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5 Days Sahara Desert Tour from Agadir to Merzouga via Marrakech (Round Trip): Sahara Desert tour

5 Days Sahara Desert Tour from Agadir to Merzouga via Marrakech (Round Trip)

5 Days From Agadir Private or small groupFrom €910 pp

The journey

Tour overview

Embark on the ultimate Moroccan adventure with this premier 5-Day Sahara Desert Tour from Agadir. This comprehensive itinerary is perfectly designed to combine the vibrant imperial charm of Marrakech, the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains, ancient UNESCO heritage sites, stunning canyons, and a full Sahara Desert excursion with luxury glamping. Organized by Visit Sahara Desert, this highly optimized route ensures you experience the absolute best of Southern Morocco.

Day 1: Agadir → Marrakech (Medina Guided Tour) Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your accommodation in Agadir for a scenic 3-hour drive to Marrakech. After checking into your riad, you will meet a local licensed guide for an evening guided tour of the Marrakech Medina. Wander through the labyrinth of vibrant souks, admire the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, and witness the magical transformation of the legendary Jemaa el-Fnaa square as it comes alive with food stalls, musicians, and storytellers. Overnight: Riad Nessma and Spa or Riad Touda (BB - Bed & Breakfast Included)

Day 2: Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate → Dades Gorges After breakfast, we depart Marrakech and cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the sweeping Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m). We descend to visit the iconic Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site and a famous filming location (Gladiator, Game of Thrones). After lunch, we continue through Ouarzazate (Morocco's Hollywood) and drive along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs and through the fragrant Roses Valley before arriving at the spectacular Dades Gorges. Overnight: Dades Paradise or Dar Blues (HB - Dinner & Breakfast Included)

Day 3: Dades Gorges → Todra Gorges → Erfoud → Merzouga Sahara Desert We start the day with a drive through the dramatic rock formations of Dades Gorges before heading to the towering Todra Gorges. Take a refreshing morning walk along the river bed beneath limestone cliffs that rise 300 meters high. Next, we pass through Erfoud, known for its fascinating fossil cooperatives, as the landscape opens up into the vast desert plains. In the afternoon, we arrive in Merzouga. Here, you will mount your camel for a scenic sunset camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Arrive at your luxury desert camp, enjoy a traditional Moroccan feast, and gather around the campfire for live spiritual Berber drum music under a star-filled sky. Overnight: Tiziri Camp or Sahara Eden Camp (HB - Dinner & Breakfast Included in a Luxury Desert Tent)

Day 4: Merzouga Desert Excursion → Khamlia → Rissani → Ouarzazate Wake up early to catch a breathtaking Sahara sunrise over the dunes. After a delicious breakfast at the camp, we set off in a 4x4 for an immersive Sahara Desert excursion. We will visit nomadic Berber families in their traditional tents to share mint tea, and travel to the village of Khamlia to experience the captivating rhythms of authentic Gnawa music. We then stop in Rissani, the historical gateway to the sub-Saharan trade routes, to explore its bustling traditional market. In the afternoon, we begin our drive back west, passing through the beautiful palm-lined Draa Valley on our way to Ouarzazate. Overnight: Palms View or Yu Palace (HB - Dinner & Breakfast Included)

Day 5: Ouarzazate → Taznakht → Agadir After breakfast, we take some time to explore Ouarzazate, visiting the historic Kasbah Taourirt or the local cinema studios. Our return journey to Agadir leads us through the rugged Anti-Atlas Mountains, stopping in Taznakht, a historic town celebrated for its hand-woven Berber rugs and carpets. Enjoy the shifting landscapes as we descend from the arid mountains back down to the Atlantic coast, arriving in Agadir by late afternoon for your hotel drop-off. Meals Included: Breakfast.

Duration
5 Days
Starts in
Agadir (hotel pick-up)
Travel style
Private or small group (max 17)
Guides speak
English, French, Spanish, German, Arabic
Season
Year-round, best Oct–Apr
Activity level
Easy to moderate

Highlights

  • Imperial Marrakech: Explore the vibrant souks and historic Medina with a local private guide.
  • UNESCO World Heritage: Tour the famous ancient earthen clay architecture of Ait Benhaddou Kasbah.
  • Gorge Walks: Walk among the towering cliffs of Dades Gorges and Todra Gorges.
  • Full Sahara Excursion: Meet nomadic families, listen to Gnawa music in Khamlia, and explore Rissani's authentic market.
  • Luxury Glamping: Enjoy a sunset camel trekking adventure in the Erg Chebbi dunes and sleep in a premium desert camp.
MarrakechSahara DesertCamel TrekkingAtlas MountainsBerber Villages

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1
    Day 1Agadir → Marrakech (Medina Guided Tour)

    Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your accommodation in Agadir for a scenic 3-hour drive to Marrakech. After checking into your riad, you will meet a local licensed guide for an evening guided tour of the Marrakech Medina. Wander through the labyrinth of vibrant souks, admire the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, and witness the magical transformation of the legendary Jemaa el-Fnaa square as it comes alive with food stalls, musicians, and storytellers.

    Overnight: Riad Nessma and Spa or Riad Touda (BB - Bed & Breakfast Included)

  2. 2
    Day 2Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate → Dades Gorges

    After breakfast, we depart Marrakech and cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the sweeping Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m). We descend to visit the iconic Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site and a famous filming location (Gladiator, Game of Thrones). After lunch, we continue through Ouarzazate (Morocco's Hollywood) and drive along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs and through the fragrant Roses Valley before arriving at the spectacular Dades Gorges.

