3-Day Desert Tour from Rabat to Marrakech

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Start in Rabat with views of royal palaces and historic medinas
• Pass through Ifrane—“Little Switzerland”—and spot wild Barbary macaques in Azrou’s cedar forest
• Descend into the Ziz Valley, lined with palm oases and ancient ksours
• Camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset
• Overnight in a private tent at a luxury desert camp with Berber hospitality
• Witness sunrise over the Sahara before heading north
• Explore the towering limestone cliffs of Todra Gorges
• Admire the “Monkey Fingers” rock formations in Dades Valley
• Visit Ouarzazate—the “Hollywood of Africa”—and its cinematic studios
• Discover the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, featured in Gladiator and Game of Thrones
• Cross the High Atlas Mountains en route to Marrakech
• Conclude your journey in the Red City’s bustling souks and historic landmarks

DETAILED ITINERARY:

Day 1: Rabat → Ifrane → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Merzouga

Journey Duration: 8–9 hours | Distance: 480 km

Meet your driver in Rabat in the morning and begin your southward journey. Pass through the Middle Atlas, stopping in Ifrane (“Little Switzerland”) and Azrou Cedar Forest to observe wild Barbary macaques. Lunch in Midelt, the “Apple Capital.” Continue through the scenic Ziz Valley, with panoramic views of palm groves and fortified villages. Arrive in Merzouga by late afternoon. Mount your camel for a 1.5-hour ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes to watch sunset. Dinner and overnight in a private tent at a luxury desert camp with mint tea and Berber music.

Day 2: Merzouga → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley

Journey Duration: 6–7 hours | Distance: 280 km

Rise early to witness sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, depart northward. Stop in Rissani (optional) before reaching Erfoud and the breathtaking Todra Gorges—where 300-meter cliffs frame a tranquil riverbed, perfect for walking and photography. Lunch in the canyon. Continue to Dades Valley, stopping at the famous “Monkey Fingers” rock formation. Overnight in a guesthouse overlooking the valley.

Day 3: Dades Valley → Ouarzazate → Aït Ben Haddou → Marrakech

Journey Duration: 7–8 hours | Distance: 380 km

Depart through the Dades Valley toward Ouarzazate. Visit the Atlas Film Studios or Taourirt Kasbah (optional). Continue to the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou—a 12th-century fortified village and iconic film location. Cross the High Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), enjoying sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and Berber villages. Arrive in Marrakech by evening. Drop-off at your hotel or riad, concluding your 3-day desert adventure.