Morocco Mountains, Steppes, and Sahara Tour

Upon your arrival at Casablanca Airport, you will meet your guide and driver and take off for Fez. On the Way, You Will Visit Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Zerhoune.

Overnight in Fez, a city that pulsates with cultural, spiritual, and intellectual energy, in a small guesthouse nestled in the Medina. This is where you'll have the best cultural encounter of your first night in Morocco. Fez, the heartbeat of the kingdom, will be introduced to you by your guide during the first-night debriefing about your Morocco experience. Dinner will be a freshly cooked feast, prepared just for you, adding to the richness of your cultural immersion.

Undeniably fascinating, Fez stimulates the senses with its haunting yet beautiful sounds, visual splendor, and evocative smells. The most ancient of the imperial capitals and the complete medieval city of the Islamic world, Fez is reminiscent of a city suspended in time, unfazed by the constantly evolving world outside of its walls. Fez owes nothing to the Western world to save electricity.

Time spent in Fez will reveal much about the sophistication of the Moroccan artisan, providing an unparalleled learning experience to those who cross its path. Your morning will be spent visiting the Medina. Our specialized guide will take you on a historic discovery of Fez, starting at the King’s Palace and its Meshwar with ramparts and majestic gates.

Next, you will explore the Jewish quarter, the 15th-century citadel with all its Moorish maze architecture and medieval glory. Visits to Sephardic synagogues and mausoleums of holy Rabbis will be the highlights of this part of town.

Then, we will drive to the Merinides hill to visit their necropolis. Here, you will enjoy the best panoramic view of the old walled Medina, brimful with countless minarets to call for prayers in a city that has responded to these calls for 12 centuries. Drive down the hills to the gate of Bab Guissa to leave your vehicle and enter an ancient world. Fez has preserved its Medina as it was centuries ago. Not even a bicycle can be used as a tool for transportation. Only donkeys, mules, and horses can help move all that the city produces and needs as supplies.

The first guilds you will immediately encounter are the cobblers, the saddlers, and blacksmiths, interlaced by some caravansaries for tribe members who come from the surrounding areas to trade and supply their needs. Down the hill to Juteya, you will encounter all sorts of crafts, but noticeably carpenters and leather workers as one of the traditional tanneries is not far. This walk will lead you to El Ashabine Square, which has a variety of activities. From there, you will find your way to the Sgha square, leading you to Attarine, then Souk el Henna, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Idris, the founder of Fez. Next to it, you will visit Nejjarine Square, which has a famous fountain, a Guild of Carpentry, and a Museum of Folk Arts at the Fondouk.

You will walk to the tannery and visit the Great Mosque University of Al Quarrawiyyine, passing by Shemma’ine, the dried fruit market. After that, you will see the Medersa Attarine and walk to Sbetryyine, a guild of bookbinders, which will lead you to the Seffarine Square, where the tapping of metalworkers is still deafening passersby as it was the case for centuries. You will break for lunch and then continue exploring the marvels of Fez Medina. These will highlight the Dyers souk, Foundouk Tetouan, and the shrine of Sidi Ahmed Tijani.

You will end your walk at Foundouk Lihoudi, where a local Fez family will host you for a traditional mint tea at their home. Finally, you will return to your hotel for dinner and other accommodation.

Today, you will take off to explore one of the most remote undocumented areas, even by Lonely Planet, an authority on trekking areas in Morocco. Your overland expedition will take off in 4x4 caravan vehicles from Fez to Taza across the massif of Sidi Abdeljalil, passing by the typical Berber village of Tsoul and Mtioua by the Taza Canyons to Jbel Bou Keltoum, reaching its highest Pass of Guercif. Your trek continues to the lush steppes of Mrija, where we will stop for lunch after visiting the Rass el Ain springs and the Cascades of Benimathar. The afternoon will be devoted to the natural cross of our first aspect of the stony desert, where life exists only for nomads who can cope with the vastness, isolation, and remoteness of this aspect of life in the desert. We will stop at Borj of Trarite Rhars Allah (Fort of Gods Plantation), a place that lives up to its name. Locals will host us for a typical mint Tea; then, we will proceed to Tendrara for a brief stop and continue to Bouarfa, where we will set camp for two nights. Dinner will be in Bouarfa town.

