13 Days Moroccan Sands Adventure

Introduction

A JOURNEY THROUGH THE ENCHANTING LAND OF SOUTH CENTRAL MOROCCO

Are you ready for a journey that will stay with you long after you return home?

Join Michelle in Morocco for an unforgettable 13-day adventure through one of the most beautiful and welcoming countries in the world. From the vibrant medinas and ancient cities to the breathtaking Atlas Mountains and golden dunes of the Sahara, Morocco is a place that awakens the senses and touches the soul.

This is not a cookie-cutter tour. Our small-group journeys are thoughtfully curated to offer authentic cultural experiences, meaningful connections, and special moments that larger tours often miss. Along the way, you’ll meet local families, explore hidden corners, discover Moroccan traditions, enjoy delicious food, and experience the warmth and hospitality that make this country so extraordinary.

With Michelle by your side throughout the journey, you’ll be guided with care, curiosity, and a deep love for Morocco and its people. Every detail is designed to help you feel welcomed, inspired, and fully immersed in the magic of this remarkable country.

Come experience Morocco in a way that is personal, authentic, and unforgettable.

Journey Highlights

At a glance

A JOURNEY THROUGH THE ENCHANTING LAND OF SOUTH CENTRAL MOROCCO

Map

Day 1 - Arrive Marrakech

Arrive in Marrakech and Settle In

Arrive to Marrakesh Morocco

Your adventure begins when you touch down in Marrakech. Once you have made your way through customs and passport controls Michelle in Morocco will be waiting at the airport to greet you and welcome you to Morocco! We will transport you to your Riad for the evening where you can relax, refresh and unwind that evening. You will have a delightful dinner in your riad and get to know your fellow travelers and ask questions you may have about the upcoming adventure.

You will need to have at least 6 months expiration on you passport. Your driver will be waiting at the exit of the Airport with a sign Michelle in Morocco. Bed selection can not be guaranteed (Dbl occupancy may have a shared bed). Please exchange money while in the airport. Please read exchanging money and tips in the information at the end of the itinerary for more information).

Day 2 - Marrakech to Essaouira

Journey from Marrakech to Essaouira’s Coast

Breakfast at the Riad

Enjoy a wonderful Moroccan breakfast in the Riad before departing Marrakech.

Transport from Marrakech to Essaouira

Departure

Marrakech

Destination

Essaouira

After breakfast we will embark on our journey to Essaouira, a beautiful bohemian fishing village on the west coast of Morocco. The journey will take approximately 3 hours with a few stops along the way.

Riad Dar Maya (or similar)

Upon reaching Essaouira, you will be checked into the Riad Dar Maya (or similar). This stunning riad is located in the heart of the Madina, offering a short stroll to both the vibrant souks and the picturesque beach.

Riad Dar Maya Website

Explore Essaouira Souks and Beach

Before dinner, you will have ample time to explore the lively souks surrounding the riad, enjoy a leisurely walk to the beach, or simply relax and unwind within the riad.

Dinner at the Riad

Dinner will be served in the riad around 8:00pm, allowing you to savor delicious Moroccan cuisine in the comfort of this exquisite accommodation.

Day 3 - Essaouira

Guided Tour and Culinary Delights in Essaouira

Breakfast at the Riad

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the riad before embarking on a guided tour of Essaouira at around 9:00.

Guided Tour of Essaouira

Your guide will provide you with the village's rich history and introduce you to the layout of the Madina. Along the tour, you will witness talented artisans crafting their works, as well as fishermen hauling in their daily catches and fish mongers selling their goods in the vibrant markets.

Explore Essaouira at Your Own Pace

After the tour, take your time to explore the city at your own pace.

Lunch at Sidewalk Cafes in the Souks

Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the fantastic sidewalk cafes located in the souks.

Dinner at Restaurant Le Mogadorien or Similar

In the evening, we will venture away from the riad and enjoy a delightful dinner at Restaurant Le Mogadorien or a similar establishment around 7:30. It will be the perfect way to conclude your visit to Essaouira.

If you need money there are several ATM's in the big square of Essaouira. ATM's are harder to find the further south you travel. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Private guided tour of the Essaouira is included. Essaouira can be windy. A light jacket is recommended.

Day-4 Essaouira to Taroudant

Day 4 - Essaouira to Taroudant

Today we drive along the beautiful coastline from Essaouira to Agadir. It is a wonderful drive along the Atlantic ocean. We will pass through small villages where local farmers, fishermen and surfers from around the world share the same beaches.

We will have a special stop for lunch. Our Moroccan guide Mohamed from Adventures Desert and his family will welcome us into their home for lunch and demonstrate the art of Moroccan bread. It is a true delight.

We then head to Taroudant and our guesthouse for next 2 nights.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included today.

Please take precautions if are prone to car sickness.

Day 5- Taroudant

Relaxation and Historic Granary Tour in Taroudant

Breakfast

Start your day with a delightful Moroccan breakfast.

