4-Day Express Atlas Mountains & Desert Combined Trip

We depart from Marrakech at approximately 8:30 in the morning, embarking on a scenic 1 hour and 20-minute drive south towards the Moulay Brahim Gorges. Passing through the vibrant Asni weekly market (open on Saturdays), we continue to Agersioual (1,606m), nestled in the upper foothills of the Western High Atlas mountains. Here, we leave our vehicles and meet our knowledgeable local guide for a 12km hike. Our journey takes us eastward to the Berber village of AIkkiss (1,710m), crossing the Tizi Nagersioual pass (2200m). Lunch will be served either inside a Berber home or by the river. We continue trekking through the Imnane valley, ascending the Tizi n Tamter pass (2779m). From this vantage point, you can marvel at the breathtaking view of both valleys—the Imlil Valley and the Imnane valley. A 1.5-hour descent leads us to the charming village of Armed, where we enjoy an evening meal at a delightful guesthouse.

Today, we embark on a picturesque journey, beginning in the Imlil Valley and passing through Asni, Moulay Brahim Gorges, and Tahnoaout. We then proceed along the winding mountain roads, ascending to Tizi N'Tichka (2260m). Prepare to be awestruck by the panoramic view of the Anti-Atlas and the Tadart Valley. Continuing our adventure, we visit Agwim, Ighrem, and the world-famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, where we explore this renowned tourist destination after lunch. Our next stops are Ouarzazate City, known as the Hollywood of Morocco, and Qlaat Mgouna. Finally, we reach Dades Valley, famous for its annual rose harvest and festival held in May. We spend the night in Dades Gorge, having traveled for approximately 7 hours.

After a satisfying breakfast, we continue our journey to the mesmerizing Sahara desert of Merzouga. En route, we visit the lush and verdant Palm Grove of Todra, adorned with a vast expanse of palm trees. Our adventure takes us to the awe-inspiring Todra Gorge before reaching Erfoud, known as the City of Fossils and characterized by its traditional Berber houses. Upon arrival in Merzouga, we bid farewell to our vehicles and prepare for a camel ride across the vast desert dunes. We traverse the dunes for approximately two hours, stopping at a dune to witness the mesmerizing sunset as night falls. Our accommodation for the night is in the heart of the desert, where nomadic tents, known as haimas, await us. Here, we can relish the tranquility and splendor of the desert, gazing at the starlit sky and the serenity it offers.

Today, we rise early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes—an image that will forever remain etched in your memory. After the sunrise, we ride the camels back to the hotel, where we freshen up with a shower and enjoy a delicious breakfast. We then set off towards the expansive Palm Groves of Tafilalet. Along the way, we pass through Rissani, known for its Alaouite dynasty and as the former capital of the Alaouite sultans. Continuing our journey, we cross the desert town of Alnif, renowned for its desert environment, and the oasis of Tazarine and Nkob. As we approach Ouarzazate, we traverse the unbeatable Draa Valley, passing through the Berber villages of Agdez and the Ait Saoun pass (1660m) with its breathtaking vistas. Finally, in the late afternoon, we arrive in Marrakech, where you will be transferred to your accommodation.