7 Days - Marrakech, Atlas Mountains, Desert and the Beach breeze

Your guide will come right to your Marrakech lodging to pick you up. By traveling across the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, the highest mountain pass in North Africa at 2,260 meters (7,415 ft) above sea level, you will be able to escape the bustle of the red metropolis. The road winds through several towns typical of the Atlas Mountains' northern slopes, where one can observe maize on the packed-earth roofs of the stone buildings, ripening in the sun. 

You will continue across the territory of the powerful Glaoua tribe where a number of ancient kasbahs and fortified granaries can be seen dotting the countryside before we reach Ait Benhaddou, a fortified village classified by UNESCO as one of the world's cultural treasures. At Ait Benhaddou we will stop for lunch and to give you some time to explore the kasbah for yourself. 

Our journey will continue towards the Skoura Oasis, filled with dense palm groves crossed by a network of tracks running between kasbahs, ksours, and farms. We will head towards the Roses Valley and into the Dades Valley on the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs", passing the fortresses of M'Goun and the countless traditional Berber adobe houses that perch along the riversides, sometimes barely distinguishable from the rocks themselves. We will spend the night in the Dades Valley.

After breakfast, we drive down the olive, pomegranate, and orange tree-filled banks of the Todra valley until we arrive at the Todra Gorge. Here, we will spend some time exploring the tight passageways and their high rock walls. The terrain opens up into a sizable stony plain that delineates the boundaries of the Sahara as we descend into the desert lowlands. 

When we arrive, we will load up on camels and ride into the tall dunes of the Moroccan Sahara, leaving all extra stuff in safe rooms at a nearby hotel. You will have plenty of time to explore and soak in the grandeur and splendor of the desert dunes during our free time here. 

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Once the sun sets, a Moroccan dinner will be served alongside live music around the campfire, after which you are free to explore again - this time in the company of a million stars exploding against the pitch-black sky, and the all-encompassing silence of the Sahara at night.

Wake up early to witness a mesmerizing sunrise over the towering sand dunes, an experience that will leave you in awe of the desert's natural beauty. After breakfast, visit the lively market town of Rissani, known for its bustling souks and traditional Berber architecture.

Continue your journey through the scenic landscape of the Anti-Atlas Mountains to the picturesque towns of Alnif and N'kob. Alnif is famous for its fossil-rich region, offering a unique opportunity to see and purchase fossils dating back millions of years. Explore the local fossil shops and learn about the fascinating geological history of the area. From Alnif, head to N'kob, another charming village known for its ancient Kasbahs and lush palm groves. Take a leisurely stroll through the oasis and marvel at the traditional mud-brick buildings that adorn the landscape.

Next, venture into the breathtaking Draa Valley, one of Morocco's most scenic regions. The valley is a green oasis surrounded by vast palm groves, impressive kasbahs, and the stunning Atlas Mountains as a backdrop. Take in the panoramic views as you drive along the Draa River, passing through small Berber villages and lush landscapes.

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the local restaurants along the riverbank, savoring the flavors of Moroccan cuisine. After lunch, continue your journey to Ouarzazate where you will spend the night, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Desert" and a significant hub for Moroccan filmmaking. Explore the famous Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Studios, where many iconic films and TV shows have been filmed.

After breakfast you will have the option to go quad biking over the desert plains or to visit the Ouarzazate's famous film studios. Known as the "Hollywood of Morocco", Ouarzazate's studios have produced films including "Lawrence of Arabia", "Alexander the Great", "The Last Temptation of Christ" and "The Living Daylights". Afterwards we will continue for the seaside town of Essaouira.

A relaxing drive through lush valleys filled with orange groves, ancient olive trees, and argan oil cooperatives will take you to this UNESCO World Heritage listed city. This windswept fishing port, with broad beaches and an ancient walled medina has long been a popular destination where many of the country's wood carvers and artists have made their home. 

Stroll along the ramparts and beach as you take in the relaxed vibe of the small but lively medina, or visit the port to see the catch of the day. Essaouira also hosts the Gnaoua Music Festival every June. We will have dinner in Essaouira and spend the night in a tranquil local hotel.

After breakfast, we will leave the Atlantic coast and head back to Marrakech; Even today, the name Marrakech conjures up imagery right out of Arabian Nights - alleyways, souks, and market stalls. This remarkable city, with the graceful architecture of the renowned Koutoubia Minaret dominating the skyline and dating from the 11th century, never fails to satisfy the curiosity of adventurous travelers; So, we will explore the world-famous city of Marrakech, the second oldest imperial city, known as the "Southern Pearl" of Morocco, which has for centuries been an important stop for both traders and travelers. 

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A guided tour will lead you through the labyrinth of Marrakech's winding streets and past hidden gardens and souks. You will continue to the Djemaa el Fna, which is one of the main cultural spaces in Marrakech and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque towering alongside. In the evening this square overflows with food stalls, dancers, acrobats, fortune tellers, musicians, and henna artists. 

You will have a chance to relax at one of the many cafes surrounding the square to take in all the sights. You can spend the afternoon at leisure, pampering yourself at a local hammam or exploring the souks of the medina for yourself.

Marrakech is a sensory-rich city with a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern conveniences. You may want to try a Moroccan hammam or a spa, try your hand at a local cooking class, or perhaps take a ride on a donkey cart around the city. 

Whatever it may be, our guide is at your service to help with suggestions, information, and arrangements. As we bid you farewell, we will help you with any departure formalities and arrange for your transfers to the airport. We hope you enjoyed your journey with us, and hope to see you again soon.