some personal time based on your choices and interests.
In case you are staying an extra night in Marrakech and you are interested in learning more about the country, we invite you to visit our page about the optional activities in Marrakech here.
Anything you need to know
Frequently asked Question & Important notes
1.What documents do I need to travel to Morocco?
You will need a valid passport, and depending on your nationality, a visa might be required. Check the government website for details.
2. What's the local currency in Morocco?
The currency is called Dirham (MAD), and it’s best to exchange your national currency for Dirhams at currency exchange agencies.
3. Do I need to exchange money before coming to Morocco?
It’s not necessary, there are currency exchange offices at the airport and throughout Morocco.
4. Should I tip in Morocco?
Tipping is expected as a sign of satisfaction for good service. It’s not mandatory but appreciated.
5. Is Morocco an expensive country to visit?
Yes, Morocco can be just as expensive as western countries, so budget accordingly.
6. What's the best time to visit Morocco?
Spring and Autumn are recommended for pleasant weather.
7. Are there any safety tips for travelers in Morocco?
Stay mindful of pickpocketing, avoid displaying valuables, and inform someone about your plans and itinerary.
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“As you wake up to sort of Morocco coming to life, and you drive a two-hour journey through the desert as the sun is rising over the sand dunes… I saw landscapes and visual stuff that I'll never forget. It was special”
- Jim Sturgess