    Overnight: Dades Paradise or Dar Blues (HB - Dinner & Breakfast Included)

  3. 3
    Day 3Dades Gorges → Todra Gorges → Erfoud → Merzouga Sahara Desert

    We start the day with a drive through the dramatic rock formations of Dades Gorges before heading to the towering Todra Gorges. Take a refreshing morning walk along the river bed beneath limestone cliffs that rise 300 meters high. Next, we pass through Erfoud, known for its fascinating fossil cooperatives, as the landscape opens up into the vast desert plains. In the afternoon, we arrive in Merzouga. Here, you will mount your camel for a scenic sunset camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Arrive at your luxury desert camp, enjoy a traditional Moroccan feast, and gather around the campfire for live spiritual Berber drum music under a star-filled sky.

    Overnight: Tiziri Camp or Sahara Eden Camp (HB - Dinner & Breakfast Included in a Luxury Desert Tent)

  4. 4
    Day 4Merzouga Desert Excursion → Khamlia → Rissani → Ouarzazate

    Wake up early to catch a breathtaking Sahara sunrise over the dunes. After a delicious breakfast at the camp, we set off in a 4x4 for an immersive Sahara Desert excursion. We will visit nomadic Berber families in their traditional tents to share mint tea, and travel to the village of Khamlia to experience the captivating rhythms of authentic Gnawa music. We then stop in Rissani, the historical gateway to the sub-Saharan trade routes, to explore its bustling traditional market. In the afternoon, we begin our drive back west, passing through the beautiful palm-lined Draa Valley on our way to Ouarzazate.

    Overnight: Palms View or Yu Palace (HB - Dinner & Breakfast Included)

  5. 5
    Day 5Ouarzazate → Taznakht → Agadir

    After breakfast, we take some time to explore Ouarzazate, visiting the historic Kasbah Taourirt or the local cinema studios. Our return journey to Agadir leads us through the rugged Anti-Atlas Mountains, stopping in Taznakht, a historic town celebrated for its hand-woven Berber rugs and carpets. Enjoy the shifting landscapes as we descend from the arid mountains back down to the Atlantic coast, arriving in Agadir by late afternoon for your hotel drop-off. Meals Included: Breakfast.

Want to add a night, slow the pace or end in another city? Every private itinerary can be adjusted. Ask us to customise it.

Good to know

What's included

Included

  • Comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle with an experienced English-speaking driver/guide.
  • 1 Night in Marrakech (Riad Nessma and Spa or Riad Touda) on a Bed & Breakfast (BB) basis.
  • 1 Night in Dades Gorges (Dades Paradise or Dar Blues) on a Half Board (HB) basis.
  • 1 Night in a Luxury Sahara Desert Camp (Tiziri Camp or Sahara Eden Camp) on a Half Board (HB) basis in a private ensuite tent.
  • 1 Night in Ouarzazate (Palms View or Yu Palace) on a Half Board (HB) basis.
  • Sunset camel trek in Erg Chebbi dunes.
  • Local official guide for the Marrakech Medina tour.
  • Full 4x4 Merzouga desert excursion (Nomads, Khamlia Gnawa music, Rissani souk).
  • Berber drum music experience around the campfire.

Not included

  • Lunches and beverages.
  • Entrance fees to historical monuments, museums, or local Kasbah guides.
  • Tips and personal expenses.

Per person, in euros

Prices

Room typePrice per person
Single1 person per room€1,664
Double2 people per room€910
Triple3 people per room€725
Quadruple4 people per room€631

Prices include taxes. Groups, children and camp upgrades priced on request.

Before you go

Practical information

Meeting point

Your hotel or riad in Agadir, usually between 7:00 and 8:00 AM. Exact time confirmed on booking.

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 14 days before departure. 50% refund between 7 and 14 days. Free date changes whenever possible.

What to bring

Comfortable layers, a warm jacket for desert nights, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen and a scarf or hat.

Fitness

Suitable for most fitness levels. Light walking and an optional camel ride. Tell us about any mobility needs.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Is this tour private or shared?

You can take this tour privately, with your own driver-guide and vehicle, or join a shared small-group departure (up to 17 guests) where available. Tell us which you prefer when you enquire.

Is this tour suitable for first-time desert travelers?

Absolutely. Our guides are experienced with travelers of all backgrounds and will make sure you feel comfortable and safe throughout the journey. No prior desert experience is required.

What type of accommodation is used?

We use a mix of traditional riad hotels in cities and authentic Berber desert camps with private tents, comfortable bedding, and camp lighting. Luxury glamping options are available on request.

Are meals included in the tour?

Most meals are included as listed in the "What's Included" section. Breakfast is provided at hotels; dinners and breakfasts at the desert camp are always included. Lunches in cities may be at your own expense.

How do I get to the departure city?

We pick you up from your hotel or riad in Agadir. We can also arrange airport transfers and recommend trusted hotels if needed, just ask when booking.

Can I change the itinerary?

Yes. Every private tour can be adjusted: add a night, swap a stop, upgrade your desert camp or finish in a different city. We will send an updated itinerary and price.

What is the best time of year to visit the Sahara?

October to April offers the most comfortable temperatures (15–25°C / 59–77°F during the day). July and August are very hot but manageable with proper preparation. The desert is beautiful year-round.

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