News & TipsLooking to experience one of the most iconic landscapes in the world? Morocco desert tours offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the majestic Sahara Desert, where golden dunes stretch to the horizon, and centuries-old traditions meet breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re chasing adventure or cultural immersion, Morocco’s desert is calling.
Why Take a Morocco Desert Tour?
When it comes to unforgettable adventures, Morocco desert tours stand out as one of the most iconic travel experiences in North Africa. These tours take you from the vibrant cities of Fez or Marrakech deep into the Moroccan Sahara, where the landscape shifts from lush valleys and cedar forests to the rolling golden dunes of Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga. Whether you’re starting your journey in the cultural capital of Fez or the bustling streets of Marrakech, you’ll traverse scenic routes through the Middle Atlas Mountains, pass by ancient caravan towns like Erfoud and Rissani, and eventually arrive at the edge of the Sahara—a place that seems untouched by time. The shifting scenery alone is worth the journey, but it’s the combination of nature, culture, and tradition that makes these tours so magical.
A highlight of all Morocco desert tours is the breathtaking camel trek into the dunes at sunset. In places like Merzouga, you’ll ride across the sea of sand on camelback, guided by experienced local nomads who know every curve of the desert. As the sun sets, the sky becomes a painting of gold, pink, and violet—a moment that many travelers describe as the most peaceful and awe-inspiring of their lives. Most tours include a night in a traditional or luxury Sahara desert camp, where you can enjoy a Moroccan dinner under the stars, listen to live Berber drumming around the campfire, and sleep in a tent beneath the vast desert sky. In the early morning, watching the sunrise from the top of a dune is a moment you’ll never forget.
Beyond the mesmerizing dunes, Morocco’s desert tours offer a deep cultural experience that connects travelers with the country’s indigenous Berber heritage. You’ll meet local artisans, share mint tea with nomadic families, and explore remote villages built from mudbrick and stone. Some tours visit the ancient town of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its historic kasbahs and cinematic backdrops. Other highlights include the Todra Gorge—a narrow canyon popular for its sheer rock walls—and the Dades Valley, known for its “monkey fingers” rock formations and rose fields. These tours are more than just sightseeing; they are immersive journeys into Morocco’s rich traditions, landscapes, and stories passed down through generations.
There is a wide variety of Morocco desert tours available to suit every traveler. Shorter 2-day tours from Fez or Marrakech are great for those on a tight schedule, offering a compact but unforgettable taste of the Sahara. For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, 3- or 4-day itineraries include additional cultural stops, scenic drives through the High Atlas Mountains, and one-way routes between Fez and Marrakech. Private tours provide a personalized experience with flexible stops and customized service, while group tours offer great value and the chance to meet fellow adventurers. Most packages include transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, camel rides, guided visits, accommodations, and meals. No matter your style, Morocco desert tours offer a unique way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and an authentic way of life.
Key Highlights:
- Ride camels across the Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga dunes
- Spend the night in traditional Berber camps
- Watch the sunset over the Sahara and wake up to sunrise on the dunes
- Enjoy local Moroccan cuisine under the stars
- Discover ancient kasbahs and desert oases along the way
These experiences are unforgettable—and only possible through a well-planned desert tour
Best Morocco Desert Tour Locations
Merzouga & Erg Chebbi :
Located near the Algerian border, Merzouga is one of the most famous desert gateways in Morocco. From here, travelers can explore the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi, some reaching up to 150 meters high. You can enjoy:
- Camel treks into the heart of the dunes
- Overnight stays in luxury or traditional desert camps
- 4×4 dune bashing and sandboarding
- Stargazing and campfire Berber music
Zagora Desert :
Zagora is ideal for shorter desert trips—perfect for travelers with limited time. While the dunes here are smaller than in Merzouga, the journey through the Draa Valley and its palm groves
offers a deeply scenic and cultural experience.
Erg Chigaga:
For off-the-beaten-path travelers, Erg Chigaga is the most remote and wild of Morocco’s desert regions. Reaching it requires a 4×4 journey, which adds to the adventure. It’s quieter and more
untouched, making it ideal for those seeking authenticity.
Best Itineraries for Morocco Desert Tours
Here are sample itineraries to help you choose the right trip:
2-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Zagora
Perfect for a short escape:
- Drive through the High Atlas Mountains
- Visit Ait Ben Haddou (UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Overnight in a Zagora desert camp
- Return via Draa Valley
3-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
Most popular option:
- Day 1: Marrakech → Ait Ben Haddou → Dades Valley
- Day 2: Dades → Todra Gorge → Camel ride to Erg Chebbi camp
- Day 3: Sunrise over dunes → Return via Ouarzazate
4 or 5-Day Custom Tours
These allow for:
- Extra time at each destination
- Visits to off-road kasbahs and Berber villages
- Possible detours to Fes or back to Marrakech
- More immersive experiences with nomadic families
What to Expect on Your Morocco Desert Tour
Whether you’re joining a group or opting for a private tour, most desert adventures include:
- Hotel pick-up/drop-off (from Fes or Marrakech)
- English-speaking local guides
- Stops at cultural landmarks (Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Todra Gorge)
- Camel ride or 4×4 transfer into the dunes
- Berber music, dinner, and storytelling around the campfire
- Modern or traditional tent accommodations
