“I would say that people who are drawn to the desert derive comfort and nourishment from its wide-open spaces.” – Stillman, Summer Must Read. Are you ready to transport yourself to another dimension where endless golden sands and starry skies quiet your inner noise? Who hasn’t wanted to find a way to start over?
Be invigorated by immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Morocco with our 3-Day Desert Adventure. This tour takes you from the bustling streets of Marrakech, through the majestic Atlas Mountains, and into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Along the way, you'll explore ancient kasbahs in remote areas, share meals with a welcoming Berber family, and sleep under the stars in a traditional tent made by local Berber women.
Your adventure begins as you meet your guide early in the morning in the lobby of your riad and depart toward the High Atlas Mountains. The winding road takes you through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, known for its altitude of 7,400 feet, offering panoramic views of rugged landscapes and Berber villages clinging to the hillsides. As you breathe in the crisp mountain air, you’ll feel the excitement of the journey ahead.
Our initial major destination is the ancient kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a history spanning centuries. This fortified kasbah has appeared in numerous famous films. Established in the 17th century, it served as a layover for trading caravans from the vast Sahara. Inside the kasbah, you will learn about its history and how people lived in such unique yet charming places. You will also meet an association of local women preserving Moroccan crafts through a cooperative aimed at supporting local women and changing their lives. Enjoy a savory lunch prepared by these inspiring women.
Later, arrive in Ouarzazate for insights into film production and its studios. Our journey continues to the charming oasis of Skoura palm grove, nestled between the desert’s crests. As we reach Kelaa Mgouna, the nearby Mgoun and Dades valleys blossom with Damask roses in the spring. There is a three-day celebration where "the queen of roses" is crowned following a competition among local girls. As the day ends, you’ll arrive in the Dades Gorges, a stunning valley where the red rocks glow in the setting sun. Your accommodation for the night is a charming guesthouse nestled in the gorge, where you’ll enjoy dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep surrounded by nature.
After a hearty homemade breakfast, you’ll depart for the nearby Todra Gorges, with its extensive palm grove and sheer cliffs towering above you. Notice the ksars built on the rocky hills, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. Tinghir has long been a stopover for nomadic Berber from the surrounding mountains. The adobe mosque is visible from afar, perched atop the mudbrick ksars. A few meters from the souks, the Jewish quarter stands as a testament to the historic coexistence of Muslims and Jews in Morocco. Another enriching experience awaits at Laila’s family house. Laila, born in Tinghir, and her supportive husband, Moulay Ismail, have created a haven of tranquility and mutual respect. You’ll be welcomed warmly, and Laila will share inspiring stories about the lives of the Berber nomads in the region. Her cooking is both appetizing and flavorful; enjoy her authentic and delicious “Madfouna,” a typical dish filled with spiced meat and vegetables, baked in a clay oven.
Note: If you have any allergies to specific ingredients, please inform our representative.
Before reaching the golden dunes of Merzouga, we’ll stop in Rissani and Erfoud. Erfoud is known for fossils dating back hundreds of millions of years. If time allows, we can visit some of these interesting sites. Rissani, once the last stop for caravans from the Sahara, is opposite Sijlmassa, from which Ibn Battuta and Leo Africanus began their mesmerizing travels into other African countries. Soon after, we approach Erg Chebbi, where the golden dunes rise like waves of sand, stretching as far as the eye can see. You’ll then trade your vehicle for a camel trek and ride deeper into the dunes, where the wind passing over the sand creates a hauntingly beautiful silence.
As the sun begins to set, painting the dunes in hues of orange and red, you’ll arrive at your desert camp. This is no ordinary camp—your tent is equipped with a comfortable bed, private toilet, and shower, offering a blend of authenticity and comfort. After settling in, you can climb the dunes to watch the sunset or relax around the campfire, listening to the haunting melodies of Berber music under a sky filled with stars. Dinner features traditional Moroccan flavors, served in the open air, surrounded by the serenity of the desert.
Enjoy a glamorous sunrise camel ride over the golden dunes of the Sahara. This moment will stay with you forever. After breakfast, you’ll mount your camel one last time for the trek back to the edge of the desert. From there, you’ll begin the journey back to Marrakech.
The journey is lengthy, but the ever-changing scenery provides a final chance to take in Morocco’s varied landscapes. As you travel through valleys and over mountain passes, you’ll have time to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past few days. You’ll return to Marrakech in the early evening, with vivid memories of the desert still fresh in your mind.
Please contact us for current prices. Details of what will be included in the cost quoted are given below
A: Yes, this tour is specifically designed for those with limited time who want to experience the real Moroccan desert and its stunning landscapes.
Q: Can dietary restrictions be accommodated during the meals?A: Absolutely! Please let us know of any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance, and we will ensure that your meals are tailored to meet your needs.
Q: What should we bring for the camel trek?A: We recommend wearing comfortable, lightweight clothing and bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A scarf can also be helpful to protect against the sun and sand.
Q: How comfortable is the desert camp?A: The desert camp offers comfortable tents with proper beds, private toilets, and showers, ensuring a pleasant and authentic experience.
Q: What if I don’t want to ride a camel?A: If you prefer not to ride a camel, we can arrange a jeep to take you directly to the desert camp. Just let us know in advance!
Q: How far in advance should we book this tour?A: To ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons, we recommend booking as early as possible.
With Akal Tours, Morocco becomes a living story not just a destination on the map. Each village,landscape and person tells a narrative - and we’re here to guide you through it.
We offer tailor-made itineraries crafted just for you. To start designing your trip, we apply a small planning fee, which will be used as a deposit if you decide to book with us.
Let’s get to know you better! We offer a free 30-minute video call to understand your preferences, answer your questions, and help you imagine your ideal trip.
Within 48 hours of our consultation, you’ll receive a detailed itinerary — including accommodations, transportation, activities, and a clear price breakdown.
Once you’re happy with the plan, you’ll confirm with a 20% deposit, and your trip will officially be reserved. We accept bank transfers, debit cards, and PayPal.