SEE MOROCCO THROUGH LOCAL EYES
SEE MOROCCO THROUGH LOCAL EYES
Atlantic to Sahara Grand Tour (7 Days)
Duration:
7 day
Departing From:
Marrakech
Travel Style:
Private Tour
Language:
english & french
Pictures of the tour
Trip Overview
This 7-day journey offers an unforgettable exploration of southern Morocco, combining the
beauty of the Atlantic coastline, traditional Berber culture, and the vast landscapes of the
Sahara Desert. The tour begins in Marrakech and leads travelers west to the historic coastal
city of Essaouira, a UNESCO-listed destination known for its charming medina, Portuguese
influenced architecture, and vibrant artisan culture. From there, the route continues south
along the Atlantic Ocean toward Agadir, passing scenic coastal landscapes and the famous
argan tree regions that are unique to Morocco.
As the journey continues, travelers discover the authentic character of southern Morocco,
visiting the historic silver-crafting town of Tiznit and the tranquil coastal villages of Mirleft
and Legzira Beach, known for its dramatic red rock formations and spectacular ocean views.
The route then heads inland through the rugged landscapes of the Anti-Atlas Mountains,
where picturesque Berber villages and striking granite rock formations surround the town of
Tafraoute before arriving in the historic walled city of Taroudant.
The adventure gradually transitions from mountains to desert as the journey continues through
remote villages and desert plains toward the magnificent dunes of Erg Chigaga. Here,
travelers experience the magic of the Sahara with a traditional camel trek across the dunes and
an overnight stay in a desert camp under a sky full of stars. The tour then follows the ancient
caravan route through M’Hamid El Ghizlane and Zagora, including a visit to the historic
village of Tamegroute, renowned for its centuries-old Quranic library and traditional pottery.
The final stage of the journey passes through the lush palm groves of the spectacular Draa
Valley before reaching Ouarzazate, often referred to as the gateway to the desert and
Morocco’s famous film location hub. Before returning to Marrakech, travelers visit the iconic
fortified village of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most
remarkable examples of traditional earthen architecture in Morocco. This immersive itinerary
offers a perfect balance of coastal beauty, cultural heritage, mountain scenery, and desert
adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech – Essaouira
Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your riad or hotel in Marrakech. From here,
you will travel west toward the Atlantic coast to the charming port city of Essaouira, a
UNESCO-listed destination known for its historic medina and strong Portuguese influence
dating back to the 16th century. As you explore the city, you will notice its distinctive
whitewashed houses with blue shutters, impressive sea-facing ramparts, and lively artisan
markets renowned for traditional handicrafts. After enjoying the relaxed coastal atmosphere
and fresh sea breeze, you will settle into your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Essaouira – Agadir
After breakfast, you will depart from Essaouira and continue your journey south along the
Atlantic coastline toward Agadir. Along the way, you may encounter one of Morocco’s most
unique sights: goats climbing the branches of argan trees in search of fruit, a remarkable scene
typical of the region. The drive offers beautiful coastal views and varied landscapes before
arriving in Agadir in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel, where
dinner and overnight accommodation await.
Day 3: Agadir – Aglou – Mirleft – Legzira Beach
Following breakfast, you will travel from Agadir toward the historic town of Tiznit, widely
known as Morocco’s “Silver City” due to its long tradition of Berber silver jewelry
craftsmanship. After visiting the town, you will continue along the Atlantic coast, passing
through the peaceful seaside area of Aglou Beach before reaching the charming coastal
village of Mirleft. Here you will enjoy lunch and some time to relax before continuing to the
stunning natural landscape of Legzira Beach, famous for its dramatic red rock arches and
spectacular ocean views. Dinner and overnight will be at your hotel near the beach.
Day 4: Legzira Beach – Tafraoute – Taroudant
After breakfast, your journey continues inland through the foothills of the Anti-Atlas
Mountains. This scenic drive takes you through remote Berber villages and small oasis
valleys surrounded by rugged desert mountains. You will visit the picturesque town of
Tafraoute, located about 1,200 meters above sea level and famous for its striking pink granite
rock formations that glow beautifully at sunset in shades of pink, ochre, and purple. Later, you
will continue to Taroudant, often referred to as “Little Marrakech” due to its impressive
ramparts and traditional markets. Dinner and overnight stay will be at your hotel.
Day 5: Taroudant – Tazenakht – Foum Zguid – Erg Chigaga
After breakfast, the adventure continues toward the vast dunes of Erg Chigaga. Your journey
passes through Berber villages and the town of Taliouine, known as Morocco’s saffron
capital. As you approach the desert, the landscape gradually transforms into rocky plains and
sand stretches. From Foum Zguid, you will travel off-road across the desert terrain until the
majestic dunes of Erg Chigaga appear on the horizon. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a
memorable camel ride across the sand dunes to your desert camp, where dinner will be served
under the stars followed by an unforgettable overnight stay in the Sahara.
Day 6: Erg Chigaga – M’Hamid – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate
You will begin the day early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes of Erg
Chigaga. After breakfast at camp, the journey continues toward M’Hamid El Ghizlane, the last
village before the vast Sahara Desert. The route then leads to Zagora with a stop in the
historic village of Tamegroute, known for its ancient underground kasbah and its famous
Quranic library. After lunch in Zagora, you will travel through the lush palm groves of the
magnificent Draa Valley, the longest valley in Morocco, dotted with traditional kasbahs and
mud-brick villages. By evening, you will arrive in Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of
Morocco” thanks to its famous film studios and cinematic landscapes. Dinner and overnight
will be at your hotel.
Day 7: Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
After breakfast, you will depart Ouarzazate and visit the iconic fortified village of Ait
Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most spectacular ksars.
Historically, this village served as a vital stop for caravan traders traveling between the Sahara
and Marrakech. After exploring its ancient clay architecture and scenic surroundings, you will
continue your journey across the breathtaking Atlas Mountains. Enjoy lunch along the route
before descending toward Marrakech, where your tour concludes in the late evening.
What’s Included
Comfortable 4×4 vehicle or air-conditioned minivan for the entire tour
• Professional English or French speaking driver/guide
• Hotel accommodation during the tour (standard or luxury option)
• Desert camp accommodation in the desert (standard or luxury tents)
• Daily breakfast at hotels and desert camp
• Traditional Moroccan dinners at hotels and in the desert camp
• Camel trekking experience in the Sahara dunes
• Pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation
What’s Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
• Entrance fees to monuments and museums
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips for driver/guide and hotel staff
























