The must-sees of southern Morocco
Sahara & Wild Ergs 8 days Charm & Character

The must-sees of southern Morocco

Between ancestral kasbahs and golden dunes, southern Morocco reveals its most authentic treasures.

From€625per person
21 years of local expertise5/5 (6 reviews)

Duration

8 days

From

€625/pers.

Ideal seasons

Feb, Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov

Style

Guided tour

Comfort

Charm & Character

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends, senior

The spirit of travel

This circuit offers extraordinary adventures through the most famous sites in the southern region of Maroc. We set out to explore the fascinating medina of Marrakech, the famous Dadès Gorges and Todra, the lush palm grove of Tinherir, the ochre dunes of Merzouga as well as the kasbahs of the Drâa valley.

Between mountains, oases, mud-brick villages and desert landscapes, each stage reveals a different facet of this region rich in history and traditions. The panoramic roads, encounters with local people and nights in charming accommodations make this adventure even more immersive.

The journey alternates between cultural discoveries, moments of relaxation and iconic experiences, such as a camel trek followed by a night under canvas in the heart of the dunes. Accompanied by a driver-guide, we enjoy a flexible itinerary that allows us to explore southern Maroc at our own pace, while admiring some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.

The stages of your journey

D1
MarrakechRiad
D2
Aït BenhaddouKasbah du Jardin
D3
OuarzazateKasbah de la Vallée
D4
TinherirHôtel Tomboctou
D5
Erg ChebbiBivouac sauvage
D6
Vallée de DrâaKasbah du Maroc
D7–8
MarrakechRiad

Highlights

Historic Medina of Marrakech
Kasbah d'Aït Benhaddou
Dadès Gorges
Camel trek in Erg Chebbi
Palmeraies of Skoura
Drâa Valley

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1

Marrakech

Our guide welcomes us at Marrakech airport. We are transferred by taxi to our hotel.

Depending on our arrival time, we can enjoy free time to discover the souks and the medina.

In the evening, we head to a small restaurant near Jemaa El Fna Square for a simple, typical dinner in the city.

We are accommodated in a riad.

RiadLunchDinner
Jour 2
D2

Aït Benhaddou

We travel along a spectacular road towards the Tichka Pass.

Between Aït Benhaddou and Telouet, we cross the Ounila Valley which was the former spice caravan route. This is an opportunity to discover the Glaoui Palace, which represents an important historical monument built in the 19th century by the pasha of Marrakech Thami Glaoui.

We discover the famous kasbah site of Aït Benhaddou, which evokes the splendor of the traditional architecture of the region.

We are accommodated on a half-board basis at the Kasbah du Jardin inn, where we can enjoy the swimming pool.

Kasbah du JardinBreakfastDinner
Jour 3
D3

Dadès (approx. 200 kms)

We venture to Ouarzazate, the main urban center of the Drâa river valley. Among the must-see sites in the city, the Taourirt kasbah is worth a short detour. This building was constructed in the 17th century by the Glaoui tribe. Then we will visit the old town on foot.

We then set off in a 4x4 to explore the Skoura palm grove. This is one of the rare palm groves still inhabited and cultivated in Moroccan territory. On site, we can visit an old kasbah transformed into a museum. We should also not forget to observe the traditional dwellings that characterize the region and to enjoy its dunes and desert.

We then cross the Dadès gorges which offer superb viewpoints over the surrounding landscapes. It is possible for us to swim in a secondary gorge or to enjoy other activities.

We are accommodated on a half-board basis at Kasbah de la Vallée.

Kasbah de la ValléeBreakfastDinner
Jour 4
D4

Toghra

OuarzazateTinherir

2h15125 km

We continue a stretch of track in a 4x4 in the Atlas while meeting with semi-nomads.

We take a scenic road to reach the Toghra gorges, gateways to the High Atlas.

Walking tour in the gardens of the Tinherir palm grove located in the heart of a vast oasis that brings us greenery and freshness.

We stay on half board at the Tombouctou hotel (swimming pool), in the center of Tinherir.

Hôtel TomboctouBreakfastDinner
Jour 5
D5

Erg Chebbi Desert

TinherirMerzouga

3h30200 km

We are heading towards Merzouga and can stop along the way according to our wishes and interests.

