best sahara desert tours from marrakech
Taking a Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech is a memorable experience and there are various options depending on how much time you have and the type of adventure you seek. Most Sahara tours from Marrakech head toward either **Merzouga** or **Zagora**, with Merzouga offering the famous large sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, and Zagora providing a more accessible option with rocky desert landscapes. Here are some of the best Sahara Desert tours:
3-Day Sahara Desert Tour to Merzouga (Erg Chebbi)
– **Duration**: 3 days, 2 nights
– **Highlights**: This is one of the most popular Sahara tours from Marrakech. On this trip, you’ll cross the High Atlas Mountains, visit the UNESCO site of Ait Benhaddou, and explore the Todra Gorge. The main highlight is spending the night in a Berber camp in the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. You can also enjoy a camel trek at sunset and sunrise, as well as experience traditional Moroccan hospitality.
Recommended for: Travelers seeking the classic desert experience with larger sand dunes and the possibility of longer camel rides.
2-Day Sahara Desert Tour:
Duration: 2 days, 1 night
Highlights: If you’re short on time, a 2-day desert tour is a good option. It’s a Sahara desert area with sand dunes, the tour still includes a camel trek and an overnight stay in a desert camp. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Draa Valley, known for its palm groves, and visit Ait Benhaddou.
Recommended for: Travelers with limited time or those looking for a quicker desert experience closer to Marrakech.
4-Day Sahara Desert Tour to Merzouga
Duration: 4 days, 3 nights
Highlights: This extended tour allows you to explore the desert in more depth. It often includes stops in places like the Dades Gorge and the Valley of Roses, in addition to spending time in the Erg Chebbi dunes. On the fourth day, you’ll travel to Fes, Morocco’s cultural capital, making this a great option if you plan to continue your journey to another city.
Recommended for: Travelers who want to experience both the Sahara and Morocco’s cities with a more relaxed pace.
Duration: Typically 3 days, 2 nights
Highlights: For those looking for a more comfortable experience, luxury Sahara tours offer upgraded accommodations and services. You’ll stay in a high-end desert camp with private tents, enjoy gourmet Moroccan cuisine, and have the option to go quad biking or explore the dunes on a 4×4. These tours usually include the classic Erg Chebbi camel trek but with added comfort and exclusive services.
– **Recommended for**: Travelers seeking an upscale desert experience with added comfort and luxury.
5-Day Sahara Desert Adventure:
Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
Highlights: This longer tour offers more opportunities to explore Morocco’s diverse landscapes, including the Atlas Mountains, gorges, and vast desert. You’ll have more time to enjoy activities like camel trekking, sandboarding, and stargazing. Additional stops in small Berber villages and extended time in the Draa Valley are also common.
Recommended for: Adventure seekers and those who want to immerse themselves fully in the Sahara Desert experience.
Photography-Focused Sahara Desert Tour:
Duration: 3 to 4 days
Highlights: This tour caters to photography enthusiasts, with stops specifically chosen for their visual appeal. The golden sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, the rocky desert near Zagora, and the dramatic landscapes of the Atlas Mountains provide endless photo opportunities. The tour includes a professional guide who can help you capture the best shots of the desert sunrise, nomadic people, and starry skies.
– **Recommended for**: Photographers and travelers wanting to focus on capturing the stunning landscapes.
Tips for Choosing a Sahara Desert Tour:
Duration: A 3-day tour is the minimum for visiting Merzouga (Erg Chebbi), while a 2-day tour works for Zagora.
Travel Distance: Merzouga is about 8-9 hours from Marrakech, while Zagora is about 6-7 hours away, so plan accordingly.
Accommodation: Standard tours often include basic desert camps with shared facilities, while luxury tours offer private tents and upgraded amenities.
Activities: Many tours offer camel rides, but some also include extras like quad biking, sandboarding, or visiting local Berber villages.
These tours will give you an unforgettable Sahara Desert experience while exploring the diverse landscapes of Morocco.
