OVERVIEW OF 7 DAYS TOUR FROM OUARZAZATE TO THE SAHARA DESERT  

The 7 Days Tour from Ouarzazate to the Sahara Desert stands among the finest desert journeys available from southern Morocco. It is particularly well-suited for travelers who have ample time to explore and wish to avoid long, rushed transfers between destinations. Instead of simply traveling from Ouarzazate to Merzouga, this carefully designed itinerary allows you to pause, discover, and truly experience each region in depth.

With seven days at your disposal, the journey unfolds at a comfortable pace through the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas Mountains, across remote Berber villages, dramatic canyons, flourishing palm groves, fertile valleys, and centuries-old kasbahs. The experience culminates in the awe-inspiring Sahara Desert of Erg Chebbi, where you will enjoy an authentic camel trek and an unforgettable night beneath the desert sky.

One of the great privileges of this extended itinerary is the opportunity for meaningful cultural encounters. You will have the chance to visit Berber nomadic families, share a glass of traditional mint tea, and gain insight into their way of life beneath woven desert tents. For travelers seeking authenticity and a deeper understanding of Morocco’s heritage, this tour offers an immersive and enriching experience.

 HIGHLIGHTS OF 7 DAYS TOUR FROM OUARZAZATE TO THE SAHARA DESERT

• Cross the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas mountain ranges
• Spectacular panoramic landscapes
• Authentic Berber villages and traditional communities
• Visit to Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Exploration of the Dades Valley
• Visit to the dramatic Todra Gorge
• Memorable camel trekking experience
• Overnight stay in a traditional nomadic desert camp
• Exceptional stargazing in the Sahara
• Mesmerizing desert sunrise and sunset
• Encounters with Berber nomadic families
• Scenic drive through the Draa Valley

ITINERARY FOR: 7 DAYS TOUR FROM OUARZAZATE TO THE SAHARA DESERT

DAY 1: OUARZAZATE – DRAA VALLEY – MERZOUGA DESERT – NIGHT IN NOMADIC TENTS

Upon arrival at Ouarzazate Airport, your journey begins with a departure toward the magnificent Draa Valley, home to one of Morocco’s longest rivers. The valley is renowned for its endless palm groves, fortified kasbahs, and traditional Berber villages constructed from adobe.

Several scenic stops will allow you to admire the architectural heritage and contemplate the serenity of this vast oasis landscape. After lunch in Nkob or Alnif, the journey continues for approximately two hours toward the spectacular dunes of Merzouga — often referred to as the “Desert of Fine Sands.”

At the edge of the dunes, you will exchange your vehicle for dromedaries and begin your camel trek into the heart of Erg Chebbi. As the sun descends, the desert transforms into a canvas of gold and crimson tones. Upon arrival at the desert camp, you will settle into traditional nomadic tents woven from camel hair, similar to those used by Saharan nomads.

Dinner will be served under an immense canopy of stars, followed by an evening of tranquility and desert silence.

DAY 2: MERZOUGA DESERT – NOMADIC FAMILIES – KHAMLIA VILLAGE – RETURN TO ERG CHEBBI

Today is entirely devoted to the desert experience. Before dawn, you will climb a nearby dune to witness the sunrise — a moment of extraordinary beauty as the first light reshapes the dunes with soft shadows and glowing colors.

After returning by camel to Merzouga village and enjoying a generous breakfast, you will embark on a 4×4 excursion around the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi. This region includes Morocco’s tallest dune, rising over 250 meters, and offers dramatic views stretching toward the Algerian border.

You will visit the oasis of Tissardmine, known for its fossil-rich terrain, and continue toward a nomadic settlement, where you will learn about traditional desert customs and daily life. A panoramic viewpoint will allow you to appreciate the full expanse of Erg Chebbi.

Later, you will reach Khamlia village, inhabited by families of sub-Saharan origin. Here, you will enjoy traditional Gnawa spiritual music while sharing mint tea. In the late afternoon, return to your hotel for leisure time — perhaps climbing a nearby dune to admire the sunset once more. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

DAY 3: MERZOUGA – RISSANI MARKET – TODRA GORGES – DADES VALLEY

After breakfast, depart the desert and travel to Rissani, where you may visit its traditional market (held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays). This vibrant souk offers an authentic glimpse into rural commerce and desert trade traditions.

Continue to Erfoud, where you may visit a fossil workshop showcasing the region’s prehistoric treasures. The journey proceeds through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad before reaching the dramatic Todra Gorges.

Carved by the Todra River, these towering limestone cliffs create one of Morocco’s most impressive natural spectacles. The site is a haven for climbers and photographers alike. After lunch, a short walk through the canyon will allow you to fully appreciate its grandeur.

In the afternoon, travel toward the Dades Valley, often called the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs” or “Valley of Figs.” En route, stop to admire the famous “Monkey Fingers” rock formations. Dinner and overnight in the Dades Gorges.

DAY 4: DADES VALLEY – ROSE VALLEY – SKOURA PALM GROVE – HIGH ATLAS – MARRAKECH

Following breakfast, enjoy panoramic views of the Dades Valley from a strategic mountain viewpoint. The valley’s kasbahs and cultivated terraces create a striking mosaic of architecture and agriculture.

The journey continues along the Route of a Thousand Kasbahs through the Valley of Roses and the Skoura palm grove. Upon reaching Ouarzazate, you may visit the Taourirt Kasbah — former residence of the Glaoui Pasha — as well as the Cinema Studios and Film Museum.

After lunch, depart for Marrakech via the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Scenic stops will allow you to photograph the changing landscapes as desert tones gradually give way to greener valleys. Arrival in Marrakech marks the end of this stage of the journey.

DAY 5: MARRAKECH

Today is dedicated to exploring Marrakech with a local guide. Known as the “Red City,” Marrakech is one of Morocco’s most captivating destinations.

Visit the iconic Jemaa el-Fna Square, a vibrant spectacle of storytellers, musicians, artisans, and food vendors. Explore the labyrinthine souks, discover the Saadian Tombs, admire the Koutoubia Mosque (exterior), and stroll through the Majorelle Gardens and Menara Gardens.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time to wander through the medina or the Mellah (former Jewish quarter). Dinner and overnight in a traditional riad.

DAY 6: MARRAKECH – ESSAOUIRA – MARRAKECH

Departure at 8:00 a.m. toward Essaouira, a charming Atlantic coastal city formerly known as Mogador. Along the way, you may observe goats climbing argan trees — a unique regional phenomenon.

Upon arrival, explore the 18th-century ramparts, the Skala fortress, and the picturesque fishing port. Essaouira’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its artistic atmosphere and refined craftsmanship, including woodwork, mother-of-pearl inlay, and silver jewelry.

Enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor before returning to Marrakech in the late afternoon. Dinner and overnight at your riad.

DAY 7: MARRAKECH – AIRPORT TRANSFER

After breakfast, enjoy a free morning depending on your departure schedule. At the agreed time, transfer to Marrakech Airport, where assistance will be provided for check-in and departure formalities.

This concludes your 7 Days Tour from Ouarzazate to the Sahara Desert — a journey through mountains, deserts, imperial cities, and coastal landscapes that offers a comprehensive and authentic Moroccan experience.