Morning Relaxation

This morning take the time to relax and unwind before our tour.

Lunch

Following lunch, we will depart from Taroudant to explore one of Morocco's historic granaries.

Tour of Historic Granary

Explore one of Morocco's historic granaries. These age-old structures have safeguarded valuable possessions of Moroccans for centuries.

Return to Riad

After the tour, you will return to the riad for some relaxation, dinner, and to prepare for your thrilling adventure into the Sahara.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at the riad after your day of exploration.

Please be mindful when touring not to take pictures of the locals. Always ask and do not be offended if they say no or ask you for money to do so. Entrance into the granary (ancient bank) is included.

Day 6- Taroudant to Erg Chigaga

Journey from Taroudant to the Sahara Desert

Breakfast

After having breakfast, your driver will be waiting to accompany you on your journey into the Sahara.

Transport from Taroudant to Foum Zguid

Departure

Taroudant

Destination

Foum Zguid

Your driver will accompany you on your journey into the Sahara. Before entering the desert, you will stop for lunch at Foum Zguid.

Lunch at Foum Zguid

Stop for lunch at Foum Zguid, where you can indulge in Morocco's finest french fries.

Meet Adventures Desert Team

Meet Mohamed and the Adventures Desert team, who will guide you off-road for a thrilling three-hour drive into the Sahara.

Off-road Drive into the Sahara

Departure

Foum Zguid

Destination

Luxury Desert Camp, Sahara

The Adventures Desert team will guide you off-road for a thrilling three-hour drive into the Sahara, where you will find your luxurious camp.

Luxury Desert Camp

Upon arriving at the Luxury Desert Camp, take a moment to relax and marvel at the desert's captivating beauty as you witness the sunset from the summit of a majestic golden dune.

Adventures Desert

Dinner at the Camp

Enjoy a delectable dinner under the starry sky, serenaded by desert music performed by Mohamed and the Adventures Desert team next to the campfire.

Sunset and Desert Music

Relax and marvel at the desert's captivating beauty as you witness the sunset from the summit of a golden dune. Enjoy music performed by the Adventures Desert team next to the campfire.

Check out Luxury Desert Camp below for a list of items suggested to pack for the desert experience. The off road drive to the Desert Camp is long (3-4 Hours) and at times very bumpy and rough so please be prepared for this. There are not bathrooms on the drive to the camp.

Day 7 - Erg Chigaga

Camel Ride, Nomad Visit, and Desert Sunset

Breakfast

The day begins with a beautiful sunrise (if you choose to wake up early) before having breakfast.

Camel Ride Across the Dunes

In the morning, Mohamed and his crew from Adventures Desert will arrive to take you on a camel ride across the majestic dunes of the Sahara. This camel ride through the desert offers a truly enchanting experience.

Picnic Lunch in the Desert

Afterward, they will treat you to a delightful picnic lunch in the desert.

Visit to Oasis and Tea with Nomad Family

After lunch, visit an oasis and enjoy tea with a nomad family. This whole experience is nothing short of magical.

Sunset Toast on the Dune

To conclude the day, you can toast the sunset from the top of a dune before returning to the camp.

Dinner at the Camp

Return to the camp for a delicious dinner accompanied by music around the cozy fire.

Stargazing in the Sahara

Don't forget to take a moment to gaze up at the stars before drifting off to sleep.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included. Guide, camel ride and desert tour are included. Sand Storms are possible. Your guide will determine if it is safe to travel by camel if a sand storm does occur. Every effort will be made to proceed with the camel ride. However your safety is of the most importance.

Day 8 - Erg Chigaga to Draa Oasis

Journey from Erg Chigaga to Draa Oasis

Breakfast

After having breakfast, you bid farewell to Erg Chigaga and proceed towards the village of M'hamid.

Transport from Erg Chigaga to M'hamid

Departure

Erg Chigaga

Destination

M'hamid

After having breakfast, you bid farewell to Erg Chigaga and proceed towards the village of M'hamid.

Picnic Lunch at Palm Grove, M'hamid

Upon reaching M'hamid, you will make a stop at the Palm Grove for a spectacular picnic lunch.

Visit to Tamergroue Pottery

Afterwards, you will continue your journey to Tamergroue, home to the renowned green pottery of Morocco. You will have the opportunity to observe the pottery-making process and understand the reason behind its distinct green color.

Shopping in Tamergroue

After a little shopping, continue your travel to the Draa Oasis and your accommodation for the next two nights.

Transport from Tamergroue to Draa Oasis

Departure

Tamergroue

Destination

Draa Oasis

Continue your travel to the Draa Oasis and your accommodation for the next two nights.

Hara Oasis Lodge

Located amidst the palm groves of the Draa Valley, Kasbah Hnini is a splendid property. Here, you can unwind and cleanse off the desert dust, and perhaps even enjoy a traditional hammam experience.

Breafast, lunch and dinner are all included. The ride from the desert camp to M'hamid takes about 2 1/2 hours and is over rough terrain.

