Itinerary

1. Day 1: Departure from Marrakech to Dades Valley

   • Our journey begins bright and early in the vibrant city of Marrakech, a bustling hub of culture and history in the heart of Morocco. Known for its labyrinthine medina, lively souks, and stunning palaces, Marrakech is the perfect launching point for our adventure through the country's diverse landscapes.
   • After two hours of driving through the scenic Moroccan countryside, we stopped at Ait Barka village. 
   • Here, we take a moment to stretch our legs and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The fresh air and tranquil setting provide a perfect opportunity to sip traditional Moroccan mint tea or coffee. The warm hospitality of the villagers and the serene atmosphere set a positive tone for the journey ahead.
   • Continuing our journey, we head towards the Tichka Pass, one of the highest road passes in Africa, situated at an altitude of 2,260 meters. The winding roads and dramatic mountain scenery make for a thrilling drive. 
   • At the pass, we pause to capture the breathtaking views with our cameras. The snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas Mountains contrast beautifully with the lush valleys below, creating a picture-perfect moment.
   • Our next destination is the historic Talouet Kasbah. This ancient fortress, nestled in the heart of the mountains, tells a story of Morocco's rich history and architectural prowess. Once the residence of the powerful Glaoui family, the kasbah is a maze of intricate rooms adorned with colourful tiles and stucco work. 
   • Take your time exploring the kasbah, marvelling at its grandeur and learning about its significance in Moroccan history.
   • After visiting Talouet, we continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou. This iconic village, with its towering earthen buildings and narrow alleyways, has been the backdrop for many famous films and television series. 
   • A local tour guide accompanies us as we navigate the maze-like streets, providing insights into the history and culture of this ancient settlement. We also stop here for lunch, enjoying a delicious meal showcasing Moroccan cuisine's flavours.
   • Rejuvenated by our meal, we proceed to the Atlas Cinema Studio in Ouarzazate, often called the "Hollywood of Morocco." This renowned studio has hosted the production of numerous blockbuster films and television series. 
   • We explore the sets and learn about the magic of filmmaking in this unique setting.
   • Our journey then takes us to the nearby Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate. With its labyrinth of rooms and courtyards, this impressive fortress offers a glimpse into the region's rich architectural heritage. 
   • We wander through the kasbah, admiring the intricate details and imagining what life is like within its walls.
   • Driving towards Skoura, we enter the Rose Valley, famous for its abundant rose plantations. Here, we climb to a panoramic viewpoint to take in the stunning vistas of the valley, with its lush greenery and blooming roses. The beauty of the landscape is truly mesmerizing, and we take a moment to appreciate the natural splendour before us.
   • Our final stop for the day is at a women's cooperative in the Rose Valley. Here, we learn about the production of rose products and the cooperative's important role in supporting local women. 
   • We also have the chance to taste rose tea, a fragrant and refreshing beverage that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the valley.
   • As the sun sets, we arrive at our accommodation in Dades Valley. We spend the night in a charming riad surrounded by the valley's stunning rock formations and verdant landscapes. The peaceful ambience and warm hospitality of our hosts ensure a restful night's sleep, preparing us for the adventures of the following day.

2. Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga

   • After a hearty breakfast, we set off towards Tinghir, a town known for its beautiful palm groves and stunning mountain scenery. Our journey through the Dades Valley offers plenty of opportunities to take in the breathtaking landscapes, with their dramatic rock formations and lush greenery.
   • Upon reaching Tinghir, we make our way to the Todra Gorge, one of Morocco's most spectacular natural wonders. The towering cliffs, which rise up to 160 meters high, create a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. 
   • We take our time to explore the gorge, marveling at the sheer scale and beauty of the rock formations. The cool, clear waters of the Todra River provide a refreshing contrast to the arid surroundings, and we enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank.
   • Continuing our journey, we drive to Tinjdad, where we stop for lunch in an old kasbah that has been transformed into a charming restaurant by a local family. The meal is a delightful experience, with traditional Moroccan dishes served in a setting that exudes history and warmth. The family shares stories of their heritage and the transformation of the kasbah, adding a personal touch to our dining experience.
   • After lunch, we proceed to Al Malaab Center, where we visit a women's cooperative dedicated to preserving traditional Moroccan crafts. 
   • Here, we have the unique opportunity to get dressed in traditional Moroccan clothing and take photos. The garments' vibrant colours and intricate designs highlight Morocco's rich cultural heritage, and we enjoy posing for photos in our new attire.
   • Our journey then takes us to Erfoud, a town known for its fossil industry and as a gateway to the Sahara Desert. 
   • From here, we embark on a camel ride that takes us deep into the heart of the desert. The gentle sway of the camels and the vast expanse of golden dunes create an unforgettable experience. 
   • As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the landscape, we arrive at our luxury tent in a desert bivouac.
   • The evening is spent under the starry sky, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner and listening to the rhythmic beats of Berber music. The tranquility and beauty of the desert night provide a magical end to our day, and we retire to our tents for a restful sleep, surrounded by the serene silence of the Sahara.

3. Day 3: Merzouga to Marrakech

   • We wake up early to witness the sunrise over the Sahara, a breathtaking spectacle that paints the desert in hues of orange and gold. After a hearty breakfast, we bid farewell to the desert and begin our journey back to Marrakech.
   • Our first stop of the day is in Alnif, a small town known for its fossils and mineral wealth. Here, we take a short break to enjoy a drink and use the restroom facilities. The town's unique geological features provide an interesting backdrop as we refresh ourselves for the journey ahead.
   • Continuing our drive, we pass through the picturesque towns of Tazarine and N'Qoub, each offering glimpses of traditional Moroccan life and stunning landscapes. 
   • We make a stop in Agdz, a charming town nestled in the Draa Valley. Here, we stretch our legs and enjoy a refreshing drink, taking in the valley's scenic beauty with its lush palm groves and rugged mountains.
   • Our journey then takes us back to Ouarzazate, where we make a brief stop before continuing towards Marrakech. The drive offers more opportunities to admire Morocco's diverse landscapes, from arid deserts to verdant valleys and towering mountains.
   • As we approach Marrakech, we reflect on the incredible journey we've had over the past three days. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the Sahara, we've experienced the rich cultural heritage and natural splendor of Morocco in all its glory.
   • We arrive back in Marrakech in the evening, marking the end of our tour. The city's vibrant energy and colorful streets provide a stark contrast to the tranquil landscapes we've explored, bringing our adventure full circle. 
   • We bid farewell to our fellow travelers and guides, grateful for the unforgettable memories we've created on this journey through the heart of Morocco.