What is the best way to see the Sahara desert in Morocco? Discovering the Moroccan Sahara Desert is big list of experiences and adventures for many travelers. Starting and ending from the beautiful city of Marrakech, this trip can get you the chance to explore the High Atlas Mountains, and finally enjoying the vast and golden sands of the Moroccan Sahara. Just in three days, you can experience some of most stunning landscapes of Morocco, rich history, and unique culture. Here is a detailed guide on how to make the most of your three days journey to the Moroccan Sahara Desert from Marrakech.
Explore the Atlas Mountains:
In the first day, we will depart from Marrakech to Dades via the High Atlas Mountains. Your experience begins early in the morning as you depart from Marrakech, leaving the bustling city life for the serenity of the mountains behind you. Traveling to Ouarzazate via the Tizi n’Tichka or Tichka pass, it is the highest road pass in Morocco, and North Africa. Then, we will stop to enjoy the panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains and you will be treated to this fantastic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, dotted with Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides. After a few hours of driving, we will arrive at Ait Ben Haddou, the most famous ksars and fortified villages in Morocco, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient village has been inspired many movie makers including the Gladiator or Lawrence of Arabia and Game of Thrones was filmed here. You will spend some time climbing to the top of the hill for a stunning view of the surrounding area.
After, we will continue our journey to Ouarzazate. We will visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a well preserved fortress that provides a glimpse into the life of ruling class of Morocco in the past. Ouarzazate also a place where many famous movies have been filmed, it is the largest film studio in the world. After lunch, we will explore the Road of one thousand Kasbahs, a route lined with ancient fortresses and lush palm groves passing the Skoura Oasis. Then, we will visit the center of Moroccan roses and rose products, Rose Valley. Acres of Persian roses are grown and harvested here to create rose water, creams, and soaps prized throughout Morocco and the world. When the sun begins to set, we will continue passing Dades valley, it is the marvelous and dramatic rock formations and gorges. And we will spend the night in a hotel in Dades, then we will enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner.
Journey to Merzouga Desert:
In the second day, we will start from Dades Valley to Merzouga Desert via Todra Gorge, enjoying a Moroccan breakfast then continue your journey to Todra Gorge, one of the most spectacular gash in the hills that surrounds Tinghir and it is a fantastic natural wonders. As well as the gorge reaching up to 300 meters high, gives you some fantastic photo chances. Then, we will stop in the town of Rissani, a great market. Where you will pick up souvenirs like locally made crafts, textiles, and spices.
Continue your drive until start seeing the first sand dunes of Merzouga Desert, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. In the late afternoon we will arrive in Merzouga. Where you will head off into the vastness of the dunes on a camel caravan accompanied by cameleers. After, you will embark on a camel trek into the Sahara Desert. Camel riding takes you deep into the dunes, where the golden sand extensions as far as the eye can see. The dunes take on a magical, with its sunset, creating an unforgettable experience. As the evening falls we will retreat to the comforts and luxury of our exclusive private desert camp. Where we will be greeted with mint tea and fresh dates or nuts. Then we will enjoy a delicious dinner under the starry skies. Followed by music and storytelling around the campfire.
Southern Morocco via Draa valley:
From Merzouga back to Marrakech via Draa Valley on the third day. This will allow you to stop for a sightsee of thousand palm trees surrounding across the valley. We will wake up early for enjoying the sunrise over the Sahara Desert. It is an highlight experience of the trip. After having breakfast at the camp, you will ride your camel back to Merzouga Desert. Where your vehicle will be waiting for you, and drive back to Marrakech. Then we will stop for lunch and take some photos of the landscape of Draa Valley. That is famous for its kasbahs, palm groves, and picturesque villages. After that we will arrive in Marrakech in the early evening that allows you back over the High Atlas Mountains. Where you will back to the city with unforgettable experience and beautiful memories of the Sahara Desert.
Conclusion:
This three day journey from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert. Is a perfect way to explore the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Morocco. As well, from the High Atlas Mountains to the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert. This trip provides a little bit of everything, adventure, culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. If you are traveling solo, with a partner, or with your friends. This experience promises to be one of the highlights of your Moroccan adventure.
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