Experience the breathtaking landscapes of southern Morocco, combining the coastal charm of Agadir and Essaouira, the vibrant energy of Marrakech, and the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert. This 8-day journey offers a perfect balance of exploration, cultural immersion, and relaxation, with visits to historic medinas, stunning dunes, and captivating oases.
From Coastal Towns to Desert Adventures
Overview
Included
Excluded
Highlights
Itinerary
Arrive in the vibrant coastal city of Agadir, where you’ll be welcomed and transferred to your accommodation. After settling in, explore the highlights of Agadir, including its bustling souks, the tranquil Corniche, and panoramic views from the historic Kasbah. Immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of this modern yet culturally rich city.
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel or riad in Agadir
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (depending on arrival time)
Guided Tours: City tour of Agadir, including the Kasbah and souks
After breakfast, begin your journey north towards the historic city of Essaouira. Along the way, make a stop at the charming surf town of Taghazout, known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Take some time to enjoy the vibe or have a coffee by the coast before continuing your journey.
Next, head to the Enozar Waterfall, a hidden gem nestled in the countryside. This peaceful spot is perfect for a break, offering refreshing views and a serene atmosphere. Continue on to Paradise Valley, a scenic oasis in the High Atlas Mountains. The valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, with palm trees, rock pools, and dramatic gorges. You can enjoy a short hike through the valley or take a dip in one of its crystal-clear natural pools to cool off.
After exploring the valley, continue your journey to Essaouira, a city rich in history and culture. Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll through its charming medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the bustling souks and fresh seafood in the local restaurants.
Accommodation: Hotel in Essaouira
Meals: Breakfast in Agadir, lunch in Paradise Valley, seafood dinner in Essaouira.
Guided Tours: Agadir Oufella ruins (if stopping earlier) and Paradise Valley
After breakfast in Essaouira, depart for Marrakech, enjoying a scenic drive through the Moroccan countryside. Along the way, you'll pass by vast landscapes, including argan tree groves where goats are often seen climbing the trees—an iconic sight of this region. Upon arrival in Marrakech, you’ll check into your accommodation and begin a guided city tour of this vibrant city. Explore the bustling medina, with its maze of narrow streets, colorful souks, and historical landmarks. Visit Jemaa el-Fna square, the lively heart of the city, and enjoy some traditional mint tea and Moroccan pastries at one of the many cafés surrounding the square. In the evening, you’ll have the chance to relax at your accommodation and perhaps explore more of Marrakech’s vibrant atmosphere or enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Hotel or guesthouse in Marrakech
Meals: Breakfast in Essaouira, lunch along the journey, and dinner in Marrakech
Guided Tours: City tour of Marrakech, Jemaa el-Fna, and the souks
Start your journey early, around 7:00 AM, to cover the long but scenic drive from Marrakech to Zagora. You will travel through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, followed by visits of ancient kasbahs, and marvel at the vast Draa Valley . You will enjoy scenic views and a guided tour of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic earthen kasbahs. After exploring this historic village and enjoying a local lunch, the journey continues to Zagora, passing through the lush Draa Valley filled with palm groves and traditional Berber villages.Upon arriving in Zagora, you'll embark on a camel trek into the desert, taking in the stunning landscapes as the sun sets. As evening falls, you will reach your Berber camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, listen to captivating Berber music, and gaze at the star-filled sky - a peaceful desert moment. Spend the night in a cozy tent, immersed in the serene desert ambiance.
Accommodation: Berber Tizi camp
Meals Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Guided Tours: guided visit of several kasbahs, camel ride
After breakfast at Tizi Desert Camp, journey south towards Mhamid, often considered the gateway to the vast Sahara Desert.Arrive in the historic village of Tamgroute, known for its rich cultural heritage. Here, visit the renowned Quranic library, which holds ancient manuscripts dating back as far as the 12th century. With a knowledgeable guide, explore the subterranean kasbah, an intricate maze of tunnels and chambers that reveal traditional Moroccan architecture and offer insight into local history and daily life.After exploring Tamgroute, continue to the nearby village of Bono for a warm, authentic experience. Here, the locals welcome you with traditional Moroccan tea, allowing you to connect with the local culture. Enjoy a lunch of traditional Moroccan dishes in Bono, savoring the rich flavors unique to this region.Following lunch, resume your journey to the Erg Lihoudi Camp, a traditional desert camp nestled among the golden dunes. Once you’ve settled into your tent, take in the serene beauty of the desert as the sun sets over the dunes, casting vibrant colors across the sands. As evening descends, gather around a campfire for a delicious dinner under the stars, accompanied by traditional music that captures the spirit of the Sahara. The tranquil silence of the desert, combined with the rhythmic music, offers an unforgettable and authentic end to your day.
Accommodation: Desert camp in Erg Lihoudi
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Guided Tours: Tamgroute
After breakfast at the Erg Lihoudi Camp, begin your journey to M'hamid, the gateway to the Sahara and the end of the paved road. Here, your off-road desert adventure truly begins. As you drive through the stunning, untouched landscapes of the Sahara, pause to enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the breathtaking scenery.Continue your journey to the Chegaga dunes, one of Morocco’s most spectacular desert regions, known for its towering dunes and rugged beauty. Upon arrival at the Chegaga camp, settle in and prepare for an unforgettable evening. In the late afternoon, head to the dunes to witness a spectacular Sahara sunset, as the sands are painted with vibrant colors.As night falls, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the immense starlit sky, accompanied by live cultural music around a campfire. Embrace the tranquil silence of the desert and the magic of the Sahara as you fall asleep in the comfort of your desert camp, surrounded by the beauty and vastness of Erg Chegaga. Wake up early the next morning to catch a peaceful desert sunrise, followed by breakfast, before embarking on the next leg of your adventure.
Accommodation: Chegaga Desert Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Guided Tours: Erg Chegaga dunes
Start the day with an awe-inspiring sunrise over the Erg Chegaga dunes, a magical moment that highlights the serenity of the desert. After breakfast, say goodbye to the warm hospitality of your Berber hosts and set out on an adventurous off-road journey. Traverse diverse desert terrains, including the striking dried Lake Iriqui, ancient fossil sites, and vast plains of black stones.
Reaching Foum Zguid, the first town after the desert, take a short break to relax, use facilities, or enjoy a refreshing coffee. The journey then continues through the picturesque Ounila Valley, renowned for its winding roads, charming Berber villages, and verdant gardens. As you make your way towards Agadir, travel through scenic landscapes and pass by local farms and traditional villages, giving you glimpses of rural Moroccan life.
Arrive in Agadir by late afternoon, concluding a remarkable desert adventure and settling into your accommodation.
Accommodation: Hotel or riad in Agadir
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Guided Tours: Exploration of the dried Lake Iriqui, scenic drive through Foum Zguid, and Ounila Valley viewpoints
Begin your final day with a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation. Depending on your departure time, you may have the opportunity for a relaxed morning to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your journey. If time permits, take a short stroll along Agadir’s Corniche, enjoy the fresh ocean breeze, or visit a nearby café for a last taste of Moroccan tea or coffee.
Your driver will ensure a timely transfer to Agadir Airport, offering assistance with luggage and a warm farewell. Cherish the memories of Morocco’s vibrant medinas, stunning coastlines, dramatic mountains, and serene desert landscapes as you prepare for your onward journey.
Accommodation: Not included
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (depending on departure time)