Atlas Mountains, Sahara Desert & Draa Valley
Mystical Morocco
- 11 Days
- From TBC
- Morocco
- Easy
Easy: Suitable for beginners, featuring shorter trails and gentle terrain.
Highlights
- Marrakech & The Sahara: Start in Marrakech, cross the scenic Tizi n'Tichka pass, and explore the outskirts of Ouarzazate, Morocco's "Hollywood" where iconic films are made.
- The Dades Valley: Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Dades Valley, with its lush fields, dramatic gorges, and rose-colored sandstone canyons - a true paradise for photographers.
- Erg Chebbi Dunes: Witness the majestic sunset and sunrise over Morocco's tallest sand dunes, the Erg Chebbi, where shifting colors paint the horizon from pink to orange.
- Toubkal National Park: Explore the grandeur of Toubkal National Park with its towering peaks, including Jbel Toubkal, the highest in North Africa at 4,167 meters.
Overview
Discover the legendary allure of Morocco, a land renowned for its mesmerizing landscapes—from the intricate souks and imperial cities to the awe-inspiring expanse of the Sahara Desert. Our journey commences in the vibrant city of Marrakech and traverses the scenic Tizi n’Tichka pass to the outskirts of Ouarzazate, known as Morocco’s cinematic hub, where numerous films have been and continue to be made.
In the afternoon, we arrive at the enchanting Dades Valley, a photographer’s paradise nestled in the High Atlas Mountains. The valley is renowned for its verdant fields, dramatic gorges, and captivating rose-hued sandstone slot canyons. The Dades Gorge, with its fairy-tale charm, offers a palette of unforgettable colors that will linger in your memory. The region is dotted with lush oasis towns and ancient, often ruinous Kasbahs that add to its enigmatic allure.
We will then settle at the base of the Erg Chebbi dunes, where Morocco’s tallest sand dunes stretch endlessly to the horizon. As the sun sets, we’ll witness a breathtaking spectacle of shifting colors across the dunes.
The following morning, we rise early to experience the magical sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Witness the dunes transform through a stunning spectrum of colors—from pinks to ochres and reds to oranges—as the sun ascends.
Our journey continues through the remote desert, where only a few resilient villages endure the harsh conditions. We then reach the Draa Valley and the oasis of Agdz, nestled within a vast palm grove along the historic caravan route between Marrakech and Timbuktu, famous for its exceptional dates.
Leaving Agdz, we travel north through the lush Draa Valley to the charming town of Ouirgane, situated in the heart of Berber country and surrounded by the High Atlas Mountains. Ouirgane is celebrated as a health resort, offering opportunities for relaxation with its spa and yoga facilities.
Our adventure concludes with an exploration of Toubkal National Park in the High Atlas Mountains. Spanning 100,000 hectares, the park is home to Jbel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167 meters (13,750 feet). Our final day brings us back to Marrakech, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.
Hotels & Cuisine
On our Mystical Morocco journey, your stay is as enchanting as the landscapes you’ll explore. In the Dades Valley, our accommodation in a traditional Kasbah offers stunning panoramic views and a taste of Morocco’s culinary delights. Enjoy classic dishes like couscous, the renowned Pigeon Pie, Harira soup, and a variety of meat Tagines, all made with authentic flavours and local ingredients.
In Erg Chebbi, we retreat to the beautifully renovated Tombouctou guesthouse. Nestled close to the mesmerizing sea of dunes, its location provides a truly magical experience, perfect for soaking in the desert’s serenity.
Our next stop is Agdz, where we’ll be staying for three nights in a newly built Kasbah. This peaceful haven, inspired by traditional Moroccan architecture, is set amidst the palm groves and features a delightful restaurant that opens onto the pool area. While the restaurant serves exquisite Moroccan cuisine, there’s also an option to enjoy a night of familiar European flavours if you’re craving something different.
Finally, in Ouirgane, our charming hotel is tucked away in sixty acres of lush parkland at an elevation of 1,000 metres. Each room and suite opens onto private patios and terraces, surrounded by blooming rose bushes. The inviting spa and pool offer a perfect retreat after a day of exploration, adding to the tranquil ambiance of this hidden gem.
Transportation
Boumalne
Hotel Xaluca Dades
Merzouga
Hotel Tomboctou
Agdz
Kasbah Azul
Ourigane
Domaine de la Roseraie Resort & Spa
begins
April 2025
Marrakech, Morocco
ends
