Description
Explore the medina of Marrakech including a visit to the Koutoubia mosque, watching street performers and experiencing what the food vendors of Jemma El Fna Square have to offer. Navigate the windy narrow streets of the souks taking in the many colors and crafts offered in the market. On the way to the Zagora desert, discover the charm of the city of Ouarzazate. Travel through the Berber village of Agdz, as well as the Draa Valley with its tranquil precession of palms. Discover the lifestyle of desert nomads, traveling by camel to view sunset and sunrise on the dunes, and spending the night in a Berber tent camp. Passing once again through Marrakech for a morning of exploration, you will return to your Casablanca accommodations after lunch.
Accommodations for tours that include time in the desert can be customized to fill your needs. Upgrades can include a private ensuite bathroom, additional amenities including alcoholic beverages, and more luxurious appointments. Private camps for your group only can also be arranged. Please let us know what comforts you desire and we will chose the best desert accommodations to meet those needs.
Day 1: Casablanca to Marrakech
Depart from your Casablanca hotel in the early morning. Upon arrival in Marrakech, visit the souks and discover the magical colors, and crafts to be found in the narrow streets of the medina. Visit the famous Jemaa El Fna Square, taking in the sights of the street entertainers and food vendors.
Visit the Mosque Koutoubia, a landmark often used by tourists to navigate the city. Take in the architectural splendor of the Bahia Palace. Constructed in the 19th century, it was inspired by Arabic and Andalusian styles. Enjoy a walk in the vast olive gardens of Menara. We will have dinner and overnight in a riad in the heart of Marrakech.
Day 2: Marrakech – Ouarzazate – Zagora
Breakfast will be early and we will depart for Ouarzazate driving over the High Atlas Mountains via the pass of Tichka at 2260meters offering stunning scenery and panoramic views.
Once in Ouarzazate, visit the Kasbah of Taorirte have lunch. Our journey will continue to the Draa Valley and the city of Zagora through the Anti Atlas via the pass of Tiniffift at 1660 meters in altitude. We will arrive in the desert of Zagora at the base of dunes of Erg Lihoudi, for a camel ride to watch the sun set over the dunes. Tonight we will sleep in Berber tents.
Day 3: Zagora – Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Marrakech
After viewing the sunrise and breakfast at the foot of the dune of Erg Lihoudi, you will visit the village of Tamgroute known for its Koranic school, old library and it’s characteristic green pottery. Walk along the Draa Valley with its beautiful date palms and fields of henna. We travel back over the Anti Atlas, arriving in Ait Benhaddou for lunch. Visit the famous Ksar (fortified village) of Ait Benhaddou, situated along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ait Benhaddou has been the setting for many films including Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. Finally, you drive along the valley Ounila, also called the valley of salt, and cross over the High Atlas to return to Marrakech. Dinner and overnight in Marrakech.
Day 4: Marrakech to Casablanca
After breakfast, enjoy gree time to visit to the city of Marrakech, and the vast souks of the medina, lunch at a local restaurant and depart to Casablanca.
What is included?
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel or Riad
- Private Vehicle
- Driver/Guide
- Camel Ride
- Breakfast and dinner
- Hotels/Riads/Berber Tent overnights
What is not included?
- Lunches between 5-15 euro
- Drinks
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses
