From Sahara Dunes to Essaouira Waves: A Complete Journey
A unique itinerary between desert, palm groves, mountains, and ocean. Nature, culture, and authenticity at the heart of Morocco.
A quick overview of the tour
Discover an exceptional journey through mountains, lush oases, endless desert, and the Atlantic coast. This 5-day tour takes you from Marrakech to the golden dunes of Erg Chegaga, through the Drâa Valley, traditional Berber villages, the fortified city of Taroudant, and the charming coastal town of Essaouira. A complete immersion in the geographical and cultural diversity of Southern Morocco, blending historical heritage, wild nature, and Berber authenticity.
Price:
From €1050 / person
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Fint Oasis – Drâa Valley
Morning departure at 8:30 am from your hotel in Marrakech, with a spectacular crossing of the High Atlas via the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, peaking at 2,260 meters, offering breathtaking panoramas. You will visit the magnificent Telouet kasbah, former residence of the Glaoui Pashas, then continue to the Ounila Valley, a site of remarkable natural beauty with its adobe villages and terraced crops. Late morning, arrival at the famous Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage architectural gem, whose alleys have served as a backdrop for numerous international films. Traditional lunch on site.
In the afternoon, discover the Fint Oasis, a green haven in an arid landscape, where a walk lets you experience the tranquility and richness of this historic caravan crossroads. Then head to Agdez, a charming oasis town in the heart of the Drâa Valley, where you will spend the evening, with dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2: Agdez – Ancient Caravan Route – Zagora – M’hamid – Chegaga Dunes
After a hearty breakfast, enjoy a pleasant walk in the lush Agdez palm grove, an oasis in this desert landscape. Then take the road to Erg Chegaga, following the ancient caravan route along the Drâa Valley, its luxuriant palm groves, fortified villages, and traditional kasbahs. En route, stop briefly in Zagora, an iconic southern Moroccan town and gateway to the desert. Visit Tamegroute, famous for its artisanal pottery workshops and Quranic library housing rare ancient manuscripts, a true cultural treasure of the region. Continue to M’hamid, the last village before the desert, for lunch and preparation for the Saharan adventure. In the afternoon, board a 4x4 for a spectacular 66-kilometer desert track crossing varied terrain (hamada, reg, oases…) to the majestic Erg Chegaga dunes. Enjoy a camel ride at sunset, a magical moment as the dunes glow with warm colors. Dinner and night in a traditional bivouac under a starry sky.
Day 3: Erg Chegaga – Lake Iriqui – Foum Zguid – Taliouine – Taroudant
At sunrise, after a traditional breakfast at the bivouac, take a morning walk in the golden Erg Chegaga dunes to admire the magical desert light.
Depart by 4x4 to Taroudant, passing Lake Iriqui, a vast dried-up desert expanse, then follow the famous Paris-Dakar track, a unique experience for adventure and open-space enthusiasts. Lunch break in Foum Zguid, a friendly Saharan village. In the afternoon, continue to Taroudant, nicknamed “little Marrakech,” known for its well-preserved ramparts, lively alleys, and local crafts. En route, pass through Taznakht, renowned for its colorful Berber carpet craftsmanship, and Taliouine, famous for saffron cultivation. Arrival in Taroudant by late afternoon, with dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 4: Taroudant – Agadir – Taghazout – Essaouira
After a hearty breakfast, explore Taroudant, nicknamed “little Marrakech” for its impressive ramparts and authentic atmosphere. Visit this charming fortified city, famous for its colorful souks and local crafts. Then head to the Atlantic coast toward Agadir, with a stop in Taghazout, a fishing village turned popular surf destination. Lunch in a friendly, ocean-side setting. In the afternoon, continue to Essaouira along the stunning Atlantic coast, with its wild landscapes and fine sandy beaches. Arrival in Essaouira by late afternoon, check-in at your hotel. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Essaouira – Marrakech
Free morning to stroll through Essaouira’s alleys, visit its lively fishing port, art galleries, and enjoy local specialties. Free lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, depart for Marrakech along the coast, crossing the Haouz region. Arrival at your hotel by late afternoon, concluding the tour.
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