Our 3-day desert trip from Marrakech begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Marrakech at 8 a.m. We’ll depart towards the High Atlas, a subrange of the Moroccan Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi N’Tichka pass. Along the way, we’ll stop for panoramic views and photo opportunities of the Berber villages that blend seamlessly into the landscape. We’ll continue south to the ksar (fortified village) of Aït Ben Haddou, where we’ll visit the famous Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. This remarkable location has served as the backdrop for several iconic films, including Gladiator, Obelix, The Mummy, The Jewel of the Nile, and Sahara with Penelope Cruz, among others.

Next, we head to Ouarzazate, also known as “The Gateway to the Desert.” In the Berber language, Ouarzazate means “noiseless” or “without confusion.” Here, we’ll visit the Taourirt Kasbah, one of the most impressive ksars in Morocco. We’ll then proceed to the Rose Valley, passing through the vast Skoura palm grove, home to over 700,000 palm trees and numerous kasbahs scattered across the area. From there, we’ll proceed to Boumalne Dades for a panoramic view of the Dades Valley before heading to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll drive back through the valley to admire the striking rock formations known as the “Monkey Toes” and visit the 19th-century Kasbah of Ait Yul, which still stands today. We’ll then leave the Dades Valley and head towards Tinghir. Along the way, we’ll make a few stops before reaching the Todra Gorges. The scenery here is breathtaking. At the Gorge, you’ll walk beneath towering red cliffs, 300 meters high, a favorite spot for rock climbers. You’ll also have the chance to observe local villagers living in their traditional adobe homes.

After a short walk through the Todra Gorges, we’ll continue our journey towards Erfoud and Rissani, where we’ll stop for lunch. As the sun begins to descend, prepare for an unforgettable camel trek through the golden sands. Enjoy the serenity of the desert as you make your way to the campsite in the heart of the dunes. Delight in a delectable dinner under the starry sky, enjoy a spectacular show of Saharan music, and then, spend the night in this magical setting.

Very early in the morning, we’ll have a “Date with the Sunrise.” In the heart of the desert, waking up early is a must to witness the most spectacular sunrise you’ve ever seen. After breakfast, we begin our journey north, passing through the Tafilalet palm grove, the largest in the world. As we travel along the 20 km road, you’ll see thousands of palm trees lining the way. This road takes us to the Ziz Valley, where the river flows down from the High Atlas Mountains and nourishes the palm grove. We’ll make a stop here, and from a high vantage point, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley. Our next stop is Midelt, located in the heart of the Atlas Mountains, where you’ll have free time for lunch.

In the afternoon, we continue our journey through the Cedar Forest, where, if we’re lucky, we might spot some monkeys. Next, we visit the city of Ifrane, situated on the northwestern slope of the Middle Atlas at 1,630 meters above sea level. Its wide boulevards, pristine urban layout, gardens, green spaces, and unique architecture make the city resemble a Swiss town. Ifrane feels almost out of place in Morocco, earning it the nickname “Moroccan Switzerland.” If that’s not enough, it even boasts a famous ski resort, Michlifen. Around 6 pm, we’ll arrive in Fez, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, marking the end of our 3-day desert trip from Marrakech..