The Best 2 Days Marrakech Desert Trip to Merzouga

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Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 2-day adventure from Marrakech to the mesmerizing Merzouga Desert, immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Morocco. Traverse the majestic High Atlas and Anti Atlas Mountains, visit historical kasbahs, wander through verdant valleys, and experience the magic of the Sahara Desert with camel rides and camping under the starry sky. This journey promises a perfect blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and natural beauty, offering an authentic Moroccan experience from start to finish.

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Highlights

Traverse the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via Tichka Pass, soaking in snowy peaks and Berber villages.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Taourirt in Ouarzazate for history and architecture.
Enjoy camel rides in Merzouga’s Erg Chebbi, witnessing stunning desert sunsets and sunrises.
Experience nomadic life with Berber tent camping, enjoying Moroccan cuisine and stargazing.
Discover Tamgroute’s historic Quranic school and pottery workshops for cultural insights.
Walk through Draa Valley’s palm groves and kasbahs, glimpsing rural Moroccan life.
Marvel at the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou’s mud-brick architecture and panoramic views.
Journey through Ounila Valley’s cliffs and Berber villages, immersed in history.
Engage with Berber communities, savor Moroccan cuisine, and learn local traditions.
Conclude with a scenic drive back, reflecting on the desert adventure.

2 Days Itinerary: The Best Marrakech Desert Trip

DAY 1: MARRAKECH – MERZOUGA DESERT

Depart from Marrakech in a 4×4 vehicle, heading towards the vast desert of Merzouga. As you embark on your journey, you’ll traverse the High Atlas Mountains, ascending through the Tichka Pass at an elevation of 2260 meters. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking scenery and panoramic views that the mountains offer.

Upon reaching Ouarzazate, visit the Kasbah of Taourirt and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, resume your journey towards the Draa Valley, passing through the Anti Atlas Mountains via the Tiniffift Pass at an altitude of 1660 meters. The route will take you through picturesque landscapes and charming villages.

As the day progresses, make your way towards the captivating Merzouga Desert. Before sunset, arrive at the edge of the dunes of Erg Chebbi, where you’ll embark on a camel ride to witness the magnificent sunset over the desert. Spend the night camping in traditional Berber tents under the starry desert sky.

DAY 2: MERZOUGA TO MARRAKECH VIA OUARZAZATE AND AIT BENHADDOU

Wake up early to catch the mesmerizing sunrise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi. After breakfast amidst the tranquil desert surroundings, depart from Merzouga and head towards Ouarzazate.

En route, stop at the village of Tamegroute, renowned for its historic Quranic school, ancient library, and vibrant pottery quarter. Take a stroll through the Draa Valley, adorned with lush date palms and fields of henna, before crossing back over the Anti-Atlas Mountains.

Arrive at Ait Benhaddou for lunch and explore the famed Ksar, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a remarkable example of traditional Moroccan architecture. Following your visit to Ait Benhaddou, journey through the picturesque Ounila Valley, also known as the Valley of Salt.

Finally, traverse back over the High Atlas Mountains, descending through the Tichka Pass, as you make your way back to Marrakech, concluding your unforgettable Marrakech Desert Trip.

Marrakech Desert Trips

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