10 Days: The Ultimate Morocco Desert Adventure

This epic journey takes you from the bustling streets of Marrakech through the dramatic High Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. You'll sleep under countless stars in a desert camp, explore ancient kasbahs, and discover the diverse landscapes that make Morocco a photographer's paradise.

Trip Overview

This itinerary covers approximately 1,500 kilometers through Morocco's most dramatic landscapes. You'll experience the contrast between imperial cities, Berber mountain villages, palm-filled oases, and the endless Sahara. The route is circular, starting and ending in Marrakech, making it ideal for international travelers.

Best Time: March-May and September-November offer ideal temperatures Fitness Level: Moderate walking ability required; some hiking optional Highlights: Sahara Desert camping, Atlas Mountain passes, ancient kasbahs, traditional Berber culture

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

Welcome to Morocco! After arriving at Marrakech Menara Airport, transfer to your traditional riad in the heart of the medina.

Afternoon Activities:

• Settle into your riad and enjoy mint tea on the rooftop
• Take a gentle orientation walk through nearby streets
• Watch the sunset from a rooftop café overlooking Jemaa el-Fnaa

Evening:

• Experience the magic of Jemaa el-Fnaa square as it transforms into an open-air food market
• Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant or sample street food
• Return to your riad for a restful first night

Accommodation: Traditional riad in the medina Meals: Dinner included

Day 2: Marrakech Exploration

A full day to discover Marrakech's most iconic sites before departing for the desert.

Morning:

• Start at Bahia Palace, admiring the intricate zellige tilework
• Visit the serene Majorelle Garden and Berber Museum
• Explore the spice and leather souks with a local guide

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a rooftop restaurant in the medina
• Visit the Koutoubia Mosque exterior and surrounding gardens
• Discover the Saadian Tombs
• Free time for shopping or hammam visit

Evening:

• Final dinner in Marrakech
• Prepare for early departure the next day

Accommodation: Traditional riad in the medina Meals: Breakfast and dinner included

Day 3: Marrakech to Aït Benhaddou via Atlas Mountains

Today begins the adventure as you cross the High Atlas Mountains through the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka pass.

Morning:

• Early departure from Marrakech (8:00 AM recommended)
• Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains
• Stop at Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260 meters) for photos and fresh air
• Visit local Argan oil cooperatives run by Berber women

Afternoon:

• Arrive at Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage ksar (fortified village)
• Guided tour of this ancient mud-brick village
• Learn about its Hollywood fame (Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Lawrence of Arabia)
• Watch sunset paint the kasbah golden

Evening:

• Check into your accommodation in nearby Ouarzazate or at the ksar
• Traditional dinner with views of the illuminated kasbah

Driving Distance: 185 km (4-5 hours with stops) Accommodation: Kasbah hotel or guesthouse Meals: Breakfast and dinner included

Day 4: Ouarzazate to Dades Gorge

Journey deeper into Morocco's desert landscape through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.

Morning:

• Visit Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate (optional)
• Drive through the Rose Valley (spectacular in April-May)
• Stop at Skoura's palm groves and ancient kasbahs

Afternoon:

• Continue to the dramatic Dades Gorge
• Check into your guesthouse perched on the gorge walls
• Short hike into the gorge to explore rock formations

Evening:

• Watch sunset from your terrace overlooking the gorge
• Traditional Berber dinner with music

Driving Distance: 160 km (3-4 hours) Accommodation: Guesthouse in Dades Gorge Meals: Breakfast and dinner included

Day 5: Dades Gorge to Merzouga (Sahara Desert)

The day you've been waiting for—arrival at the Sahara Desert!

Morning:

• Early departure for the longest driving day
• Drive through Tinghir and visit Todra Gorge (optional short hike)
• Coffee break at a local café

Afternoon:

• Continue through the Draa Valley and pre-Saharan landscapes
• Watch the terrain transform from rocky desert to golden sand
• Arrive in Merzouga at the edge of Erg Chebbi dunes

Late Afternoon:

• Mount your camel for the 1.5-hour trek into the desert
• Arrive at your luxury desert camp as the sun sets
• Photograph the dunes in golden light

Evening:

• Traditional Berber dinner under the stars
• Drumming and music around the campfire
• Stargazing in one of the world's best dark sky locations
• Sleep in a traditional Berber tent

Driving Distance: 300 km (5-6 hours) Accommodation: Luxury desert camp in the Sahara Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Day 6: Sahara Desert Experience

A full day immersed in the desert's magic—this is the heart of your journey.

Early Morning:

• Wake before dawn to climb a dune for sunrise
• Watch the desert transform from blue to pink to gold
• Return to camp for breakfast

Morning:

• Visit a nomadic Berber family (seasonal)
• Learn about desert life and traditions
• Try sandboarding on the dunes

Afternoon:

• Leisure time at camp or additional activities
• Optional quad biking or 4x4 excursion
• Second camel trek or simply relax

Evening:

• Another spectacular sunset from the dunes
• Final night under the stars
• Traditional music and storytelling

Accommodation: Luxury desert camp Meals: All meals included

Day 7: Merzouga to Fes via Ziz Valley

Leave the desert behind as you journey north to the imperial city of Fes.

Early Morning:

• Final sunrise in the desert
• Camel ride back to Merzouga
• Breakfast and departure

Morning & Afternoon:

• Drive through the spectacular Ziz Valley
• Stop at the oasis town of Erfoud (famous for fossils)
• Visit a fossil workshop to see ancient ammonites
• Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains via Ifrane (the "Switzerland of Morocco")

Evening:

• Arrive in Fes in late afternoon
• Check into your riad in the ancient medina
• Rooftop dinner with views over the city

Driving Distance: 450 km (7-8 hours with stops) Accommodation: Traditional riad in Fes medina Meals: Breakfast and dinner included

Day 8: Fes Exploration

Discover Morocco's spiritual and cultural capital, home to the world's oldest university.

Morning:

• Full guided tour of Fes el-Bali (the old medina)
• Visit Al Quaraouiyine University and Mosque
• Explore the famous tanneries from a leather shop terrace
• Wander through the metalwork and spice souks

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a traditional palace restaurant
• Visit Bou Inania Madrasa
• Explore the mellah (Jewish quarter)
• Free time for shopping or relaxation

Evening:

• Optional cooking class or dinner in a restored palace
• Rest in your riad

Accommodation: Traditional riad in Fes medina Meals: Breakfast included, lunch optional

Day 9: Fes to Marrakech

Return journey to Marrakech with stops along the way.

Morning:

• Depart Fes after breakfast
• Drive through the Middle Atlas cedar forests
• Stop at Azrou to see the Barbary macaques
• Coffee break in Beni Mellal

Afternoon:

• Continue south toward Marrakech
• Arrive late afternoon
• Check into your riad

Evening:

• Final dinner in Marrakech
• Evening stroll through Jemaa el-Fnaa
• Optional last-minute shopping

Driving Distance: 530 km (6-7 hours) Accommodation: Traditional riad in Marrakech Meals: Breakfast and dinner included

Day 10: Departure

Your desert adventure concludes today.

Morning:

• Leisurely breakfast at your riad
• Last-minute shopping or sightseeing
• Transfer to Marrakech airport for departure

Meals: Breakfast included

What's Included

• 9 nights accommodation (riads, kasbahs, and desert camp)
• All breakfasts, 8 dinners
• Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout
• English-speaking driver/guide
• All entrance fees to sites
• Camel trekking in the Sahara
• Sandboarding
• Airport transfers

What to Pack

Desert Essentials:

• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• High SPF sunscreen
• Scarf or turban to protect from sand
• Refillable water bottle

Clothing:

• Layers (desert nights drop to 5-10°C in winter)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals for the camp
• Modest clothing for visiting religious sites

Other:

• Camera with extra batteries (cold drains them quickly)
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Personal medications
• Small daypack

Practical Tips

1. Fitness: No extreme fitness required, but be prepared for moderate walking on uneven surfaces
2. Photography: Desert light is best at sunrise and sunset; protect your camera from sand
3. Money: Carry cash; ATMs are scarce outside major cities
4. Health: Bring any personal medications; pharmacies are limited in remote areas
5. Altitude: The Atlas Mountain passes reach over 2,000 meters; take it easy if sensitive to altitude

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the desert camp comfortable? A: Luxury camps feature proper beds, en-suite bathrooms, and excellent food. Basic camps are more rustic but authentic.

Q: How cold does the desert get at night? A: Winter nights (Dec-Feb) can drop to 0-5°C. Spring and fall nights are around 10-15°C. Camps provide warm blankets.

Q: Can this itinerary be customized? A: Absolutely. Extra days can be added, or the route adjusted to include other destinations like Essaouira or Chefchaouen.

Q: Is the camel ride difficult? A: Camels walk slowly and are suitable for beginners. The 1.5-hour ride is manageable for most fitness levels.