Days
Cities
Km
%
Fun
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Dades Gorge
We’ll rendezvous in Marrakech and embark on a journey to Ouarzazate, passing through the breathtaking Tizi ntichka pass (2260m) atop the High Atlas Mountains. Marvel at the scenic vistas as we wind through Berber villages along the twisting road. Our first stop is the renowned Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, the largest in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a delightful lunch by the Kasbah, we’ll proceed to Dades Gorge via Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Our route continues along the “Road of the Thousand Kasbahs,” where we’ll encounter fascinating sand castles dotting the landscape. We’ll pause at Kalaat Mgouna, known as “the city of roses,” famous for its annual rose festival during the harvest in May. Finally, we’ll reach our hotel overlooking the picturesque Dades Valley. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful overnight stay at Hotel Xalucadades. (Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast included)
Day 2: Dades Gorge – Todra Gorge – Merzouga
Following breakfast at the hotel, we’ll embark on a journey back through the valley to witness the astonishing rock formation known as “the monkey toes” and visit the well-preserved 19th-century Kasbah of Ait Yul. Departing from the Dades valley, we’ll head towards Tinrghir and the Todra valley, enjoying panoramic views of ancient mud Berber villages perched atop the valley. Upon reaching the Todra Gorge, marvel at the 300m high red cliffs as we take a leisurely stroll beneath them, a favorite spot for rock climbers. Our journey continues to Erfoud and Rissani, where we’ll pause for a satisfying lunch. Afterward, we’ll proceed to the village of Merzouga, Youssef’s hometown, where your camel eagerly awaits you. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a refreshing glass of mint tea before checking into your accommodation at Riad Nezha. (Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast included)
Day 3: Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) and the Camel Trek
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, your exploration of the area begins with a visit to the village of the blacks, originally settled by Sudanese slaves, where you’ll immerse yourself in their music and lifestyle. Nearby, the Merzouga lake awaits with its diverse bird populations, including flamingos. You may also wish to explore the nomad wire house, where Berber handicrafts are often available at lower prices than in larger cities. In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a camel ride guided by an experienced camel man, venturing into the mysterious sand-sea of the Erg-Chebbi. Here, you’ll have the option to spend the night under the stars or in a traditional Berber nomad tent. Dinner will be served in the tent, where you’ll also spend the night. (Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast included)
Day 4: Merzouga to Ouarzazate
After breakfast with the Bedouin family, you’ll peacefully camel-trek back to the village of Merzouga, appreciating the unique beauty of the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes as they change with the light throughout the day. Arriving late morning back in Merzouga, you’ll have the chance to shower in the guesthouse before we depart for Rissani. Rissani, once Sijilmassa, is the foundation of the Alaouite dynasty, the current ruling family. With most women veiled and men hooded, it’s a very traditional Moroccan town. Continuing our journey, we’ll drive towards Agdez via Alnif and Tazarine, before reaching the fascinating Draa Valley at the edge of the Atlas Mountains, where hundreds of Berber Kasbahs line the landscape. You’ll arrive at your accommodation in the evening for an overnight stay at Riad Bouchedor. (Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast included)
Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech
After a luxurious breakfast at the Ksar, we’ll embark on our journey to Marrakech via Tizi n’Tishka, enjoying the panoramic views of the palm groves and the scenic moon-like landscape, dotted with Berber villages and the Saghro mountains. This area has been a popular location for Hollywood films, including The Last Temptation of Christ, Jewel of the Nile, and the Mummy. Our drive will take us through the majestic Tizin’tichka Pass (2260m) over the High Atlas Mountains, culminating in our arrival at your accommodation in Marrakech, where the tour concludes.
Thank you Morocco Expert Tours for this memory of a lifetime!