From your accommodation
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Begin your epic 3-day desert tour with a morning pickup in Fes. The adventure kicks off as you traverse the captivating landscapes of Morocco. Pass through Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland,” and venture into the Middle Atlas Mountains. En route, explore the enchanting cedar forests of Azrou, home to wild monkeys, capturing memorable wilderness photographs. After this forest interlude, your journey continues to Zaida or Medilt, charming Berber villages, for a delightful lunch break. As you navigate the Middle Atlas, savor the breathtaking views of Medilt and Rich. Pause at Ziz Valley, offering panoramic vistas, before reaching Erfoud and Er-rissani, marking your entry into the desert and Oasis. Finally, arrive at Erg Chebbi desert (Merzouga). Upon reaching Merzouga, you’ll leave unnecessary luggage at your desert hotel and embark on a camel ride from the hotel into the dunes, soaking in the mesmerizing desert landscape. After a 1-hour and 30-minute camel trek, pause to witness a magical sunset amidst the dunes. Continue to the camp, where you can try exhilarating Sand Boarding. As night falls, enjoy a delightful dinner, campfire, and the rhythmic beats of Berber drums. Take a serene walk in the dunes under the star-studded desert sky.
Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, a captivating spectacle of shifting sand dunes and striking shadows. After this enchanting sunrise, ride camels back to your hotel in Merzouga. Savor breakfast and refresh with a shower before embarking on the next leg of your journey. Journey to Tafilalt (Er-rissani) in the Ziz Valley, a region rich in Berber and Bedouin heritage and once home to the first ruler of the Alawite dynasty. Your 3-day adventure continues through the majestic Dades Valley, winding through impressive gorges and the eastern slopes of the Atlas Mountains to reach Todra Oasis and Gorges. Traverse valleys adorned with palm trees and ancient Berber villages, relishing the captivating scenery on your scenic drive through the Dades Mountains. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at a hotel in the Dades Valley.
After breakfast and a refreshing shower at your Dades Valley hotel, embark on the final leg of your 3-day tour. Head to Ouarzazate, famously known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” via the picturesque Skoura Oasis. Pause for a panoramic view of Taourirt Kasbah and visit the Atlas Film Studio in Ouarzazate. Continue your journey with a visit to the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbahs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a backdrop for numerous blockbuster movies. After exploring this historic Kasbah, enjoy a delightful lunch. Your desert adventure concludes as you drive to Marrakech via the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi N’tichka pass (2260 m in altitude) and passing through charming Berber villages nestled in the mountains. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening, marking the end of your memorable journey.
I appreciated the focus on sustainable tourism and interaction with local communities during our tour. It added a meaningful dimension to our travels.
