6-day adventure through Merzouga

Day 1

Your adventure begins today – your group will fly from the UK to Ouarzazate, Morocco. Upon arrival, your group will visit the Atlas Film Studio; embark on a brilliant guided tour – you’ll see life-sized films set, famous props, and behind the scenes stories about film making.

In the evening, your group will check into the Ibis Hotel and enjoy an evening meal at the accommodation.

Day 2

Start your day at Barrage El Mansour Eddahbi, a vast reservoir created by a hydroelectric dam on the Drâa River. From your viewpoint, you’ll discuss how this vital project supports local water supply, farming, and flood control in Morocco’s arid south.

Continue to El-Kelaâ M’Gouna, heart of the region’s rose-growing industry. Each year, between 2,000 and 4,000 tons of fragrant blooms are harvested here – and the town celebrates with its famous Festival of Roses.

Stop for lunch in Boumalne Dadès, a key town in the Dadès Valley. From a nearby vantage point, take in sweeping views and learn about the local landscape and farming life.

In the afternoon, travel to the breathtaking Todra Gorge, where sheer cliffs rise 300m above the Todra River. Enjoy a short walk to experience its dramatic scenery.

End the day at Hotel Kenzi Bougafer in Tinerhir. Check in and unwind with dinner.

Day 3

Begin your day exploring traditional water wells. These cone-shaped mounds mark ancient wells linked by tunnels that carry life-giving water from the aquifer to nearby settlements and farms.

Continue to Erfoud, known as the ‘Gate to the Sahara’. This small desert town is famed for its fossils and sweet dates. Stop here for lunch before visiting the Erfoud Fossil Factory, where you’ll see how ancient marine fossils are uncovered, polished, and crafted – a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s geological past.

Later, travel to the spectacular dunes of Erg Chebbi, near Merzouga. Meet your 4×4 vehicles for the short drive to the camel trek starting point. Ride across the golden dunes to your Bedouin desert camp, where you’ll spend the night under the stars.

Enjoy dinner at the camp and a memorable evening in the stillness of the Sahara.

Day 4

Begin your day at Maison Tuareg in Rissani, a carpet outlet that celebrates Morocco’s ancient weaving traditions. Learn how Berber artisans handcraft vibrant rugs using natural dyes and symbols that tell stories passed down through generations.

Continue to Alnif for lunch at Auberge Kasbah Meteorites, before travelling to Tansikht Junction, where you’ll meet a local farmer. Stroll through the date palm groves as you learn about rural life in this arid region.

Journey onward to the Tizi-n-Tinififft Overlook (1,660m) for breathtaking views of sculpted valleys and folded rock formations; this is a stunning glimpse into Morocco’s geological past.

Arrive in Ouarzazate and check back into the Ibis Hotel for an overnight stay (B&B basis). Enjoy your evening meal at Tajali Restaurant before relaxing for the night.

Day 5

The morning commences at the Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once guarded the ancient trade route between Marrakech and Ouarzazate. Built from traditional pisé (mud and straw), this fortified village has starred in many films and TV productions.

Continue to the Inkal Village Overlook, where you’ll view the Berber settlement of Zaouite Inkal across the river. Discuss rural life, farming, and how seasonal floods both sustain and threaten this desert community.

Travel onwards to the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, the highest road point in the High Atlas Mountains at 2,260m. From a scenic pull-off, enjoy sweeping views of dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and layered rock formations.

Visit an Argan Oil Cooperative, where local women demonstrate the traditional process of extracting argan oil for cooking and cosmetics. There’s time to sample and purchase products before continuing your journey.

Stop for lunch in Taddert, then travel to Marrakech and check into the Majorelle Hotel (B&B basis).

In the evening, experience the spectacular Chez Ali Fantasia Dinner Show, a vibrant celebration of Moroccan culture with music, dancing, a traditional feast, and an unforgettable horse-riding performance.

Day 6

Today is Departure Day – today’s activities will depend on your flight time.

If time allows, you may visit Douar Oulad Elguern, a local village offering insight into everyday rural life – you group will experience a tea ceremony and will participate in daily activities that occur within the community. You may also take part in an Amal Cooking Class, where you can learn to prepare authentic Moroccan dishes.

A visit to the beautiful Majorelle Gardens is included in your tour, stroll among exotic plants, vibrant blue architecture, and tranquil pools in one of Marrakech’s most iconic landmarks.

Alternatively, you may choose to explore the Mohammed VI Water Museum, which highlights Morocco’s innovative approach to managing this precious resource.

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.