Sahara & Atlas Journey (8 days)

Overview

This short but deeply immersive journey through southern Morocco is designed for travellers who want to experience the country beyond the cities, at a slower and more connected pace.

From the energy of Marrakech, you’ll travel over the High Atlas Mountains, through remote Berber villages, ancient kasbahs, and wide desert landscapes that open gradually as you move south.

Each day brings a shift in scenery, rhythm, and way of life - from mountain roads and palm valleys to the silence of the Sahara.

The focus of this journey is simple: real places, real people, and time to take it all in. You’ll stay in locally run riads, meet desert hosts, and experience Morocco through its landscapes and everyday hospitality rather than just its landmarks.

Tour Highlights

Throughout the trip you will experience:

Wander the colourful souks and palaces of Marrakech with a local guide
Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass
Explore the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah
Travel through Skoura Oasis and the fragrant Valley of Roses
Walk the dramatic cliffs of Todgha Gorge
Experience a camel trek into the Sahara dunes at sunset
Spend a night in a desert camp under a sky full of stars
Journey through the palm-filled Draa Valley and remote Berber towns
Return via the Anti-Atlas Mountains and traditional highland routes

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech Airport – Marrakech Riad
Welcome to Morocco. Upon arrival at Casablanca Airport, we transfer you to Marrakech. Settle into your traditional riad, take some time to relax, and enjoy your first evening in the city at your own pace.

Day 2: Marrakech City Tour
Discover Marrakech with a local guide, exploring beautiful palaces such as Bahia Palace, Dar Si Said, and Dar El Bacha. End the day in the lively Jemaa el-Fna Square, where the city comes alive with food stalls, music, and storytelling as the sun sets.

Day 3: Marrakech – Essaouira Day Trip
Enjoy a relaxed coastal journey to Essaouira, with the option to stop at an argan oil cooperative along the way. Spend the day wandering the medina, exploring the harbour, and enjoying the ocean breeze before returning to Marrakech in the evening.

Day 4: Marrakech – Ouarzazate via Ait Ben Haddou
Travel across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, taking in spectacular scenery along the way. Visit the historic Ait Ben Haddou with a local guide before continuing to Ouarzazate for the night.

Day 5: Ouarzazate – Merzouga Desert
Today’s journey takes you through some of Morocco’s most beautiful landscapes — Skoura Oasis, the Valley of Roses, Dades Valley, and Todra Gorge. By late afternoon, we arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll enjoy a camel trek into the dunes and a night in a desert camp under the stars.

Day 6: Merzouga – Agdez via Draa Valley
After leaving the Sahara, there is time for an optional stop at the traditional market in Rissani before continuing through the peaceful Draa Valley, known for its palm groves and ancient kasbahs. We arrive in Agdez for a quiet overnight stay.

Day 7: Agdez – Marrakech
We journey back towards Marrakech, crossing the Anti-Atlas Mountains and the Tizi n’Tichka Pass once more. Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon or evening and settle in for your final night.

Day 8: Departure Day
After breakfast, we transfer you to the airport for your journey home. We hope you leave with wonderful memories of Morocco and the people you’ve met along the way.

Pricing: Small Group Tour (maximum 8 guests): From NZ$2,200 per person

Included:

Airport transfers on arrival and departure
7nights accommodation (hotels, riads, and desert camp)
Private air-conditioned transport throughout Morocco
English-speaking driver throughout the trip
Daily breakfast
Dinners in Ouarzazate, Merzouga, and Agdez
Camel trek in the Sahara Desert
Overnight desert camp experience
Local guide in Marrakech
Day trip to Essaouira
Monument entry fees as per itinerary
Fuel, tolls, and taxes
Bottled water during travel days

Not Included:

International flights to and from Morocco
Travel insurance and visa fees (if applicable)
Lunches and drinks (unless specified)
Some dinners not mentioned in itinerary
Local guides (except where stated)
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities