Morning: An early pick‑up in Marrakech starts the journey as you ascend the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass, where panoramic mountain views greet you. The winding road reveals traditional Berber villages perched on the hillsides, setting the tone for the adventure.
Afternoon: You pause at the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its role in Hollywood films, then continue to Ouarzazate – the “Gateway to the Sahara”. The route sweeps through the fragrant Skoura Oasis and the colorful Valley of Roses before arriving in the dramatic Dades Valley, where a riad or kasbah awaits.
Evening: After checking into your accommodation with views over the gorge, you enjoy a relaxed dinner under the Atlas sky, reflecting on the day’s scenic drives and historic sites.
Book a HotelMorning: A hearty breakfast fuels the drive through the palm‑groved Tinghir region to the impressive Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs rise nearly 300 m. A short walk lets you admire the canyon’s rugged beauty before heading onward.
Afternoon: The journey continues through the fossil‑rich town of Erfoud**, then to Merzouga, the gateway to the vast Erg Chebbi dunes. A camel trek at sunset transports you across golden sands, culminating in a spectacular desert sunset.
Evening: You arrive at a traditional Berber desert camp for dinner, followed by music and storytelling around the fire, experiencing authentic Saharan hospitality under a star‑filled sky.
Book a HotelMorning: Wake early to watch a magical Sahara sunrise over the dunes, then enjoy breakfast and a quick refresh before departing. The serene desert atmosphere provides a perfect farewell.
Afternoon: The return trek takes you through the historic stops of Alnif, Nkob and Agdz, winding along the lush Draa Valley. A lunch break in Ouarzazate offers a chance to refuel before the final mountain crossing.
Evening: After a scenic drive back over the Atlas passes, you arrive in Marrakech around 7:30 PM, concluding the adventure with memories of desert nights and mountain vistas.
Book a HotelIf you have extra time, consider adding a full day in Ouarzazate to explore the Atlas Film Studios and the Taourirt Kasbah, or extend your stay in Merzouga for a second night in the desert to experience a sunrise camel trek. To shorten the itinerary, you could skip the Dades Valley stop and head straight from Ait Ben Haddou to Todra Gorge, reducing travel time while still enjoying the main desert highlights.