Journey Through Desert, Kasbahs, and Waterfalls: A Complete Itinerary
Explore the treasures of southern Morocco: Telouet, Ait Ben Haddou, Merzouga dunes, Todra Gorges, and the majestic Ouzoud waterfalls.
A quick overview of the tour
This 5-day tour from Marrakech immerses you in the rich landscapes of southern Morocco, from the Atlas Mountains and historic kasbahs to the Merzouga desert, spectacular gorges, and the famous Ouzoud waterfalls. A perfect itinerary to combine desert adventure, cultural discoveries, and lush nature.
Price:
From €1050 / person
Day 1: Marrakech – Telouet Kasbah – Ait Ben Haddou – Fint Oasis – Ouarzazate
Morning departure at 8:30 am from your hotel in Marrakech, heading toward the High Atlas via the spectacular Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2,260 m), with several stops for panoramic photos of the peaks and Berber villages. You reach the Telouet Kasbah, former residence of the Pacha Glaoui, a historic site with carved ceilings and refined zelliges. The route continues through the stunning Ounila Valley, dotted with adobe villages and isolated kasbahs, to the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lunch on site and a walking tour of the kasbah, a Saharan architectural gem featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. In the afternoon, detour to the superb Fint Oasis, a peaceful haven nestled in the mountains. Discover this hidden oasis, home to a Berber community living in harmony with nature. After the visit, head to Ouarzazate, nicknamed the "Hollywood of Morocco," arriving by late afternoon. Check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 2: Ouarzazate – Anti-Atlas – Tizgui Waterfalls – Drâa Valley – N’Kob – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi)
After breakfast, head toward the desert through the mineral landscapes of the Anti-Atlas. Your first stop is the Tizgui Waterfalls, a little-known natural gem near the village of Tizgui. This refreshing site, with water flowing in terraces amidst lush vegetation, contrasts strikingly with the surrounding arid landscapes. Continue to the Tizi-n-Tinfifite pass (1,660 m), enjoying a superb panorama before descending into the majestic Drâa Valley, renowned for its lush palm groves, adobe kasbahs, and fortified villages. This valley, an ancient caravan route, still reflects the importance of trans-Saharan trade. Stop in N’Kob, a typical Berber village surrounded by 45 kasbahs, for a traditional lunch in an authentic setting. In the afternoon, continue to Merzouga through the Tafilalet Valley, the cradle of the Alawite dynasty and a historic Saharan trade hub. Arrive at the impressive golden Erg Chebbi dunes, among Morocco’s highest (up to 250 m). In the late afternoon, enjoy a camel ride to watch a magnificent sunset over the dunes. Check-in at your luxury bivouac in the heart of the desert, enjoy a typical dinner under the stars, and spend a magical night in the Sahara.
Day 3: Merzouga – Erfoud – Ziz Valley – Todra Gorges
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast at the camp. Head toward the Todra Gorges via Erfoud, famous for its fossils, and the Ziz Valley, a natural setting of endless palm groves. Lunch break in Tinjdad. In the afternoon, arrive at the impressive Todra Gorges, with cliffs over 150 m high. Take a walk through the gorges and the lush Tinghir palm grove, fed by the Todgha wadi. Check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 4: Todra Gorges – Imilchil – Bin El Ouidane Lake – Ouzoud Waterfalls
After breakfast, head toward the central High Atlas mountains. Pass through Tamtattouchte and Ait Hani before reaching Imilchil, a village known for its betrothal festival and Berber traditions. Continue to the serene Bin El Ouidane Lake, ideal for a lakeside lunch break. Stroll along the lake and enjoy the calm of the mountains. By late afternoon, arrive at the Ouzoud Waterfalls, Morocco’s highest. Dinner and overnight stay in a charming nearby riad.
Day 5: Ouzoud Waterfalls – Imi n’Ifri – Demnate – Marrakech
After breakfast, explore the Ouzoud Waterfalls, Morocco’s highest cascades. Follow the trail to the base of the falls or climb to the top for panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside. Then begin the return to Marrakech with a scenic detour through Demnate, an ancient Berber town at the foot of the High Atlas. Just 6 kilometers away lies Imi n’Ifri, meaning “the mouth of the cave” in Berber. This natural rock bridge, formed thousands of years ago by a cave roof collapse, creates a spectacular geological site above a lush gorge. After visiting Imi n’Ifri, continue the final leg of the journey. About two hours later, arrive in Marrakech, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or riad.
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