Oasis, Dunes and Desert

Arrive in Marrakesh, the “Pearl of the South.” You will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Dinner and overnight in Marrakesh. (D)

After breakfast, set off by minivan toward Ouarzazate, traveling through the scenic village of Taddert and crossing the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters—the highest in the Atlas Mountains. Along the way, enjoy sweeping mountain views and traditional Berber landscapes. Continue along the paved road to the historic Kasbah of Telouet before heading onward to the iconic Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed site. Take time to explore this remarkable fortified village and enjoy lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, journey toward Boumalne via the lush Skoura oasis, famous for its extensive palm groves and striking kasbahs. Visit Kasbah Amridil (Afridi), a beautifully preserved 17th-century fortress that offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional kasbah life—a true living museum of Morocco’s past. Afterward, continue to Boumalne, where you’ll check in to your hotel, followed by dinner and an overnight stay. (B/D)

• Optional: 4x4 excursion into the Merzouga dunes $65 per person

After breakfast, set off on an exhilarating journey to the Todra Gorge, located on the remote eastern side of the High Atlas Mountains. This stunning gorge features cliff-sided canyons carved out of the last 40 kilometers of the mountains. The final 600 meters of the Todra Gorge are particularly breathtaking, as the canyon narrows to a flat, stony track just 10 meters wide in places, flanked by sheer rock walls soaring up to 160 meters high. Throughout the day, the rock face transforms in color, shifting from a rosy red to a muted tan. After marveling at the gorge, continue your adventure. Enjoy a leisurely lunch before traveling onward to Erfoud via the Tinjedad road. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, enjoy a delicious dinner, and settle in for the night. (B/D)

For an extra touch of adventure:

• Optional: Bivouac night at Merzouga Dunes $110 per person

After breakfast, depart from Erfoud and set out on a captivating journey across Morocco’s dramatic pre-Saharan landscapes. Travel through the rugged terrain toward Alnif, a quiet village known for its stark beauty and fossil-rich surroundings, offering a glimpse into a lesser-explored side of the country. Continue on to Tazzarine, a remote desert town surrounded by rocky hills and vast open plains. Here, you may pause to enjoy lunch at your leisure, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and authentic local charm that defines this region. In the afternoon, the journey carries on toward Zagora, tracing ancient caravan routes once used by traders crossing the Sahara. As the scenery gradually shifts to date palm groves and desert horizons, you’ll begin to feel the spirit of the great southern oases. Arrive in Zagora by late afternoon or early evening. After checking in at your hotel, unwind and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner before settling in for the night, surrounded by the calm and mystique of the gateway to the desert. (B/D)

• Optional: Bivouac night in Mhamid El Ghizlane Desert /Erg Chegaga Desert/Erg Lihoudi desert $130 per person
• Optional: Excursion by 4X4 WD to the desert of Erg Chegaga

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Marrakech, traveling through ever-changing desert and mountain landscapes. Along the way, stop at the remarkable Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic fortresses. This ancient ksar, built from red earth and dramatically set along the historic Route of the Kasbahs, is a striking example of traditional southern Moroccan architecture. Its winding alleys and imposing towers have made it a favorite filming location for many famous productions, including Lawrence of Arabia, Jesus of Nazareth, and Game of Thrones. Take time to explore the site or simply admire its unique beauty. Lunch is optional at a local restaurant nearby. In the afternoon, continue your drive toward Marrakech, crossing picturesque landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, enjoy dinner, and settle in for your overnight stay. (B/D)

Spend the day discovering the vibrant wonders of Marrakech, known as the “Red City.” Begin with a guided visit to some of its most remarkable landmarks, including the beautifully restored Ben Youssef Medersa, once a center of Islamic learning, the iconic Koutoubia Mosque with its impressive minaret, the elegant Bahia Palace, and the serene Menara Gardens set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains.
Return to the hotel for lunch and a chance to relax before heading back out in the afternoon to explore the lively souks. Wander through a maze of narrow streets filled with colorful textiles, spices, handicrafts, and traditional Moroccan goods. The day continues with a visit to the famous Jemaa el-Fna square, where storytellers, musicians, and street performers bring the city to life in an unforgettable spectacle. In the evening, you may choose to enjoy an optional “Diffa Fantasia” dinner at the renowned Chez Ali restaurant. Dine under traditional caïdal tents while being entertained by a vibrant fantasia show featuring horse riders, camels, musicians, folkloric troupes, and belly dancers—a true celebration of Moroccan heritage.
Return to your hotel afterward for an overnight stay. (B/L)

Today is a free day to explore more of Marrakesh on your own or just relax at the hotel. Dinner and overnight in Marrakesh. (B/D)  

After breakfast, depart for Marrakesh Menara (RAK) airport where there will be assistance with departure formalities. (B)

End of services.