Scenic Drive Through High Atlas Mountains

Marrakech - Welcome to Morocco! Upon arriving in Marrakech, embark on a scenic journey through the High Atlas Mountains. This breathtaking landscape is home to the Berber people, an indigenous ethnic group spread across North Africa. Along the route, you’ll encounter several Berber villages and farms, as well as the rivers that enable them to cultivate the rugged, rocky terrain. Consider an optional visit to a traditional Berber home, where you’ll receive a warm welcome and gain insight into their daily lives. Enjoy sweeping views of endless peaks and valleys as you traverse the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, and look out for Toubkal, the tallest peak in the distance.

Ouarzazate - The High Atlas Mountains serve as a natural barrier between the milder Mediterranean climate in the north and the Saharan Desert to the south. As you continue towards the city of Ouarzazate (pronounced “war-za-zat”), the climate becomes noticeably desert-like. Picturesque Ouarzazate was once a major trade center, but today it is better known as the exotic backdrop for many popular films and TV shows. From there, you’ll head to the Dades Valley, renowned for its lush oases and elaborate kasbahs. Kasbahs are large, square watchtower fortresses built by the wealthy, and they represent some of Morocco’s most distinctive architecture. Spend the night in a cozy hotel nestled in the tranquil valley.

Explore Todra Gorge and Camel Riding on Erg Chebbi Dunes

Todra Gorge - This morning, head east to the Todra Gorge, where a stunningly steep fault splits the deep golden limestone in two. On the zig-zagging drive to Todra, admire the lush date palm groves and striking rock formations. Upon arrival, walk along the base of the 984-foot (300 m) ravine by a crystal-clear stream, with the spectacular rocks towering above. In the afternoon, make your way to the Sahara through the oasis towns of Tinejdad, Erfoud, and Rissani. Keep an eye out for camels and their shepherds along the way, as this traditional nomadic lifestyle still thrives today.

Erfoud - Erfoud is renowned for its fossil preservation, and an optional visit to a fossil factory can be arranged to see how they extract fossils from the bedrock.

Rissani - Pause for lunch in Rissani and explore the vibrant souk before continuing to the deep amber sands of Erg Chebbi, a vast sea of Saharan sand dunes, some over 650 feet (200 m) high! Climb onto a camel and enjoy a ride around the dunes before witnessing a magnificent desert sunset. Savor a delicious Bedouin meal and traditional live music for dinner, and even learn how to play a drum the Moroccan way.

Draa Valley and Ouarzazate

Rissani - Return to Rissani this morning for a visit to the Maison Touareg bazaar and cultural center. Discover the tribes in this area and the symbolism behind the spectacular carpets they weave. There are plenty of other authentic handicrafts to haggle for, including jewelry, leather, and pewter. From there, travel west through vast desert plains, mountain peaks, and acacia forests, encountering tribes along the way.

Ouarzazate - The landscape becomes lush and green upon reaching the fertile Draa Valley, filled with palm groves, fruit trees, and farms. Stop to stretch your legs and taste fresh produce right off the tree. Then, enter the Anti Atlas Mountains, offering views of dramatic river valleys and desolate rock landscapes on the Tizi-n-Tinififft Pass. Conclude the day in Ouarzazate, spending the night in a charming riad, a lodging with an interior courtyard garden.

Ait Benhaddou Kasbah and Marrakech

Ait Ben Haddou - If you wish to spend more time in Ouarzazate, you have the option of a guided tour of the Taourirt Kasbah, one of the most impressive in the country. Alternatively, visit one of the city’s two film studios to see where scenes from movies like The Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia were filmed. From there, head to Ait Benhaddou, about half an hour west of Ouarzazate in the foothills of the High Atlas.

This kasbah is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, situated on an ancient camel caravan trade route connecting the Sahara and Marrakech. It’s a stunning example of Moroccan earthen clay architecture, with tree trunks and bamboo used for the roofs. Explore the maze-like network of narrow lanes and passageways until you encounter the many skilled artists and craftspeople who create and sell their work here.

Marrakech - Return to Marrakech by late afternoon and spend the last evening exploring the main square and souk, Jemaa el-Fnaa, where you’ll find everything from silk scarves to delicious tagine to snake charmers.

• Dinner
• Breakfast

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and captivating culture of Morocco on this four-day adventure through its mountains, deserts, and oases. Enjoy a camel ride in the Sahara, explore the intricate pathways of a traditional kasbah, and trek through a scenic river gorge. During the journey, encounter Berber tribes, savor fresh dates and nuts directly from the trees, and explore the lively souks and bazaars.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.