MARVELLOUS MOROCCO

Ifrane to Merzouga

We descend from the Middle Atlas Mountains into the vast, untamed landscapes of Eastern Morocco, following a road that winds through the spectacular Ziz Gorges on our way to Errachidia; the desert is near!

Just a few more kilometers and we arrive in Merzouga, a small village nestled in the sand—one of the gateways to the Sahara. This is the land of Erg Chebbi: a stunning world of towering dunes, palm groves, and sun-drenched silence. The majesty of the scenery captivates and enchants.

It was from here, up until the last century, that caravans of dromedaries would set off, laden with goods bound for Timbuktu—returning only months later from their epic desert journeys.

Merzouga to Dades Valley

We leave behind the vast, deserted expanses of Merzouga and begin our journey back toward the mountains. In the eastern reaches of the High Atlas, near the Jebel Saghro range, lies one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural wonders: the Todra Gorges. Set in a dramatic valley dotted with palm groves and traditional Berber villages, the gorge features towering pink and gray rock walls sculpted by water—some rising up to 300 meters.

The final 600 meters of the Todra Gorges are the most spectacular: sheer cliffs soar 160 meters high, narrowing to just 10 meters apart in places, creating a natural corridor of stone. Just a few dozen kilometers to the west awaits another awe-inspiring landscape.

At over 1,000 meters above sea level lies the Dades Valley—also known as the Valley of the Thousand Kasbahs. Here, the Dades Gorges form part of the majestic High Atlas mountain system, often referred to as the “Alps of Africa.”

Dades Valley to Ouarzazate

Today, we’ll cross the Tizi n’Tazazert Pass, a high mountain route at 2,283 meters that cuts through the Jebel Saghro range—the easternmost point of the Atlas Mountains. From there, we descend into the breathtaking Draa Valley, one of Morocco’s most spectacular regions, renowned for its endless stretches of date palm groves.

Scattered throughout the valley are Berber villages, sand dunes, fertile plains, snow-capped peaks, and, of course, the iconic palm groves that define this landscape.

The valley is also rich in historic fortified villages known as Ksour—once small city-states enclosed within protective walls that stretched over 200 kilometers, built to defend against raids from desert nomads.

Ouarzazate to Marrakech

We head north, stopping to explore the remarkable fortified city of Ait-Ben-Haddou, one of Morocco’s nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This stunning Ksar, situated along the ancient caravan route that once connected the Sahara Desert to Marrakech, stands as a brilliant example of southern Morocco’s traditional architecture.

Back on the road, we ascend the High Atlas Mountains via one of Africa’s most legendary routes—the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, or “the pass of the pastures.” This breathtaking road climbs to 2,260 meters, winding past ochre-colored villages nestled among multi-hued mountains, terraced orchards, and abandoned Kasbahs.

A concentration of unparalleled beauty in southern Morocco, this journey is just a prelude to the even more magical allure that awaits us as we descend into Marrakech.

Marrakech – Exploration Day

Caught between tradition and modernity, Marrakech promises an unforgettable tapestry of sensations. Wandering through the vibrant Jemaa El-Fna square and the bustling souks alive with shimmering colors and exotic scents, the Red City instantly answers our craving for a change of scenery.

On this day of rest, we’ll immerse ourselves in the Medina’s architectural splendor by visiting one of its many riads—intimate oriental palaces built around serene central patios. With a heritage stretching back a thousand years, Marrakech invites us into a lively, timeless world where jugglers and storytellers share space with snake charmers, magicians, and acrobats.

Our senses will then be drawn to the rows of food stalls, where fragrant smoke rises and fills the air with tantalizing aromas, promising a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Marrakech to Essaouira

In the morning, we head west to reach one of the most captivating places in the Maghreb, ready to explore it in the afternoon. Surrounded by ancient walls and kissed by the trade winds, Essaouira—formerly known as Mogador—is affectionately called the “Bride of the Atlantic.”

Renowned primarily for its stunning seaside Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city enchants with its fortress, shimmering white walls, and a laid-back vibe that reflects the spirit of its inhabitants. The Kasbah and artisan shops add to its unique charm, blending a distinctive European flair with Moroccan tradition.

In 1756, the French transformed Essaouira into a prime example of military architecture, fortifying it with walls, towers, bastions, and gates—seamlessly merging Arab-Muslim culture with European influences.

Essaouira to Casablanca

Once again, the Atlantic guides our journey, and we’ll keep the ocean on our left as we head toward our final destination. Along the way, we’ll stop in El Jadida—once known as Mazagan—a former Portuguese stronghold that has proudly faced the ocean since the 16th century.

Its remarkably preserved architecture and the rich fusion of Moroccan and European influences have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

A visit to the mysterious cistern with its majestic vaulted ceilings will thrill film lovers, as it served as one of the haunting locations in Orson Welles’ Othello. Our journey ends in Casablanca, Morocco’s vibrant economic capital.

Departure from Casablanca

Farewell Morocco! Depart from Casablanca, taking with you memories of picturesque landscapes, captivating cities, and the exhilaration of riding through this stunning region. Until we meet again on the next great adventure! Safe travels!