5 Days from Agadir to Merzouga Desert & Marrakech

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Tour Overview : 5 Days from Agadir to Merzouga Desert & Marrakech

The 5 days desert trip from Agadir to Marrakech offers a remarkable opportunity to explore a substantial portion of Morocco, all while immersing yourself in an unforgettable desert adventure and savoring the breathtaking landscapes along the way. Throughout this 5 days desert trip journey, departing from Agadir and concluding in Marrakech or Agadir, you will have the chance to experience the authentic desert lifestyle. This includes camel rides through the enchanting Erg Chebbi dunes, comfortable nights in a well-equipped desert camp, the melodic rhythms of Berber music, thrilling sandboarding, and the serene spectacle of sunsets atop the tallest dune. Additionally, you'll be able to gaze up at the starry night sky and a splendid galaxy.

Furthermore, our itinerary won't overlook the captivating Thousand Kasbahs road, which promises one of the most enthralling experiences, especially for those eager to gain a deep insight into Morocco. As you follow this route, you'll encounter both renowned landmarks and hidden gems. Your journey will unveil exotic paradises and offer insights into the Berber way of life.

What to expect in the 5 Days from Agadir to Merzouga Desert & Marrakech

• Ouarzazate: Begin your adventure in the "Hollywood of Morocco" and visit the historic Kasbah of Amridil.
• Dades Valley and Sahara: Explore the stunning Dades Valley, Todra Gorges, and spend a night in the Merzouga Sahara desert.
• Rissani, Erfoud: Discover the traditional market in Rissani, the fossil town of Erfoud, the alpine-style town of Ifrane, and the cedar forest home to Barbary macaques.
• Draa Valley: a picturesque oasis known for its stunning palm groves and ancient kasbahs
• Marrakech: known as the "Red City," boasts a mesmerizing blend of ancient traditions and vibrant modernity, with its bustling medina, historic palaces, and colorful souks.

Itinerary: 5 Days from Agadir to Merzouga Desert & Marrakech

Day 1: Agadir – Taliouine – Taznakht – Ait Ben Haddou

Commence your captivating 5 Days from Agadir to Merzouga Desert & Marrakech. Setting off early in the morning, you'll uncover the hidden treasures of Morocco's awe-inspiring interior. Your adventure begins with a pickup by our driver from your Agadir hotel or riad. Our initial destination is Taliouine, renowned as the saffron city, nestled in the province of Taroudant. We'll then continue our voyage to Ouarzazate, passing through the region of Taznakht, where you'll have leisure time to savor the delectable Berber cuisine.

Following a delightful lunch, our route will wind through the stunning Atlas landscapes, leading southward to the village of Ait Ben Haddou. Here, you'll explore its iconic Kasbah and relish the picturesque scenery provided by this historic Berber fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After the guided tour, we'll conclude our first day with a stay at a charming riad near the Kasbah, where dinner and overnight accommodations await.

Day 2: Ait Ben Haddou - Ouarzazate - Valley of Roses - Todra Gorges - Rissani - Merzouga - Night in the berber camp.

Following breakfast, our 5 Days from Agadir to Merzouga Desert & Marrakech continues. We set forth towards Ouarzazate, then proceed through the Valley of the Roses and the Dades Valley, traversing the Skoura palm grove, where the famed "Thousand Kasbahs" route, adorned with diverse Kasbahs, unfolds. Along the way, we make several stops for capturing memorable photographs before reaching one of the South's most remarkable features: the Todra Gorges. These colossal natural walls, sculpted by the Todra River, offer a captivating spectacle, particularly cherished by climbers.

Our journey then leads us further into the Sahara desert until we arrive at the awe-inspiring Merzouga Dunes. Here, we embark on a camel-back ride, allowing us to explore the golden dunes, capturing their enchanting shapes and colors through photography. Our camels transport us to a Berber camp, where we're greeted with a warm welcome and traditional tea.

Atop the dunes, we're treated to the wondrous sight of a desert sunset. Once settled in Erg Chebbi camp, we immerse ourselves in a magical evening, dining under the stars, serenaded by live Berber drum music, and spending the night in a traditional Berber tent camp until the break of dawn.

Your night unfolds with a sumptuous dinner and overnight stay in the heart of the desert.

