2-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour

Two days gives you a taste of the Sahara — you'll ride camels, sleep in a desert camp, and see Ait Ben Haddou. However, it involves long driving days (approximately 8–9 hours each way). If you want a more relaxed pace with time to explore Todra Gorge, the Dades Valley, and shorter driving days, we recommend our 3-day or 4-day Marrakech to Merzouga tours.

The distance is approximately 564 km (350 miles) each way. With scenic stops at viewpoints, Ait Ben Haddou, and lunch breaks, Day 1 typically takes about 9–10 hours from door to desert camp. Day 2 is a similar length for the return. The roads are in good condition, and your driver will make regular stops for stretching, photos, and coffee.

Pick-up is around 7:00 a.m. on Day 1 to ensure we reach the desert in time for sunset. Drop-off on Day 2 is typically between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. in Marrakech, depending on traffic and how long you spend at stops along the way.

This is a fully private tour. You'll travel only with your own family, friends, or group in a private vehicle with your own driver. Your schedule and stops can be adjusted to your interests.

Yes, the sunset camel trek is included. The ride takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, with a stop on top of a high dune to watch the sunset and take photos. A sunrise camel trek is also available the next morning. If you prefer not to ride a camel, we can arrange a 4x4 transfer to the camp instead at no extra cost.

Our desert camp features comfortable private tents with proper beds, mattresses, blankets, and pillows. Standard camps provide clean shared bathroom facilities nearby. Luxury camps offer en-suite private bathrooms and hot showers inside each tent. All camps include a dining tent, traditional Berber music around the campfire, and dinner/breakfast. The camp has electricity from solar panels.

You don't need to carry everything on the camel. Pack a small soft backpack with overnight essentials (toiletries, camera, warm layer, water). Your main luggage stays in the vehicle, which is securely parked at the desert edge, or transported to the camp by a separate 4x4 if needed.

Pack light but smart. Essentials include: sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50+), a wide-brimmed hat or scarf, closed-toe shoes or sneakers for camel riding, a warm fleece or jacket for the evening (desert nights can be surprisingly cool), a portable charger, and a camera. Long pants are recommended for the camel trek. Towels and toilet paper are provided at camp, but bringing your own is always wise.

Yes. Our standard camps provide clean shared facilities with warm water available in the evenings. Luxury camps feature private en-suite bathrooms with hot showers inside each tent. We'll confirm your exact camp setup before booking so you know exactly what to expect.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but please be aware of the long driving days. Camel rides are slow and guided, and 4x4 transfers are available for anyone who prefers not to ride. If you have back problems or motion sickness, please let us know in advance — the mountain roads have many switchbacks. We've hosted travelers of all ages, but honesty about the driving time is important.

Yes, on request we can arrange a one-way transfer to Fes at the end of Day 2 instead of returning to Marrakech. This would involve a different route through the Middle Atlas and may incur a small additional charge. Contact us to discuss this option.

Yes. Moroccan cuisine is naturally accommodating — tagines, couscous, and salads can easily be prepared vegetarian or vegan. Please inform us of any dietary requirements when booking, and we'll ensure the camp is prepared.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant temperatures. Summer (June to August) is extremely hot, with desert temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F), but the tour still runs with early starts. Winter (December to February) brings cold desert nights but fewer crowds and lower prices.

The desert camp has limited or no connectivity — consider it a chance to truly disconnect. Most stops along the route in towns like Ouarzazate have mobile signal if you need to check in.

Tipping is not mandatory but greatly appreciated. For your driver, €5–10 per day per group is standard. Camp staff usually receive €2–3 per person for the night in the desert.

On the 2-day tour, stops are shorter due to the distance we need to cover. You'll have approximately 45–60 minutes at Ait Ben Haddou — enough to walk through the ksar and climb to the top for photos. If you want more time to explore Ouarzazate's film studios, Todra Gorge, and the Dades Valley at a relaxed pace, consider upgrading to our 3-day or 4-day tour.