4-day desert tour from Errachidia to Marrakech, Morocco

This 4-day trip from Errachidia to Marrakech is a perfect combination of adventure in the Sahara, cultural encounters, and Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes. It begins with a scenic drive to the golden dunes of Merzouga, where camel rides, starry skies, and desert camping await. Explore nomadic traditions, fossil sites, and the spiritual rhythms of Gnawa music in Khamlia. Then, venture into the Todra Gorges and the Dades Valley before crossing valleys filled with roses, palm groves, and historic kasbahs. End your adventure with a visit to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before crossing the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech.

• Scenic drive from Errachidia to the Sahara Desert
• Explore nomadic life and share tea with desert families
• Experience Gnawa music and traditions in Khamlia
• Camel trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes and overnight stay in a luxury camp
• Visit the traditional souk in Rissani and the fossil workshops in Erfoud
• Discover the spectacular Todra Gorges and the breathtaking Dades Valley
• Explore the fragrant Valley of Roses and the palm groves of Skoura
• Visit Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film capital, and the kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou (UNESCO)
• Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass before arriving in Marrakech.

Day 1: Arrival in Errachidia – Transfer to Merzouga

Your desert journey begins with pick-up at Errachidia Airport (ERH) or your accommodation. This 4-day desert tour from Errachidia to Marrakech, Morocco starts with a drive south towards the Sahara, crossing desert plateaus on the way to Merzouga. Depending on your flight schedule, whether from Marrakech (3 weekly flights with Ryanair) or from Casablanca (daily flights with Royal Air Maroc), the itinerary can be adjusted accordingly.

Arrival in Merzouga in the late afternoon/evening and accommodation to rest before the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Discovering Merzouga – Nomads – Khamlia – Desert camp

After breakfast, spend the day exploring the diverse landscapes of Erg Chebbi. Start with a 4×4 excursion to an ancient kohl mine, then visit nomadic families in their traditional tents and share tea while learning about their desert lifestyle. Continue to the village of Khamlia, where the Gnawa community will welcome you with their powerful music and dances rooted in sub-Saharan Africa.

In the afternoon, stroll through a palm grove and visit the seasonal lake of Merzouga, home to migratory birds such as flamingos. Later, ride your camel for a trek through the dunes, pausing to watch the sunset. At your luxury desert camp, enjoy a hearty dinner, Berber drumming around the fire, and stargazing under the vast Sahara sky.

Night at a campsite in the desert.

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

After breakfast, leave the dunes behind and head to Rissani, the former capital of the Tafilalet region and still an important commercial center. Explore its lively souk, which is especially vibrant on market days (Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday). Continue on to Erfoud to visit a fossil workshop before crossing the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad.

Arrival at the spectacular Todra Gorges, where the cliffs, sculpted by the river, form one of Morocco’s most impressive natural wonders. Free time to walk, take photos, or have lunch. Then, continue through Boumalne Dades towards the Dades Valley. On the way, stop to admire the famous rock formations called “monkey fingers” and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the valley.

Dinner and accommodation in a hotel in the Dades Valley.

Day 4: Dades Valley – Valley of Roses – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

On the last day of your 4-day desert tour from Errachidia to Marrakech, Morocco will take you through a mosaic of natural and cultural landscapes. First, you will travel to Kalaat M’Gouna, in the heart of the Valley of Roses, where rose perfumes and oils are produced and the Rose Festival is celebrated every May. Continue through the palm groves of Skoura before arriving in Ouarzazate, known as the “gateway to the desert.” Here you can visit film studios where international movies and series have been shot.

Next, explore the iconic kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the setting for productions such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. From there, cross the Tizin’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains, with stops for photos and lunch along the way.

Arrival in Marrakech in the evening and transfer to your accommodation or the airport, bringing this unforgettable 4-day desert tour from Errachidia to Marrakech, Morocco, to a close—an adventure filled with culture, nature, and Saharan magic.