7 Days Discovery The Atlas Mountains & Luxury Sahara Desert From Casablanca

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day journey through Morocco’s stunning Atlas Mountains and the luxurious Sahara Desert. Starting from Casablanca, you’ll dive into the rich cultural heritage of Fes, explore breathtaking valleys and traditional Berber villages, and savor unique culinary experiences in Ouarzazate. Venture across golden sand dunes on camelback, bask in the comfort of a luxury desert camp under the stars, and discover the UNESCO-listed site of Ait Benhaddou. This adventure promises to immerse you in Morocco’s natural wonders and authentic hospitality. Are you ready to uncover the hidden gems that await?

Good To Know

• Arrival at Casablanca airport with private transfer to accommodation, preparing for an immersive exploration of the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert.
• Guided tour of the historic city of Fes, including visits to renowned landmarks like Bou Inania Medersa and the picturesque medina of Chefchaouen.
• Discover the natural beauty of the Atlas Mountains, exploring Todra Gorge, Dades Gorge, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou.
• Experience Berber hospitality in Ouarzazate, with a luxury riad stay, Berber cooking class, and cultural performances.
• Camel trekking through the golden sand dunes of the Sahara Desert, culminating in a luxurious desert camp stay under the stars.

Casablanca Arrival and Transfer

Upon arrival at Mohamed V Airport in Casablanca, you’ll be greeted by your private driver who’ll assist with your luggage and escort you to your pre-arranged accommodation.

The driver will be waiting for you as per your flight schedule, ensuring a seamless transfer to kickstart your 7-day journey.

Once you’ve settled in, you can relax and prepare for the exciting days ahead as you discover the magnificent Atlas Mountains and the serene Sahara Desert.

The private transportation in an air-conditioned 4WD or minivan will provide a comfortable and convenient way to explore Morocco’s stunning landscapes during the tour.

Exploring the Imperial City of Fes

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, the group sets out to explore the historic city of Fes. Led by an official art historian guide, they explore the winding medieval streets, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas that make this city so captivating. A highlight is the renowned Fes El Bali, the world’s largest car-free urban area and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, they discover:

Attraction	Highlights
Bou Inania Medersa	Intricate Moorish architecture
Tanneries	Traditional leather-making process
Nejjarine Fountain	Ornate tile work and woodcarvings
Karaouine Mosque	One of the oldest universities in the world
Chefchaouen	The "Blue City" with its picturesque medina

The day is a fascinating immersion into Fes’s rich cultural heritage.

Discovering the Valleys of the Atlas Mountains

Departing Fes, the group journeys into the majestic Atlas Mountains. The winding roads lead them through picturesque valleys, where traditional Berber villages dot the landscape.

Along the way, they stop to explore the Todra Gorge, a striking limestone canyon carved by the Todra River. The group then continues to the Dades Gorge, known for its dramatic rock formations and natural beauty.

Finally, they reach the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a well-preserved example of traditional Moroccan architecture.

• Discover the stunning Todra Gorge, a natural wonder carved by the Todra River.
• Explore the Dades Gorge, admiring its remarkable rock formations and breathtaking scenery.
• Visit the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Moroccan architectural heritage.

Experiencing Berber Hospitality in Ouarzazate

The group then arrives in Ouarzazate, a city known as the "Hollywood of Africa" for its role as a filming location for numerous movies and TV shows. Here, they’ll experience the warm Berber hospitality at a luxury riad. The riad offers a serene oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, with its intricate tilework, ornate furnishings, and tranquil courtyards. During their stay, the travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy the Berber culture, learning about their traditions, cuisine, and way of life. The experience promises to be a highlight of the tour, providing a glimpse into the rich heritage of this fascinating region.

