Moroccan Desert Escape: From Dades to Marrakech

Begin your adventure with an early morning departure from Marrakech, driving through the winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). Marvel at the dramatic scenery of rugged peaks, Berber villages, and shifting colors as you ascend. Stop at the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a stunning fortified village with a rich history, for a guided exploration and lunch. Continue through the lush Skoura oasis and the Valley of the Roses, arriving in the Dades Valley by late afternoon. Settle into a traditional riad or guesthouse nestled among striking rock formations, enjoying a Moroccan dinner under the stars.

After breakfast, depart Dades Valley and travel along the “Road of 1000 Kasbahs,” passing vibrant Berber villages and the serene Tinghir oasis. Explore the towering Todra Gorges, where sheer cliffs rise dramatically above a narrow canyon—perfect for a short walk or photos. Continue through Erfoud, known for its fossils, before reaching Merzouga by late afternoon. Swap your vehicle for a camel and embark on a sunset trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. Arrive at a Berber desert camp, where you’ll savor a traditional dinner, listen to local music, and spend your first night under a vast, star-filled sky in a cozy tent.

Wake early to catch a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, painting the sand in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy breakfast at camp before returning to Merzouga by camel. Spend the day immersing yourself in the desert’s charm: visit a local Berber village to learn about their way of life, explore the nearby Rissani market with its historic roots, or opt for an exhilarating 4x4 dune excursion or sandboarding. As evening falls, return to your desert camp for a second night, relishing the tranquility and another delicious meal accompanied by the rhythmic beat of Berber drums.

After a final desert breakfast, bid farewell to Merzouga and journey toward Ouarzazate. Travel through the scenic Draa Valley, dotted with palm groves and ancient kasbahs, stopping briefly in Rissani or Agdez for a glimpse of local life. Arrive in Ouarzazate, dubbed the “Hollywood of Morocco,” by midday. Visit the impressive Taourirt Kasbah and, if time allows, the Atlas Film Studios, where blockbuster movies have been filmed. Enjoy lunch in this cinematic city before continuing your drive back across the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech, arriving by evening to conclude your unforgettable Moroccan odyssey.