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2-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga and Back
Private Tour · Round Trip

2-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga and Back

An express private Sahara adventure from Marrakech — cross the High Atlas to the Erg Chebbi dunes for a sunset camel ride and a night in a desert camp, then return.

2 Days 1 Night Private Vehicle Desert Camp Marrakech
5.0 · Rated excellent on TripAdvisor
Your own driver-guideFriendly, professional and local
Flexible stopsPhoto stops and hidden gems
Accommodation optionsStandard, mid-range or luxury
Local family teamAuthentic experiences, real connections
Overview

2 Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Our 2-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga and Back is an express private Sahara adventure for travellers who have only two days available and want to experience the magnificent golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Your journey begins early in Marrakech, crossing the spectacular High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, then continuing toward Ouarzazate and the landscapes of southern Morocco, passing traditional villages, palm groves and historic kasbahs.

On reaching Merzouga, enjoy a camel ride across the golden dunes at sunset before spending the night in a comfortable Sahara desert camp — traditional Moroccan hospitality, a delicious dinner and a peaceful evening beneath the desert sky. The next morning, wake early to admire the sunrise over the dunes before beginning the long return journey to Marrakech.

Please note: Merzouga is a long distance from Marrakech. This two-day itinerary involves approximately 9–11 hours of driving each day (potentially more with stops or traffic), so sightseeing stops are limited and a sunset arrival cannot be guaranteed if there are delays. It is best suited to travellers who are comfortable with very long driving days.

For a more relaxed experience with time to visit Aït Ben Haddou, Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley, we recommend one of our three-day or four-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tours instead.

MarrakechMerzougaMarrakech
Highlights

Highlights of this 2-day desert tour

Private two-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains

Enjoy scenic views along the Tizi n'Tichka Pass

Travel through traditional Amazigh villages

Pass through Ouarzazate and southern Moroccan landscapes

Discover the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi

Day by day

2-day Marrakech itinerary

1Day 1Marrakech – High Atlas – Ouarzazate – Draa Valley – Merzouga Desert (Approx. 550–600 km / 342–373 miles)Overnight: Merzouga

Your tour begins very early with pickup from your hotel or riad in Marrakech. Meet your professional English-speaking driver and set off toward the Sahara, crossing the High Atlas via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass (approximately 2,260 m) with panoramic views of mountain landscapes and Amazigh villages. Continue toward Ouarzazate, the Gateway to the Sahara — given the limited time, the day focuses on reaching Merzouga rather than extended visits. Travel through the Draa Valley, Alnif and Rissani to Merzouga, where you meet your camel guide for a ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes (arriving before sunset if time allows). Continue to your desert camp for a mint tea welcome, a traditional Moroccan dinner and local music when available, then a peaceful night in the Sahara. Overnight: Merzouga desert camp. Meals: dinner. Driving time: approx. 9–11 hours without extended stops.

2Day 2Merzouga – Sunrise – Ouarzazate – High Atlas – Marrakech (Approx. 550–600 km / 342–373 miles)Ends: Marrakech

Wake early for the magical sunrise over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi — a beautiful moment for photography and a short walk on the sand. Return to camp for breakfast, then begin the journey back to Marrakech via Rissani, Alnif, the Draa Valley and Ouarzazate, with necessary stops for refreshments and rest. Because of the distance, sightseeing time is limited. Cross the High Atlas once more through the Tizi n'Tichka Pass and arrive in Marrakech in the evening, where your driver drops you at your hotel or riad. End of tour: Marrakech. Meals: breakfast. Driving time: approx. 9–11 hours without extended stops.

Tour details

Everything your desert tour includes

Your Private Journey

  • Air-conditioned transportComfortable 4×4 or minivan for your group.
  • English or Spanish driver-guideLocal knowledge and cultural insights.
  • Flexible itineraryTime for photos, visits and spontaneous stops.

Tailor Your Experience

  • Standard, mid-range or luxury staysA range of carefully selected accommodation.
  • Camel ride or 4×4 transferChoose your preferred desert experience.
  • Optional quad adventuresAdd more adventure to your Sahara experience.

Accommodation Options

Choose the stay style that matches your comfort level and budget.

Standard Option

3-Star Hotels

Comfortable and budget-friendly stays in clean riads, standard hotels and desert camps. Ideal for travellers looking for a good experience at the best value.

  • 3-star riads & hotels
  • Private rooms
  • Breakfast included
  • Best value
Most Popular

Mid-Range Option

4-Star Hotels

A balanced choice offering extra comfort, beautiful properties and a more refined travel experience. Perfect for travellers who want comfort without going fully luxury.

