City Tours Sahara: South Morocco Discovery
Tour Description:
Explore the Best of Morocco’s South, from Souk to Sahara
Embark on a captivating 10-day journey with City Tours Sahara to discover the vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes of South Morocco. From the bustling medinas of Marrakech to the tranquil expanse of the Sahara Desert, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region. Stay in traditional riads and a desert camp, delve into off-the-beaten-path villages like Aroumd in the Atlas Mountains, and indulge in local cuisine like tagine and couscous. Explore iconic sites such as the Ait Benhaddou kasbah, ride a camel into the Sahara at sunset, and unwind in the coastal charm of Essaouira. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking to experience the diversity of South Morocco in a short timeframe.
Tour Highlights:
– Join a guided hike through the High Atlas Mountains and spend a night with an Amazigh family in the traditional village of Aroumd, gaining insight into local life.
– Experience the majestic Sahara Desert as you travel by camel convoy and 4WD to Erg Chigaga, the perfect spot to witness a breathtaking sunset, and spend a night under the stars in a Bedouin camp.
– Enjoy two days of relaxation in seaside Essaouira, a town with a rich history including a visit by Jimi Hendrix in the 1960s, and explore its charming whitewashed houses, lively port, and picturesque alleyways.
– Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, known for its grand history and numerous film and TV appearances, during a walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide.
– Visit an Argan oil women’s cooperative and navigate the bustling souqs of Taroudant with the assistance of your local leader, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this walled city.
Itinerary :
Day 1: Marrakech
Welcome to the bustling city of Marrakech in Morocco! Your adventure kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, seize the opportunity to explore this vibrant city filled with a plethora of sights, sounds, and flavors. Need extra accommodation? Just chat with your booking agent.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: No meals included on this day
Optional Activities:
– Marjorelle Gardens
– Palais Bahia
– Palais Badi
– Saadian Tombs
– Medersa Ben Youssef
– Museum of Marrakech
– Hamam (public baths)
– Photography Museum
Day 2: Aroumd
Today, embark on a short drive to the High Atlas Mountains and the village of Imlil. Store your main luggage and trek to the serene village of Aroumd, offering breathtaking views of the mountains. Experience traditional Amazigh culture as you spend the night in a family-run mountain gite. Explore the village and if weather permits, opt for a hike to Sidi Chamharouch shrine.
Accommodation: Gite (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities: High Atlas Mountains guided hike
Day 3: Ait Benhaddou
Journey through mountain roads to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient ksar and enjoy panoramic views. Opt for a local cooking demonstration and savor Morocco’s famous dishes.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast
Included Activities: Leader-led ksar walk
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Zagora
Travel south to the Sahara Desert, stopping in Ouarzazate and the lush Draa Valley. Explore Zagora’s palm groves and surrounding countryside.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Tamegroute – Erg Chigaga
Drive to Tamegroute to visit an ancient library and underground Kasbah. Enjoy Medfouna for lunch before heading to M’Hamid and then Erg Chigaga dunes for a camel ride into the Sahara Desert.
Accommodation: Desert Camp (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities: Ancient Library, Underground kasbah guided tour, Medfouna lunch, Sunset Camel Ride
Day 6: Oulad Berhil
Travel to Oulad Berhil, stopping to visit a local women’s cooperative specializing in argan oil production.
Accommodation: Riad (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast
Included Activities: Argan oil women coop visit
Day 7: Taroudant – Essaouira
Explore Taroudant’s souqs before heading to the coastal town of Essaouira. Enjoy its picturesque streets and whitewashed houses.
Accommodation: Riad (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Essaouira
Join a walking tour of Essaouira’s old medina, port, and skala. Enjoy free time to relax or indulge in local activities.
Accommodation: Riad (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast
Included Activities: Guided walking tour, Local fisherman visit
Day 9: Marrakech
Spend a free morning in Essaouira before heading back to Marrakech. Explore the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and opt for optional activities or a farewell dinner with your group.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10: Marrakech
Your adventure ends after breakfast. Extend your stay to explore more of Marrakech with pre-booked additional accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast
