8 days - from Marrakech to Agadir via Atlas mountains and Desert

Tour Overview

This 8-day adventure from Marrakech to Agadir takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert. Start with a journey over the stunning High Atlas Mountains to visit the historic Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate. Experience desert life in Merzouga with camel rides and captivating sunset views over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Discover the dramatic Todra Gorges and Dades Valley before returning to Marrakech to explore its vibrant markets and rich culture. Finally, unwind in Essaouira's coastal charm and conclude your trip in Agadir, where you can enjoy local markets and scenic views. A perfect blend of adventure and Moroccan culture!

Day 1: Marrakech to Boumalne Dades

Morning:

  • Depart from Marrakech early in the morning, around 7:00 AM, to make the most of the day.

  • Drive through the stunning High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass (the highest major mountain pass in North Africa at 2,260 meters), taking in panoramic views of Berber villages nestled into the mountainside and lush valleys.

  • Stop at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most famous Ksars (fortified villages), where you can explore the ancient mud-brick structures and climb to the top for a view of the surrounding landscape. You may recognize the location from famous films like "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones."

Afternoon:

  • Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara," and visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a sprawling fortress that was once the residence of the Glaoui family. Wander through the maze-like structure, discovering its rich history and beautifully decorated rooms.

  • Optional: Visit the Atlas Film Studios, the largest film studio in the world, where movies like "Lawrence of Arabia" and "The Mummy" were filmed.

  • After lunch in Ouarzazate, drive along the scenic Valley of Roses, known for its rose water production, especially during springtime when the roses are in bloom.

  • Continue to Boumalne Dades, a small town located in the Dades Valley, surrounded by rugged, dramatic landscapes.

Evening:

  • Enjoy a leisurely evening in Boumalne Dades, taking in the breathtaking views of the Dades Gorge, with its unique rock formations known as "Monkey Fingers".

  • Settle into your accommodation, which might be a traditional Moroccan guesthouse (Riad) or a hotel with views of the gorge.

  • Have dinner featuring local Berber cuisine, and spend some time under the clear desert sky, possibly stargazing if the night is clear.

Day 2: Boumalne Dades to Merzouga

Morning:

  • After breakfast, explore more of the Dades Gorge, taking a short walk or hike to appreciate the striking rock formations and vibrant green valleys that contrast with the barren mountains.

  • Head toward the Todra Gorge, where the towering canyon walls rise up to 300 meters high, making it a spectacular spot for hiking or even a quick swim in the Todra River.

  • As you continue, drive along the Road of 1000 Kasbahs, dotted with ancient fortified villages and Kasbahs, providing excellent photo opportunities of Morocco's historical and architectural richness.

Afternoon:

  • Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the vast Erg Chebbi dunes of the Sahara Desert. Merzouga is famous for its golden dunes that stretch endlessly towards the horizon.

  • Option to take a camel trek into the desert, riding into the sunset as the sand dunes glow orange and gold. Alternatively, a 4x4 excursion is available if you prefer a more comfortable journey into the dunes.

  • As you reach the desert camp, enjoy a warm welcome with mint tea.

Evening:

  • Settle into your traditional Berber camp, where you’ll sleep under a sky full of stars in either a basic tent or a more luxurious glamping-style tent.

  • After a hearty traditional Berber dinner of Tagine or Couscous, enjoy live Berber music around a campfire, listening to the rhythmic beats of drums and stories of the desert.

  • Before going to bed, take some time to absorb the surreal silence and vastness of the Sahara Desert.

Day 3: Begin with an early morning sunrise watch over the sand dunes

Followed by a 4x4 tour around the Erg Chebbi sand dunes. Visit a Berber nomad family and learn about their lifestyle before returning to the desert camp for another night.

Day 4: The journey continues from Merzouga back to Ouarzazate

Taking a different route via Rissani, Alnif, and the Agdz valley. This includes a drive back to Merzouga and on to Rissani, a visit to the local market and the ruins of Sijelmassa, and driving through Alnif, the Agdz valley and the Draa Valley to visit Kasbahs The day ends with an arrival in Ouarzazate for the night after a 6-7 hour drive.

Day 5: Explore Ouarzazate by visiting the Taourirt Kasbah to marrakech.

Then drive through the Atlas Mountains with a stop at Ait Benhaddou for lunch, followed by a 2-3 hour journey to Marrakech to spend the night.

Day 6: Enjoy a full day tour around the city of Marrakech,

With visits to the Bahia Palace Saadian Tombs, medina, souks, Koutoubia Mosque, and Jardin Majorelle end the day with a memorable evening at Djemaa El-Fna square.

Day 7: Depart Marrakech and drive to Essaouira

A journey of about 2-3 hours. Explore the Skala de la Ville and the port, walk around the medina and beach, and spend the night in Essaouira.

Day 8: On the final day

Depart Essaouira and embark on a 3-4 hour drive to Agadir. Once there, visit the Souk El Had the Agadir and the Agadir Oufella Kasbah before settling down for the night in Agadir.

What is included :

  • Private Transport AC Minibus with English speaking guide/driver or spanish
  • Pick up & Drop off at your accommodation.
  • 1  guide tour english speaking or spanish.
  • 1 night at the hotel / riad.
  • 1 night at the desert camp (Private tents).
  • Camel Trekking in the Sahara Merzouga.
  • Dinner & Breakfast

What is not included:

  • Lunch.
  • dinner 4 days.
  • Drinks.
  • Entrance fees, other personal expenses and gratuities.