Tour Overview:

This unforgettable 5-day journey from Agadir to the golden dunes of Merzouga takes you through Morocco’s most diverse landscapes. From historic walled cities and dramatic mountain ranges to lush valleys and vast Saharan dunes, this adventure blends culture, nature, and authentic desert experiences. Travel with a knowledgeable local guide, discover ancient kasbahs, meet nomadic families, enjoy a magical camel trek at sunset, and spend a night under the stars in a traditional desert camp.

Sitio de interés:

• Explore the historic ramparts and souks of Taroudant
• Cross the scenic Anti-Atlas Mountains and Souss Valley
• Visit Ouarzazate, Morocco’s famous cinema gateway
• Walk through the dramatic Todra and Dades Gorges
• Discover desert villages and Gnawa culture in Khamlia
• Experience a sunset camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes
• Spend a magical night in a Berber desert camp
• Travel through the palm-filled Draa Valley
• Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah

Day 1: Agadir – Taroudant – Ouarzazate

Your desert adventure begins with a morning departure from Agadir, accompanied by an experienced local driver-guide. The first stop is Taroudant, one of southern Morocco’s oldest imperial towns, often compared to Marrakech for its atmosphere but offering a quieter, more authentic charm. Surrounded by impressive red ramparts, the city is known for its lively markets and traditional craftsmanship. Enjoy free time to wander through the old medina and absorb its local character.

Leaving Taroudant behind, the route leads east through the fertile Souss Valley and into the rugged landscapes of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. Along the way, you’ll admire changing scenery, from rocky hills and palm groves to small Berber villages nestled in the valleys. By late afternoon, you arrive in Ouarzazate, famous for its desert surroundings and cinematic heritage. Dinner and overnight stay in a comfortable local riad or hotel.

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Erfoud – Merzouga

After breakfast, the journey continues through some of Morocco’s most striking scenery. Passing through the oasis of Skoura, lined with palm trees and ancient kasbahs, the road leads to Kelaat M’Gouna, the heart of the Valley of Roses, renowned for its fragrant rose products and annual spring festival.

You then travel along the scenic Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic rock formations and winding roads carved through the mountains. A highlight of the day is a visit to the impressive Todra Gorge, where sheer limestone cliffs tower high above a narrow river canyon. Take time to explore the gorge on foot and enjoy its breathtaking views.

In the afternoon, the route continues toward Erfoud, known for its fossils and desert gateway status, before reaching Merzouga. As the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi appear on the horizon, the true Sahara experience begins. Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel or riad near the dunes.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert Exploration & Camel Trek

Today is devoted entirely to discovering the wonders of the Sahara. After breakfast, set out in a 4×4 vehicle to explore the surrounding desert region. Visit small desert settlements, ancient mines, palm oases, and nomadic families who maintain a traditional way of life in this harsh environment.

A stop in Khamlia offers a cultural highlight, where you’ll enjoy live Gnawa music performed by local musicians whose roots trace back to sub-Saharan Africa. After returning to Merzouga for lunch and some relaxation, it’s time for one of the most memorable moments of the tour.

In the late afternoon, you mount your camels and journey across the rolling dunes of Erg Chebbi as the sun slowly sets, bathing the desert in warm shades of gold and orange. Upon arrival at your desert camp, you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner followed by live Berber music around the campfire. Overnight in a well-equipped nomad-style tent beneath a star-filled Sahara sky.

Day 4: Merzouga – Draa Valley – Agdez – Ouarzazate

Wake early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a truly magical desert moment. After breakfast, ride the camels back to the village, where you can freshen up before continuing the journey.

The drive takes you through the magnificent Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest river valley, famous for its endless palm groves, fortified villages, and historic kasbahs. Passing through Rissani and the tranquil town of Agdez, you gain insight into traditional desert life and architecture. By evening, you return to Ouarzazate for dinner and an overnight stay in a local riad or hotel.

Day 5: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Agadir

On the final day, visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most remarkable fortified villages. Built from earth and straw, its narrow alleys and towering kasbahs have served as a backdrop for many international films and series. Enjoy time to explore the ksar and take photos from panoramic viewpoints.

After lunch near the site, begin the return journey through mountain passes and scenic valleys back to Agadir. Arrival in the late afternoon marks the end of an enriching 5-day Sahara desert adventure filled with unforgettable memories.