After breakfast, we will travel to the ceremonial road, trekking to Figuig Oasis on the Morocco Algerian Borderline. This is one of the less-visited oases in Morocco, as it is absolutely out of tourist Radar. It’s the most beautiful valley of palm groves where you can capture authentic Saharan life in a bottle. We will leave our vehicles over the hill of Figuig and hike down the footpaths to mingle and roam around the oasis of Zenaga, Merires, and the old town of Figuig; Adobe hamlets punctuate the dense green of extensive Palm Groves. Lunch will be in a typical Kasbah hosted by a local family to give you a taste of local staples unique to this region and an opportunity to experience life inside an oasis. In the late afternoon, we will hit the road hiking back to our camp in Bouarfa.

Visited Highlights:

Zanaga Oasis, a hidden gem amidst Morocco's arid landscapes, offers a tranquil retreat for travelers seeking respite from the desert heat. Nestled within the Sahara, this oasis enchants with its lush palm groves, cool springs, and vibrant flora. With its serene ambiance and traditional Berber hospitality, Zanaga invites visitors to unwind, explore its natural wonders, and immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of Morocco's desert oasis culture.

Figuig Figuig, an oasis town in southeastern Morocco, is a hidden treasure with history and natural beauty. Tucked away near the Algerian border, Figuig boasts lush palm groves, ancient ksars (fortified villages), and intricate irrigation systems dating back centuries. Its unique location and rich cultural heritage make Figuig a captivating destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Morocco's southeastern corner.

Bouarfa – Boudnib – Meski Blue Springs - Merzouga

After breakfast, we will continue on our trek to Boudnib and then to the lush oasis of Meski. Set camp and enjoy a festive lunch. In the afternoon, we will visit the valley of Ziz palm grove and the canyons of El Kenz, then take a mild hiking on the trails leading to the Ksar Jdid Ait Amira, leave the vehicles, and walk around the oasis, hike around Zaouia Jdida and Douirat oasis, stop for tea at a local home Kasbah at Brj Yerdi where your Land Rovers will be waiting for you to take back to enjoy an afternoon at Meski Oasis. Dinner will be in Camp over the dunes of Merzouga.

Highlights to visit:

**Boudnib: ** Boudnib is a town located in eastern Morocco, nestled amidst the captivating landscapes of the Sahara Desert. With its rich cultural heritage and unique charm, Boudnib offers visitors an authentic Moroccan experience. From its traditional markets filled with vibrant colors and aromas to its ancient architecture steeped in history, Boudnib invites travelers to immerse themselves in its allure. Whether exploring the surrounding desert dunes or indulging in local delicacies, Boudnib promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Morocco's desert region.

**Meski Blue Springs: ** Meski Bleu Springs is a serene oasis nestled amidst lush greenery, with crystal-clear waters cascading over smooth rocks. The gentle rustle of leaves harmonizes with the soothing melody of flowing streams. It's a tranquil haven where one can unwind, surrounded by nature's embrace.

The Ziz Valley, a unique natural wonder, is nestled between Rich and Er-Rachidia in southeastern Morocco. Spanning over 150 kilometers, it's a tapestry of lush palm groves, towering cliffs, and the meandering Ziz River. The valley is a living testament to the traditional Berber way of life, with its charming villages and warm hospitality.

One of the Ziz Valley's most captivating aspects is its unique experiences, particularly during sunrise and sunset. The golden light that bathes the cliffs and palm trees creates an enchanting atmosphere. Whether on foot or by car, travelers can immerse themselves in the panoramic views, visit local markets, or savor a traditional Berber meal, making their journey unique and memorable.

