Login
If you’re eager to dive into the enchanting world of the Moroccan Sahara Desert, you’ve come to the right spot! This 8-day itinerary, starting and ending in Marrakech, will guide you through some of Morocco’s most iconic desert landscapes and must-see landmarks. It’s the ideal adventure for those looking to soak in the beauty and serenity of the Moroccan Sahara. On this tour, we’ll traverse the stunning High Atlas Mountains, stopping at the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, the film-famed city of Ouarzazate, and the breathtaking canyons of Roses Valley, Dades Valley, and Todra Gorge.
In the Sahara, get ready for an unforgettable camel ride, where you’ll witness both a magical sunset and sunrise, spend a night under the stars in a cozy desert camp, and explore the vastness of the desert in a 4×4 vehicle. We’ll also check out the vibrant market in Rissani and a fascinating fossil workshop in Erfoud before heading back to Marrakech and making our way to the charming coastal city of Essaouira. So, if you’re looking for the ultimate 8-day desert tour from Marrakech, this is your best bet to experience the stunning beauty and tranquility of the Moroccan desert while discovering the natural wonders, rich history, and vibrant culture of southeastern Morocco.
This is the day you arrive in Marrakech. As soon as you land, our guide will be there to welcome you and take you to your hotel or riad. Arriving early means more time to explore the beauty of the red city, discover its treasures, and enjoy your time in one of the most touristic cities in Morocco and even in all of Africa.
After check-in, you can make a first exploration of the city on your own if you arrived early. Think of this as a fun sneak peek of Marrakech before your official guided tour on day 7 of our 8-day Morocco tour.
You may choose to visit the Jamee Lfna square, which is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In addition to that, you can visit Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, the Palais Bahia, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the Jewish quarter, or any place you prefer.
The second day of our 8-day desert tour will take us toward the stunning Dades Valley. First, we’ll cross the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, one of the most scenic routes in Morocco. Soon after, we reach the Ait Benhaddou ksar, a famous fortified village and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ksar is a striking example of southern Moroccan architecture, with defensive walls and houses that rise like small castles decorated with clay motifs.
As we continue, we will pass through the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, which we will explore in detail on our return. But for now, we’ll continue toward the lush palm groves of Skoura Oasis. Here, we can stop to wander through the vast palm groves, discover the historic Amridil kasbah, and learn about the traditional underground irrigation system known as the khettara.
We may stop once more at the Valley of Roses. This charming area is renowned for its rose fields, which provide the main source of income for many local families. Moreover, if you visit in May, you’ll witness the vibrant three-day Rose Festival, where locals and travelers gather to celebrate the harvest, and a Rose Queen is crowned to reign over the year’s fragrant crop.
Next, we will go to Dedes Valley, where we will stay in a lovely hotel overnight.
Today, we continue our Morocco desert trip toward the Sahara Desert, but before that, our journey starts first with an up-close exploration of the beauty of the Dades Valley and its unusual rock formation. It is truly a natural wonder with stunning mountain scenery, winding roads, green valleys, and authentic Berber settlements.
Then, we’ll continue to Todra Gorges. Upon arrival, we’ll get out of the car to admire this natural wonder, one of Morocco’s top attractions for visitors. The stunning views will leave you in awe, with towering cliffs and lush greenery surrounding us. In Erfoud, we’ll stop once again to observe amazing fossilized marble pieces like tables, fountains, and washbasins.
Just a few kilometers later and we will reach Merzouga. Our journey here starts by crossing the golden dunes to witness the beauty of the sunset before continuing towards our desert camp. Upon arrival, we’ll be welcomed with tea and then be guided to your tent. Here, we savor our dinner in a traditional tent restaurant, gather around the campfire, and then have a peaceful sleep in your private tent.
Our 8-day Morocco tour continues from Merzouga to Ouarzazate. Today’s journey begins with a camel trek over the dunes to witness the beauty of the sunrise. Not far from Merzouga, we will reach Rissani, which once was an essential trade center in all of Africa. Here, there are no flashy tourist shops, just real people, real products, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
From Rissani, we will head towards Daraa Valley, the largest palm grove in the world. It is what marks our arrival to the Valley of Deraa. But what’s really surprising here is that the valley spans 200 kilometers in length and 18 kilometers in width. It is another chance to connect with the desert, where locals truly savor their life.
