8 Days Family Adventure: Marrakech to Merzouga Desert and Back

Day 1: Arrival in the Red City

Upon your arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, our friendly team will be waiting to greet you and provide a seamless transfer to your pre-booked, family-friendly riad or hotel. The remainder of your day is completely free to settle in and relax at your own pace.

This is the perfect time for the family to take a refreshing dip in the pool and unwind after your travels, allowing everyone to adjust to the vibrant energy of Morocco gradually. We ensure your first evening is calm and stress-free, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Unveiling the Magic of Marrakech

After a delicious breakfast, you’ll meet your knowledgeable local guide for a specially tailored, family-focused tour of Marrakech’s highlights. The day is designed to be engaging for children, starting with a visit to the serene and colourful Majorelle Garden, a botanical oasis that will captivate everyone’s imagination.

You’ll then explore the history and intricate architecture of the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs. To give little legs a rest and enjoy a different perspective, we include a fun, horse-drawn carriage (caleche) ride around the ancient city walls.

In the late afternoon, you’ll experience the unforgettable spectacle of Jemaa el-Fnaa square, best viewed from the relaxed vantage point of a rooftop café where you can watch the world go by without being in the midst of the crowds.

Day 3: Journey Over the Atlas Mountains to the Dades Valley

Your road adventure begins today as we depart Marrakech and cross the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass through the High Atlas Mountains. We’ll make several stops at scenic viewpoints for photos and to let the kids marvel at the stunning landscapes.

The first major stop is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified village that has starred in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones; for children, it’s a real-life castle to explore.

After lunch, we continue to Ouarzazate, where film-loving families can opt for a visit to the Atlas Film Studios. Our day ends in the dramatic Dades Valley, where you’ll check into your hotel and the kids can immediately enjoy a well-deserved splash in the swimming pool.

Day 4: Gorges and Golden Dunes – Entering the Sahara

After breakfast, we take a short drive to the magnificent Todra Gorge, where your family can enjoy a gentle, flat walk along the riverbank between the towering 300-meter canyon walls—it’s a natural playground perfect for climbing on small rocks and skipping stones. We then continue our journey towards the Sahara Desert, with the excitement building as the first golden dunes of Erg Chebbi appear on the horizon.

Upon arrival in Merzouga, you’ll switch from your vehicle to gentle camels for a magical sunset trek into the heart of the dunes (each child has their own camel; a 4×4 is available for toddlers). You’ll arrive at your luxury desert camp as the stars begin to appear, ready for an evening of sandboarding, a delicious campfire dinner, and incredible stargazing.

Day 5: A Full Day of Desert Discovery

Today is a flexible day dedicated entirely to the wonders of the desert, allowing your family to choose your own adventure based on everyone’s energy levels. Early risers can climb a dune for a spectacular sunrise. After breakfast at the camp, you’ll return to your desert auberge.

Options for the day include an exciting 4×4 desert safari to visit a nomadic family and a local fossil workshop, where kids learn the desert was once an ocean floor.

Alternatively, older children might enjoy quad biking (age-dependent), or the whole family can simply relax and swim at the auberge’s pool. This day is all about immersion and relaxation without any rush.

Day 6: Scenic Return Journey via the Draa Valley

After breakfast, we begin our return journey towards Ouarzazate via a different and incredibly scenic route. This drive takes us through the former trading town of Rissani and onto the road through Alnif, showcasing vast, dramatic rock formations.

The highlight is the breathtaking Draa Valley, the longest river valley in Morocco, which is lined with a continuous, lush palm grove and dotted with ancient kasbahs. This journey is a visual feast and offers a peaceful contrast to the desert sands. We arrive at our hotel in Ouarzazate in the afternoon, with time to relax by the pool.

Day 7: Back Over the Mountains to Marrakech

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Ouarzazate before we embark on the final leg of our circular tour, crossing the High Atlas Mountains once more. The journey is broken up with stops for photos and the opportunity to browse for last-minute souvenirs at local artisan cooperatives.

We will arrive back in Marrakech in the afternoon, giving you time for some final exploration of the souks, a last swim, or simply some relaxation before your final night in Morocco.

Day 8: Departure with a Treasure Trove of Memories

Savour one last traditional Moroccan breakfast at your riad. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for any last-minute activities.

You will then be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure, bidding farewell to Morocco with a camera full of photos and a heart full of incredible family memories.

Every family is unique. If this itinerary doesn’t perfectly fit your dreams, dates, or your children’s ages and interests, please just contact us.

We specialize in crafting 100% customized journeys. Whether you want to add more days, include a cooking class, stay in a specific type of accommodation, or adjust the pace, we will work with you to create the perfect Moroccan adventure for your family.

Let’s build your dream trip together!