Riad Amenities	Berber Cultural Experiences	Dining Experiences	Local Excursions
– Ornate Decor	– Berber Cooking Class	– Traditional Tagine Dishes	– Visit to Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
– Tranquil Courtyards	– Berber Music and Dance Performance	– Mint Tea Ceremony	– Guided Tour of Ouarzazate Film Studios
– Luxurious Accommodations	– Berber Weaving Demonstration	– Berber Bread Making	– Hike in the High Atlas Mountains
– Attentive Staff	– Berber Handicraft Workshop	– Berber Spice Market Visit	– Visit to Nearby Oasis

Trekking Through the Sahara Desert

The journey continues as the group ventures deep into the captivating Sahara Desert. The travelers mount their camels and embark on a 1.5-hour trek, seeing the golden sand dunes and the serene silence of this timeless landscape.

The experience offers:

• Breathtaking views of the vast, undulating desert
• A chance to connect with the Berber culture and traditions
• A sense of tranquility and solitude in the heart of the Sahara

As the sun dips below the horizon, the group arrives at the luxury camp, where they’ll spend the night under a canvas of stars, savoring the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine and experiencing the true essence of desert life.

Luxury Desert Camp Stay in Merzouga

Upon reaching the heart of the Sahara, the travelers arrive at the luxury desert camp in Merzouga.

Nestled among the towering dunes, the camp offers a truly immersive desert experience. Guests are welcomed into spacious, well-appointed tents equipped with all the modern comforts.

Sipping mint tea, they gaze out at the breathtaking landscapes painted in hues of gold and ochre. As the sun sets, a delectable Moroccan feast is served under the stars, accompanied by the soothing sounds of traditional music.

The highlight of the stay is the 1.5-hour camel trek, allowing guests to traverse the undulating dunes and witness the desert’s ever-changing beauty.

Visiting the UNESCO Site of Ait Benhaddou

After exploring the captivating Saharan landscapes, the journey continues to the UNESCO-listed site of Ait Benhaddou.

This ancient fortified city is a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture, known for its iconic mud-brick buildings and narrow alleys. Visitors can wander through the labyrinth-like streets, marvel at the striking kasbahs, and learn about the rich history of this remarkable site.

Key features of Ait Benhaddou include:

• Well-preserved mud-brick structures dating back to the 11th century
• A strategic location along the former trans-Saharan trade route
• Serving as a backdrop for numerous Hollywood films, such as "Lawrence of Arabia" and "Game of Thrones"

The visit to Ait Benhaddou provides a glimpse into Morocco’s enduring cultural heritage and the architectural marvels that have stood the test of time.

Departing From Casablanca

Guests departing from Casablanca’s Mohamed V Airport will be met by the tour’s professional English-speaking guide and driver.

The pickup is scheduled according to flight arrival times, starting at 12:00 am. Travelers will board the private, air-conditioned 4WD or minivan and begin their journey to explore the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all transportation with fuel costs covered. Guests can look forward to a seamless start to their Moroccan adventure as they embark on this 7-day discovery of the country’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Add Extra Nights to the Tour?

Yes, the tour operator allows customers to add extra nights to the 7-day tour. This can be arranged by contacting the company directly and discussing the additional costs and logistics.

Can We Customize the Itinerary Based on Our Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized based on the traveler’s interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to modify the itinerary to accommodate specific requests, ensuring an unforgettable and personalized experience.

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?

The tour is a private tour, so there’s no minimum group size. Only your group will participate in the experience. You can enjoy the flexibility of customizing the itinerary to suit your interests.

Can We Bring Our Own Vehicle Instead of the Provided Transportation?

This tour is a private experience, so participants can’t bring their own vehicle. The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned 4WD or minivan, which is part of the overall package.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as a Group?

Yes, the tour operator offers a group discount. According to the information provided, the tour is a private tour, so the more people in the group, the lower the per-person cost will be.

The Sum Up

This 7-day adventure through the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, culture, and luxurious experiences. From the imperial splendor of Fes to the tranquil Berber villages and the captivating Saharan sand dunes, this journey promises to leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of Morocco.