Embark on a mesmerizing 7-day journey from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert, a tour that blends Morocco’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and age-old traditions. This week-long adventure will take you across the majestic Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, lush oases, and the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. Ideal for travelers looking for an immersive experience, this tour promises to create unforgettable memories.
Highlights
Breathtaking Landscapes: From the High Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, every moment is a visual delight.
Cultural Immersion: Interact with Berber communities, visit ancient kasbahs, and experience traditional Gnawa music.
Unforgettable Adventures: Camel trekking, stargazing in the desert, and exploring iconic landmarks like Ait Benhaddou.
Delicious Moroccan Cuisine: Savor authentic Moroccan dishes, from tagines to fresh dates from the Draa Valley.
Itinerary
Day 01 :
Marrakech Arrival and Exploration
Welcome to Marrakech
Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Marrakech, where you will be greeted with the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. Known as the “Red City,” Marrakech is a lively hub of history, culture, and art.
Exploring the Medina
Spend the afternoon exploring the bustling Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the winding alleys of the souks, brimming with colorful textiles, aromatic spices, and intricate crafts. Don’t miss the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where street performers, food vendors, and musicians create a lively atmosphere.
Overnight in Marrakech
Relax in a traditional riad, an authentic Moroccan guesthouse, and prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 02 :
Marrakech to Dades Valley via Ait Benhaddou
Crossing the High Atlas Mountains
Depart Marrakech and journey over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass through the High Atlas Mountains, offering stunning panoramic views of dramatic peaks and Berber villages.
Visit Ait Benhaddou
Stop at the world-famous Ait Benhaddou, an ancient kasbah and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its historic clay structures and learn about its role in both Moroccan history and Hollywood films.
Arrival at Dades Valley
Pass through the city of Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” before arriving in the picturesque Dades Valley. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and spend the night in a cozy riad nestled among the valley’s red rock formations.
Day 03 :
Dades Valley to Merzouga via Todra Gorge
Exploring Todra Gorge
After breakfast, head to Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon with towering cliffs that rise over 300 meters. Walk along the river and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Arrive in Merzouga
Travel through the desert landscapes to reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, you’ll prepare for an unforgettable desert adventure.
Camel Trek and Desert Camp
Ride a camel across the golden dunes during sunset, an experience that feels straight out of a dream. Arrive at a luxury desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars and spend the night in a comfortable tent surrounded by the serene silence of the Sahara.
Day 04 :
Merzouga Desert Exploration
Sunrise Over the Dunes
Wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the dunes, a breathtaking spectacle that will stay with you forever.
Explore the Desert
Spend the day exploring the desert landscapes and local culture. Visit a nomadic Berber village, where you can learn about their unique way of life. Stop by the nearby village of Khamlia, famous for its Gnawa music, a traditional African-Moroccan genre.
Relax at the Camp
Return to your desert camp for dinner and a relaxing evening. Enjoy some time stargazing under the clear desert sky.
Day 05 :
Merzouga to Zagora via Alnif
Journey to Zagora
Leave Merzouga and travel through the rugged Saghro Mountains, passing the small town of Alnif. Enjoy stunning views of the barren desert landscape and stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
Exploring Zagora
Arrive in Zagora, known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Visit the iconic Timbuktu sign, which marks the historic trade route. Spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse.
Day 06 :
Zagora to Ouarzazate via the Draa Valley
Draa Valley Adventure
Begin your day with a scenic drive through the lush Draa Valley, home to one of the largest palm groves in Morocco. Admire the traditional Berber villages and kasbahs that line the valley.
Return to Ouarzazate
Continue your journey to Ouarzazate, where you can revisit the Taourirt Kasbah or the Atlas Film Studios, famous for their role in countless international films.
Overnight in Ouarzazate
Enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful night in a charming riad.
Day 07 :
Ouarzazate to Marrakech
Scenic Return to Marrakech
Retrace your steps across the High Atlas Mountains as you return to Marrakech. Make stops along the way to capture stunning photos and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Farewell Dinner
Upon arrival in Marrakech, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant. Reflect on the unforgettable moments and experiences of your week-long journey.
Cost
The Cost Includes
Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Professional English-speaking guide and driver.
Accommodation in riads, hotels, and a luxury desert camp.
Daily breakfast and select dinners.
Guided tours in Fes and Marrakech.
Camel trekking experience in the Sahara Desert.
The Cost Excludes
Lunches and drinks
Entrance fees to sites
Tips for guides and drivers
FAQs
Is the 7-day tour private or shared?
This tour is typically private, offering a dedicated driver/guide and a flexible itinerary. Shared departures may be available upon request.
What type of accommodation is included?
You will stay in:
Traditional riads in cities and villages
Boutique hotels in valleys/mountain regions
A Sahara desert camp in Merzouga (standard or luxury private tents)
Is camel trekking included during the desert experience?
Yes — a sunset camel trek in the Erg Chebbi dunes is included, with the option for a sunrise camel ride the following morning.
What meals are included?
Daily breakfasts
Dinners at the desert camp and sometimes at accommodations in Dades or Ouarzazate Lunches and drinks are not included.
Does the tour return to Marrakech?
Yes — the 7-day tour is usually a round-trip starting and ending in Marrakech, exploring the High Atlas Mountains, Dades Valley, Todgha Gorge, Merzouga, and more.