5 Days Morocco Tour from Ouarzazate to the Desert

Tour From

Itinerary Tour from Ouarzazate to Merzouga

Day 1: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Valley of Draa – Zagora

We will start this amazing journey towards the Great South from your lodging. The Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, one of the most significant symbols of Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is among the best-beloved places in all of North Africa. Numerous well-known movies, including Gladiator, The Kingdom of Heaven, and Lawrence of Arabia, have been filmed here. However, what is important is to understand this type of defensive settlement, which gives us an idea of how the people living there lived and how they lived it. After that, take a panoramic tour of Ouarzazate, also known as the “city of silence” or “city without noise.” Known as the Hollywood of Africa, Ouarzazate was formerly a military outpost and now serves as the administrative hub of the Draa Valley. It is perched atop a sizable plateau. After touring the stunning Tamarit Kasbah, we will travel through Ait Saoun and the 1,660-meter-high Tizi-N-Tinififft mountain pass. We will travel through the Draa Valley, which is home to more than 200 kilometers of palm groves and is considered one of Morocco’s most picturesque routes. As the well-known sign “Timbuktu 52 days” reminds us, commercial caravans from Central Africa used to travel through this area before arriving in Zagora, where they had dinner and breakfast at their accommodations.

Day 2: Zagora – Rally track Paris Dakar – Desert of Ouzina

Across the desert region of the Draa Valley and its plateaus with its numerous Berber villages, we will traverse a very special stage today on the same route as the Paris Dakar Rally. When we finally reach the Ouzina desert, we can stroll to our accommodation, the Riad Ouzina TGM, where we will enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening while watching the magnificent sunset from the top of the large dune.

Day 3 Ouzina – Erg Ouzina – village Ouzina – nomad culture in the Sahara

We suggest watching the sunrise between the dunes for those who get up early. We are going to the village of Ouzina after breakfast to find out more about the lifestyle of the locals. I will take you to the orchards and bread oven. After eating “Berber pizza” and, if anyone so chooses, getting henna tattoos, we will visit the fossil mines in the afternoon. Later, we will head back to Ouzina’s desert to try to locate a real nomadic family so we can have tea with them. Overnight stay will be at the Riad Ouzina TGM for dinner.

Day 4: Merzouga Desert – Erg Chebbi – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra River Gorge and Dades River Gorge

We take the camels back to the car after breakfast so we can drive to the town of Rissani. A stroll through the vibrant, authentic souk of the southern Moroccan capital’s economic hub, followed by a visit to the Todra Gorge, a breathtaking valley carved out of 150-meter-tall rock walls. This area is worth seeing, and we will end up dining and spending the night in the stunning Dades Valley. Walks along the 300-meter-tall rock walls are worthwhile in this area; continue to the stunning Dades Valley environment.

Day 5: Dades Valley – Route of the Thousand Kasbahs – Marrakech

Visit the Dades Valley first thing in the morning, and then proceed along the path of the thousand Kasbahs, stopping at Kasbah Itrane and Kasbah Amridil. We will then make our way back to Marrakech via the port of Ticheka. Make your way to your Riad. We will spend a fun five days traveling in 4×4 tours from Ouarzazate to the desert in Morocco. Sunset is a good time to climb to one of the panoramic terraces of the Plaza de Jemaa el Fna and observe the hustle and bustle of this city that is always awake: funambulists, snake charmers, storytellers…

More information about this 5-day desert tour from Ouarzazate 

Tips for a Great Experience

1. Packing Essentials: Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection. Layered clothing is ideal as desert temperatures vary significantly.
2. Stay Hydrated: Always carry water, especially during hikes or camel treks.
3. Photography: Capture the magical sunrise and sunset over the dunes, the vibrant souks, and the unique architecture of kasbahs and ksars.
4. Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and ask permission before taking photos of people.
5. Desert Comforts: Expect basic yet comfortable amenities at desert camps. The Riad Ouzina TGM offers a blend of authenticity and relaxation.

Why Book This Tour?

1. Immersive Cultural Experience: Gain firsthand insights into Berber traditions, nomadic lifestyles, and Morocco’s vibrant history.
2. Stunning Landscapes: Traverse Morocco’s most beautiful regions, from UNESCO sites to desert dunes, verdant valleys, and dramatic gorges.
3. Adventure and Relaxation: Enjoy thrilling 4×4 rides, camel treks, and tranquil moments under the starry desert sky.
4. Tailored Itinerary: This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a balance of exploration, cultural immersion, and leisure.
5. Expert Guides: Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of local guides who enrich your journey with stories and history.

Additional Insights

• Local Cuisine: Taste regional delicacies like Berber pizza, tagines, and fresh dates from the Draa Valley.
• Handicrafts: Shop for authentic Moroccan crafts, including Berber carpets, pottery, and fossils.
• Sustainability: This tour supports local communities by working with family-run riads and promoting cultural preservation.

FAQs for the 5-Day Ouarzazate to Marrakech Desert Tour