From the Atlas to the Sahara

MARRAKECH-DADES-MARZOUGA-AGDEZ

First day Your journey begins early from Marrakech, heading toward the High Atlas Mountains through traditional Berber villages. After a scenic coffee break overlooking the valleys before Tizi n’Tichka, the road climbs to the famous mountain pass at 2,260m, where you stop for panoramic photos of the Atlas peaks.

You then continue south to visit the Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate, followed by lunch in the city known as the “Gate of the Desert.” In the afternoon, the road takes you along the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs and through the fragrant Rose Valley before reaching the dramatic landscapes of Dades. There, near the unique “Monkey Fingers” formations, you check into your accommodation for dinner and your first night in the mountains.

following day Leaving Dades in the morning, your journey continues toward the spectacular Todgha Gorge, where towering canyon walls rise dramatically on both sides—perfect for a short walk and photos. After exploring the gorge, you travel through desert landscapes toward Ksar El Khorbat, an authentic fortified village where you enjoy lunch inside a traditional mud-brick setting.

In the afternoon, you stop to see the ancient underground water system known as the Khettarat, an impressive irrigation technique used for centuries in the Sahara. The road then leads through Erfoud, famous for fossils and desert scenery, before reaching Merzouga, where the golden dunes of the Sahara appear for the first time and the desert adventure begins.

Third day , after breakfast in Merzouga, the journey continues to Rissani for a traditional visit of its authentic souk, known for spices, dates and local caravan markets. You then drive through desert landscapes toward Alnif, and stop for lunch in Nkob, a peaceful village surrounded by palm groves and old kasbahs.

In the afternoon the road leads to Agdz, where you visit the historic Kasbah Tamnougalt, one of the oldest fortified settlements of the Draa Valley. After the visit, you settle into your accommodation in Agdz for a relaxing evening and overnight stay.

Leaving Agdz, the road crosses the beautiful Anti-Atlas landscapes toward Ait Benhaddou, where you stop for a guided visit of the famous UNESCO ksar. Afterwards, you follow the scenic Ounila Valley, once used by ancient caravan traders, until reaching the historic Kasbah Telouet. By the afternoon, the journey continues across the High Atlas back to Marrakech.