The fastest way from Marrakech to the dunes of Erg Chebbi: over the Tizi n'Tichka, past Aït Ben Haddou, then a camel trek into the sand for a night under the stars. A focused 2-day Merzouga desert tour itinerary for travellers short on time.
Day by day
Your 2-day plan
- 1
Day 1
Marrakech to Erg Chebbi via Aït Ben Haddou
An early start from Marrakech over the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260 m) through the High Atlas. Stop at the UNESCO kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate's film studios, then follow the Valley of the Roses and the Dadès toward Merzouga, arriving for a sunset camel trek into the orange dunes of Erg Chebbi and a night in a Saharan camp.
- Tizi n'Tichka pass
- Aït Ben Haddou
- Ouarzazate
- Sunset camel trek
- Erg Chebbi dune camp
- 2
Day 2
Sunrise over the dunes & return to Marrakech
Wake for sunrise over the dunes, ride the camels back to the village, then the long drive back to Marrakech via Tinghir and the Tizi n'Tichka, with stops for lunch and photos. Arrival in Marrakech in the evening.
- Sunrise over Erg Chebbi
- Tinghir
- Return over the Atlas
Good to know
Practical notes
- Two days means a lot of driving (roughly 8–9 hours each way) — a private 4x4 with a driver-guide makes it comfortable.
- If you have a third day, the 3-day version adds the Dadès and Todra gorges and far less rushing.
- Desert nights are cold even in summer — pack a warm layer and a scarf for the dust.
Frequently asked
Is a 2-day Merzouga desert tour from Marrakech worth it?
Yes if your time is tight — you still get a sunset and sunrise in the Erg Chebbi dunes with a night in a Saharan camp. Just know that most of each day is spent driving the long route through the Atlas, so a 3-day tour is more relaxed.
How far is Merzouga from Marrakech?
About 560 km, or 8–9 hours of driving each way over the Tizi n'Tichka pass and through Ouarzazate and the Dadès Valley.
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