3 Days from Ouarzazate to Merzouga

Day 1: Ouarzazate to Dades Valley – Journey Begins

Start your adventure in Ouarzazate, a city famous for its film studios and stunning kasbahs. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a well-preserved fortress that offers a glimpse into traditional Moroccan architecture.

Depart Ouarzazate and head towards the Dades Valley, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including the Dades Gorge with its dramatic rock formations. The journey takes you through the Valley of the Roses, known for its fragrant rose fields used in perfumery. Spend the night in the Dades Valley, enjoying the serene environment and starlit sky.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga – Entering the Sahara

After enjoying the morning in the Dades Valley, travel towards the Todra Gorges, another spectacular natural wonder with towering rock walls. This site is popular among climbers and offers a fantastic walking opportunity along the riverbed.

Continue your journey to Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. These massive sand dunes are a quintessential image of the Sahara. Upon arrival, embark on a camel trek to delve deeper into the desert. Experience the tranquility and vastness of the Sahara as you watch the sunset over the dunes. Spend the night in a desert camp, where you can enjoy traditional Berber hospitality, music, and a night under the stars.

Day 3: Merzouga and Surroundings – Desert Exploration

Wake up early to catch a stunning sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, explore the area around Merzouga. Visit the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnawa music, a unique form of rhythmic music with West African roots. Alternatively, take a 4×4 excursion to explore the desert landscape further, visiting nomadic families or the fossil beds.

In the afternoon, begin your journey back to Ouarzazate. Reflect on the experiences of the past few days, from the lush valleys and gorges to the expansive sands of the Sahara. The contrast in landscapes highlights the diversity and beauty of Morocco’s natural environment.

This 3-day journey from Ouarzazate to Merzouga offers an immersive experience into the Sahara Desert, providing an opportunity to witness some of Morocco’s most stunning natural wonders and to engage with its rich cultural heritage.