Marrakesh & Grand Tour of the Sahara Desert

Welcome to Marrakech, Morocco’s legendary “Red City”, where centuries of history, vibrant culture, and architectural splendour create one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

Begin your exploration in the iconic Jemaa el-Fna, the lively heart of the city, surrounded by bustling souks, historic palaces, tranquil gardens, and atmospheric cafés. Discover the vibrant artisan quarters, from spice merchants and metalworkers to the colourful Souk des Teinturiers, where traditional dyeing techniques have been practised for generations.

Visit the magnificent Koutoubia Mosque, whose soaring minaret dominates Marrakech’s skyline, before admiring the exquisite craftsmanship of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, celebrated for its intricate cedar carvings, colourful zellij mosaics, and elegant Islamic architecture.

Continue your journey through the city’s imperial heritage with visits to the beautifully preserved Bahia Palace and the historic Saadian Tombs, while those with extra time may also explore the impressive ruins of El Badi Palace, once one of Morocco’s grandest royal residences.

Leave Marrakech and head east toward the desert, ascending the High Atlas mountains. Spot Mount Toubkal and pass Berber villages made of traditional mud-brick buildings.

Stop in Taddert for lunch and visit an Argan Oil Cooperative to learn how the oil is extracted.

Continue along the Tizi n’Tichka pass and travel through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs. Pass small towns and traditional farms before arriving in Boumalne Dades, your destination for the evening.

Travel east toward Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. Stop in Tinghir to admire the oasis and surrounding desert landscapes.

Visit Todra Gorge, a deep ravine carved by the Todra River, before continuing to Erfoud to explore fossil workshops.

Stop in Rissani to visit the market and livestock auction before continuing toward the dunes of Erg Chebbi.

Arrive in Merzouga and transfer to a camel for a trek across the dunes. Watch the sunset before enjoying dinner at a Bedouin-style camp.

Wake early to explore the desert and enjoy sunrise. Visit Khemliya village for traditional music and culture.

Continue to Rissani and visit Maison Tuareg for traditional crafts. Travel through acacia forests and stop in Alnif for lunch.

Pass through the Draa Valley with its dense palm groves before arriving in Ouarzazate. Visit film studios or the Musée du Cinéma.

Continue to Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the kasbah and wander the alleys before spending the night in the old town.

Before leaving, explore the narrow passageways of Aït Benhaddou.

Return to Marrakech via the High Atlas mountains and the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.

Back in Marrakech, enjoy time at a café near Jemaa el-Fna before departing.