  • 4-star riads & hotels
  • More comfort & style
  • Private rooms
  • Great balance of price and comfort

Luxury Option

5-Star Hotels

Premium accommodation for travellers who want the highest level of comfort, elegance and service throughout their Morocco journey.

  • 5-star hotels & luxury riads
  • High-end comfort
  • Elegant design
  • Best for a premium experience
All options can be included in your private tour — your final price depends on the accommodation category you choose, your itinerary and your travel dates.
What's included

What's included in this 2-day desert tour

Included

  • Private 2-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga and back
  • Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or riad in Marrakech
  • Comfortable air-conditioned private vehicle
  • Professional English-speaking driver
  • One night in a comfortable Sahara desert camp
  • Private tent accommodation
  • Traditional Moroccan dinner at the desert camp
  • Breakfast the following morning
  • Camel ride in the Erg Chebbi dunes
  • 4×4 camp transfer as an alternative to camel trekking
  • Sandboarding, subject to available time
  • Sunrise and sunset photography opportunities, subject to arrival time
  • Fuel, road tolls and parking expenses

Not included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Lunches and drinks
  • Entrance fees to attractions
  • Optional quad biking or buggy excursions
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities

A note on tour prices

Our tour prices vary depending on the travel season and accommodation availability. April, October and December are particularly busy months in Morocco, with strong demand for hotels, traditional riads and Sahara Desert camps.

During these peak periods, accommodation providers may raise their rates, which can affect the overall tour price. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred accommodation and the best available rates.

Your final tour price is confirmed based on your exact travel dates, number of travellers and accommodation category.

Accommodation in the Merzouga Desert

Spend one night in a comfortable desert camp near the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Accommodation can be arranged in standard, mid-range or luxury categories according to your budget and preferences.

Selected comfortable and luxury camps offer private bathrooms, hot showers, comfortable beds and heating or air conditioning, depending on the property.

Why choose this 2-day Merzouga desert tour?

Experience the Sahara in just two days

A short introduction to the magnificent dunes of Erg Chebbi for travellers who cannot extend their stay.

Enjoy a night in the desert

Spend an unforgettable night at a Sahara camp, enjoying traditional Moroccan hospitality and the peaceful atmosphere of the desert.

Private transportation

Travel with your own experienced English-speaking driver in a comfortable private vehicle.

Discover beautiful Moroccan landscapes

Cross the High Atlas Mountains and experience the changing landscapes of southern Morocco on the journey to Merzouga.

Important travel information

Long driving days: this itinerary involves approximately 18–22 hours of driving over two days, excluding longer stops.

Early departure: an early start from Marrakech is essential.

Sunset camel ride: a sunset arrival depends on traffic, road conditions, weather and the time of year. If you arrive too late, the camel ride can be arranged at another suitable time.

Winter travel: daylight hours are shorter and mountain weather may affect the journey.

Recommended alternative: for a more comfortable experience with time to visit Aït Ben Haddou, Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley, we recommend our three-day or four-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour.

Loved by travellers

What travellers say

5.0
Rated excellent on TripAdvisor
★★★★★

Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour

“Hassan is much more than a driver — he introduces you to the history of Morocco. On our 4-day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga he was reliable and happy to adapt the plan, and the camel ride to the desert camp was absolutely worth it.”

PM
Paolo M.via TripAdvisor
★★★★★

Amazing 6-day Morocco experience

“Our 6-day tour was absolutely unforgettable from start to finish. Our driver-guide Said was knowledgeable and warm, the Sahara camel ride and night under the stars were magical, and every detail was handled professionally.”

DC
Danny C.via TripAdvisor
★★★★★

I love the Sahara

“The landscapes were enchanting, and the staff was helpful, polite, friendly and reliable. Our 4-day Marrakech to Sahara tour with guide Aziz was great and the van was clean and comfortable throughout.”

FF
Federica F.via TripAdvisor
Read our reviews on TripAdvisor
FAQ

Marrakech desert tour — good to know

Is it possible to visit Merzouga from Marrakech in two days?
Yes, but the journey is very long. A private two-day tour is possible with early departures and limited sightseeing stops.
How far is Merzouga from Marrakech?
Merzouga is approximately 550–600 kilometres from Marrakech by road, depending on the selected route.
Is the camel ride included?
Yes. A camel ride is included, although the timing depends on arrival in Merzouga.
Does the tour include a night in the Sahara?
Yes. You spend one night in a desert camp near the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Is the tour private?
Yes. The tour is organised exclusively for your travelling party.
Can we choose a luxury desert camp?
Yes. Standard, comfortable and luxury accommodation categories can be arranged.
Is a two-day or three-day tour better?
A three-day tour is generally better because it provides more time for sightseeing and a less rushed journey to the desert.
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Camel caravan crossing the golden Sahara dunes

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