Morocco: Desert Expedition and Marrakesh

FLIGHT TO MARRAKESH

MARRAKESH

Upon arrival and meeting with our team, the journey continues to a selected riad or hotel in Marrakech.

After checking in, time is allocated for rest after the journey. For those favoring active relaxation, a stroll through the city’s vibrant streets is available. No matter how each expedition member decides to spend the rest of the day, the team aims to accommodate their expectations.

MARRAKESH

This day is dedicated to exploring the fascinating attractions and key landmarks of the “Red City” – Marrakech. The journey begins with the 12th-century Ibn Yusuf Madrasa. A madrasa is essentially a Qur’anic school, a place where young boys delved into the teachings of the Quran – the holy book of the Muslim religion. At the madrasa, an effort is made to understand the ancient teaching methods and to closely examine the dazzling architecture of medieval Morocco. The next stop is the Bahia Palace – the most visited site in the country. This palace of the grand vizier was adorned to emphasize the status of the man who was the right hand of the sultan himself. Another highlight of the day’s itinerary is the modern district of Gueliz, where the streets are navigated in traditional horse-drawn carriages.

As evening approaches, an exciting adventure awaits. The journey leads to the Agafay Desert, just outside Marrakech, for an ATV ride. Quad biking offers a bit of adrenaline rush, after which a much calmer mode of transport is adopted – camels. Astride the backs of dromedaries, the destination is a viewpoint from which the sunset paints the horizon in shades of gold and red.

After a day full of impressions, the return to Marrakech for the night is planned.

MARRAKESZH - AIT BENHADDOU - OUARZAZATE - WADI DADES

After breakfast, an unforgettable journey to the stunning Dades Valley awaits, traversing the Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass. Along the way, a stop is made to visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its cinematic history, serving as a backdrop for iconic films such as “Lawrence of Arabia,” “Gladiator,” and “Alexander.”

The journey continues through the charming Rose Valley, where the air is filled with the delicate scent of flowers. Each year, the Valley produces about 5000 tons of roses, primarily used for cosmetics manufacturing. Walking through the Berber village of Kelaa M’Gouna, the hospitality of the locals will be experienced. The trip then leads to the picturesque Dades Gorge.

An overnight stay in a local riad or hotel amidst the stunning landscape offers an opportunity to enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary heritage of the region.

WADI DADES - WADI TODGHA - ERFOUD - RISSANI - PUSTYNIA MERZOUGA

In the morning, the journey leads towards the Todgha Gorges, one of Morocco’s natural wonders, inviting exploration. A walk is taken, surrounded by the high walls of the canyon. Following that, the route continues to the town of Erfoud, known as the Moroccan capital of fossils. There, prehistoric ammonites and other fossils are collected, polished, and turned into various ornaments and utilitarian objects.

Finally, the journey enters the Sahara, reaching Merzouga, also known as Erg Chebbi. Merzouga sits beside majestic dunes, spanning    32 kilometers in length and 9 kilometers across.

The night unfolds in a desert riad or a hotel among the dunes, where guests enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, accompanied by the sounds of Berber drums.

4X4 TOUR AND TREKKING IN THE MERZOUGA DESERT

After breakfast at the riad/hotel, the journey continues with desert exploration. The first destination is the village of Khamlia. There,       a visit to the black-skinned musicians is planned, who perform a short concert of Gnawa music – a spiritual African music from which blues originates. Finally, the journey leads to a well-deserved lunch to try a local delicacy – “Berber pizza.”

The next stop is the town of Rissani, characterized by its grand towers and bustling souk, or market. A stroll through the souk offers insight into the pulsating heart of Moroccan merchant culture.

After returning to Merzouga, experienced camel caravan guides lead on a mesmerizing journey through the sandy dunes of the Sahara. Immersed in the golden hues of the setting sun, the camp in the desert is reached, where a typical Berber meal is enjoyed.

As dark night envelops the camp, gathering around the bonfire takes place, where, sipping Moroccan mint tea, singing and the sounds of drums make for an unforgettable time.

MERZOUGA ATV

This day features an extreme two-hour quad or buggy expedition through the dunes of Merzouga. During the ride, several stops at viewpoints are made to capture a few good shots.

After this thrilling adventure, return for lunch is followed by some free time. In the evening, the dunes are visited again to admire another sunset from the highest point.

MERZOUGA - ALNIF - AGDZ - OUARZAZATE

OUARZAZATE - AIT BENHADDOU - TELOUET - MARRAKESH

The next day in Ouarzazate begins with a visit to Atlas Studios, where numerous film productions were and are still being made. The number of well-known films produced there will be quite a surprise for many. After all, this place has been aptly named the “Hollywood of Africa.”

Continuing our journey, we head to the ancient Kasbah Taourirt, a testament to Morocco’s rich cultural heritage. Wandering through    the labyrinth of old town streets, we travel back in time, discovering hidden treasures and tales of bygone eras.

Further, we navigate numerous switchbacks through the High Atlas. At this point, the geographical, climatic, and natural diversity of Morocco truly becomes apparent. On the other side of the mountains, we return to the familiar Marrakesh.

BALLOON FLIGHT - DEPARTURE FROM MARRAKESH

On the last day of our tour, a truly magical experience awaits – a morning balloon flight. From the basket, high above the ground, the sunrise over Marrakesh unfolds.

Following this unforgettable experience, the journey proceeds to Marrakesh airport for the scheduled return flight.

We recommend other expeditions with Rek Travel. Maybe this time Egypt.

Morocco: Desert Expedition and Marrakesh