Day 3: Erg Chebbi Desert - Rissani - Draa Valley - Ouarzazate

Commence your day with an early start, immersing yourself in the mesmerizing sunrise over the fiery dunes. The interplay of light and shadows, illuminated by the first sunrays, etches an unforgettable image in your memory. Following a delectable Berber breakfast, we'll return to our lodge on camelback, where our waiting vehicle signals the next phase of our 5 days adventure in the Merzouga Desert departing from Agadir.

On this third day, our path takes us to Ouarzazate, winding through the captivating villages of Rissani, Alnif, Tazzarine (famous for being a 'Babel' filming location), and N'Qob, where we'll pause for a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, we'll traverse the Draa Valley, following the ancient caravan route, enveloped by expansive palm groves and historical Kasbahs seamlessly integrated into the landscape. Among them, Tamnougalt stands as a remarkable gem. Eventually, we'll rejoin the paved road in Agdez, crossing the Anti-Atlas and ascending the Tizi-n-Tinfifite mountain pass (1660 meters) to culminate our day in the captivating city of Ouarzazate. There, we'll retire to our charming Riad for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 4: Ouarzazate – Ait ben Haddou - Atlas Mountains - Marrakech

After breakfast in the hotel, we can visit Taourirt Kasbah. This former Glaoui residence, situated on the edge of the town, is considered to be one of the most beautiful kasbahs of Morocco. After that, we will drive outside the town to enjoy a private visit of the Atlas Corporation Studio, a well –known cinematographic center renowned for blockbuster productions including Asterix and Cleopatra directed by Alain Chabat; and the Oscar-winning Gladiator, directed by Ridley Scott. Thanks to its amazing landscapes, good infrastructures, friendly people and cheap authorizations.

Then we start our way to Marrakech across the Atlas Mountains. The winding roads, changing scenery, colorful valleys, shepherds with their flocks, Berber villages high up on the hillsides, make this a picturesque drive. And when we get to Tizi’n Tichka Pass, we’ll be at the highest point in the Atlas Mountains. We can stop for photos and to breathe in some fresh mountain air. Finally, we'll arrive in Marrakech, where we'll drop you off at your riad. Accommodation in a riad in the medina of Marrakech.

Day 5: Marrakech City Tour - Transfer to the airport or to Agadir

This is your discovery day to the famous city of Marrakech, also called the Red City, you will experience Marrakech city tour with your private local guide who will meet you in the morning at your riad to agree on the day's visit possibilities. You will immerse yourself in the authentic souks, the markets that have provided Marrakesh with all their needs for over a thousand years. Vibrant colors, rich scents, music, cats, djellaba dealers, pottery, teapots, leather, looms, slippers, whatever your image of the exotic, you'll find it in Marrakech. A visit to the Photography Museum or the Majorelle Gardens are also highly recommended. You can read more about the Red City in our Marrakech travel guide which will give you a good understanding of what there is to see and do.

Your 5 Days from Agadir to Merzouga Desert & Marrakech will end today. Transfer to Agadir (3 hours from Marrakech) or Marrakech airport and end of our services.

Included: 5 Days from Agadir to Merzouga Desert & Marrakech

• Private vehicle 4x4 with heating/air conditioning.
• English-speaking driver/guide at your disposal all the time of the tour.
• Fuel
• Accommodation in Kasbah Hotel in Ait ben haddou on half board (dinner and breakfast).
• Accommodation in a Berber camp in the desert of Erg Chebbi on half board (dinner and breakfast).
• Accommodation in Riad in Ouarzazate on half board (dinner and breakfast).
• Accommodation in Riad in Marrakech on half board (dinner and breakfast).
• Camel ride to/from the camp.
• Pick up and transfer at any point in Agadir that you indicate to us.

Not included:

• Drinks
• Meals not included in the previous section
• Entrance fees to monuments and personal expenses.

FAQs

1. What is the best time of year to visit the Sahara Desert?
   • The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to April, to avoid extreme heat.
2. Are there any age restrictions for the camel trek?
   • Most tours are suitable for all ages, but it's essential to check with the tour operator for specific age requirements.
3. What should I pack for a trip to the desert?
   • Essentials include sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, and a good pair of walking shoes.
4. Is it safe to travel to the desert of Merzouga?
   • Yes, it's generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to follow the guidance of experienced tour guides and stay hydrated in the desert climate.