8 Dyas from Marrakech Morocco

Day 1: Marrakech – The Pearl of the South

Begin your journey in Marrakech, a city where the past and present mingle beautifully. Explore the historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its bustling souks and narrow alleys. Visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, and don’t miss the vibrant Majorelle Gardens. As evening falls, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where street performers and food vendors create an unforgettable scene.

Day 2: Over the Atlas Mountains to Ait Benhaddou

Depart Marrakech and ascend the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, enjoying panoramic views and a dramatic landscape change. Your destination is Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified village that is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a famous film location. Explore the earthen buildings, climb to the top for a breathtaking view, and immerse yourself in the history of this timeless place.

Day 3: Ouarzazate and the Draa Valley

Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studios, where many famous films were shot. Journey on to the Draa Valley, an oasis of lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs. This valley offers some of the most picturesque scenes in Morocco, with traditional mud-brick villages set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains.

Day 4: The Enchanting Erg Chebbi Dunes

Travel towards the town of Merzouga, situated on the edge of the breathtaking Erg Chebbi dunes. These massive dunes are the most stunning in the country, changing color from pink to gold to red at different times of the day. In the late afternoon, embark on a camel trek and ride into the desert to your camp. Spend the evening under the stars, enjoying traditional Berber hospitality.

Day 5: Merzouga Desert Exploration

Dedicate this day to exploring the Merzouga Desert. Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, consider visiting the nomadic families living in the area, or try sandboarding on the dunes. In the evening, enjoy another spectacular sunset and spend another night in the desert camp, perhaps learning about Berber music and culture from your hosts.

Day 6: Rissani Market and Todra Gorges

After a final desert sunrise, head to Rissani, a traditional market town where you can experience the local way of life. Continue to the Todra Gorges, a towering canyon with 300-meter-high walls, popular among climbers and sightseers alike. The river below and the green palm oases make this a beautiful spot for a walk or a relaxing moment.

Day 7: Dades Valley and Ouarzazate

Journey through the Dades Valley, admiring the stunning rock formations and the fortified villages that dot the landscape. Return to Ouarzazate for the night, perhaps exploring more of the town or visiting nearby sights you missed on the way through.

Day 8: Return to Marrakech

On your final day, travel back to Marrakech. This drive will give you time to reflect on the incredible experiences and sights of the past week. Once back in Marrakech, you might choose to have a relaxing evening or dive back into the city’s vibrant nightlife one last time.

This 8-day journey from Marrakech to the Merzouga Desert is an adventure filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Morocco. It offers a deep dive into the country’s diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and ancient history, promising memories that will last a lifetime.