For history and culture enthusiasts, the Ziz Valley is a treasure trove. It provides a deep dive into the traditional way of life of the Berber people, who have inhabited the region for centuries. Visitors can delve into local customs, architecture, and crafts and explore the ancient ruins and historic sites scattered throughout the valley, adding a profound layer of historical and cultural depth to their journey.

Merzouga: Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara, is enchanted with its towering dunes and golden landscapes. A haven for desert adventurers, it beckons with camel treks, Berber hospitality, and unforgettable sunsets over the shifting sands.

An early wake up will be at dawn to go directly to the dunes of Merzouga for a sunrise experience in the Sahara Desert. Ride camels back to Kasbah Leila, where you will be ready with a well-garnished breakfast. Then, take your land cruisers to Rissani for a historical visit to this holy city and a center of sub-Saharan caravan traders. A local guide will be with you to elaborate on the history and life of the desert culture of Bedouins and Tuaregs tribes. Travel East to the Canyons of Todra, visiting Rissani and the Tafilalet Oases. Lunch will be in Tinghir. Hike the valley of Todra from Tinghir up to the narrowest Gorges of Todra for the whole afternoon.

Your Mountain guide will take you on a historical tour of the old adobe villages and sun-baked brick Castles of the Valley of Todra, followed by an adventure hiking through the valley. Explore the ancient life of this valley and the history of Judaism among the Berber tribes of Ait Atta in this valley. Lunch will be at the straight of Todra Canyons. Time will be devoted to mild hiking around the Todra Mountains. Dinner and local Saharan Music will be at Miloud’s house at a guesthouse in Todra Valley.

Highlights:

Todgha Valley:

Todra Valley, nestled in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, enchants visitors with its towering cliffs, lush greenery, and the gentle flow of the Todgha River. Travelers can hike through the dramatic Todgha Gorge, with its sheer rock walls reaching 300 meters, or relax in the shade of palm trees lining the valley floor. It's a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking scenery. Kalaa Megouna Kalaa Megouna, known as the "Valley of Roses," seduces American tourists with its fragrant rose fields and picturesque landscapes. Located in Morocco's Dadès Valley, it hosts an annual Rose Festival, celebrating the region's rose harvest. Visitors can explore rose distilleries, purchase exquisite rose products, and immerse themselves in the valley's beauty framed by the Atlas Mountains. It's a sensory delight and a cultural gem waiting to be discovered. Boumalen Dades:

Boumalene Dades, nestled in Morocco's breathtaking Dadès Valley, captivates American tourists with its stunning scenery of rugged canyons, lush oases, and ancient kasbahs. Visitors can hike through the dramatic Dades Gorges, explore traditional Berber villages, and savor the tranquility of the surrounding landscapes. With its rich history and natural beauty, Boumalene Dades offers an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.

Travel in the morning to Zagora, exploring the marvels of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, passing by Jbel Saghro, one of the starkest desert mountains with a unique rock formation. Trekking arid desert villages and Berber wards at high elevations will lead to the lush Draa Valley. The largest Palm Groves on earth. It serpent the Draa River for over 250 km. Explore travel from the arid beauty of the Draa Valley oases and Kasbahs and stop in Agdez and other sun-baked mud hamlets of small villages among this giant belt of continuous oases in the world—dinner and lodging at the Tinsouline Hotel.

Highlights:

Draa Valley

The Valley of Draa is a timeless treasure nestled in southern Morocco. The Draa River winds through a picturesque expanse of date palms and lush greenery. Steeped in history and culture, this ancient valley is dotted with traditional villages, historic kasbahs, and terraced gardens, offering a glimpse into Morocco's rich heritage. With its stunning landscapes and tranquil ambiance, the Valley of Draa beckons travelers to explore its hidden wonders and immerse themselves in the rhythm of desert life. Zagora

Nestled at the edge of the Sahara, Zagora welcomes travelers with its rustic charm and desert allure. Known for its palm-lined oases, ancient kasbahs, and breathtaking sunsets, this gateway to the desert promises an unforgettable adventure into Morocco's enchanting wilderness.

