Atlas, Kasbah, and Desert

Description

Day 1: Marrakech – Ouarzazate

Depart early morning from Marrakech to Ouarzazate, through the High Atlas mountain pass of Tizi-n-Tichka and Telouet where you will visit the famous Kasbah Telouet, one of the former residences of Pacha Glaoui. After lunch continue through the Ounila Valley, a part of the main caravan route from sub-Saharan Africa to Marrakech, and the narrow river valley connecting Telouet and Ait Ben Haddou. After arriving in late afternoon in Ait Ben Haddou, visit the stunning Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a photo. Continue to your guesthouse in Ouarzazate for a traditional dinner and the night.

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Erg Chigaga

Depart in the morning to M’Hamid el Ghizlane via the mountain pass of Tizi-n-Tinfifte, the village of Agdz, then through the Kasbah of Tamnougalt, and the immense date palm oasis of the Draa Valley. Stop in Tamegroute to visit the Koranic library, the manufacturing location of the unique green pottery of Tamegroute, and the underground streets of the village. Enjoy lunch with locals through our homestay program in M’Hamid then on to the big dunes of Erg Chigaga. Arrive at the desert camp in late afternoon for a camel ride, and finally a traditional nomad dinner and a night under the stars or in nomad tents.

Day 3: Erg Chigaga –Ait Ben Haddou

After sunrise over the dunes and a traditional nomad breakfast, depart for Ait Ben Haddou along the track between Erg Chigaga and the old riverbed of the Draa River to Lake Iriqui, then to the village Foum Zguid. Stop for lunch at Taznakht, well known for its handmade Berber carpets and silver jewelry. Arrive at your guesthouse in Ait Ben Haddou in late afternoon for a traditional dinner and the night.

Day 4: Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

After a traditional Moroccan breakfast, depart to Ait Ben Haddou through the High Atlas mountain pass of Tizi-n-Tichka. Stop for lunch on the way and arrive in Marrakech in the afternoon.