Popular Morocco Desert Tours
Morocco’s vast deserts, stunning dunes, and ancient landscapes make it a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure and a taste of the exotic. Among the highlights of any trip to Morocco are its desert tours, which offer a chance to explore the Sahara’s golden dunes, experience Berber culture, and witness breathtaking sunsets. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular Morocco desert tours that promise unforgettable experiences:
1. 3-Day Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
Overview: This is one of the most popular desert tours in Morocco, ideal for those who want to experience the Sahara but are limited on time. The tour typically includes stops in the High Atlas Mountains, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, and the Dades Valley before reaching the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga.
- Highlights:
- Camel trek through the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
- Overnight stay in a traditional Berber camp.
- Visit to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco.”
- Best For: Travelers seeking a compact yet immersive desert experience.
2. 4-Day Tour from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga
Overview: This tour connects two of Morocco’s most iconic cities, with a scenic journey through the heart of the Sahara. It’s a great option for those traveling between Fes and Marrakech, allowing them to explore the desert and break up the journey.
- Highlights:
- Explore the cedar forests of Ifrane and Azrou.
- Ride camels through the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Visit the Todra Gorge, known for its towering rock walls.
- Best For: Travelers who want to combine cultural experiences with the adventure of crossing the desert.
3. 2-Day Zagora Desert Tour from Marrakech
Overview: For those short on time, the 2-day Zagora desert tour is a perfect option. Although the dunes of Zagora are smaller than those of Merzouga, this trip offers a taste of desert life and includes a night under the stars in a Berber camp.
- Highlights:
- Drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
- Explore the historic Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou.
- Enjoy a camel ride through the Zagora dunes at sunset.
- Best For: Travelers looking for a quick desert getaway with a touch of adventure.
4. 5-Day Sahara Adventure from Marrakech to Merzouga and Dades
Overview: This extended tour offers a more relaxed pace, allowing travelers to truly soak in the beauty of Morocco’s desert landscapes and mountain scenery. It includes multiple nights in the Dades Valley and a deep dive into the Sahara around Merzouga.
- Highlights:
- Trek through the valleys and explore hidden oases.
- Enjoy star-gazing in the desert with minimal light pollution.
- Visit nomadic Berber families and learn about their way of life.
- Best For: Adventure enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture the diverse landscapes of Morocco.
5. Luxury Desert Tour with Private Tents in Erg Chebbi
Overview: If you’re looking to experience the Sahara in style, a luxury desert tour is the way to go. This option includes private transport, upscale accommodations, and a stay in a luxury tent equipped with all the modern comforts.
- Highlights:
- Private 4×4 ride through the desert for a more personalized experience.
- Gourmet dinner under the stars in a secluded setting.
- Comfortable beds and en-suite facilities in your luxury tent.
- Best For: Couples, honeymooners, and those who want to blend adventure with comfort.
6. 7-Day Desert and Kasbah Tour
Overview: This week-long tour provides a thorough exploration of Morocco’s southern regions, blending desert landscapes with visits to historical kasbahs and ancient caravan routes. It’s a great way to experience the desert without rushing.
- Highlights:
- Discover the ancient ruins of the Kasbah Telouet.
- Spend two nights in Merzouga, allowing for more time to explore the dunes.
- Cross the Anti-Atlas mountains and visit the Valley of Roses.
- Best For: History buffs and those looking to experience the traditional architecture and history of Morocco alongside its natural wonders.
7. Erg Chigaga Desert Tour from M’Hamid
Overview: Unlike the more accessible Erg Chebbi, Erg Chigaga offers a more remote and wild desert experience. The tour typically begins in the village of M’Hamid, the last town before the desert, and involves a multi-hour drive through the dunes.
- Highlights:
- Experience the isolation and silence of the remote Erg Chigaga dunes.
- Visit nomadic encampments and ancient rock carvings.
- Enjoy a desert picnic in the middle of the dunes.
- Best For: Adventure seekers and those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.
8. Fes to Merzouga 2-Day Express Tour
Overview: A great choice for travelers who want a quick taste of the Sahara while traveling between Fes and Merzouga. This tour is packed with scenic drives and ends with an overnight stay in the desert.
- Highlights:
- Drive through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains.
- Camel trek and overnight stay in a Berber camp in Erg Chebbi.
- Visit traditional markets and interact with locals.
- Best For: Travelers with a tight schedule looking to add a desert experience to their trip.
9. Sunrise or Sunset Camel Ride in the Sahara
Overview: For those who are not looking for an overnight stay but still want to experience the magic of the desert, a sunrise or sunset camel ride is a great option. These short trips are perfect for capturing stunning photos and enjoying the serene beauty of the dunes.
- Highlights:
- Ride a camel as the sun rises or sets over the desert horizon.
- Visit a nearby oasis and enjoy a traditional Moroccan tea.
- Experience the changing colors of the desert sand.
- Best For: Travelers seeking a short but unforgettable desert experience.
10. 10-Day Grand Morocco Tour Including the Sahara
Overview: For those wanting to dive deep into all that Morocco has to offer, this comprehensive tour includes major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, and Fes, as well as multiple nights in the Sahara.
- Highlights:
- Explore the bustling medinas and ancient history of Morocco’s imperial cities.
- Spend multiple nights in the Sahara Desert, with opportunities for sandboarding and 4×4 drives.
- Visit the coastal town of Essaouira, known for its beautiful beaches and seafood.
- Best For: Travelers looking for a complete Moroccan experience that combines cultural exploration with desert adventure.
Choose Your Perfect Morocco Desert Tour
Whether you’re looking for a short desert getaway or a comprehensive adventure, Morocco has a desert tour for every type of traveler. From the iconic dunes of Merzouga to the remote expanses of Erg Chigaga, these tours offer a chance to connect with nature, experience Berber hospitality, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to explore the magic of Morocco’s desert landscapes!
FAQs
1. What should I pack for a Morocco desert tour?
Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and a scarf or shawl to protect against sand and sun. Also, bring a warm jacket for chilly nights in the desert.
2. How safe are desert tours in Morocco?
Desert tours in Morocco are generally very safe, especially when booked through a reputable travel agency. Guides are experienced, and most tours include well-maintained vehicles and safe accommodations.
3. What is the difference between Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga?
Erg Chebbi is more accessible and known for its towering dunes, making it popular with tourists. Erg Chigaga, on the other hand, offers a more remote and off-the-beaten-path experience, with less developed tourist infrastructure.
4. Is a desert tour suitable for children?
Yes, many desert tours can be tailored for families with children, including shorter camel rides and comfortable accommodations. Be sure to check with your tour provider for family-friendly options.