10-Day Sahara Desert Adventure from MarrakechThe Ultimate Morocco Itinerary with Camel Trek, Desert Camps, and Atlas Mountains
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure across Morocco’s most iconic landscapes? This 10-day Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech takes you from the bustling medina of Marrakech to the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. Along the way, you’ll explore the High Atlas Mountains, visit ancient kasbahs, wander through lush oases, and spend magical nights under the stars in luxury desert camps.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure.
Day-by-Day Morocco Desert Itinerary
Day 1 – Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou via the High Atlas Mountains
Your journey begins with a scenic drive across the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) in the High Atlas Mountains. Stop for panoramic views before reaching Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed fortified village famous for its earthen clay architecture. Explore the ancient kasbah, climb to the granary, and imagine scenes from films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. End the day in nearby Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco”.
Overnight: Ouarzazate or Skoura Oasis
Day 2 – Ouarzazate to Dades Valley via Skoura & Rose Valley
Visit the Skoura Oasis, home to the photogenic Kasbah Amridil, then follow the Valley of Roses through Kalaat M’Gouna, especially beautiful in April–May during rose season. Continue to the spectacular Dades Valley, known for its red cliffs and winding roads.
Overnight: Dades Gorge guesthouse
Day 3 – Dades Gorge, Todra Canyon, and Arrival in Merzouga
After breakfast, head to the dramatic Todra Gorge, where you can walk between towering canyon walls. Continue through Erfoud (known for fossils and dates) before reaching Merzouga, your gateway to the Sahara Desert.
In the late afternoon, ride a camel into the Erg Chebbi dunes and arrive at your desert camp in time for a Sahara sunset. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and music under the stars.
Overnight: Desert camp in Erg Chebbi
Day 4 – Sahara Desert Exploration & Relaxation
Wake early for a spectacular sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, explore the desert:
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Visit Khamlia Village for Gnawa music
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Meet nomadic Berber families
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Try sandboarding or ATV riding
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Visit black desert and fossil quarries (if in 4×4)
Overnight: Second night in camp or hotel in Merzouga
Day 5 – Merzouga to Nkob via Rissani and Alnif
After breakfast, visit the Rissani market (great for spices and dates). Then drive through Alnif and the volcanic landscapes of the Jbel Saghro Mountains, arriving in Nkob, a quiet Berber village with palm trees and over 40 traditional kasbahs.
Overnight: Nkob guesthouse or kasbah stay
Day 6 – Nkob to Ouarzazate via the Draa Valley
Today, follow the Draa Valley, one of Morocco’s longest and most scenic river valleys. Stop at Kasbah Tamnougalt in Agdz, then continue north to Ouarzazate.
Overnight: Ouarzazate hotel
Day 7 – Ouarzazate to Agafay Desert (Near Marrakech)
Drive back toward Marrakech and detour into the Agafay Desert, a rocky, lunar-like landscape only 45 minutes from the city. Here you’ll enjoy a more tranquil desert experience, with optional camel rides, sunset yoga, or a candlelit dinner.
Overnight: Luxury camp in Agafay
Day 8 – Return to Marrakech and Medina Exploration
Return to Marrakech and spend the afternoon exploring:
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Bahia Palace
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Koutoubia Mosque
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Jemaa el-Fna Square
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Traditional souks and street food stalls
Overnight: Riad in the Marrakech medina
Day 9 – Full Day in Marrakech: Palaces, Gardens & Hammam
Spend the day exploring Marrakech’s highlights:
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Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum
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Dar El Bacha Museum
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The Secret Garden
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Try a traditional hammam or join a Moroccan cooking class
Overnight: Marrakech
Day 10 – Departure from Marrakech or Extend Your Trip
Transfer to the airport or continue your Moroccan journey to Essaouira, Casablanca, or the Atlas foothills
◙ Include:10 trips from Marrakech to the desert
- Transport en S/V vehicule, fuel.
- Driver/guide.
- 08 Nights in Hotel.
- 01 Night in desert camp.
- Camel ride in the dunes.
- 09 Breakfasts 09 Diners.
◙ Not include:10 trips from Marrakech to the desert
- Lunches.
- Drinks.
- Tips.
