4 Days Desert Trip from Marrakech

1st DAY
Marrakech | High Atlas | Tizi n’Tichka | Kasbah Ait Benhaddou | Ouarzazate | Skoura | Valley of the Roses | Dades Valley (km 330).
After breakfast, departure from the Riad where you are staying, towards the south, passing through the high Atlas mountains on the Col du Tichka pass (2260 m), from where you can admire the spectacular landscapes of the High Atlas and the numerous nomadic Berber villages that populate the mountain . You will visit Ksar Ait Benhaddou, a splendid sand castle nestled in a field of almond trees, a film set for films such as “Lawrence of Arabia” and “Tea in the Desert”, a Kasbah so proud that it has become a UNESCO world heritage site. Arrival in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa”, home to important film studios and a spectacular context in which films such as “Gladiator”, “Obelix”, or “The Jewel of the Nile” were shot, where you will visit (optional ) the Atlas Studies. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to admire the Skoura palm groves. Continue towards Boumalne Dades, crossing the Valley of Roses, Kelaa M’Gouna, famous for the cultivation of the latter, celebrated in a festival, where it will be possible to stop to buy rose or Argan-based products. Overnight stay in Boumalne Dades in Riad.

2nd DAY
Dades Valley | Tinghir | Todra Gorges | Merzouga | Erg Chebbi (km 270).
We will leave immediately after breakfast to admire the suggestive morning lights that illuminate the Dades Valley, stopping at panoramic points from where you can take beautiful photographs. Also called “The street of a thousand Kasbahs”, the Dades Valley is known for the numerous mud and straw buildings that served as defensive castles. You will be struck by the landscapes interrupted by oases, palm groves and beautiful Kasbahs. We will cross the Todra Gorges, bordering the Jebel Saghro mountain range to reach the canyons famous for climbing. Along the route, it will be possible to stop in Tinghir, a town nestled in a scenic valley. Continuation of the journey to Merzouga: here you will leave the 4×4, sip the welcome tea, symbol of an ancient lifestyle, and begin a dromedary trek, lasting approximately an hour and a half, for a magnificent observation of the sand dunes at sunset. Return to camp at the foot of the dunes for dinner and overnight stay in a private tent.

3rd DAY
Merzouga | Rissani | Erfoud | Ziz Valley | Midelt (km 274).
We will wake up early, at dawn, to admire the spectacle of the sun rising from the dunes. We will once again enter the heart of the dunes to watch the sunrise and then return for a delicious breakfast. The journey will continue towards Rissani, where we will be able to admire the lively souq and pay a visit to the Moulay Ali Cherif Mosque. City of significant importance, in the past, for the caravan exchanges between Morocco and Sub-Saharan Africa which took place in the ancient city of Sijlmassa, on the outskirts of Rissani. We will continue through Erfoud, a town characterized by the processing of fossils. We will cross the Ziz Valley full of green palm groves and small Berber villages that preserve the local Berber culture intact. Through ever-changing landscapes, we will arrive in Midelt, in the Middle Atlas mountains, for dinner and an overnight stay in a hotel/Riad.

4th DAY
Midelt | Azrou | Ifrane | Fez (km 200).
After breakfast, departure from Midelt for the imperial city of Fes, crossing the landscapes of the Middle Atlas chain. We will continue to Azrou, a centuries-old cedar forest inhabited by numerous families of barber macaques who live in the forest. We will pass through Ifrane and reach Fes in the late afternoon where you will be accompanied to your Riad/Hotel.

What Makes the “Cultural Odyssey” Exceptional?

• Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the music, dance, and storytelling of Morocco’s diverse cultures.
• Expert Guides: Our guides are passionate about Moroccan culture and are dedicated to providing an educational and memorable experience.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Enjoy comfortable desert camping with modern amenities.
• Culinary Delights: Savor traditional Moroccan dishes prepared by skilled chefs.
• Scenic Drives: Traverse stunning desert landscapes during comfortable drives.
• Safe and Secure: Your safety is our priority, and our experienced guides ensure a secure journey.

FAQs

Is this expedition suitable for all ages? Yes, the “Cultural Odyssey” is designed to be inclusive and suitable for all age groups, providing an enriching experience for everyone.

What should I pack for the trip? Pack comfortable clothing for varying temperatures, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle. A camera is a must to capture the beauty of the desert and cultural experiences.

Are there medical facilities available during the expedition? Yes, our guides are trained in basic first aid, and there are medical facilities in nearby towns in case of emergencies.

Is traveling in the desert safe? Safety is our top priority. Our experienced guides ensure a secure journey, and the desert is generally safe for travelers.

Can I book a private expedition for my group? Certainly! We offer private expeditions tailored to your group’s preferences and schedule.

Is the expedition environmentally responsible? We are committed to responsible tourism, with practices that include proper waste disposal, water conservation, and a deep respect for the local environment.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Cultural Voyage

“Cultural Odyssey: 4 Days from Marrakech to Fes via the Desert” is more than just a journey; it’s an opportunity to delve into the heart and soul of Morocco. From camel rides through golden dunes to encounters with nomadic Berber communities, this expedition promises an enriching cultural experience like no other. Join us on this captivating journey and let the desert and culture of Morocco leave an indelible mark on your heart.