8 days Marrakech to Zagora: Trekking 5 days in the desert

8 days journey from Marrakech to Zagora, immersing yourself in the captivating landscapes of Morocco. This adventure spans five days of trekking through the mesmerizing desert terrain, offering a unique blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serene desert landscapes, each day unfolds a new chapter of discovery and adventure. Join us on this trekking expedition, where you’ll traverse ancient kasbahs, encounter nomadic communities, and witness breathtaking sunsets over the iconic sand dunes of the Sahara. Let the magic of Morocco unfold before you as you embark on this immersive and unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech

A warm welcome awaits you upon arrival by our driver guide who will transfer you to your riad in the historic old medina. With the afternoon at your disposal, immerse yourself in the charm of Marrakech. Explore the intricacies of the city, from its bustling markets to the hidden gems of the ancient medina.

Day 2: Marrakech – Zagora – Faija- jbel bani – mountains

Start your day with a delicious breakfast. Cross Berber villages as you wind through the High Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, a majestic route culminating at more than 2,260 meters. As you travel this panoramic route, the historic kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou unfolds before you, revealing its fortified houses steeped in history.

In the afternoon, the adventure continues towards Ouarzazate. Enjoy visiting the film studios, discover the excitement behind the scenes, and explore the Taourirt kasbah. Your route south takes you through the Anti-Atlas region, towards the Berber village of Agdz and the charming palm tree-lined Draa Valley, stretching a remarkable 185 kilometers. Arriving in Zagora, the day ends with a breathtaking sunset over the small dunes, providing a serene setting for an unforgettable night under the starry sky, in a camp nestled in the mountainous region of Bani.

Day 3: Mountains bani – Camping in the well el byad

First day of your trekking adventure in the Moroccan desert. The morning is marked by the loading of camels as you commence your journey towards Hamada. Marvel at the expansive views of the Saghro and Banni Mountains, characterized by their rugged terrain and sparse vegetation. Along the way, keep an eye out for the possibility of spotting Bedouin nomads in the distance, adding an element of cultural intrigue to your expedition.

As midday approaches, relish a satisfying lunch in the serenity of an oasis, providing a refreshing pause in your trek. Following this, your journey resumes, leading you along dried riverbeds that wind through the arid landscape. The day’s exploration culminates as you reach the carefully chosen campsite just as the sun begins its descent, casting a warm glow over the desert horizon.

This day unfolds as a true adventure of exploration, allowing you to traverse diverse landscapes and fully immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the desert surroundings. The total walking time for the day is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, during which you’ll make remarkable discoveries and witness the raw beauty of the arid wilderness that defines this unique corner of Morocco.

Day 4: Camping – el byad – & Dunes of Chegaga

Travel uphill to the Col des Abbes, offering a breathtaking viewpoint to marvel at the immensity of the desert landscape. From this elevated position, the distant dunes of Chegaga appear, offering a glimpse of the adventures that await us. Later in the afternoon you reach the magnificent dunes, immersing yourself in their grandeur. The duration of the walking day is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, culminating in an unforgettable evening experience. Nestled in the heart of the imposing dunes, you will spend the night in a camp under the celestial canopy, where the stars light up the desert sky, creating a magical atmosphere in this remote and enchanting setting.

Day 5: Dunes of Chegaga – Dunes of Bougarne .

Today is another day of exploration, crossing the multitude of small sand dunes that characterize Chegaga. The journey continues towards M’hamid, with a delicious lunch nestled in the shade of the Tamares. As evening approaches, you reach the Bougarne Dunes, a little-visited site that adds a feeling of exclusivity to your experience. Walking time for the day is approximately 5 hours, and again, you are set to spend the night outdoors under the vast expanse of stars.

Day 6: Dunes of Bougarne – Dunes of Oued Naam

Day 6 takes place with an early wake-up call, allowing you to witness the captivating dawn over the Bougarne dunes. The day’s adventure takes you across a vast rocky plateau and by late afternoon you arrive at the dunes of Oued Naam. Walking time for this day is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. As has become customary, you will retreat to an outdoor camp, immersing yourself in the simplicity and beauty of the desert surroundings. Every night spent under the stars adds to the enchantment of your desert trekking experience.

Day 7: Dunes of Oued Naam – Zagora – Marrakesh

On the final stage of your desert trek, traversing captivating landscapes adorned with beautiful desert scenery and an expansive plateau of small dunes. As you traverse the terrain, you’ll find yourself seamlessly reaching the Regaga dunes and, subsequently, the town of M’hamid. With this, the trek gracefully comes to an end, marking the culmination of your remarkable journey through the desert.

Following the conclusion of the trek, the adventure continues as you transition to car travel along the enchanting Draa Valley, heading towards the town of Zagora. From Zagora, the journey proceeds with a transfer to Marrakech, offering a scenic drive that allows you to reflect on the extraordinary experiences of the trek. The walking time for this final stage is approximately 3 hours, offering a leisurely conclusion to your immersive desert exploration.

Day 8: Marrakech – Airport

It depend of your flight time; if it’s in the afternoon you have the opportunity to explore the Marrakech with its sites and magic gardens, then Transfer to the Airport