An exciting full-day hiking excursion to the natural gateway of the Moroccan Saharan Desert. We will drive through the lowlands and then along the mountain passes to Tamegroute. We will stop to visit the famous Moorish Koranic Library, which has rare books and documents, some written on gazelle hide from the 13th century. Venture in the Sandy Terrain along the Draa Valley to the dunes of M’Hamid El Ghizlanes in the heart of the Sahara. Camp near the Iriki Lake will be set over the surrounding dunes, where you can enjoy a night under the African skies. Dinner and accommodation will be in the cathedral of nature.

Highlights:

Zagora

Nestled at the edge of the Sahara, Zagora welcomes travelers with its rustic charm and desert allure. Known for its palm-lined oases, ancient kasbahs, and breathtaking sunsets, this gateway to the desert promises an unforgettable adventure into Morocco's enchanting wilderness.

Tamegrout: Tamegrout, a serene oasis near Zagora, boasts a storied past and vibrant present. Home to the famed Tamegrout Library, renowned for its ancient manuscripts, this village invites travelers to explore its rich heritage. From traditional pottery workshops to historic kasbahs, Tamegrout offers a glimpse into Morocco's cultural tapestry amidst its tranquil desert surroundings.

M'Hamid M'Hamid El Ghouzlane, nestled at the edge of the Sahara, exudes a timeless charm and rugged beauty. As the "Gateway to the Desert," it offers a glimpse into traditional Berber life and serves as a starting point for epic desert adventures. With its golden dunes, palm groves, and warm hospitality, M'Hamid invites travelers to embark on unforgettable journeys into the heart of the Moroccan Sahara.

Travel between the Sahara and the Atlas Mountains across some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes unique to this part of an immense plateau to reach the Oasis of Foum Zguid, where the horizons stretch the imagination to a feeling of vastness and isolation in the Sahara Desert. After lunch, we will cruise the paved road to Tata, where we will enjoy a night in a typical Kasbah raised from the ground to challenge the tallest palm trees.

Iriki Lake Trek Embark on an extraordinary adventure with the Lake Iriki Trek, an expedition into the heart of Morocco's Sahara Desert. As you journey across the vast expanse of Lake Iriki's dry salt flats, you'll be surrounded by a surreal landscape of shimmering mirages and towering sand dunes. This trek offers a rare opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of the desert, where the silence is profound and the vistas endless. With experienced guides leading the way, you'll traverse this otherworldly terrain, encountering nomadic tribes and ancient geological formations along the route. Whether you're drawn to the challenge of desert trekking or seeking a deeper connection with nature, the Lake Iriki Trek promises an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the journey ends.

Foum Zguid Foum Zguid, a desert town nestled amidst the vastness of southern Morocco, captivates travelers with its rugged charm and tranquil ambiance. As a gateway to the Sahara, Foum Zguid offers a glimpse into traditional Berber life and serves as a base for epic desert expeditions. With its sweeping desert landscapes and warm hospitality, Foum Zguid beckons adventurers to explore its hidden wonders and embark on unforgettable journeys into the heart of the Moroccan desert.

Tata Oasis Tata Oasis, nestled in the arid landscapes of southern Morocco, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Surrounded by palm groves and verdant gardens, this tranquil oasis offers respite from the desert heat. With its traditional mud-brick architecture and serene ambiance, Tata invites travelers to unwind and immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of Morocco's desert oasis culture.

