For travellers with a full week who want both sides of Morocco from one base — the dunes of the Sahara and the sea air of the Atlantic coast.
Tour highlights
- Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Dades and Todra gorges
- Ait Ben Haddou
- Marrakech's medina and souks
- Essaouira's ramparts and port
Itinerary
Day 1 — Marrakech to Merzouga
We cross the High Atlas by the Tizi n'Tichka pass, through Ouarzazate and the Dades Valley, reaching Erg Chebbi in time for a camel trek into the dunes at sunset and a night at a desert camp.
Day 2 — Merzouga
A day to take in the desert properly: sunrise over the dunes, a visit to Khamlia for Gnawa music, and, weather allowing, a second night under the stars or a transfer back toward Ouarzazate.
Day 3 — Merzouga to Ouarzazate
West through Erfoud, the Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley's kasbahs and rose fields, back to Ouarzazate for the night.
Day 4 — Ouarzazate to Marrakech
A morning at Ait Ben Haddou and the Atlas Film Studios before we cross the Tizi n'Tichka back to Marrakech.
Day 5 — Marrakech
A full guided day: the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, the Koutoubia and its gardens, and the souks around the Jemaa el-Fna.
Day 6 — Marrakech to Essaouira
A relaxed drive west through argan groves to the walled port of Essaouira, with time to walk the ramparts as the light softens over the harbour.
Day 7 — Essaouira
A free day by the sea: the fishing port, the woodworkers' souk, the beach, or simply the cafés along the ramparts.
Day 8 — Essaouira to Marrakech
A last morning on the coast before we drive back to Marrakech for your onward journey.