MerzougaErg Chebbi

15min10 km

We arrive at the foot of the dunes of the erg Chebbi. This desert of spectacular golden dunes is among the most remarkable in the Sahara.

We are transported on camelback to reach an isolated bivouac in the dunes.

Bivouac sauvageBreakfastDinner
Jour 6
D6

Jebels and palmeries of the south

This morning, we join the Mohayut hotel located at the foot of the dunes to enjoy the facilities and have our breakfast.

We continue along the road alongside Jebel Ougnat then Jebel Saghro passing through Alnif and Tazzarine.

We then arrive in the Drâa valley where we can discover a kasbah.

Tonight we are on half board in an authentic Kasbah in Maroc (swimming pool).

Kasbah du MarocBreakfastDinner
Jour 7
D7

High Atlas

TamnougaltMarrakech

5h275 km

We continue our stay in the same Riad as on the first day with half-board accommodation.

On the Tamnougalt side, we can discover many kasbahs.

We travel a road through a section of the Anti-Atlas (gorges).

We then take a different route from our starting point to reach the Tichka pass and then Marrakech.

Once in Marrakech, we have free time for a beautiful city escape or shopping in the souks and medina.

RiadBreakfastDinner
Jour 8
D8

Marrakech

Depending on your flight departure time, it is possible for us to embark on a morning visit of some famous monuments of the city, such as a palace or a Quranic school.

Then we are transferred to Marrakech airport to take the international flight.

Breakfast

Price per person

2 pers.€975/pers.
3 pers.€915/pers.
4 pers.€730/pers.
5 pers.€625/pers.

Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.

This trip can be tailored to your preferences

This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.

Not included

  • Plane tickets
  • Beverages
  • The extras

Included

  • The rental of a 4x4 vehicle with driver, fuel and insurance
  • Taxi transfers from the airport
  • The 7 nights and all dinners
  • Lunch meals in small simple local restaurants
  • The visits
  • The camel ride
  • The tip to the driver
  • Exclusivity (no other clients on board or in convoy, guaranteed peace of mind and flexibility)

Practical Information

Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.

The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.

See our specific terms of sale for full details.

In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:

  • Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
  • Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
  • Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total

We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.

The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Morocco for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying this information with the official authorities before your departure.

Passport

To enter Morocco, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and include at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).

Nationals of certain EEA countries may enter Morocco with a valid national identity card in accordance with applicable bilateral agreements. However, it is advisable to travel with a valid passport to avoid any inconvenience.

Tourist stay without visa

Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays.

This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days from the date of entry into Moroccan territory. Beyond this period, authorization of stay must be requested from the Moroccan authorities.

The authorities may also request:

  • an outbound ticket (return or onward flight),

  • proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of the stay,

  • proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation from a private individual).

Health and vaccinations

No vaccination is mandatory to enter Morocco from the EEA, Switzerland or Canada. However, it is recommended to ensure that routine vaccinations are up to date (diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, hepatitis A).

It is advisable to consult a doctor or vaccination center before departure, particularly for stays in rural areas or remote regions.

Traveling with children

Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.

In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence. The Moroccan authorities may also request documentation in case of travel with a single parent or a third party.

Other nationalities

Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Morocco in their country of residence.

To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expense coverage.

Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.

CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind!

Choose the plan that best suits you:

  • Explorer'Multirisque

  • Explorer'Annulation

  • Explorer'Assistance

  • Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire

Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.

Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.

Chapka — Cap Explorer

Our insurance partner

Travel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.

Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insurance

Frequently asked questions

You can stay in Morocco without a visa. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your entry. These conditions have been stable for a long time, but always confirm with the Moroccan consulate or embassy competent for your nationality before booking your trip.

Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.

You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.

For a quality tailor-made trip, expect between €150 and €260 per day and per person, including accommodation (riads, kasbahs), meals, internal transfers and activities. International flights (€200-450 return) are additional. Morocco offers excellent value for money in its charming riads.

Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.

Absolutely. We adapt each circuit to your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.

It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.

In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.

Payment is generally made in two installments.

Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.

Luc, Saharan trails companion
21years of expertise

Let's talk about your adventure — Imperial Cities

Saharan trails companion, based in Taroudant

What I love about travel is that moment when you leave the obvious path. That's when the landscape shifts, but more importantly, so does your perspective.

Luc

APST Guarantee Secure Payment 24/7 Assistance5/5