After breakfast, we will travel the Bedouin Caravan Trails west to Tafrout, an ancient trade outpost, the exotic oases of Akka. Caravans still gather once a year to buy, sell, and barter from major sub-Saharan countries in the Sahel and West Africa. Sometimes, even from East Africa, a journey that takes months to sail through the vast desert of the Sahara. Akka village is a historic town and one of the oldest Sub-Saharan trade centers. Today, it is a pilgrimage landmark of Jewish heritage that has been around for 3000 years.

Travel from the stark desert to the High Atlas Mountains lush plateaus, where Tafrout, this ancient village, is nestled among almond groves. The afternoon will be devoted to the natural sites and Neolithic rock carvings this region is known for. A natural library scattered over these slopes with a rich collection of archives of humanity's ancient history. Dinner and Lodging are at Hotel Les Amadiers.

Highlights of today's discovery:

Anti-Atlas Mountains The Anti-Atlas Mountains in southern Morocco offer a rugged and enchanting landscape distinct from their towering counterparts. Characterized by dramatic ridges, deep gorges, and hidden valleys, this lesser-known range beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its ancient Berber villages, lush oases, and panoramic vistas, the Anti-Atlas Mountains promise a captivating journey off the beaten path, where travelers can immerse themselves in Morocco's southern frontier's timeless beauty and cultural heritage.

Tafrout: Tafrout, situated amidst the captivating Anti-Atlas Mountains of Morocco, is a picturesque town renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Surrounded by almond groves and rocky peaks, Tafrout offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden valleys. Rich in Berber heritage, the town's traditional architecture and bustling markets reflect its storied past. From exploring the famous Painted Rocks to wandering through ancient kasbahs, Tafrout invites visitors to discover Morocco's southern region's natural wonders and cultural treasures.

We will travel across great Berber villages known for their distinguished beauty, primarily Through Ait Baha, which overlooks a valley with a unique rock formation. Reach the walled medieval city of Taroudant at the gate of the rich valley of Souss. Dinner and accommodation are at a dignitary dwelling converted in our days to an atmospheric and intimate guesthouse, Riad Ennakhil.

Explore the city surrounded by regal, red-ochre walls, often called “Little Marrakech.” With its authenticity and conservative style, Taroudant today surpasses Marrakech's charm and beauty in the eyes of many discoverers, an afternoon to enjoy the colorful pallets of a typical Moroccan city.

Taroudant: Taroudant Medina: Explore the bustling souks, ancient city walls, and vibrant street life.

Alleyways & Ramparts: Wander through narrow alleys and climb the ramparts for panoramic views.

Grand Mosque: Admire this historic mosque's intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance.

Tanneries: Witness traditional leather tanning methods at local tanneries.

Local Markets: Experience the lively atmosphere of the Berber markets, which are known for their spices, crafts, and more.

Palais Claudio Bravo: Visit this stunning palace-turned-art gallery to admire Claudio Bravo's and local artists' works.

Argan Oil Cooperatives: Learn about argan oil production and purchase high-quality products directly from cooperatives.

Horse-drawn Carriage Rides: Take a leisurely tour of the city in a charming horse-drawn carriage.

Depart to Imlil via Asni and Tizi n’Test pass at 11,000 ft. in an impressive site dividing these mountains in two distinct aspects. One side acts as a shield to protect the hinterland from the Sahara's harsh and dry expansion; the other side collects the moisture of the Gherbi winds from the Atlantic Ocean, soft and evergreen. Such is the life of the Berber dwellers, a day of mountain hiking through the high peaks and deep valleys. This is an experience to treasure for a lifetime. Overnight and dinner will be at a guesthouse.

Highlights of today's discovery:

Tizi n Test Pass: Tizi n Test, a winding mountain pass in Morocco's High Atlas, offers breathtaking views and thrilling drives. With its rugged terrain and sweeping panoramas, it's a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers seeking unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Atlas Mountains.

Tinmal, nestled in the High Atlas Mountains, boasts an ancient history and serene beauty. Home to the historic Tin Mal Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it invites visitors to explore its rich heritage and stunning mountain vistas.

