Marrakech, Grand Desert Tour & Hiking in the Atlas Mountains

Welcome to Morocco! Welcome to Marrakech! Nicknamed the “Red City” (for its 1000-year-old red sandstone city walls and buildings), Marrakech is a major economic centre and home to a thriving medina (old Arab quarter).

Begin your day exploring the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque and take respite from the heat in its gardens amid fountains, pools, and palms. Indulge your senses and explore the spice market, Souk el-Attarin, or Souk Smata, for your choice of slippers, rugs, and leather goods. Visit Souk des Teinturiers to see firsthand how leather hides and cloth are dyed. Next, visit the Islamic school, Ben Youssef Madrasa, for a taste of 16th-century architecture and marvel at the exquisite details: arabesques, Islamic calligraphy, and colourful geometric tile work.

As you walk Marrakech’s alleys, notice the Fondouks or Caravanserai—medieval traveller inns along ancient trade routes that provided travellers and traders with shelter and supplies. Meet your guide for a half-day tour of Jemaa el-Fna in the medina and discover the square’s rich history, culture, and hidden gems. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jemaa el-Fna comes alive in the late afternoon with vendors and musicians, acrobats and storytellers, and even snake charmers.

Depending on the timing and your energy level, you may wish to visit a few sites south of Jemaa el-Fna. Some options to consider are the 500-year-old Saadian Tombs, the extensive courtyard and sunken gardens of the 17th-century El Badi Palace, or the intricate woodwork and painted ceilings of the 19th-century Bahia Palace. Return to Jemaa el-Fna for a bite to eat before retiring to your accommodation for the evening.

Leave Marrakech behind and venture into the desert, travelling up and over the High Atlas mountain range toward Ouarzazate. On a clear day, spot Mount Toubkal, the highest peak at 13,671 feet (4,167 m).

Pass Berber farmlands and villages and admire the mountain people’s traditional mud-brick homes. Along the way, stop for refreshment in Taddert and visit the local Argan Oil Co-operative to learn about and sample the oil. Continue on to the Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass that links Marrakech to Ouarzazate.

Descend into Ouarzazate, a gateway to the Sahara Desert, before continuing east toward Boumalne Dades, passing the El Mansour reservoir and the road of one thousand kasbahs.

Start your day driving through the desert until you reach Tinerhir, located in the centre of an extensive oasis. Admire the Todra Gorge and the Todra River that cuts through the red limestone.

Take a leisurely walk to explore the gorge and relax in the cool water of the shallow river below. Continue driving through the arid landscape, stopping in towns such as Erfoud, known for its fossils, and visit a craft workshop.

As you near Merzouga, see the dunes of Erg Chebbi rising on the horizon. Ride a camel into the desert and enjoy sunset atop a dune before returning to camp for dinner, music, and a night under the stars.

Rise early to witness a Saharan sunrise. Explore the desert or visit Khemliya village for music and culture.

Travel west, stopping in Rissani and continuing through the Draa Valley with its palm groves and fertile landscapes.

Arrive at Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO-protected kasbah. Explore its narrow lanes and historic buildings before spending the night in a traditional kasbah.

Say goodbye to Aït Benhaddou and return to Marrakech through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, enjoying the mountain scenery once more.

Descend into Marrakech and spend the remainder of the day exploring at your own pace or relaxing in the medina.

Travel south of Marrakech to Amizmiz in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. Explore the local market before hiking with a guide through nearby hills and villages.

Observe farmers and shepherds at work and enjoy lunch with a local family, learning about daily life and traditions. Continue hiking before returning to a Berber home for dinner and overnight stay.

Enjoy breakfast before continuing your hike or returning to Marrakech. Upon arrival, complete any last-minute shopping or visit Majorelle Gardens before departing.