Highlights

• Scenic drive through the rural coastal town of Sidi Kaouki and Moulay Bousselham

• Exploration of Taroudant’s vibrant souks and city walls, known as "Little Marrakech"

• Stunning views of the Anti-Atlas Mountains and traditional Berber villages

• Visit to Tazenakht, famous for its Berber carpets and handicrafts

• Camel trek into the vast and remote Erg Chigaga dunes to witness a desert sunset

• Traditional dinner and Berber music at a luxury desert camp under the stars

• Early morning camel ride for a desert sunrise experience in Erg Chigaga

• Visit to a nomadic Berber family and opportunities for sandboarding in the desert

• Journey through the Draa Valley, with palm groves, kasbahs, and stunning landscapes

• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a famous film location

• Visit to the Atlas Film Studios and Kasbah Taourirt in Ouarzazate

• Scenic drive through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains

• Return journey through breathtaking mountain landscapes to either Marrakech or Essaouira

What's Included

• Private transport in an air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan

• Hotel or riad pick-up in Essaouira and drop-off in Marrakech or Essaouira

• English-speaking driver/guide throughout the tour

• One night in a guesthouse in Taroudant with dinner and breakfast

• Two nights in a luxury desert camp in Erg Chigaga (private tent with en-suite)

• Sunset and sunrise camel rides in the Erg Chigaga dunes

• Traditional Berber music and campfire experience in the desert

• Dinner and breakfast at all accommodations

• Bottled water and traditional Moroccan tea at the camp

• Scenic stops, cultural visits, and photo opportunities along the way

Not Included

• Lunches

• Local guides

• Entrance fees

• Tips

Itinerary

Day 1: Essaouira to Taroudant

Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Essaouira to Taroudant. On the way, you’ll pass the quiet beach town of Sidi Kaouki, known for its laid-back atmosphere and surf-friendly beaches. Continuing south, you’ll stop in Moulay Bousselham, a coastal village known for its lagoon and the migratory birds that stop there. After a few hours of traveling through rural Morocco, you’ll arrive in Taroudant, often called "Little Marrakech" for its vibrant souks and well-preserved city walls. Take some time to explore the town’s medina, where you can shop for local handicrafts, and enjoy a peaceful evening at your riad or hotel.

Day 2: Taroudant to Erg Chigaga

On the second day, you'll leave Taroudant behind and head into the Anti-Atlas Mountains, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of rugged peaks and deep valleys. You’ll stop in the small town of Tazenakht, famous for its traditional Berber carpets, before continuing on towards Foum Zguid, a remote settlement that once served as a caravan stop. From here, the landscape will begin to open up, and you'll continue your journey towards the vast and remote Erg Chigaga dunes. Arriving at the edge of the desert, you'll embark on a camel trek into the dunes to watch the sunset. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars at your luxury desert camp, where you can relax around the campfire with Berber music.

Day 3: Erg Chigaga

Spend the day exploring the magnificent Erg Chigaga dunes, one of the largest and most untouched desert landscapes in Morocco. Start your morning with an early camel ride to catch the sunrise over the golden sands, a truly magical experience. Afterward, you’ll have the option to enjoy some exciting activities such as sandboarding or visiting a nomadic Berber family, learning about their traditional way of life. The afternoon can be spent wandering the dunes or relaxing at your camp, soaking in the peaceful desert atmosphere. As night falls, enjoy another traditional Berber meal, accompanied by more music and stargazing.

Day 4: Erg Chigaga to Ouarzazate

AOn day four, you’ll journey out of the desert and head towards Ouarzazate. Your route will take you through the picturesque Draa Valley, a region known for its palm groves, kasbahs, and small villages that dot the landscape. After crossing this lush valley, you’ll reach the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a spectacular mud-brick ksar that has served as a backdrop for numerous films and television shows, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After visiting Ait Ben Haddou, continue to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Sahara" for its proximity to the desert. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the famous Atlas Film Studios and explore the historical Kasbah Taourirt before enjoying a restful night in a riad or hotel.

Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech or Essaouira

On your final day, you’ll begin your journey back to either Marrakech or Essaouira. As you drive through the dramatic High Atlas Mountains, you’ll pass through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, offering panoramic views of the mountains and valleys below. Along the way, make several stops to take in the stunning landscapes and enjoy a scenic picnic lunch. As you approach Marrakech or Essaouira, you’ll notice the transition from the rugged mountains to the bustling cityscape, completing your unforgettable journey through Morocco’s desert heartlands.