Experience the best of Morocco’s southern landscapes with a 6 days adventure from Marrakech to the iconic deserts of Merzouga and Zagora. This journey offers a blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and Sahara Desert adventure. From the ancient kasbahs of the Atlas Mountains to the vast dunes of Merzouga and Zagora, you’ll discover the magic of Morocco’s desert regions, rich in history and Berber traditions. This tour is designed for those seeking both adventure and authenticity in the heart of Morocco.
Your hotel
8:00 AM
Your journey begins with a morning departure from Marrakech, heading toward the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we will pass through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. We stop at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most famous kasbahs. This fortified village, dating back to the 17th century, is a stunning example of Moroccan earthen architecture and has been featured in numerous films, including “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.” After exploring the kasbah, we’ll continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, we travel to Skoura, home to beautiful palm groves and ancient kasbahs. We visit the famous Amridil Kasbah, a symbol of the region’s rich history. Continuing our journey, we reach the stunning Dades Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes and the “Valley of the Roses.” Along the way, we pass through Berber villages and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, we stay in a traditional guesthouse in Dades Valley, where you can relax and take in the serene desert atmosphere.
On Day 3, we begin our day by visiting Todra Gorge, a stunning natural wonder where dramatic cliffs reach up to 300 meters in height, creating a narrow passage that has been carved out by centuries of water erosion. This gorge is a paradise for hikers and photographers, offering the perfect blend of rugged beauty and tranquility. After spending time in the gorge, we head to Erfoud, a town famous for its fossils and paleontological significance. Erfoud’s surroundings are rich in fossilized remains from ancient sea life that once thrived in the region, and you can visit local workshops where artisans craft beautiful fossil products.
Continuing our journey, we make our way toward Merzouga, a village on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the vast Erg Chebbi dunes, one of Morocco’s most iconic desert landscapes. You’ll then ride camels across the golden sands, experiencing the peaceful and surreal desert surroundings. After a short ride, you’ll arrive at a traditional Berber camp nestled in the dunes, where you will be welcomed with mint tea and a traditional Moroccan dinner. As night falls, the starry sky above the desert creates an unforgettable atmosphere, and you can sleep in cozy desert tents, fully immersed in the magic of the Sahara. This experience offers a deep connection to Morocco’s nomadic traditions and the timeless beauty of the desert.
Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the towering Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast, we journey to Zagora, a desert town located on the edge of the Sahara. Along the way, we stop in Rissani, an ancient town known for its historical significance as the former capital of the Tafilalet region and the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty. Continuing through the vast desert landscapes, we arrive in Zagora, where you will enjoy a camel trek and spend the night in a desert camp, experiencing the beauty of the Zagora dunes.
Today, we travel through the Draa Valley, one of Morocco’s most scenic and historically significant regions. The valley, lined with palm groves and kasbahs, was once a crucial point on the trans-Saharan trade routes. We visit the ancient ksours (fortified villages) and explore the beautiful palm groves. We continue to Ouarzazate for an overnight stay, where you can visit the Taourirt Kasbah and enjoy the town’s famous film studios.
On the final day, we begin our journey back to Marrakech, retracing our steps through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. As we approach Marrakech, we reflect on the highlights of the tour and the unforgettable experiences in the desert. We arrive in Marrakech by the evening, where your 6 days desert adventure concludes.