Marrakech & The Sahara
8 days - from $760
Exciting adventure in the Sahara Desert and High Atlas Mountains
Almost as large as the continent of Europe, the grandeur of the Sahara Desert is truly experienced on this trip. After an impressive journey through the palm groves of the Draa Valley, we spend the night at the gateway to the desert, Zagora. We then travel by camel into the incredible landscape of oases and sand dunes of M'Hamid, where we spend the night at a traditional Bedouin camp under the stars. The desert experience can only be appreciated when we visit something completely different - the impressive 16th century Kasbah Ait Benhaddou. Continuing our journey into the High Atlas Mountains, we pass the crumbling remains of Telouet's great palace and enjoy a peaceful walk around the remote village of Tijhza. We have supported this village for over ten years, helping them build a water tower to ensure all houses now lead to running water and our work is very much appreciated by the community. Last but not least, there is time to explore the medina, souks and square of the 'Pink City' of Marrakech.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Start Ouarzazate. 2 Travel through beautiful Draa Valley to Zagora, the last town before the vast Sahara Desert. 3 Transfer to M'Hamid for a wonderful walk amongst the sand dunes; camel trek to our camp for an evening under the stars. 4 Head north to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou and its famous kasbah. 5 Into the High Atlas Mountains; walk to remote village of Tijhza and visit our Responsible Tourism project. 6 Morning walk; afternoon transfer to Marrakech through magnificent mountain scenery. 7 Explore Marrakech: Djemaa el Fna Square, beautiful gardens, palaces and souks. 8 End Marrakech.
Mode of travel: Travel by private mini or midibus and camel.
Group size: Normally 6 to 16, plus leader and appropriate local guides.
Accommodation: 5 nights 3-star hotels, all en suite, some with a swimming pool. 1 night Bedouin camp with shared facilities and 1 night gite or simple rural accommodation in dormitory style rooms with mattresses placed directly on the floor.
Food: All breakfasts and 3 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $192.50
Trip Reference: AMS
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Trip Reference: AMS