Imlil: Imlil, a picturesque village in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, serves as a base for trekkers and nature lovers exploring the region's majestic peaks, including Mount Toubkal, North Africa's highest summit. With its traditional Berber architecture, winding mountain trails, and panoramic vistas, Imlil offers a tranquil retreat amidst stunning natural beauty, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts.

The morning will be devoted to trekking in the Toubkal plateau. After lunch, we will proceed to Marrakech to visit cliff-hanging villages and wards like Asni and Tahnaout. Arrived in Marrakech, the "Morocco City," as the early travelers called it, for it has always been something of a pleasant city, a marketplace where the southern tribesmen and Berber villagers bring in their goods, spend their money, and find entertainment. For tourists, it's an enduring fantasy - a city of immense beauty, low, pink, and tent-like before a great shaft of mountains, and immediately exciting. Visit the famous Jemaa El Fna square. Dinner will be in a typical Marrakesh restaurant and overnight at the hotel.

Asni

Asni, a quaint village nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery and serene ambiance. Located just south of Marrakech, Asni offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, surrounded by verdant valleys, terraced fields, and snow-capped peaks. With its traditional Berber villages, vibrant markets, and opportunities for outdoor adventures, Asni provides a gateway to explore the natural wonders and rich culture of the Atlas Mountains region.

The morning was devoted to discovering the historical sites, visiting the Menara irrigation pools, Bab Agnaw Gate, the Saadian Tombs, the Bahia Palace, the Badia Palace, and the Dar Si Said Museum. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant souks of Marrakech. Dinner Fantasia will be reserved for you at a typical festivity of neighboring tribal dances and spectacular displays of horsemanship. Overnight will be at the Hotel.

Visited Highlights:

Menara Gardens:

Menara Gardens, nestled near the Atlas Mountains in Marrakech, offer tranquility amidst the city's hustle. The iconic pavilion reflects in a vast reservoir surrounded by olive groves and citrus orchards, creating a serene oasis perfect for strolling or picnicking. It's a timeless escape where visitors can unwind amidst natural beauty and Moroccan architectural charm. The Menara Pool is a sophisticated reserve of water, taking its sources from the snow-capped nearby Atlas Mountains, Making Marrakech a lush oasis year-round.

The Koutoubia The Koutoubia Mosque, an architectural masterpiece in Marrakech, symbolizes the city's rich history and Islamic heritage. Its soaring minaret, adorned with intricate geometric patterns, dominates the skyline while surrounding gardens provide a peaceful retreat. As the largest mosque in Marrakech, Koutoubia is a place of worship and a landmark for cultural exploration and admiration of Islamic architecture.

Bahia Palace

Step into the opulent world of Bahia Palace, a marvel of Moroccan architecture nestled in the heart of Marrakech. Intricate mosaics, carved woodwork, and tranquil courtyards transport visitors to a bygone era of royal grandeur. Wander through its ornate rooms adorned with colorful tiles and lavish décor and immerse yourself in this breathtaking palace's rich history and exquisite beauty.

The Souks:

The Marrakech Medina is a vibrant maze of bustling souks, offering an unparalleled shopping experience for every taste. Lose yourself in a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and scents as you wander through narrow alleys with stalls brimming with treasures. The Medina beckons with its exotic delights, from handcrafted textiles and intricate pottery to aromatic spices and traditional Moroccan lamps. Prepare to haggle with friendly merchants and uncover unique souvenirs that will evoke memories of your Moroccan adventure for years.

Jamaa el Fna Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the pulsating heart of Marrakech, is a sensory feast like no other. By day, it's a vibrant marketplace where snake charmers, storytellers, and henna artists captivate onlookers with their ancient crafts. As dusk descends, the square transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle of food stalls, filling the air with tantalizing aromas and lively music.

Morning Departure to Mohamed V Airport to connect to your flight back home