6 days trip from the coastal city of Agadir to the beautiful Sahara Desert. The adventure begins with a panoramic drive, revealing the diverse landscapes of Morocco. Explore the historic city of Taroudant, often called “little Marrakech”, with its magnificent medina and immense ramparts. Venture into the saffron-producing region of Tilouine, passing through the Tizi-N-Taghatine and Tizi-N-Ikhsane passes. Enjoy lunch in the small town of Taznakht, renowned for its artisanal Berber carpets, before heading to the confines of the Sahara at “Foum Zguid” for a night in the desert. Visit to the Chegaga desert and the Dades valley, return to Marrakech.
Day 01: Agadir – Taroudant – Tilouine – Foum Zguid
The 6 days from Agadir to desert, commencing at 8 in the morning. Your journey begins with a 4×4 drive from Agadir to the enchanting town of Taroudant, often referred to as “The Little Marrakech” due to its captivating Medina and impressive ramparts. Dive into the heart of the saffron-producing region in Tilouine, passing through the scenic Tizi-N-Taghatine and Tizi-N-Ikhsane mountain passes.
Continuing your expedition, reach the quaint town of Taznakht, renowned for its exquisite handmade Berber carpets and Gelims. A delightful lunch awaits, providing a taste of local flavors amidst the artistic creations of the region. The journey then leads to the edge of the Sahara, specifically to “Foum Zguid,” where you will spend a memorable night surrounded by the captivating desert landscape. This marks the beginning of an immersive experience, where the beauty of the natural terrain intertwines with the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco.
Day 02: Foum Zguid – Chegaga Dunes
The second day of your Agadir Desert journey unfolds with a delightful breakfast, setting the stage for an exploration of the fascinating Iriqui Lake. This once-thriving water body, teeming with fish and water birds, now reveals the remnants of its past as a mostly dried-up expanse. Embarking on an off-road piste adventure, traverse diverse terrains, including the stony desert (Reg) and the barren landscape of Hammada.
As the journey progresses, arrive at the remote and captivating Chegaga, a distant part of the desert. Here, a unique experience awaits as you indulge in a one to two-hour camel ride, providing an opportunity to witness the mesmerizing sunset from the summit of the towering dunes. The transition from day to night in the desert is a spectacle to behold, with hues of orange and gold painting the vast horizon.
The adventure continues as you spend the night in a traditional desert camp. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Sahara, surrounded by the silence of the desert night and the glittering expanse of stars overhead. This night at Chegaga promises an authentic and memorable desert experience, where nature’s beauty and cultural richness converge in a harmonious symphony.
Day 03: Chegaga – Zagora
The next leg of your 6 days Agadir to desert journey, covering 60 kilometers of the desert landscape. Following a hearty breakfast, the expedition heads towards M’hamid, tracing a route that takes you past the Sacred Oasis, a serene and spiritually significant spot in the heart of the desert. Upon reaching M’hamid, explore the ancestral ksar, nestled in the old village on the opposite side of the Daraa River.
Continue your exploration through the longest valley in Morocco, the Daraa Valley, passing by the renowned oasis of Zagora, celebrated for its luscious dates. Journey along the ancient caravan route, a historic pathway that once witnessed the passage of caravans laden with treasures from Mali and Mauritania, traversing deserts and mountains for days and weeks. As you meander through the river, Kasbahs, mountains, and gardens, each vista unfolds a unique perspective on the beauty of Morocco and provides insights into the local way of life.
The day concludes as you reach Zagora, where a traditional guest house awaits, offering an authentic and comfortable retreat. This night in Zagora adds another layer to the rich tapestry of your desert adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in the cultural and natural wonders that define Morocco’s southern landscapes.
Day 04: Zagora – Dades Gorges
After your breakfast, the next chapter of your desert exploration unfolds with a visit to the oldest and most renowned Kasbah in the Daraa Valley. This historic site holds echoes of a bygone era, where a few families once occupied its grounds. A stroll through the Kasbah provides a glimpse into the past, revealing remnants of the “Mellah” and the Jewish area, now weathered and crumbling since the last inhabitants departed for Israel in the late 60s century.
Take a journey south, approximately 90 kilometers, crossing the bridge at Taghbalt for a refreshing break and a delightful dinner in the small Berber town of Alnif. The adventure then continues north, traversing the rugged Saghro mountains, once the stronghold of the Aït Atta tribe, the last to resist French occupation. The journey progresses to Tinghir, where the majestic Todra Gorges await, providing a spectacular backdrop for a well-deserved lunch.
As the day concludes, find solace in the enchanting landscapes of the Dades Valley, where the serenity of the evening invites you to spend the night amidst the breathtaking beauty of Morocco’s southern region. This leg of your desert tour is a blend of history, nature, and culture, offering a profound and immersive experience.
Day 05: Dades Gorges – Ouarzazate
Commence your day with a delightful breakfast, setting the tone for exploration in the stunning Dades Gorges. Embark on a leisurely walk, immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The journey then continues to Boulmane Dades, followed by Boutaghrar, revealing the picturesque landscapes of this captivating region. Along the way, take a moment to share Moroccan mint tea with a welcoming Berber nomad family, gaining insights into their traditional way of life.
As the road winds through the Valley of Roses, discover the enchanting spectacle of the rose festival celebrated annually in May. The blooming roses are not only a visual feast but are also utilized to produce exquisite local oils, soaps, and lotions that find their way across the country. Your voyage unfolds towards the Skoura Oasis, home to ancient Kasbahs nestled among the palm trees. Explore the remarkable Amridil Kasbah, a striking structure that once graced the 50 Moroccan Dirham note.
Finally, arrive in Ouarzazate, where a riad awaits for an overnight stay, passing by the serene lake. The day’s journey weaves together the splendors of nature, cultural encounters with Berber communities, and a stroll through Morocco’s historical and botanical treasures.
Day 06: Ouarzazate – Ait ben Haddou kasbah – Marrakech
On the concluding day of your 6 Days Agadir Marrakech desert tour, a delightful breakfast marks the beginning of the day’s adventures. The journey takes you to the renowned Ait Ben Haddou, a famous Kasbah steeped in history and immortalized on the silver screen in films like “The Gladiator” and “Lawrence of Arabia.” Explore the ancient alleys and admire the striking architecture before enjoying a satisfying lunch.
Continue the exploration to Telouet Kasbah, once the opulent residence of Thami Glaoui Pasha of Marrakesh. Despite its current state of ruin after the Pasha fled following the French departure, the Kasbah still echoes tales of grandeur and political intrigue. The journey then winds through the picturesque Tizi-N-Tichka pass.
As the day concludes, the final stretch leads to the vibrant city of Marrakesh, marking the end of your 6-day desert tour. Your Morocco Travel wishes you a safe and pleasant journey, hoping the memories crafted during this immersive experience linger as treasured moments of your time in Morocco.
Includes
- Transport4x4, Fuel, drive / guide.
- Camel ride in Desert.
- Night in Desert Camp.
- Night in hotel.
- Dinner and breakfast.
Excludes
- Lunch.
- Drinks.