What to Expect?

Discover the edge of the Sahara Desert on a 3-day budget tour from Marrakech, and explore the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Valley and Kasbah in Ourzazate. Ride across the dunes of Erg Chebbi by camel, and sleep at a desert camp surrounded by high sand dunes.

 

Day 1: Marrakech - Boumalne Dades

Following an early pick-up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech, journey across the High Atlas Mountains to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou. See the fortified Kasbah, used as a location set for some famous Hollywood epics, such as “Lawrence of Arabia.” Enjoy some time in the Kasbah, before driving to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gate of the Sahara.” Continue to the Boumalne Dades via the Valley of the Roses. Upon arrival at Boumalne Dades, take the back roads through the Dades Canyons, passing stunning rock formations and fortified Kasbahs along the Dades River. Continue to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

 

Day 2: Boumalne Dades - Erg Chebbi

Breakfast at your hotel, drive the “Road of 1001 Kasbahs” to the small oasis town of Tinghir. Continue through the dramatic Todgha Gorges, pausing for some free time to explore the canyons and enjoy lunch at a local café. Continue to Merzouga to meet your camel caravan. Then, experience the Erg Chebbi dunes on camelback, and watch the sunset change the color of the sand. Reach your desert camp before nightfall, and enjoy an authentic Moroccan dinner under the stars. Local nomads will provide the entertainment and show you how to play the tam tam drums.

 

Day 3: Erg Chebbi - Marrakech

Wake early to watch the sunrise before breakfast (optional). Then, ride your camel back to the main road. Your driver will be waiting to pick you up for the transfer back to Marrakech. Stop half-way for lunch in Ouarzazate.