3-Day Ouarzazate to Merzouga Desert Tour

Discover southern Morocco on this private 3-day journey from Ouarzazate to the Merzouga desert. Travel through the palm groves of Skoura, the Valley of Roses and the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Valley before visiting the Todra Gorges. Continue through Erfoud to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, where you will spend a night at a desert camp. On the final day, return to Ouarzazate via Rissani, Alnif and the Draa Valley. The itinerary combines scenic drives, traditional villages and time in the Sahara region. The final return journey is long, so an early departure is recommended.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Ouarzazate – Skoura – Valley of Roses – Dades Valley

Depart Ouarzazate in the morning and drive towards Skoura, an oasis known for its palm groves and traditional kasbahs. Continue through the Valley of Roses, where villages and cultivated land sit among the mountains. There will be opportunities to stop for photographs and enjoy the scenery, depending on the schedule. The journey then continues to the Dades Valley, famous for its unusual rock formations, winding roads and dramatic landscapes. Enjoy time at scenic viewpoints before reaching your accommodation. Overnight in a hotel or riad in the Dades Valley.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga

After breakfast, travel to the Todra Gorges, where towering rock walls rise above the river. Enjoy a walk and take photographs before continuing towards Erfoud, a town known for fossils and desert landscapes. From there, travel to Merzouga and the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Depending on your arrival time and the services booked, you may enjoy a camel ride at sunset or relax near the dunes. Spend the night at a desert camp. Dinner and breakfast depend on the accommodation package confirmed at booking.

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Alnif – Agdz – Ouarzazate

Leave early for the return journey to Ouarzazate, as this is a long driving day. Pass through Rissani, known for its traditional market and regional trading history, and continue towards Alnif. The route then crosses arid landscapes and the Draa Valley near Agdz, with opportunities for short stops when time permits. Arrival in Ouarzazate is expected in the late afternoon or evening, depending on road conditions, traffic and stops. This itinerary is suitable for travellers who have three days available and want to combine valleys, gorges and a night in the Erg Chebbi desert region.

What Is Included

• Private transport for the itinerary described.
• Pick-up and drop-off in Ouarzazate.
• Professional driver.
• One night in the Dades Valley.
• One night at a Merzouga desert camp.
• Meals specified in the confirmed accommodation package.
• Scenic stops along the route, subject to available time.

What Is Not Included

• Lunches, drinks and personal expenses.
• Entrance fees and optional activities.
• Camel ride unless explicitly included in the booking.
• Voluntary tips.
• Services not listed under inclusions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?

The itinerary is designed as a private trip with a driver. Confirm the vehicle and included services before booking.

Where will we stay overnight?

The first night is in the Dades Valley and the second night is at a desert camp near Merzouga. The accommodation category depends on the confirmed option.

Is the return drive long?

Yes. Day three involves several hours on the road. The exact duration depends on traffic, road conditions and stops.

Does the itinerary include Erg Chegaga?

No. This trip visits Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. Erg Chegaga is not included.