Day 9 - Draa Valley and the Oasis

Guided Hike and Palm Grove Experience

Guided Hike Through the Palm Grove

Accompanied by your personal guide, you will embark on a serene hike through the palm grove this morning. Along the way, you will witness local farmers diligently tending to their crops, providing you with a deeper insight into the centuries-old agricultural practices that have adapted to the scarcity of water in this area.

Hammam

If you would like to schedule a Hammam please schedule with the guesthouse. Spa and Hammam are not included with the tour.

Lunch at a Kasbah Near the Palm Grove

For lunch, a splendid meal awaits you at a Kasbah located near the picturesque palm grove.

Dinner at the guesthouse

Enjoy dinner at guesthouse after your day of exploration.

Please wear comfortable shoes for the hike. It is an easy hike but good shoes will be needed. Please remember to not take pictures of the local people unless you ask or invited to do so. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Guided hike and tour of the palm grove is included.

Day 10- Draa Valley to Marrakech

Journey to Marrakech via Kasbah Telouet

Journey to Marrakech, Kasbah Telouet and Atlas Mountains

Today, you will embark on a journey to Marrakech, with stops along the way to explore Kasbah Telouet and its surrounding area. The Kasbah, which was built in 1860, suffered extensive damage during the earthquake of 2023. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch and take a guided tour around the kasbah and tour the ancient jewish settlement in Telouet before continuing your journey north towards the High Atlas mountains. In the evening, we will arrive at Riad Rihani (or a similar riad) in Marrakech. Dinner will be served at the riad, providing you with the perfect opportunity to unwind and relax after the long journey.

Today's journey is about 5 hours of drive time. The road over the Atlas Mountains has many switchbacks and sharp curves.

Day 11 - Marrakech

Guided Exploration of Marrakech Souks and Jemaa El Fnaa

Welcome to the souks of Marrakech!

Today, explore the lively souks of Marrakech in great detail. The souks are a captivating maze of narrow alleys and passages, illuminated by the warm sunlight. Multicolored carpets, exquisite kaftans, aromatic spices, unique antiques, charming planters, delicate pottery, and exquisite jewelry are all blended with the bustling presence of motorbikes, donkeys, and the symphony of Moroccan merchants conducting their business. It is an overwhelming experience for the senses, so take your time to absorb it all, unwind, and embrace the vibrant atmosphere. Your knowledgeable guide will navigate you through this enchanting labyrinth, ensuring a truly immersive journey. Once the tour is complete, find relaxation in the comfort of the riad. In the evening, delight in a delectable dinner served at the riad. For those seeking one last adventure, Jemaa El Fnaa awaits, as it truly comes alive at night.

If prices for items are not listed, then haggling over the price is appreciated and expected. Your Guide will give you some guidance and explain the culture. The souks are very busy and buzz with activity. Please stay close to the group and do not separate. Your guide will give you instructions if you get separated from the group. Jemma El Fnaa is the famous square of Marrakech. It transforms in the evening with hundreds of food stalls, merchants and performers. Today's tour will be through areas that are very crowded. Breakfast and Dinner are included. The stop for lunch is not included.

Day 12- Marrakech

Guided Tour of Marrakech’s Iconic Sights

Guided Tour: Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa

Today's tour will take you to Jardin Majorelle, a must-visit destination in Marrakech known for being home to Yves Saint Laurent and the Berber Museum. Additionally, the guided tour will include visits to Bahia Palace and Ben Youssef Madrasa. If time permits, there will also be a chance to do some shopping in the souks.

Jardin Majorelle

Dinner in the Agafay Desert

For dinner tonight, your destination is the Agafay Desert, a short drive outside of Marrakech. Indulge in a delightful dinner and enjoy a lively show in a beautiful setting. It is sure to be an exciting and memorable evening

Breakfast and Dinner are included (excluding alcohol). Lunch is not included. Private guided tour is included. Enter fees to attractions is not included. Total price for all 3 attractions is approximately 35.00 dollars and can be purchased the day of the tour.

Day 13- Marrakech - Airport Transfer

Departure and Airport Transfer from Marrakech

Breakfast at the Riad

Breakfast will be served in the riad before your departure.

Airport Transfer

Your driver will transport you to the Marrakech airport.

Check out time is 10:00. If you need to leave for the Airport after 10:00 or later in the evening please let us know so that arrangements can be made.

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Map

1. Marrakech

Marrakech, Morocco

2. Essaouira

Essaouira, Morocco

3. Agadir

Agadir, Morocco

4. Taroudant

Taroudant, Morocco

5. Foum Zguid

Foum Zguid, Morocco

6. Erg Chigaga (Luxury Desert Camp)

Erg Chigaga, Morocco

7. M'hamid

M'hamid, Morocco

8. Tamergroute

Tamergroute, Morocco

9. Draa Oasis (Kasbah Hnini)

Draa Valley, Morocco

10. Kasbah Telouet

Telouet, Morocco