4-Day Morocco Southwest Classic Road Trip

Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, traveling through the Tizi n'Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains. As you wind through the mountain roads, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of rugged landscapes and remote Berber villages. The first stop is at the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its mud-brick buildings and its appearance in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After a visit to this ancient fortified village, continue your drive to the Dades Gorge, known for its dramatic landscapes, winding roads, and striking rock formations. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, and relax in the peaceful surroundings of the valley.

On day two, you’ll travel to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Along the way, stop to admire the beauty of Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon with towering limestone cliffs. Continue through the Jbel Saghro Mountains, an arid landscape dotted with small Berber villages, before arriving in Merzouga. Once you reach the village, you’ll embark on a camel trek across the vast Erg Chebbi Dunes. The camel ride will take you into the heart of the Sahara, where you’ll witness a breathtaking desert sunset. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Berber dinner at a desert camp under the stars. Spend the night in a desert camp, where you’ll be surrounded by the peaceful silence of the dunes and the vastness of the Sahara.

After waking up to a stunning sunrise over the dunes, you’ll return to Merzouga on camelback and begin your journey towards Zagora, a desert town located at the edge of the Sahara. The route takes you through the Rissani and Tansikht villages, offering a glimpse of life in the Moroccan desert. Zagora is famous for its historic connection to the ancient caravan routes to Timbuktu, and you’ll see the iconic Timbuktu sign marking this old trade route. Take time to explore Zagora’s palm groves, kasbahs, and nearby oases. Stay overnight in Zagora at a comfortable guesthouse or hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the journey.

On the final day of your tour, you’ll drive back to Marrakech through the Draa Valley, one of Morocco's longest valleys, lined with palms and small villages. Continue your journey back through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the Atlas Mountains, offering more stunning views of the terrain. You’ll arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening. If time allows, you can explore the city’s medina, visit the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square one last time, or shop for souvenirs in the local souks before your departure.