1. – 6-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

-Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley via Rose Valley and Skoura Oasis
Your desert adventure kicks off with a departure from the lively city of Marrakech, heading towards the Dades Valley. As you ascend through the High Atlas Mountains, you’ll pass through the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass, taking in the breathtaking views of the rugged terrain and traditional Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides. Your first major stop is the Skoura Oasis, known for its vast palm groves and the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil, a historic fortress that offers a glimpse into traditional Moroccan architecture and way of life.

After exploring the Skoura Oasis, continue your journey to the Rose Valley, famous for its fragrant roses and the annual Rose Festival. The valley is dotted with small villages and lush fields where roses are cultivated, filling the air with a sweet aroma. You’ll have the opportunity to visit a local cooperative where rose products are made, including rosewater, oils, and perfumes.

In the afternoon, you’ll continue to the Dades Valley, where you’ll check into your guesthouse or kasbah for the night. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and relax in the serene surroundings of the valley.

Highlights:
– Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
– Visit the historic Kasbah Amridil in the Skoura Oasis.
– Explore the fragrant Rose Valley and visit a local rose cooperative.
– Overnight stay in the picturesque Dades Valley.

Day 2: Trekking in Dades Valley
After a hearty breakfast, prepare for a day of exploration on foot as you embark on a guided trek through the Dades Valley. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll hike through the valley’s diverse landscapes, including its famous “Monkey Fingers” rock formations—an otherworldly sight that adds to the valley’s unique charm. As you walk through the valley,

you’ll pass lush green fields, terraced farms, and small Berber communities, offering a glimpse into traditional rural life in Morocco. Around midday, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch in a beautiful spot, surrounded by the natural beauty of the valley. After lunch, continue your trek, taking in the fresh air and stunning vistas before returning to your accommodation in the late afternoon. The day ends with a delicious dinner and time to unwind.

Highlights:
– Trek through the stunning Dades Valley with a local guide.
– Marvel at the unique “Monkey Fingers” rock formations.
– Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch in the heart of nature.

Day 3: Dades Valley to Merzouga:
Today, you’ll leave the Dades Valley and head deeper into Morocco’s desert regions. The journey takes you through the breathtaking Todra Gorge, where sheer cliffs rise dramatically on either side of the narrow canyon.

You’ll have time to explore the gorge on foot, perhaps even dipping your toes in the cool waters of the Todra River. Afterward, continue your journey through ever-changing landscapes, passing through small towns and desert plains, until you reach Merzouga, a village on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Here, you’ll switch to a 4×4 vehicle or camel for a trek into the vast Erg Chebbi dunes. As the sun begins to set, casting golden hues over the desert, you’ll arrive at your luxury desert camp, where you’ll be welcomed with traditional tea and a warm meal. Spend the night under the starry desert sky, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the Sahara.

Highlights:
– Explore the stunning Todra Gorge.
– Experience a camel or 4×4 trek into the Sahara Desert.
– Overnight in a luxury desert camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes.

Day 4: Discover Merzouga:
Wake up early to witness one of the Sahara’s most magical moments—the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast at your camp, you’ll spend the day discovering the unique culture and landscapes of the Merzouga region. Visit nearby nomadic communities, learning about their way of life and the challenges of living in such an arid environment.

You’ll also have the chance to explore fossil quarries, where ancient marine fossils embedded in the desert rock tell the story of the Sahara’s prehistoric past. A visit to Khamlia village, famous for its Gnawa music, offers an opportunity to experience the spiritual rhythms and traditions of this ethnic group. For those seeking more adventure, optional activities like sandboarding or ATV riding are available. Alternatively, you can join a cooking class in a traditional Berber house, where you’ll learn to prepare a delicious Moroccan meal. The day ends with a return to your desert camp or a cozy riad in Merzouga for dinner and relaxation.

Highlights:
– Witness the sunrise over the Sahara.
– Visit nomadic communities and the musical village of Khamlia.
– Optional activities include sandboarding, ATV riding, or a cooking class.

Day 5: Merzouga to Ouarzazate:
After breakfast, it’s time to leave the desert behind as you embark on a journey to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Desert.” The drive takes you through the vast and varied landscapes of southern Morocco, with a stop at the town of Rissani. Known for its lively market and historical significance as a major trading post on the caravan routes, Rissani is a great place to explore local culture and purchase souvenirs. Continuing your journey,

you’ll travel through the Draa Valley, renowned for its endless palm groves, traditional kasbahs, and stunning scenery. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Ouarzazate, a city famous for its role in the film industry, as many blockbuster movies have been shot here. You’ll have the chance to visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a well-preserved fortress, and the Atlas Film Studios, where you can see sets from famous films. Check into your hotel for the night, where dinner will be served.

Highlights:
– Visit the historic market town of Rissani.
– Drive through the lush Draa Valley.
– Explore Ouarzazate, including the Taourirt Kasbah and Atlas Film Studios.

Day 6: Ouarzazate to Marrakech:
Your final day begins with a visit to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most iconic locations. This fortified village, with its earthen buildings and winding alleyways, has been featured in numerous films and offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s architectural heritage. After exploring Ait Benhaddou,

you’ll continue your journey over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road pass in Morocco. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos. As you descend into the plains, you’ll return to Marrakech by late afternoon, where your tour concludes. You’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, leaving you with memories of an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.

Highlights:
– Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou.
– Cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass with panoramic mountain views.
– Return to Marrakech, where the tour ends.