Morocco Sahara Desert Weekend

4 Days exploring Oases, Sand Dunes, & Kasbahs from Marrakech to the Merzouga Dunes.


Embark on the ultimate Moroccan weekend adventure, from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the golden dunes of Merzouga. This unforgettable journey takes you through breathtaking oases, ancient Kasbahs, and vast desert landscapes. Ride camels into the sunset, camp under a star-studded sky with zero light pollution, and wake up to a sunrise like no other. Whether you’re exploring historic villages or experiencing the magic of the Sahara, this trip promises adventure, culture, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Please note: The trip departs the Marrakech 8 AM on Thursday. Transportation to the Marrakech Airport is not included, so please plan your arrival accordingly.  Adding an extra night in Marrakech for a Wednesday arrival is possible for an additional cost. 

Morocco Sahara Desert Weekend requires a minimum of 4 people to operate.


Full Package Price Includes:
  • Bus2alps trip leader
  • Bus2alps trip leader
  • All ground transportation and airport transfers
  • 3 nights accommodation
  • Breakfast every morning
  • Dinners  on Thursday and Friday Night
  • Stay at Luxury Desert Camp
  • Sand Dune Camel Trek

Optional Activities:

  • Desert ATV Tour 

*All activities may be booked online in advance or paid in cash upon arrival in Morocco (Euro cash preferred). 

Route

A MarrakeshB Dades GorgesC MerzougaD Marrakesh

Detailed Itinerary

Please note, this trip does not include flights to or from Morocco. 

Day 1: Thursday Marrakech - Dades

The Merzouga Desert Adventure kicks off at 8 AM from Marrakech.  Our journey winds through the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) in the High Atlas Mountains. The highlight of the morning is the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO-listed fortress famous for its role in iconic films. After a scenic lunch, we continue to Ouarzazate, Morocco’s “Hollywood,” before heading through the Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses, where locals craft fragrant perfumes. By late afternoon, we’ll arrive at Dades Valley, staying overnight in a charming hotel near the stunning gorges.

*Please note you must arrive in Marrakech by 8:00 on Thursday.   If you plan to arrive on Wednesday or depart on Monday, email info@bus2alps.com to arrange an additional night’s accommodation. For Wednesday arrivals, an airport transfer will also be included.

 

Day 2: Friday Dades - Merzouga

Wake up to a beautiful morning in the desert and enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off for Todra Gorge, a breathtaking canyon perfect for exploring and capturing stunning photos. After lunch, we continue our journey to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara dunes. Here, you can take a refreshing swim at the hotel before embarking on a camel trek into the dunes at sunset. Upon arrival at our luxury desert camp, enjoy traditional mint tea, a delicious dinner, and a night of drumming and dancing under the stars before resting in your traditional nomadic tent with ensuite facilities.

Day 3: Saturday Merzouga - Marrakech

Rise early to witness the breathtaking Sahara sunrise, a moment you’ll never forget. Capture stunning photos before enjoying a delicious breakfast at camp. Afterward, choose between a camel trek, a Jeep transfer, or an ATV Tour (additional cost) out of the dunes. Once ready, we begin our scenic journey back to Marrakech, retracing our route through the stunning desert landscapes and Atlas Mountains. Sit back, relax, and take in the final moments of this unforgettable Moroccan adventure before arriving back in the Marrakech.

In the evening we will arrange an optional group dinner at a nearby restaurant. Otherwise, the night is yours to explore!

Day 4: Sunday Depart Marrakech

Time to say goodbye! We’ll arrange your transfer back to the airport, and you’ll head home with a camera roll full of memories and a heart full of epic experiences.

 

Optional Activities

Desert ATV Tour: The ATV tour is a half day activity riding through the rock desert palm groves on the outskirts of Marrakech. This is a great additional activity if you’re looking for adventure and some amazing scenery. (€55)
 

 

 

Good To Know

Accommodation: While in Marrakech we stay in a traditional accommodation called a “Riad.” These beautiful buildings consist of rooms overlooking a central garden, usually with a fountain as the focus point. Rooms will be shared between 4-5 people.

Weather: The weather in Morocco tends to be warm during the day time but may cool down in the evenings. We recommend bringing a fleece or sweater to wear at night time. Although usually sunny, there are sometimes short rain showers during the months of November & December, so we recommend packing an umbrella and/or rain jacket.

Common Sense: Morocco is generally a very safe place to travel; Marrakech especially is welcoming to tourists. People following a few basic common sense travel rules should have no problem.

Keep your passport and money safe at all times. Don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket. Travel in groups and don’t leave friends behind. Respect the local culture and they will respect you. 

Shopping: Street vendors, sales people and hustlers can be very persistent. Bargaining is a part of daily life in Marrakech. If you are interested in something feel free to enter into the bargaining process, but never pay the first price and never feel obligated to pay more than you want to. If you do not want something politely say no thank you, hold up your hand and walk away. For those vendors who are particularly persistent, just ignore them and keep walking. Again, please note that you should ask permission before taking a close-up photo of a person or their shop in Morocco.