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9 Day Morocco Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara with Camel Trekking
Overview
9 Days Camel Trekking Tour in the Erg Chegaga Dunes.
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Moroccan desert with this 9-day adventure. Experience the stunning landscapes of the Sahara, including endless golden dunes, oasis camps, and starry desert nights.
Travel across the desert on camelback and immerse yourself in authentic Berber culture. Visit nomadic tribes, explore ancient kasbahs, and enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine. This trek is ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, combining the excitement of the Sahara with cultural insights and breathtaking desert sunsets.
- Duration: 9 days/8 nights
- Start: Marrakech
- End: Marrakech
- Tour Style: Private & Small group
- Price: Check it below
Highlights of the 9 Day Morocco Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara with Camel Trekking:
- Drive through the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi N-Test Pass
- Visit Berber villages in Asni and Taliouine
- Explore the desert plateau and Iriki Lake
- Experience a camel trek through the Erg Chegaga dunes
- Walk across Khert Lgerzi, Erg Sedra, and Erg Zehar
- Enjoy traditional Berber tea under acacia trees
- Visit Sidi Naji, a sacred site for Nomads
- Trek through Reg Bousnina to M’Hamid El Ghezlan
- Drive through the Draa Valley and visit palm groves
- Explore Ouarzazate, Atlas Film Studios, and the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou
- Return to Marrakech via the Tizi N’tichka Pass
Itinerary of the 9 Day Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara with Camel Trekking:
DAY 1: MARRAKECH ⇢ ATLAS MOUNTAINS ⇢ TALIOUINE
After breakfast, depart towards Taliouine, crossing the Berber villages of Asni and the Ouirgane Valley, then ascending the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi N’Test Pass (2,260 m altitude). Enjoy breathtaking views along the way and stop for lunch in a local restaurant before continuing to Taliouine, a charming saffron-growing village. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Taliouine.
DAY 2: TALIOUINE ⇢ TAZNAKHT ⇢ FOUM ZGUIT ⇢ IRIKI LAKE ⇢ SAHARA DESERT
After breakfast, leave Taliouine toward Foum Zguid via Taznakht, known for its handmade Berber carpets. Enjoy lunch in Foum Zguid, then continue your off-road adventure through the dry lake of Iriki and the desert plateau scattered with acacia trees. Visit nomadic families living in traditional tents before arriving at Abed Lia, in the heart of the Sahara dunes. Dinner and overnight under the stars or in a nomad tent.
DAY 3: ABED LIA ⇢ KHERT LGERZI
After breakfast, begin your desert trek, walking through parts of the Erg Chegaga dunes toward Khert Lgerzi (about 4 hours). Stop for lunch near a local nomadic watering spot and rest under the shade. In the afternoon, continue your trek for around 2 hours to reach Khert Lgerzi, where you will set up camp. Dinner and overnight under the desert sky.
DAY 4: KHERT LGERZI ⇢ ERG SEDRA
After breakfast, continue your trek through the golden sands of the Sahara, walking approximately 4 hours toward Erg Sedra. Enjoy a lunch stop in the quiet of the desert, then resume your walk (around 2 more hours) before reaching your campsite among the dunes. Dinner and overnight in a desert camp at Erg Sedra.
DAY 5: ERG SEDRA ⇢ ERG ZEHAR
After a peaceful night surrounded by desert silence, trek toward Erg Zehar, known as the “Dunes of Chance.” Along the way, pause for tea under an acacia tree, a traditional nomadic custom for energy and relaxation, followed by lunch (about 4 hours of walking). Continue for another 2 hours to reach Erg Zehar, where you will enjoy dinner and camp overnight beneath the stars.
DAY 6: ERG ZEHAR ⇢ SIDI NAJI
Today’s trek leads from Erg Zehar to Sidi Naji, an important pilgrimage site for nomads. Walk approximately 4 hours in the morning before stopping for lunch and rest in a tranquil desert setting. Continue your journey (around 2 more hours) to reach Sidi Naji, where the tomb of an old marabout lies. Dinner and overnight in a desert camp.
