Visit the most spectacular landscapes of Morocco on our private Sahara Desert tour. From the astonishing, winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains, through multi-coloured canyons, cliffs, palm oasis, and charming valleys to the majestic dunes of the great Sahara.
Relax and unwind travelling through the most iconic places, following ancient caravan routes, indigenous nomadic trails and major historical locations listed on UNESCO World Heritage Site. This trip is one of a kind, tailor-made to your needs, packed with breath-taking viewing spots, charming landscapes, locally made food and a chance to be a part of local communities and their daily lives.
A true, warm cultural connection and memorable adventure in the land of 1001 colours.
swipe for more
∴ Start your journey 7am in the morning driving towards the High Atlas Mountains.
∴ After passing the picturesque views, the first stop will be at a viewpoint Tizi N Tichka (2260m high) the highest point of the Atlas Mountains accessible by car, with panoramic views of the breathtaking landscape dotted with Amazigh villages.
∴ At midday, you’ll arrive at the famous fortified city of Ait Benhaddou – the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech in present-day Morocco. Travel back in time with your local official guide taking you around the kasbah.
∴ The Ksar of Aït-Benhaddou is a striking example of southern Moroccan architecture. Listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has also been the backdrop for many Hollywood productions. Films and TV series that have used the services of the studio include The Mummy, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Babel, Game of Thrones, Vikings and many more.
∴ The journey then continues through the beautiful southern landscape of black canyons and cliffs, home to the ancient Amazigh tribes of Ait Atta. The palm groves and henna fields are stretching along the horizon as we drive through multiply mudbrick ksars (fortified villages) surrounded by charming palm oasis.
∴ The area has its ancestral importance and its key role in the caravan trade route with Timbuktu. In the evening our journey will end in the charming Kasbahs town of Nkob. One of Morocco’s best-kept secrets, this Amazigh oasis is where you can still find traditional craftsmen at work. Enjoy a traditional locally made dinner and an evening of Amazigh drum usic at your accommodation overlooking astonishing palm grooves.
∴ The adventure continues throughout the day driving through the mesmerising palm oasis and mountains stretching along the horizon. Upon arrival at the hotel in the Sahara, you’ll explore beautiful local surroundings and prepare for a camel trek to view the Saharan sunset.
∴ Guided by the local herders you will ride through the majestic dunes of the world’s biggest desert. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of this place and chase the light and colour of the sand when climbing dunes. Before spending a night in traditional nomad tents with a touch of eco-luxury charm, you will be served a delicious dinner followed by live Amazigh music around the campfire.
∴ In the early hours of the morning, your day will start with a camel ride to witness the sun rising over the Great Sahara.
∴ After locally-made breakfast, the journey continues to Todgha canyons. A scenic drive through the multi-coloured walls of the gorges and historic kasbahs. Todgha Gorge is one of the most impressive canyons in the world. These rocks formations range up to 500 meters and stretch 160 km (100 miles) from Ouarzazate to the east of Tinghir. After locally made lunch in the beautiful huge rocky cliffs continue your journey passing the old Amazigh villages and stop at the major viewpoints to inhale the majestic landscapes.
∴ Your journey then continues to Dades Valley, through an astonishing landscape of palm oasis, along the ancient caravan trading route. The landscapes of red coloured canyons formed by the Dades River includes astonishing gorges and spectacular winding roads.
∴ The most famous canyon road – Tisdrin, meaning stairs in Tamazight language, is located on the mountain range of the Anti-Atlas between the oasis of Boumalne Dades and Msemrir, a mountainous small village. Stop and enjoy the view of one of the most winding roads in the world, while having Moroccan mint tea at the beautiful café-restaurant overlooking the canyons. Charming Dades Valley will be our overnight accommodation, with a locally made dinner and an evening of traditional Amazigh music.
∴ After a locally-made breakfast in the charming surroundings of Dades Valley, continue your journey north to the ancient town of Ouarzazate. Our local official guide will take you to discover the most impressive Kasbah – Taourirt. Originally built in the 19th century, it was owned by the el Glaoui clan, a family that had a powerful stronghold of one of Morocco’s most significant southern caravan routes to West Africa.
∴ After locally-made lunch, you’ll be taken on tour to the famous Atlas Film Studio in Ouarzazate – the world’s largest film studio. Films and TV series that have used the services of the studio include The Mummy, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Babel, Game of Thrones, Vikings and many more.
∴ The journey back to Marrakech will continue through the astonishing landscape along the way. You will be stopping at various points to truly immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings. Locally made lunch will be prepared in the spectacular Roses Valley with views of the colourful landscape. Before reaching Marrakech, you’ll, yet again, have a chance to admire the stunning views of the High Atlas Mountains’ magnificent colourful landscape.
∴ Estimated arrival time in Marrakech 8pm.
Departure Point:
Your Accommodation in Marrakech
Departure Time:
7:20am
Duration:
4 Days
Inclusions:
• Transport
• 4x Lunch
• 3x Dinner
• Traditional Local Accommodation & Eco-Luxury Desert Tents
• Entries & Admissions
• Camel Ride
Exclusions:
• Staff Gratitude
• Personal Expenses
Suitable for:
Q1.Is Guide included in the tour?
Our tour includes transport with a certified driver. Please note, due to Moroccan touristic laws, drivers are not allowed to work as guides. Our tour does not include an official guide. Contact us for more options and upgrades.
Q2.What Should I Wear In a Desert Climate?
The Sahara Desert is one of the driest and hottest regions of the world. Average summer temperatures range from over 35°C (95°F) to 14°C (57°F) in winter months. Daily variations of temperature may also be extreme. The temperature also varies greatly depending on the location of the desert. Comfortable outdoor footwear and outerwear that you can layer are recommended. We advise our travellers to use eco-friendly sunscreen, a hat, and a scarf for body protection. Traditional nomadic tents located in the desert are equipped with warm blankets and comfortable beds for chilly desertic nights.
If your question isn’t answered here be sure to contact us! Alternatively we invite you to read our blog on things we recommend during travels.
Get in touchGive us a call
+447495811378Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Website designed by Visual Synapses
© 2020 The Alternative Morocco