H
6 days
Desert
MarrakechThe Desert Route from Marrakech to Merzouga in 6 Days
A six-day journey through the Atlas Mountains, the kasbahs, and the oases of the south, ending at the Marzouka Dunes with a night in the desert.
MarrakechAit Ben HaddouOuarzazateTangerMarzoukaMarrakechAbout the Trip
This step-by-step itinerary doesn't turn the desert into a grueling two-day round trip. It's spread out over six days to allow time for Aït Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, and Tinghir before reaching Merzouga.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Each day is listed with its main stop and the itinerary for the trip.
From Marrakesh Across the Atlas Mountains
Leave Marrakech in the morning and cross the Atlas Mountains toward the southeast. Stop along the way, then make Aït Ben Haddou your main stop for the day before spending the night in Ouarzazate or the surrounding area.
Ouarzazate and the Oasis Route
Start with a short drive in Ouarzazate, then continue along the southern routes and through the oases toward Tinghir. Don’t pack too many stops into the day so you can arrive before evening and enjoy the changing scenery.
Mada'iq, Todghi, and then Marzouka
Start at the Todgha Gorge, then continue east toward Merzouga. Arriving before sunset will give you time to arrange entry into the dune area and prepare for a night in the desert.
A Full Day in Marzouka
Don't make Marzouka just a one-night stop. Set aside a full day to explore the dunes and the surrounding area, and you can add a desert tour or visits to nearby villages depending on your interests.
Return to Ouarzazate
Start heading back west, making short stops along the way. The goal is to reach Ouarzazate without rushing, and to use the evening to rest after the long drive.
Return to Marrakech
Cross the Atlas Mountains again toward Marrakesh. Keep the rest of the day open, as travel time may vary depending on stops, traffic, and weather.
Do you have a question about the trip?
Here are brief answers to the most important details you may need to know before adopting the program.
From March through May, and from September through November
Average
Walking is the best option within the Old City, while taxis serve the Gueliz and Winter Quarters neighborhoods, the gardens, and more distant locations. Marrakech is connected by train, bus, and air to major Moroccan cities.
The trip begins in Marrakech.
Yes, the itinerary is ready for approval, and the order of the days can be adjusted to fit the trip schedule and travel arrangements.