As we leave Deraa Valley and continue towards Ouarzazate, the land will become very flat, wide, and dry, covered with black rocks and pebbles, as if we’re driving on another planet. Soon after, we arrive in Ouarzazate, where we will spend the night, awaiting the morning to uncover its beauty as well.
On the fifth day of our 8-day Morocco tour, we’ll first explore the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, often called the Hollywood of Africa due to the many international films shot here. We’ll begin at the Atlas Film Studio, one of the largest in the world. This studio attracts filmmakers from across the globe, offering a ready-made environment with elaborate sets.
A good example is that notable productions were filmed here, including Gladiator, Prince of Persia, Game of Thrones, Prison Break, and many more. Now, let us step into the majestic Tourirt kasbah, a fortress that has stood for centuries. What amazes me most here are the strong walls of rammed earth and mud brick that rise proudly, with tall towers at each corner decorated in beautiful geometric patterns.
Later on, we will have a final stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou before we cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains. For sure, we’ll have so many stops to admire the High peaks and Berber villages nestled in hills. By early evening, we’ll arrive in Marrakech, where we will spend the night awaiting the morning to uncover the beauty of the red city.
the sixth day of our 8-day desert trip continues with a guided tour in Marrakech. This is the most famous imperial city; some tourists even consider it the capital of the country. First, we will visit Jamee L’Fna, the beating heart of the city and the perfect place to experience the spirit of Marrakech with its street performances, food stalls, and vibrant atmosphere.
From there, we will continue to visit Al-Koutoubia Mosque, an Islamic masterpiece that dates back to the 12th century and is known for its lovely arches, detailed tile designs, and large gardens. Then, we head to Jardin Majorelle, a hidden paradise filled with bright blue buildings, rare plants, and colorful flowers. Inside the Pierre Bergé Museum, you will explore Berber culture through traditional jewelry, textiles, and tools.
After that, we’ll continue to the old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the suitable place to see handmade treasures, watch artisans crafting goods, and explore the maze-like alleys of the ancient medina. After lunch, we will head to Bahia Palace, known for its unique architecture with detailed stuccos, colorful mosaics, and painted ceilings.
Our 8-day Morocco tour will come to an end, but not before we explore the beauty of Essaouira, with its Atlantic coast and lovely seaside. The road to Essaouira is special; it takes us through quiet farms and small hills filled with argan trees, sometimes with goats climbing them. If you’d like, we can stop at a local cooperative to see how argan oil is made and try out the natural beauty products they make.
Upon arrival in Essaouira, we will begin our journey from its old Medina, recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO. This is a leading historical international trading port and a place with a rich multicultural heritage. As we enter the medina, we will explore its souks and artisan workshops and discover local artists and handmade pieces.
We will also see beautiful examples of Moroccan architecture, such as the Ben Yossef Mosque, old consular houses, and synagogues in the Jewish Quarter. After that, we will visit Mogador Island, just off Essaouira’s coast. It was once an important trading post, and today it’s a quiet nature reserve with rare birds and ancient ruins. Our day here ends at a café or a rooftop spot, where we can relax and enjoy views of the medina. (overnight stay in Essaouira)
On the final day of this Morocco 8-Day Desert Travel Plan, we will start it with a traditional breakfast at the hotel. Today’s plan depends on your flight schedule, so we can do another walk around Essaouira’s medina or relax at the beach.
But if your flight is later, you might have more time for some quick shopping or one last cup of mint tea or anything you prefer before heading to the airport. We will drop you off, leaving you with unforgettable memories of lively cities, the stunning Atlas Mountains, historic kasbahs, the Sahara Desert, and so much more.
Price Includes
Price Excludes
You’ll stay in charming riads, hotels, and a luxury desert camp in Merzouga with private tent, comfortable bedding, and ensuite facilities.
All our Morocco tours are private, so you’ll travel at your own pace with flexibility.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can be arranged. Please inform us in advance.
This tour involves scenic drives, especially crossing the High Atlas Mountains and reaching Merzouga. However, we make regular stops for photos, sightseeing, and rest to make the journey comfortable.
No. If you prefer not to ride a camel, we can arrange a 4×4 transfer to the desert camp.
Yes, our 8 Days Tour from Marrakech can be tailored to your travel dates, preferences, and group size.
