The Ultimate Marrakech to Sahara Road Trip
The drive from Marrakech to Morocco's Sahara Desert is one of the most spectacular road trips in North Africa. This journey takes you across the High Atlas Mountains, through ancient kasbahs, along dramatic gorges, and finally to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga.
Route Overview
Total Distance: Approximately 550 km (one way) Recommended Duration: 2-3 days (one way) or 4-5 days (round trip) Best Vehicle: SUV recommended, though regular cars can complete the paved route Difficulty: Moderate (mountain passes, long stretches)
The Journey: Day by Day
Day 1: Marrakech to Ouarzazate (200 km, 4-5 hours)
This first leg takes you over the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka pass, one of Morocco's highest mountain roads.
Key Stops
Departure from Marrakech
- Leave early (7-8 AM) to maximize daylight
- Fill up with fuel before departing
- Pack snacks and water for the mountain crossing
Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m)
- Morocco's highest major mountain pass
- Dramatic switchbacks and stunning views
- Stop at viewpoints for photos
- Watch for vendors selling fossils and minerals
Telouet Kasbah (Optional Detour)
- 20 km off the main route
- Former stronghold of the Glaoui family
- Fascinating decorated interiors
- Adds 1-2 hours to journey
Ait Benhaddou
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Ancient fortified village (ksar)
- Featured in many films (Gladiator, Game of Thrones)
- Allow 1-2 hours for exploration
Overnight in Ouarzazate
- Known as the "Gateway to the Desert"
- Visit Atlas Studios (Africa's largest film studio)
- Good selection of hotels and restaurants
Day 2: Ouarzazate to Merzouga (350 km, 5-6 hours)
The second day takes you deeper into pre-Saharan landscapes before reaching the dunes.
Route Options
Option A: Via Dades Gorge (Longer, More Scenic)
- Total: ~380 km
- Drive through Rose Valley (Kalaat M'Gouna)
- Spectacular Dades Gorge with winding road
- Todra Gorge (300m-high canyon walls)
- Adds 2-3 hours but highly recommended
Option B: Direct Route via N10
- Total: ~350 km
- Faster but less scenic
- Good for those short on time
Key Stops
Skoura Palm Oasis
- Lush palm groves amid desert landscape
- Visit Kasbah Amridil
- Good breakfast stop
Dades Valley & Gorge (Route A)
- Stop at famous "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs"
- Dramatic cliff-hugging road
- Walk along the gorge floor
Todra Gorge
- 300-meter canyon walls
- Crystal-clear river
- Popular rock climbing spot
- Excellent lunch stop
Rissani
- Last major town before desert
- Historic caravan trading post
- Stock up on supplies
Arrival in Merzouga
- Reach before sunset for dune views
- Check into desert camp or hotel
- Book camel trek for sunset or sunrise
Desert Experience: Merzouga & Erg Chebbi
What to Expect
Erg Chebbi Dunes
- Morocco's highest sand dunes (up to 150m)
- Golden-orange colored sand
- Accessible year-round
Essential Activities
Camel Trek
- Sunset or sunrise recommended
- 1-2 hour ride into the dunes
- Stay overnight in Berber desert camp
4x4 Dune Adventure
- Thrilling desert driving
- Access remote areas of the erg
- Usually includes sandboarding
Stargazing
- Some of Morocco's darkest skies
- Incredible Milky Way views
- Best during new moon
Accommodation Options
Luxury Desert Camps
- Private tents with en-suite bathrooms
- Gourmet dining under the stars
- Prices: 1500-3000 MAD/night
Standard Desert Camps
- Shared facilities
- Traditional Berber hospitality
- Prices: 400-800 MAD/night
Hotels in Merzouga
- More amenities (pool, AC)
- Easy dune access
- Prices: 500-1500 MAD/night
Driving Tips for This Route
Mountain Section (Marrakech-Ouarzazate)
- Weather: Check conditions before departure
- Fuel: Fill up in Marrakech; limited stations on pass
- Speed: Take curves slowly; trucks may be slow
- Altitude: Some people feel effects above 2000m
- Photography: Pull over completely for photos
Desert Section (Ouarzazate-Merzouga)
- Heat: Keep AC working; temperatures can exceed 40°C in summer
- Sandstorms: Reduce speed, use low beams if visibility drops
- Wildlife: Watch for camels and donkeys near road
- Fuel: Fill up in Ouarzazate and Rissani
- Navigation: GPS works but have paper map backup
Vehicle Recommendations
Minimum Requirements
- Any reliable vehicle for paved route
- Air conditioning essential
- Good tires
Ideal Vehicle
- SUV or crossover for comfort
- Higher clearance for any detours
- 4x4 for off-road desert exploration
What to Avoid
- Very low vehicles (speed bumps, rough patches)
- Vehicles with mechanical issues
- Driving without adequate fuel reserve
Best Time to Visit
October to April (Recommended)
- Comfortable temperatures
- Clear skies
- Peak tourist season (book ahead)
May to September
- Very hot (35-45°C)
- Fewer tourists
- Lower prices
- Drive early morning/evening
Budget Breakdown
Per Person (Mid-Range, 3 Days/2 Nights)
| Category | Cost (MAD) |
|---|---|
| Car rental share | 300-500 |
| Fuel share | 200-300 |
| Accommodation | 400-800 |
| Meals | 200-400 |
| Activities | 300-600 |
| Total | 1,400-2,600 |
Additional Costs
- Entrance fees: 20-70 MAD each
- Tips (guides, camps): 50-100 MAD
- Souvenirs: Variable
Essential Packing List
For the Drive
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Hat or cap
- Water (5L minimum)
- Snacks
- Phone charger
- Cash (MAD)
For the Desert
- Warm layers (desert nights are cold)
- Sandals and closed shoes
- Camera with extra batteries
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Basic toiletries
- Scarf (for sand protection)
Return Journey Options
Same Route Return
- See what you missed
- Stop at different places
- Most straightforward
Alternative: Northern Return via Fes
- Add 1-2 days
- Through Middle Atlas
- Visit Ifrane, Azrou
- See Barbary macaques
Alternative: Southern Return via Agadir
- Longer route
- Through Anti-Atlas
- Less touristed
- End at beach destination
Book Your Desert Adventure
Ready to experience the magic of Morocco's Sahara? With Carman, book your perfect vehicle for this epic journey:
Pickup in Marrakech:
Our partners offer:
- Unlimited mileage for long-distance trips
- Comprehensive insurance
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- One-way rental options available
Book now and start your Sahara adventure!