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10-Day tour from Marrakech to atlas desert and ocean

Duration

10 Days

Tour Type

Private Tour

Free Cancellation

Up to 1 day

Languages

English, Multilingual

Tour overview

Are you dreaming of spending 10 mysterious and adventurous days in Morocco? If yes, then this 10-day tour from Marrakech might be exactly what you’re looking for.

The first two days will be spent exploring Marrakech, also known as the Red City. It’s an imperial city filled with old mosques, beautiful palaces, and peaceful gardens.

On the third and fourth days, you’ll cross the High Atlas Mountains heading south. Along the way, you’ll discover traditional Berber villages, green oases, scenic valleys, and historic kasbahs like Ait Ben Haddou. You will also get the chance to walk through the famous Todra Gorges, one of the highest canyons in Morocco.

One of the highlights of the tour is a camel ride deep into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi (also called the Merzouga Desert). You’ll visit a nomad family, enjoy traditional tea with them, and witness a magical sunset and sunrise. You’ll also spend a peaceful night under the stars in a desert camp.

On the sixth and seventh days, we’ll travel back to Marrakech through the southern route. This journey will take you through rocky desert landscapes, small Berber villages, lively local markets, and lush valleys full of palm trees.

The final three days include two exciting day trips from Marrakech. One is to the Ouzoud Waterfalls—Africa’s second-highest waterfall. The other is to Essaouira, a coastal town known for its calm medina and strong ocean winds. On the last day, you’ll have free time in Marrakech before we transfer you to the airport.

Brief itinerary of the 10-day trip from Marrakech

Day Departure Arrival Distance
#1 Airport Marrakech
#2 Marrakech Marrakech
#3 Marrakech Dades Valley 330 km
#4 Dades Merzouga 300 km
#5 Merzouga Erg Chebbi Desert 50 km
#6 Merzouga Ouarzazate 396 km
#7 Ouarzazate Marrakech 300 km
#8 Marrakech Marrakech 195 km
#9 Marrakech Marrakech 191 km
#10 Airport Marrakech

What should I know about the 10-day tour from Marrakech?

  1. The tour covers Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains, and the sea. You’ll explore bustling cities like Marrakech, Essaouira, and Ouarzazate, as well as the calm and wild beauty of the Sahara Desert. Be ready for a mix of culture, nature, and adventure.
  2. Morocco’s landscapes are stunning, but some travel days can be long, especially crossing the High Atlas Mountains and heading to Merzouga. Expect to spend several hours in the car on some days.
  3. This trip includes nights in riads (traditional Moroccan houses) and desert camps. The style is often charming, superior, and authentic, but may not meet modern five-star standards everywhere, especially in remote areas.
  4. The tour passes through Berber villages, where you’ll see traditional ways of life, visit local markets, and sometimes share tea with nomadic families, a cultural experience that is both personal and educational.
  5. Whether you want to spend more time in the desert, visit Fes or Chefchaouen, or enjoy specific activities like sandboarding or a hammam, we can customize and adjust this itinerary to match your needs.

 

Tour highlights

  • Walking guided tour in the Medina) of Marrakech
  • Driving through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n-Tichka Pass
  • Visiting the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Exploring Ouarzazate and its Film Studios
  • Passing through Skoura Oasis and the beautiful Valley of Roses
  • Walking through the tall cliffs of the Todra Gorge
  • Riding camels on the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi dunes
  • Taking a 4x4 adventure to visit nomadic families in the desert
  • Visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls, known for their rainbows and scenic beauty
  • Exploring the coastal city of Essaouira

Tour itinerary

Day 1: Arrival to Marrakech

Our driver will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. If you arrive early, there may be time for a short visit or a quick tour around the city, depending on your arrival time.

Accommodation:
Standard Option: Hotel Riad Marana or a similar
Superior Option: Hotel Riad Bahia Salam or a similar

Day 2: A full day to discover Marrakech

Today, you will explore Marrakech with a local guide. You will visit the famous Medina, where you can walk through the colorful souks (markets). You will also see the beautiful Koutoubia Mosque, a well-known landmark of the city.

Your guide will take you to some hidden treasures of Marrakech, including the historic Ali Ben Youssef Koranic School, the impressive Saadian Tombs, and the stunning Bahia Palace. You will also visit the peaceful Menara Garden and the vibrant Majorelle Gardens. Additionally, you will explore the old Jewish quarter called the Mellah.

In the evening, you will have free time to enjoy the lively Jamaa el Fna square. You can wander through the stalls, watch street performers, or relax with a glass of traditional mint tea at a local restaurant terrace, enjoying the beautiful view of the square and the sunset.

Accommodation:
Standard Option: Hotel Riad Marana or a similar
Superior Option: Hotel Riad Bahia Salam or a similar

Day 3: Marrakech - The Atlas - Ait Ben Haddou - Roses Valley - Dades

We will leave Marrakech around 8:00 AM and head south toward the beautiful landscapes of Southern Morocco. Our drive takes us over the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, you will enjoy amazing panoramic views and see traditional Berber villages hidden in the mountains.

