Marrakesh, Ait Ben Haddou, Dades Gorges

Ait Ben Haddou - Begin the journey with a pick-up from your hotel or riad in Marrakesh, embarking on an exciting adventure through Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains and Sahara Dunes. Today, reach the highest point of the trip at over 7,000 feet (2,260 meters), traveling on steep and winding roads. This small group tour offers ample opportunities to appreciate and understand the regional landscapes and traditions. Drive through Tizi N’Tichka and pause at Ait Ben-Haddou early in the afternoon. Admire Ait Ben-Haddou, a 12th-century fortified city, a prime example of classic Southern Moroccan architecture. Join a local guide for a tour or explore at your own pace.

Skoura - After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive past ancient kasbah ruins, former colonial military outposts, and valleys filled with palm trees and irrigated fields. This area has been the backdrop for films like Lawrence of Arabia, The Sheltering Sky, and Black Hawk Down. Pass through Ouarzazate and stop at Skoura to discover Kasbah Amridil, a 12th-century fortified palace, and Skoura’s palmeraie, known as the ‘Oasis of 3000 Palms.’ Under the lush canopy, a 15-mile patchwork of plots is nourished by an ingenious, centuries-old khettara (underground irrigation system) of canals, levers, and locks. Over 100 bird species thrive here, along with more than 20 varieties of dates.

Vallee Des Roses - Just 40 minutes from Skoura lies the Valley of Roses. With almond trees blooming from February, fruit trees, and various crops, it is often called the orchard of southern Morocco, abundantly watered by the wadis descending from the High Atlas. It is also known as the “Valley of 1000 Kasbahs” due to the numerous adobe fortresses, reminiscent of the times when Amazigh tribes from the mountains and desert clashed. Arrive in the land of roses, a picturesque scene of timeless Moroccan kasbahs and adobe houses on the edge of the M’goun Valley. According to legend, Amazigh pilgrims brought roses back three centuries ago and planted them on the slopes of M’goun. Since then, the collection of semi-wild buds with a peppery scent occurs every May, bringing the entire valley to life. After the harvest, the Mgouna tribes descend to Kelaa for three days of celebration where rose water flows freely.

Dades Gorges - Arrive at Dades Canyon in the early evening and check into the Riad. Experience the authentic atmosphere of the Dades Gorges or spend the evening at leisure. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a Riad in Dades Canyon.
Special Information: Check into the Riad in Dades Gorges and ensure cameras and phones are charged before the day’s adventure.

Merzouga via Todgha

Dades Gorges - This morning, immerse yourself in the true atmosphere of the Dades Gorges and admire this natural wonder. A magnificent experience awaits in the valley! The Dades Canyon, originating in the High Atlas, has formed one of Morocco’s most spectacular canyons. The heart of the valley is a refreshing haven where you will encounter stunning landscapes and interact with a true Nomadic family. The valley is covered with exceptionally lush nature.

Todra River - Visit another hidden gem of the Atlas, the Todra Gorges. This deep ravine, carved by the Todra River over millennia, features a 300m-deep fault that splits the orange limestone into a narrow gorge, just wide enough for a crystal-clear river and single-file trekkers. The road from Tinerhir passes through green palmeraies and Berber villages until the high walls of pink and grey rock close in around the road. The approach is thrilling, as if the doors of heaven were about to close before you.

Merzouga Desert - After lunch in Todra Gorges, continue driving east, making several stops before arriving at the Merzouga Desert dunes early in the evening. The tour leader will assist in communicating and interacting with the welcoming locals. Enjoy a camel ride, witness an incredible sunset, and settle into your Sahara camp, surrounded by dunes, feeling the adventurous spirit of explorers of old.
Special Information: The camp is simple, with bedding and basic toilet facilities provided. The blankets are usually sufficient for most travelers between April and October, but bringing a sleeping bag for extra warmth is advisable, especially from November to March. Electricity is not available in the camp, so ensure phones, cameras, and other devices are fully charged.

Merzouga, Agdez, Marrakesh

Agdz - Today, leave the open desert dunes behind and set off for Marrakesh. Pause for lunch in Agdez, a classic caravanserai oasis with a pristine palmeraie, ancient mudbrick kasbahs, and a secret desert prison. As you approach the town, the tajine-shaped mountain Jebel Kissane appears on the horizon.

Marrakech - Arrive at your hotel in Marrakesh early in the evening, marking the end of the tour. Always committed to ensuring a pleasant journey.

• Private transportation
• Skoura - Kasbah and Oasis visit
• Dinner
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Breakfast
• All fees and/or taxes
• Hotel pickup / drop off service
• Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk
• Sahara Desert - Camel Ride (2 Hours)

• Gratuities or personal expenses

From the vibrant, bustling medinas of Marrakech to the peaceful, expansive Sahara desert, this journey plunges you into the diverse cultures and scenery of Morocco. Experience traditional lodging and discover remote villages. Savor delectable tagine dishes, traverse sand dunes on a camel while the sun casts an enchanting glow on the horizon, observe sprawling landscapes, natural marvels, towns steeped in cultural heritage, and enjoy a memorable night under the stars in the Sahara. Discover the authentic Morocco, from its well-known attractions to its everyday life charms. This 3-day expedition is ideal for visitors wishing to experience the variety of Morocco’s south in a brief timeframe.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.