Discover the true heart of Morocco on this 5-day desert tour, starting and finishing in Marrakech. This tour is a spectacular blend of landscapes, guiding you through the dramatic passes of the High Atlas and through historic, spectacular canyons. The highlight is a two-night stay in the vast Sahara, including a truly memorable visit to a local nomad encampment. You will traverse remote landscapes and secret villages before completing your journey back in the city.
Your tour begins with a pickup from your Marrakech hotel. We’ll ascend into the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass with stops for photos. Enjoy lunch in Ait Ben Haddou or Ouarzazate. In the afternoon, drive along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” passing through the fragrant Rose Valley (especially beautiful in spring) and the palm groves of the Skoura Oasis. You’ll spend the night in the Dades Valley, where your hotel offers stunning views of the unique rock formations known as “Monkey Fingers.”
Accommodation: Hotel in Dades Valley (Dinner included).
After breakfast, we drive to the impressive Todra Gorge for a walk between its towering canyon walls. Continue towards the desert, arriving at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga by late afternoon. Here, you’ll mount camels for a serene trek into the dunes. Enjoy the sunset and perhaps try sandboarding on the golden slopes before arriving at your traditional desert camp. The evening features a hearty dinner, Berber music by the fire, and a night in a private tent under a sky full of stars.
Accommodation: Private tent at a desert camp (Dinner included).
Wake early for a breathtaking desert sunrise. After breakfast at the camp, a 4×4 vehicle will pick you up for a full day of discovery. Visit a nomadic family in their traditional tent to share tea and learn about their way of life. Explore a hidden abandoned village and old mines. Your journey continues to Khamlia village for a lively performance of spiritual Gnawa music and a local lunch. If conditions permit, we may visit a seasonal desert lake. The day concludes at a comfortable riad in Merzouga village.
Accommodation: Riad/Hotel in Merzouga.
After breakfast, depart Merzouga and stop at the bustling traditional market in Rissani. Then, embark on a scenic drive through the magnificent Draa Valley, one of Morocco’s longest rivers, lined with endless palm groves and ancient kasbahs. Stop in Agdez for panoramic views before arriving in Ouarzazate in the afternoon.
Accommodation: Riad/Hotel in Ouarzazate.
Enjoy a morning in Ouarzazate. You may choose to visit the Taourirt Kasbah or the famous film studios (entrance fees not included). Next, we revisit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou for further exploration. Our return journey to Marrakech takes us back over the High Atlas, with a stop at the fascinating Telouet Kasbah, the former palace of the Glaoui lords. You’ll arrive back in Marrakech by early evening, where your tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel.
