Extensions: Sahara

Journey beyond Marrakech into the vast beauty of the Sahara, where endless golden dunes and starlit skies create one of the world’s most unforgettable landscapes. This four-day extension takes you deep into the desert, with two nights in a luxury camp where you’ll enjoy traditional Moroccan hospitality, sunset camel rides, and evenings filled with music, great food, and the magic of the desert night. Along the way, you’ll wind through the Atlas Mountains, discover Berber villages, and experience the rhythms of Khamlia, famous for its Gnawa music.

The adventure doesn’t stop in the desert, on your return you’ll explore Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most iconic ksars. With comfortable transport, hand-picked accommodations, and a knowledgeable local guide throughout, this extension is the perfect way to extend your time in North Africa, whether you’re coming from our Portugal & Morocco trip, or our Spain & Morocco one, this is a great way to experience more of Morocco if you have an extra few days. Check out the below itinerary and inclusions to learn more...

Itinerary

Day 1

Your adventure begins early in the morning as you depart from Marrakech towards the vast and magical Sahara Desert. Be prepared for a long but scenic day of travel; the journey to Merzouga takes over 10 hours by road, including several stops along the way to rest, stretch, and enjoy the changing landscapes. As you wind through the High Atlas Mountains and pass through Berber villages, the scenery shifts dramatically, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll head straight into the heart of the dunes for your overnight stay in a desert camp. Enjoy a warm welcome, a traditional dinner under the stars, and the peaceful silence of the Sahara before settling in for the night in your cozy tent.

Day 2

After breakfast at the camp, the day kicks off with a thrilling 4WD excursion through the dunes and surrounding desert areas. You’ll visit the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnawa music and vibrant culture, where you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch and have a chance to meet locals and learn about their way of life. In the late afternoon, return to the camp to prepare for a magical camel ride at sunset. As the sun dips below the dunes, enjoy the golden hues of the desert while sipping on a refreshing drink. The evening continues with dinner and another overnight in the tranquil desert camp.

Included Activities
• 4WD Khamlia day trip
• Lunch in Khamlia
• Sunset drinks
• Sunset camel ride

Day 3

Say goodbye to the desert and begin your journey towards Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient ksar and film-set charm. Along the way, enjoy scenic stops and take in the beauty of the southern Moroccan landscape. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour through the fortified village, exploring its alleys, clay buildings, and panoramic viewpoints. After the visit, settle into your accommodation for the night in Ait Benhaddou, where you can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Included Activities
• Guided tour in Ait Benhaddou
• Lunch in a local restaurant

Day 4

On the final day, depart from Ait Benhaddou and head back towards Marrakech. The drive will take you once again through the Atlas Mountains, offering one last chance to soak in the dramatic scenery. Upon arrival in Marrakech, if you don’t have an additional night in Marrakech, you will be transferred directly to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of an unforgettable Moroccan desert adventure.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

• 2 nights at Chebbi Desert Camp
• 1 night at Ksar Ighnda
• Full breakfast each morning, 2 lunches and 3 dinners
• Air-conditioned vehicle transfers throughout
• 1 English speaking tour leader throughout
• 4X4 (Toyota Prado or Mitsubishi Pajero) excursion in Merzouga / Khamlia 
• Sunset drinks (Day 2)
• Sunset camel ride (Day 2)
• Guided tour in Ait Benhaddou
• All taxes

IMPORTANT NOTE

• The drive on Day 1 will be over 10 hours by car (there is no other way to get to such a unique Sahara desert experience from Marrakech) 
• The departure flight should be for the evening (on Day 4) as the drive from Ait Benhaddou to Marrakech is around 5 hours including stops.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?

• Detours trip leader (this extension will have a local guide throughout, but not a Detours trip leader)
• Entry fees, attractions, activities not mentioned above
• Meals not listed above
• Optional gratuities to drivers and local guides 
  • For this program, tips are generally given as a group at the end of the trip and shared evenly among participants. For a group of 4 travelers, we suggest the following ranges per person for the entire 4-day journey:
    • Guide: 400–600 MAD (≈ €35–€55 / US$40–$60) 
    • Driver: 300–500 MAD (≈ €27–€45 / US$30–$50) 
  • These amounts reflect the length of the journey, long driving days, and the effort of ensuring your comfort and safety. If you feel the service has been exceptional, you are welcome to give more.
  • Note: Small gratuities for hotel staff, porters, or musicians (10–20 MAD) are also appreciated if service is provided.

PRICE

2 travelers: $2290 USD per person, double occupancy

3 travelers: $2090 USD per person, double occupancy -or- 2590 USD per person single occupancy

4 or more travelers: $1890 USD per person, double occupancy -or- $2390 USD per person, single occupancy

This Sahara extension can be added to either your Portugal & Morocco trip, or your Spain & Morocco trip by request - just let us know and we'll be happy to set it up for you! 

Please note that this extension is priced based on 2,3 or 4+ travelers. For 1 traveler, price is on request. 
Please inquire with us to confirm the current number of booked travelers.