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. We use comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicles with experienced, licensed drivers who are knowledgeable about the routes. Our guides are fluent in English and trained to ensure a secure and smooth journey. We also provide practical “Know Before You Go” tips covering health, food, and general safety guidelines.
Absolutely! Morocco is generally seen as a safe spot for travelers. The government really focuses on keeping tourists secure, and we make sure that all our recommended accommodations and routes are in safe, well-frequented areas.
Actually, it depends on what you are seeking in Morocco: is it the Sahara Desert, festivals,or imperial cities? But generally speaking, The sweet spots are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is just right across the country. Our tours run all year long, and each season brings its own special desert experience.
Many travelers, including those from the US, UK, EU, and Australia, can enjoy 90 days of visa-free entry. It’s a good idea to check the specific requirements with the Moroccan consulate based on your country.
The currency here is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). While you can use cards in bigger city places, it’s wise to have cash on hand for souks, smaller shops, and tips during your adventures.
Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) are the official languages. French is widely spoken as a second language, and you’ll find that English and Spanish are common too, and in some tourist areas like the Sahara desert you will find people who speak more than four languages in addition to local ones. Our drivers and guides speak different languages, so communication won’t be a problem.
It’s always best to ask for permission before snapping photos of people. In markets and public squares, a friendly gesture goes a long way, and some folks might appreciate a small tip.
The tour does involve some long drives and walking on uneven ground. However, we can adapt the camel trek, and we’re happy to chat about the itinerary to make sure it fits your group’s needs.
The camel trek to the camp is a gentle ride that lasts about an hour. If anyone has mobility concerns, we can arrange a comfortable 4×4 vehicle transfer to the desert camp as an alternative.
We provide modern, air-conditioned 4×4 SUVs or passenger vans to ensure you travel comfortably over different terrains. Since this is a private tour, your group will have the vehicle all to yourselves, allowing for a more personalized experience and the flexibility to go at your own pace.
Traveling with our kids on this tour was amazing. Marrakech, Fes, and Merzouga offered a great mix of culture and adventure. The camel trek and sandboarding in Merzouga were highlights for the children. Visiting nomad families and sharing tea was educational and fun. Essaouira’s coastline was perfect for relaxing after busy days. The accommodations were comfortable, and our guide was very helpful and attentive. This tour is ideal for families looking for adventure, culture, and comfort in Morocco.
This 8-day tour gave us a full experience of Morocco. Marrakech’s medina and souks were fascinating. Merzouga’s desert was magical; the sunrise over the dunes is something we’ll never forget. Camel riding and sandboarding added adventure, and visiting nomads gave insight into local life. Essaouira was charming, with beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. The guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and always available. Traveling in a private car made the journey comfortable. This tour is perfect for couples seeking adventure, culture, and memorable experiences in Morocco.
Traveling together on this 8-day tour was incredible. Marrakech’s vibrant streets, the desert in Merzouga, and Essaouira’s coastal charm gave us a perfect mix of experiences. Camel rides, sandboarding, and visiting nomad families made the desert days unforgettable. Aït Ben Haddou and Todra Gorge were breathtaking. The guide was friendly and knowledgeable, making the trip smooth and fun. Traveling in a private vehicle was very comfortable. This tour is perfect for a group of friends who want to explore Morocco safely, comfortably, and with plenty of adventure.
This Morocco tour exceeded our expectations! Marrakech was exciting and full of life, while the desert offered calm and breathtaking scenery. The camel trek and sandboarding were so much fun. Visiting nomads and learning about their culture was a special highlight. Essaouira was a perfect way to end the trip, with relaxed streets and beautiful beaches. Everything was well-organized, and our guide made us feel safe and welcomed. Traveling in a private car made the journey very comfortable. We would recommend this tour to any friends wanting adventure, culture, and amazing memories in Morocco.
We couldn’t have chosen a better tour! Marrakech’s medina was full of colors, scents, and life. Driving through the Atlas Mountains was breathtaking, and Aït Ben Haddou was like stepping back in time. The desert in Merzouga was peaceful and magical; sunrise over the dunes was unforgettable. Visiting nomad families and having tea gave us a real taste of Moroccan life. Essaouira’s laid-back vibe was perfect for the last day. Traveling in a private car and having a knowledgeable guide made the tour comfortable and enjoyable. Highly recommended!
