A shared desert tour from Marrakech is the easiest way to reach the Sahara if you travel alone, as a couple or on a budget. In fact, you share the vehicle, the driver and the desert camp with other travellers, so the cost is split. In this guide, we explain how our 3 and 4 day group tours work, and how to choose between them.
What Is a Shared Desert Tour from Marrakech?
In general, a shared Sahara desert tour is a small group trip on fixed dates. You join other travellers in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, with an English-speaking driver. Then, together, you cross the High Atlas, visit the kasbahs and gorges, ride camels into the dunes and sleep in a desert camp.
3 Day Shared Desert Tour from Marrakech
The 3 day shared desert tour is the most popular choice. To begin with, you leave Marrakech in the morning and cross the Tizi n’Tichka pass. Then you stop at the UNESCO ksar of Ait Ben Haddou and sleep near the Dades gorge. On day two, you walk in the Todra gorge, before a camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes at Merzouga and a night in camp. Finally, after sunrise, you drive back to Marrakech.
However, the drives are long, so this option suits travellers who are short on time.
4 Day Shared Desert Tour from Marrakech
The 4 day shared desert tour follows a calmer pace. As a result, you spend more time in the gorges and the desert, with shorter driving days. In addition, the extra day leaves time for the villages around Merzouga, for example Khamlia and its Gnawa music.
3 or 4 Days: Which Shared Sahara Tour Should You Choose?
| Point | 3 days | 4 days |
|---|---|---|
| Driving per day | Long | Shorter |
| Time in the dunes | One night | More time in the desert area |
| Best for | Short stays | Relaxed travellers and families |
What Is Included in a Shared Desert Tour?
- Transport in a shared air-conditioned vehicle with a driver.
- Nights in hotels or guesthouses and a desert camp.
- A camel ride into the dunes at sunset.
- Breakfast and dinner on most days.
On the other hand, lunches, drinks, local guides and tips are usually extra. Therefore, always check the inclusions before you book.
What to Pack for a Shared Sahara Desert Tour
Above all, bring a small bag for the desert night, a warm layer, a scarf, sunscreen and sunglasses. Also read what to wear in the Sahara desert and the Merzouga weather by month.
Shared or Private?
Finally, if you want your own vehicle, flexible stops or a luxury camp, a private trip is better. For example, see our private 3 day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga and read private vs shared desert tour.
FAQ: Shared Desert Tour from Marrakech
How many people join a shared desert tour?
It depends on the departure. Contact us, and we will tell you the group size for your dates.
Is a shared desert tour from Marrakech safe?
Yes, in general it is safe, because you travel with a licensed driver and stay in established camps.
How much is a shared desert tour from Marrakech?
Prices depend on the date and the camp, so ask us for the current price.
Join our next shared departure: our group tours run on fixed dates from Marrakech, for 3 or 4 days. Ask us for dates and prices, or message us on WhatsApp. Prefer your own vehicle and pace? See our private tours from Marrakech.
