Morocco: Marrakech to the Sahara desert

7-day Luxury Tour Morocco

Marrakech, High Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate & the Sahara Desert

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From Marrakech to the Sahara

Your journey begins in Marrakech, where the hum of the medina, the scent of spice-laden souks, and the opulence of Riad Joya set the tone for an extraordinary adventure. Wander through the architectural splendor of Bahia Palace and witness the golden glow of Jemaa el-Fnaa as dusk falls. Cross the Atlas Mountains to Ouarzazate, where the cinematic landscapes of kasbahs and palm-fringed oases unfold before you. From here, the call of the Sahara beckons—traverse the desert’s golden dunes, arriving at Azalai Desert Camp for a night beneath a star-strewn sky. Finally, return to Marrakech for a luxurious finale at Amanjena, where serenity and refinement provide the perfect farewell to a journey rich in beauty, culture, and wonder.

When

March - June / Sept. - Nov.

Duration

7 days

Price

$5,500+ per person, excl. flights.

Itinerary Outline

Day 1 - 3 | Marrakech | Riad Joya (2 nights)

Day 3 - 5 | Ouarzazate | Dar Faracha (2 nights)

Day 5 - 6 | Sahara Desert | Azalai Desert Camp (1 night)

Day 6 - 7 | Marrakech | Amanjena (1 night)

Day 7 | Departure

Riad Joya, Marrakech
Riad Joya, Marrakech
Dar Faracha, Ouarzazate
Dar Faracha, Ouarzazate
Azalai Desert Camp, Sahara
Azalai Desert Camp, Sahara
Amanjena, Marrakech
Amanjena, Marrakech
La Mamounia, Marrakech

DAY 1 - 3 | Marrakech

"Marrakech is a city where the past and the future coexist in perfect harmony", said Tahir Shah, explorer and writer. This quote the essence of Marrakech, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern influences, creating a vibrant, dynamic atmosphere. I’ve fallen in love with this city, over and over again. Whether you choose to stay in the maze of the old medina for the full experience or just outside the old city walls, Marrakech will dazzle you.

Stroll through the Medina: Wander through the maze of vibrant souks in the heart of the old city, where you can haggle for everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and traditional crafts, all while soaking in the sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.

Visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa: Explore this 14th-century Islamic school, known for its stunning architecture, including intricate stucco work, cedarwood, and mosaics. The madrasa offers a window into Morocco’s educational and religious history.

Relax in a Traditional Hammam: Unwind with a rejuvenating experience at a traditional Moroccan hammam. This centuries-old ritual of cleansing and relaxation provides a serene escape, featuring steam, exfoliation, and massages in an atmosphere of pure tranquility.

Hot Air Balloon Ride: For a breathtaking perspective of Marrakech and the surrounding landscape, take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. You’ll glide over the majestic Atlas Mountains, Berber villages, and the vast desert, offering panoramic views unlike any other.

Riad Joya (or similar) | 2 nights | Breakfast

Day 3 - 5 | Ouarzazate

Skoura is a verdant valley in southern Morocco, just beyond Ouarzazate, where palm groves stretch endlessly, framed by dramatic red rock formations and winding gorges. Known for its ancient kasbahs and timeless landscapes, it offers a serene retreat into nature with an exclusive stay at Dar Faracha, a private hideaway designed for those seeking intimacy and authenticity.

Picnics: Enjoy private dining experiences, whether within the tranquil gardens of Dar Faracha or amidst the untouched beauty of the valley.

Hiking: Trek through Skoura’s palm-filled landscapes, pausing to explore historic kasbahs and visit a local ceramic-making workshop to discover the region’s centuries-old artisanal traditions.

Rose Valley: Take a day trip to Kelaat M’Gouna, where, in April and May, the valley bursts into bloom. If timed just right, you may witness the delicate rose harvest and the distillation process that perfumes the region.

Private relaxation: Dar Faracha is a secluded sanctuary, offering an outdoor pool, serene courtyards, and lush gardens—an oasis of tranquility designed for ultimate privacy.

Ait Ben Haddou: Rise early for a morning visit to the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, an iconic fortress that has played backdrop to some of cinema’s greatest films.

Dar Faracha (or similar) | 2 nights | Breakfast

Day 5 - 6 | Sahara Desert

Erg Chegaga is in the southern reaches of Morocco’s Sahara Desert, and boasts endless dunes that ripple across the vast expanse of North Africa. Steeped in history, it has long been shaped by the Berber tribes, including the Ait Atta, who have called this desert home for centuries. Once a vital crossroads for nomads and traders, its caravan routes connected Morocco to the heart of sub-Saharan Africa.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime journey—sleep under a blanket of stars and awaken to the breathtaking sunrise over the sea of Sahara dunes. Located four hours from Skoura, the trek to Erg Chegaga is long, but the rewards are extraordinary, offering an unforgettable adventure that will leave you speechless.

Azalai Desert Camp (or similar) | 1 night | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 - 7 | Marrakech

Return to Marrakech for one last night of wellness and relaxation before your departure home. The journey back to Marrakech will be long but filled with stops along the way. You will have the opportunity to hike parts of the Gorges of Dades and Todra, stop by a Berber family’s home for a pot of mint tea and visit an Argan oil co-op along the way.

Reach Amanjena, an oasis outside of Marrakech, where you can enjoy one last night in the red city before your departure the next day. Take in the Moroccan sun by your private pool, relax with an invigorating hammam at the world-renowned spa, or simply stroll through the gardens of the property.

Dine at the Amanjena for the complete Aman experience.

Amanjena (or similar) | 1 night | Breakfast

Pricing & inclusions

Starting at $5,500 per person

Based on two people in double occupancy and subject to increase depending on itinerary specifics and dates.

Accommodation
- 2 nights in Marrakech at Riad Joya or similar
- 2 nights in Ouarzazate at Dar Faracha or similar
- 1 night in the Sahara Desert at Azalai Desert Camp or similar
- 1 night in Marrakech at Amanjena or similar
Transport: All private transfers with a personal guide for the entire trip.
Tours & Activities: All tours, activities and excursions with an expert English-speaking guide as listed in the itinerary, along with the required entrance fees associated with the tours.
Meals: All breakfasts, some meals.
Other: City taxes associated with your accommodations. Restaurant reservations and coordination.

Exclusions

Flights
Travel insurance
Tips

Optional Extension: High Atlas Mountains

From the tranquil comfort of Olinto, the High Atlas Mountains reveal their awe-inspiring majesty, towering above the landscape with snow-capped peaks that shift in hue throughout the day. Surrounded by olive groves and rugged terrain, Olinto offers a peaceful retreat where you can immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the mountains. The crisp, cool air and panoramic views provide a sense of serenity, while the nearby Berber villages, with their terraced fields and adobe homes, offer a glimpse into the timeless traditions that have shaped this region.

Hiking is the main activity here in the Atlas Mountains and it is a pure luxury to trek to remote villages, secluded valleys leading to waterfalls, and to the base of the highest peak of North Africa, Mount Toubkal.

Explore the Berber Villages of the High Atlas Mountains with a local guide and meet with a local family in their home to learn about their ancient traditions.

Take in the beauty of the mountains on a biking or hiking expedition with an expert guide. Reach waterfalls and remote viewpoints.