3-Day Tour from Marrakech: Atlas Mountains & Sahara Adventure
3
Days
Overview
Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley via Ait Benhaddou Morning: Begin with a 7:30 AM pick-up from your hotel or the meeting point in Marrakech. Drive through the High Atlas Mountains, taking in scenic views and passing through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters above sea level), one of Morocco’s highest mountain passes. Stops: Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Enjoy a quick stop to stretch, take photos, and appreciate the panoramic mountain views. Ait Benhaddou Kasbah (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Arrive mid-morning for a guided tour. This ancient fortified village has been featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Wander through its winding streets and learn about the Berber architecture and history. Afternoon: Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco.” Option to visit Atlas Film Studios (time permitting). Evening: Drive through the “Valley of Roses” and reach the Dades Valley by evening. Check into a traditional guesthouse with a scenic view of the Dades Gorge. Dinner: Enjoy a Moroccan-style dinner at your guesthouse and relax for the night. Accommodation: Local guesthouse in the Dades Valley with private bathrooms and mountain views.
Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga (Sahara Desert) Morning: After breakfast, depart for Todra Gorge, a magnificent canyon with towering cliffs reaching up to 300 meters. Enjoy a 30-45 minute guided walk through the gorge, taking in the spectacular scenery. Afternoon: Continue to the Sahara Desert, passing through small Berber villages and the palm groves of Tafilalet. Arrive in Merzouga by mid-afternoon, where you’ll prepare for a camel trekking adventure. Camel Trek: Begin your journey on camels, crossing the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Take in the unique desert landscape and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. As the sun sets, reach your desert camp and watch the sunset over the dunes. Evening: Arrive at your Sahara camp, where you’ll be welcomed with mint tea. Settle into your luxury tent (with private bathrooms) and enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under the stars. Night Activities: After dinner, enjoy live Berber music around the campfire, stargazing, and storytelling by the local hosts. Accommodation: Luxury desert camp with en-suite tents, comfortable bedding, and hot showers.
Day 3: Merzouga to Marrakech Early Morning: Optional sunrise camel trek for a final unforgettable view of the Sahara Desert (if you’re up for an early start!). Breakfast: Return to Merzouga village for a quick breakfast. Journey Back: Depart Merzouga and begin the scenic drive back to Marrakech, passing through the Draa Valley (known for its lush oases and date palms). Afternoon: Arrive back in Marrakech by late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of your tour.
