4 Day Budget Morocco safari tours of Merzouga & Zagora Desert Tour

Your adventure begins in Marrakech, often referred to as the "Red City" due to its terracotta-colored buildings and vibrant atmosphere. Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport or your hotel in the city, you’ll be welcomed by your guide and driver who will accompany you throughout your journey. After a brief overview of the itinerary, you’ll encounter on a scenic drive toward Boulmane Dades.

The drive takes you through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at traditional Berber villages and admire their unique architecture. These villages are known for their mud-brick houses that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape.

One of the highlights of this leg of the journey is a visit to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic kasbahs. This fortified village has been featured in numerous films and television shows due to its stunning architecture and dramatic setting. After exploring Ait Benhaddou, you’ll continue your journey through Ouarzazate, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara." By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive in Boulmane Dades, a charming town located in the Dades Valley. This region is famous for its dramatic rock formations and lush greenery. You’ll spend the night in a local guesthouse or hotel, where you can enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner and relax after your first day of travel.

After breakfast in Boulmane Dades, it’s time to head deeper into Morocco’s desert region. Today’s destination is Merzouga, home to the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes. The journey takes you through the Todra Gorge, a stunning canyon with towering cliffs that reach heights of up to 300 meters. Here, you’ll have some time to stretch your legs and take in the breathtaking scenery. Continuing your drive, you’ll pass through several small towns and villages, each offering glimpses into traditional Moroccan life. As you approach Merzouga, you’ll notice the landscape gradually changing from rocky terrain to vast expanses of sand dunes. Upon arrival in Merzouga, you’ll be greeted with mint tea – a symbol of Moroccan hospitality.

In the afternoon, you’ll encounter on a camel trek into the heart of Erg Chebbi. Riding atop these gentle creatures is an unforgettable experience as you traverse the golden dunes under the warm desert sun. As evening approaches, you’ll arrive at a desert camp where you’ll spend the night. 

Today wake up early to witness one of nature’s most magical moments sunrise over the sand dunes. The golden hues of dawn create a mesmerizing spectacle that’s worth waking up for. After breakfast at your desert camp, you’ll return to Merzouga by camel or 4x4 vehicle. From Merzouga, your journey continues toward Zagora, another charming town located on the edge of the Sahara Desert. The drive takes you through scenic landscapes dotted with palm groves and traditional villages. Along the way, you may have the chance to visit a nomadic family and learn about their way of life.

Zagora is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning surroundings. One of its most famous landmarks is a signpost that reads "Timbuktu 52 days," referring to the historic caravan route that once connected this region to West Africa. In Zagora, you’ll have time to explore the town at your own pace or simply relax and soak in the peaceful ambiance. You’ll spend your final night in Zagora at a local guesthouse or hotel. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring traditional Moroccan dishes before settling in for a restful night.

On your final day, it’s time to bid farewell to Zagora and make your way back to Marrakech. The return journey takes you through more stunning landscapes as you retrace your steps through Ouarzazate and over the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, there will be opportunities to stop for photos or explore any sites you may have missed on the first day. Upon arrival in Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening, your guide will drop you off at your hotel or another location of your choice within the city.