After coming down from the Atlas Mountains, we will stop at Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have time to explore this ancient fortified village, walk through its narrow streets, and maybe have lunch nearby.

Next, we will continue our journey through Skoura, a region known for its lovely kasbahs. Then, we’ll pass through Mgouna and the Roses Valley, famous for its fragrant rose gardens and small Berber villages. By evening, we will reach the Dades Valley, where we will end the day’s trip.

Accommodation:
Standard Option: Hotel Riad Marana or a similar
Superior Option: Hotel Riad Bahia Salam or a similar

Day 4: Dades Valley - Todra Gorges - Jorf - Erfoud - Merzouga

After breakfast, we will travel through the valley to see the unique rock formation called "The Monkey Toes" and visit the well-preserved 19th-century Kasbah of Ait Yul. Leaving the Dades Valley, we will head toward Tinghir and the Todra Valley. Along the way, you will enjoy stunning views of old mud-brick Berber and Jewish villages.

Next, we will visit the dramatic Todra Gorges. Here, you can walk between the tall red cliffs that rise about 300 meters high. This area is popular with rock climbers who come to challenge themselves on the cliffs.

Our journey will continue as we drive to Erfoud and Rissani, known for being one of the largest oases in the Sahara Desert. Finally, we will reach the beautiful Merzouga Desert. We will spend the night in a desert camp, resting and getting ready for more desert adventures the next day.

Accommodation:
Standard Option: Mouhou Standard Camp or a similar
Superior Option: Mouhou Luxury Camp or a similar

Day 5: Merzouga - Rocky Desert - Nomad Families - Erg Chebbi Desert

After breakfast, we will start an exciting 4x4 adventure through the desert. Our first stop is Lake Merzouga, if there is water in the lake. This peaceful spot is perfect for birdwatchers, and you might see beautiful pink flamingos and other birds.

Next, we will visit the village of Khamlia. This small village is famous for its rich culture and music. Here, local musicians will perform traditional Gnaoua music, giving you a chance to enjoy the unique rhythms and sounds of the region.

Afterwards, we will drive across the rocky desert to meet nomadic families. You will see how they live in the desert, share a cup of refreshing mint tea inside their traditional tents, and enjoy the amazing view of the tall sand dunes around you.

We will have a tasty lunch in the desert before returning to Merzouga in the afternoon. Then, you will ride a camel into the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. These golden sands stretch far like a vast sea. You can watch a beautiful sunset over the dunes, and later, spend the night in a desert camp under a clear sky full of stars.

Accommodation:
Standard Option: Mouhou Standard Camp or a similar
Superior Option: Mouhou Luxury Camp or a similar

Day 6: Erg Chebbi Desert - Rissani - Alnif - Agdz - Nkob - Draa Valley - Ouarzazate

We will start early to watch the beautiful sunrise. After that, enjoy a tasty breakfast and take a refreshing shower. Then, we will begin our trip to Ouarzazate.

On the way, we will visit Rissani, home to the biggest local market near the desert. You can see many traditional products and local life there. We will also pass through small, charming towns and Berber villages such as Alnif, Tazarine, and Agdz. These places show the real culture and daily life of the people living in this area.

We will stop at the amazing Draa Valley, the largest valley in southern Morocco, known for its palm trees and beautiful landscapes.

By the end of the day, we will arrive in Ouarzazate, where you can relax and explore more of this famous city.

Accommodation:
Standard Option: Hotel Riad Dar Barbara or a similar
Superior Option: Hotel Riad Dar Chamaa or a similar

Day 7: Ouarzazate - The High Atlas Mountains - Tichka Pass - Marrakech City

After exploring the amazing sights of Ouarzazate, we will begin our journey back to Marrakech. Our route will take us across the impressive Atlas Mountains, passing through Tizi n’Tichka, which is the highest mountain pass in Morocco at 2,260 meters above sea level. This road offers beautiful and wide views of the valleys and mountains all around.

Along the way, we might stop at some interesting places to take photos or enjoy the scenery. Depending on how many stops we make, we expect to arrive back in Marrakech by late afternoon or early evening, giving you plenty of time to relax or explore the city further.

Accommodation:
Standard Option: Hotel Riad Marana or a similar
Superior Option: Hotel Riad Bahia Salam or a similar

Day 8: Marrakech - Ouzoud Waterfalls - Marrakech

We will start our trip early in the morning from Marrakech and head northeast to the beautiful Ouzoud Waterfalls. The waterfalls are about 170 kilometers away from the city. Ouzoud is famous for its stunning waterfalls that drop about 110 meters, creating an amazing view surrounded by nature. The area is full of birds, animals, and lush green landscapes.

When we arrive at Ouzoud, you will have around 4 hours to explore and enjoy the place. You can take a pleasant walk down to the lakes at the bottom of the falls, where the water is clear and perfect for a refreshing swim. Keep an eye out for the playful wild monkeys that live in the area — they are friendly and fun to watch.

For lunch, we will stop at a local restaurant with a wonderful view of the waterfall. Here, you can relax and enjoy your meal while watching the beautiful waterfalls and the permanent rainbows created by the mist.

After a peaceful and refreshing day at Ouzoud, we will travel back to Marrakech. We expect to arrive around 6 PM, giving you plenty of time to rest after this exciting day trip.

Accommodation:
Standard Option: Hotel Riad Marana or a similar
Superior Option: Hotel Riad Bahia Salam or a similar

Day 9: Marrakech - Essaouira - Marrakech

After breakfast, we will begin our journey towards Essaouira, traveling east and passing through the towns of Chechaoua and Sidi Mokhtar. Along the way, we will drive through a beautiful forest of Argan trees. You might even spot some goats climbing high into the trees—this is a rare and interesting sight! We will also stop at a local women’s cooperative, where you can learn how they make natural cosmetic products using the precious Argan oil. This traditional process is both fascinating and important for the local community.

When we arrive in Essaouira, you will have free time to explore this charming and peaceful town at your own pace. You can walk along the ancient ramparts that overlook the ocean, visit the lively craft shops inside the old medina, browse local art galleries, or enjoy the busy fishing harbor. Essaouira is known for its friendly atmosphere and relaxed vibe, making it a perfect place to unwind.

For lunch, there are many small, local restaurants where you can try fresh, delicious fish caught that very morning. Around 4:00 PM, we will start our drive back to Marrakech, giving you a full day to enjoy the sights and flavors of Essaouira.

Accommodation:
Standard Option: Hotel Riad Marana or a similar
Superior Option: Hotel Riad Bahia Salam or a similar

Day 10: Marrakech - Airport

On the last day of your 10-day tour from Marrakech, you will have some free time in the city before your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you can relax at your hotel, enjoy a walk in the medina, or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Our driver will be ready to pick you up at the agreed time and take you comfortably to Marrakech Menara Airport for your flight. We hope you had a wonderful journey and unforgettable memories in Morocco!

Inclusions/Exclusions

  • Pick-up from the airport on the first day
  • Drop-off at the airport on the last day
  • Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional local driver
  • Driver’s expenses included
  • Car expenses covered (fuel, tolls, parking, insurance, highway fees, etc.)
  • Hotel in Marrakech with dinner and breakfast
  • Hotel in Dades with dinner and breakfast
  • Desert camp in Merzouga
  • Hotel in Ouarzazate with dinner and breakfast
  • Camel ride in the Erg Chebbi dunes
  • Option to try sandboarding on the dunes
  • Local guide to explore the old medina of Marrakech
  • Free time to stop and take photos or rest along the way during the tour
  • Flight tickets to and from Morocco
  • All drinks
  • Lunches at restaurants during the tour
  • Entrance fees for any activities that require tickets.

Map of the "10-Day tour from Marrakech to atlas desert and ocean"

FAQs about 10-Day tour from Marrakech to atlas desert and ocean

Is this tour suitable for families and kids?

Yes, this tour is family-friendly. Many families enjoy camel rides, nature, and cultural visits. Just let your guide know if you need adjustments for children.

Can I skip the camel ride and take a jeep to the camp?

Yes, if you prefer not to ride a camel, a 4x4 vehicle can take you directly to the camp in Merzouga desert.

Can I start or end the tour from a different city instead of Marrakech?

Yes, this tour can often be customized to start from Casablanca, Fes, or Agadir upon request.

Will there be free time during the tour?

Yes, you’ll have free time in places like Essaouira, the desert camp, and Marrakech to relax, walk or explore on your own.

What should I pack for this 10-day tour from Marrakech?

Here is a list of things to prepare/bring:



  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Light clothes for the day, warm clothes for the desert nights

  • Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

  • Small bag for the camel ride

  • Personal medicine or toiletries

What are the booking and payment procedures?

To confirm your booking for the 10-day tour from Marrakech, we kindly ask for a small deposit to be paid in advance. The remaining balance can be paid using PayPal, a credit card, bank transfer, or in cash upon arrival.


Free Cancellation:
You can cancel your tour free of charge up to a few days before the scheduled start date. We understand that plans can change, so we aim to keep things flexible for you.


Accommodation Details:
Please note that we usually don’t make any hotel or riad reservations until we receive your final confirmation. If any of the accommodations mentioned in the itinerary are already fully booked at the time of your confirmation, we will arrange a similar option in the same category, offering the same level of comfort and service.

Can you suggest another tours similar to the 10-day tour from Marrakech?

Sure! Here are two similar tours to the 10 day tour:


12-tour From Marrakech
14-day tour from Marrakech

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