Venture off the beaten path on an extraordinary 5-day desert expedition from Marrakech to the massive, untamed wilderness of
Erg ChigagaClick to open side panel for more information
. Unlike more frequented routes, this journey takes you through the beautiful palm groves of the Draa Valley via
AgdzClick to open side panel for more information
, into the historic border town of
MhamidClick to open side panel for more information
, and deep into the rolling sand waves of the Sahara by rugged 4x4 vehicle. Sleep under a brilliant blanket of stars, experience nomadic desert life, and break up your return journey with a deep dive into the legendary, ancient earthen fortress of Aït BenhaddouClick to open side panel for more information.
Morning: Departure early from Marrakech and head south across the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Enjoy a scenic coffee break and panoramic photography at the peak of the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m).
Midday: Wind down the mountain slopes toward Ouarzazate, where you will stop for a traditional lunch and an optional visit to the famous Atlas Film Studios.
Afternoon: Continue south across the rugged volcanic peaks of the Anti-Atlas range until you reach the gateway of the Draa Valley. Arrive in the peaceful town of Agdz.
Evening: Take a gentle walk through the lush date palm groves and visit the historic Kasbah Tamnougalt. Dinner and overnight stay in a charming local riad.
Morning: After breakfast, drive deeper along the palm-fringed banks of the Draa Valley. Pass through the historic trading post of Zagora, a town famous for its iconic "Timbuktu 52 days" sign.
Midday: Stop in the historic village of Tamgroute to explore its ancient underground kasbah and its famous green pottery workshops, followed by lunch.
Afternoon: Continue south as the landscapes turn dry and rocky, arriving at the outpost village ofMhamidClick to open side panel for more information—the point where the paved highway ends and the true desert wilderness begins.
Evening: Check into a local desert hotel or a fixed bivouac at the edge of the small dunes. Savor a traditional dinner and prepare for the off-road adventure ahead.
Morning: Leave civilization behind as you board your 4x4 vehicle to begin a thrilling, bumpy 60km off-road trek through varying Saharan landscapes, crossing dry stone plains (reg) and the ancient, dried-up bed of Lake Iriqui.
Midday: Pause for a wild picnic lunch in the shade of a lone acacia tree out in the desert expanse.
Afternoon: Arrive at the towering dunes ofErg ChigagaClick to open side panel for more information, the largest and wildest sand sea in Morocco. Meet your camels for a tranquil trek up the high crests just in time to witness a mesmerizing desert sunset.
Evening: Arrive at a secure desert camp nestled right inside the dunes. Enjoy a warm welcome with mint tea, a hearty dinner, and live nomadic music around a crackling campfire under a dark, star-filled sky.
Morning: Wake up early to witness the sun rising over the boundless waves of sand. Enjoy breakfast at the camp before navigating the remaining off-road tracks out of the desert toward the town of Foum Zguid.
Midday: Arrive back on asphalt roads and head toward Taznakht, a town widely famous for its authentic, handmade Berber carpets. Stop here for lunch and a brief cultural demonstration.
Afternoon: Drive north toward Ouarzazate, veering off slightly to reach the iconic fortified village ofAït BenhaddouClick to open side panel for more informationlate in the afternoon, when the golden light strikes the red clay walls beautifully.
Evening: Check into a hotel or traditional guesthouse directly overlooking the ancient kasbah. Relax with dinner and enjoy a peaceful night's sleep.
Morning: Dedicate your morning to exploring the fascinating clay towers ofAït BenhaddouClick to open side panel for more informationwe football. Climb to the old granary at the top of the hill for breathtaking views of the surrounding river valley.
Midday: Enjoy a final lunch near the monument before beginning the return climb up into the High Atlas Mountains.
Afternoon/Evening: Take your time crossing the mountain passes, stopping at local cooperatives or scenic viewpoints along the route. Your spectacular 5-day desert tour concludes as you arrive back in Marrakech for an evening drop-off.