DAY 7: SIDI NAJI ⇢ M’HAMID EL GHEZLAN
Begin your final day of camel trekking across Reg Bousnina, a vast stony plain where the landscape changes every few kilometers. Walk about 4 hours in the morning, stop for lunch in a picturesque spot, then continue toward M’hamid El Ghezlan, marking the end of your unforgettable Sahara camel trek. Dinner and overnight at a local guesthouse or riad.
DAY 8: M’HAMID EL GHEZLAN ⇢ TAMEGROUT ⇢ ZAGORA ⇢ OUARZAZATE
After breakfast, depart from M’hamid and travel north via Tamegroute, known for its ancient Quranic library and traditional green pottery workshops. Continue to Zagora, where you will visit the lush palm groves. After lunch, follow the scenic Draa Valley northward to reach Ouarzazate by mid-afternoon. Dinner and overnight in Ouarzazate.
DAY 9: OUARZAZATE ⇢ AIT BENHADDOU ⇢ MARRAKECH
This morning, visit Taourirt Kasbah and stop near the Atlas Film Studios for photos. Continue to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a backdrop for numerous famous films. After lunch in the village, drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N’Tichka Pass (2,260 m altitude), enjoying breathtaking views along the way. Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon.
End of the 9 Days Morocco Camel Trekking Tour.
Gallery
Inclusive and Exclusive of the tour
Price Includes:
- Private air-conditioned 4WD/van for the first 2 days and last 2 days, including stops, pickups, and drop-offs
- English-speaking driver/guide with sightseeing information
- 2 nights in hotels in Taliouine and Ouarzazate (dinner and breakfast included)
- 5-day camel trek in the Sahara Desert (one camel per person) with full board: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Support team including guide, cook, camels, and luggage transport (tents, mats, food, etc.)
- Full board and water during the trekking
Price Excludes:
- Drinks and lunch during the first 2 and last 2 days
- Entrance fees to Kasbahs/museums, if applicable
- Holiday insurance
Map of the tour
tour price:
The pricing for This tour starts at €160 per person. Please note that the cost can vary based on factors such as the number of travelers, your choice of accommodations, and the time of year. Larger groups benefit from lower per-person rates.
The €160 per person rate applies to groups of 17 or more.
For smaller groups, such as 2 travelers, the price starts at €269 per person.
For personalized pricing tailored to your group, please contact us using the form below. Our team will provide the rates that best match your needs.
Booking
Please use the form below to email us at compassmoroccotours@gmail.com, and we will respond as fast as possible. You can also send a WhatsApp message or call us at +212 676-594706. We look forward to hearing from you!
REVIEWS
Reviews
★★★★★
Our 7-day Morocco tour with Compass Morocco Tours was simply incredible! From Marrakech to the Sahara, everything was perfectly organized. Our driver Youssef was knowledgeable and friendly, and the desert camp in Merzouga was beyond amazing. Highly recommend this company for anyone visiting Morocco!
★★★★★
We had such a wonderful experience with Compass Morocco Tours! The team was professional, our guide was patient and informative, and the landscapes were breathtaking. The camel ride and night under the stars in the Sahara were unforgettable moments for my family.
★★★★★
Compass Morocco Tours made our trip seamless and stress-free. The itinerary covered so much — from the bustling souks of Fes to the peaceful dunes of Erg Chebbi. The vehicle was super comfortable, and we felt safe and well cared for the entire journey.
★★★★★
Traveling through Morocco with Compass Morocco Tours was a dream come true. Every detail was thought out — beautiful riads, delicious food, and amazing hospitality. Our driver Hassan shared so much about Moroccan culture and history. A truly authentic experience!
★★★★★
I can’t say enough good things about Compass Morocco Tours! The desert night was magical — luxury tents, great music, and friendly Berber hosts. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and I’d absolutely do it again.
★★★★★
What a fantastic journey! Compass Morocco Tours made sure everything ran smoothly from start to finish. The views through the Atlas Mountains and the sunset over the dunes were simply breathtaking. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!
★★★★★
Amazing experience with Compass Morocco Tours! The driver was very kind and flexible, always making sure we were comfortable. The tour was well-balanced between cultural visits and time to relax. Morocco completely stole my heart!
★★★★★
Our 5-day desert tour was outstanding. The Compass Morocco Tours team handled everything perfectly — great communication before the trip, comfortable hotels, and a driver who became like a friend. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to see the real Morocco.
★★★★★
This was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. Compass Morocco Tours exceeded all expectations. The camp in Merzouga was so peaceful, and waking up to the sunrise over the dunes was just magical. Merci for such wonderful memories!
★★★★★
Compass Morocco Tours provided excellent service throughout our journey. The tour was well-paced, full of local insights, and every stop felt meaningful. Morocco is beautiful, and this company made it even more special.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to pay for the tour?
Our payment process is simple and flexible. To confirm your booking, we ask for a small deposit, which can be paid through PayPal, bank transfer, or Wise. The remaining balance can be settled in cash on the first day of your tour directly with your driver or guide. We accept euros, US dollars, or the equivalent in Moroccan dirhams.
What is the best desert tour from Marrakech?
The best desert tour from Marrakech depends on how much time you have. The 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour is the most popular, as it allows you to experience the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi, ride camels, and sleep in a luxury desert camp under the stars. If you have more time, the 4-day or 5-day desert tours offer a deeper and more relaxed exploration of Morocco’s desert landscapes and kasbahs.
Can I skip the camel ride to the camp?
Yes, absolutely. If you prefer not to ride a camel, we can take you to the camp in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle instead
How far is the desert from Fes?
The desert is around 500 km (about 311 miles) from Fes, which takes roughly 7 and a half hours to drive.
What type of vehicles are used for this trip?
Your comfort is our top priority. At Compass Morocco Tours , we provide modern and comfortable vehicles suited to every group size. Depending on your needs, you’ll travel in vehicles such as a Toyota Prado Land Cruiser TX, Ford Tourneo Custom, or a Mercedes Benz Sprinter minibus for larger groups. We believe that a smooth and comfortable journey makes your entire travel experience more enjoyable.
Does the camp have private bathrooms?
Certainly. All the camps we offer are luxury desert camps, designed to provide maximum comfort and equipped with private en-suite bathrooms for your convenience.
Can you do a day trip to the desert from Marrakech?
Technically, you cannot reach the real Sahara Desert on a day trip from Marrakech because it is too far away. However, you can take a day trip to the Agafay Desert, located just 40 minutes from Marrakech. Agafay offers a desert-like experience with rocky landscapes, camel rides, quad biking, and stunning views of the Atlas Mountains.
Is it worth going to the Sahara Desert in Morocco?
Absolutely! A visit to the Sahara Desert is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Morocco. Watching the sunset and sunrise over the vast dunes, riding camels across the golden sands, and spending a night in a luxury desert camp under the starry sky create truly magical memories that stay with you forever.
What is the closest desert to Marrakech?
The Agafay Desert is the nearest desert to Marrakech, located about 30 to 40 km southwest of the city. Unlike the Sahara, it’s a rocky desert with rolling hills and arid landscapes, but it provides a perfect short getaway for travelers looking to experience a desert atmosphere without the long journey.
Is the Sahara Desert close to Marrakech?
Not exactly. The Sahara Desert lies about 560 km from Marrakech. Traveling to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga takes approximately 8 to 10 hours by road. Most tours break up the journey over two days, with an overnight stay in either the Dades Valley or Ouarzazate to make the trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
How far in advance should we book this tour?
It’s always a good idea to book your tour as early as possible to guarantee your preferred dates and ensure availability — after all, the early bird gets the best experience!
How long does it take to get to the desert from Marrakech?
The journey to Merzouga, home of the famous Sahara dunes, takes around 8 to 10 hours by road. Most desert tours divide the trip into several days to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore breathtaking sites such as the High Atlas Mountains, the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, and the stunning Dades Gorges.
How do I get from Marrakech to the desert?
The easiest and most comfortable way to reach the desert is by joining a private or small-group tour from Marrakech. Your driver-guide will take you on a scenic journey across the Atlas Mountains, passing through picturesque valleys and historic kasbahs before arriving in the Sahara Desert. While renting a car is also an option, a guided tour provides local insight, stress-free travel, and a richer overall experience.
Where is the best desert in Morocco?
The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are widely regarded as the best desert experience in Morocco, known for their breathtaking golden sand dunes and genuine desert ambiance. Another excellent choice is Erg Chigaga, located near M’Hamid, offering a more remote and untouched landscape—ideal for travelers in search of adventure, peace, and an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience.