Sahara Mini Adventure

Welcome to Marrakech! You’ll kick off your Sahara adventure at 8 am at your joining point before setting off in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle along with the rest of your group, your dedicated driver and your certified locally based leader who will share insights and expert tips along your journey. Head out of the city towards Todra Valley in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Along the way, stop off at Ait Benhaddou – this World Heritage Site was once an important stop for salt caravans crossing the Sahara. Enjoy a walk through the winding streets of the old town and pay a visit to the Tawesna teahouse on the river, a community-run establishment that provides local women with an income to support themselves and their children. Using ingredients sourced from local cooperatives, the women prepare delicious tea and pastries while sharing their stories with those who pop in to visit. After lunch, carry on to the Todra area where you might want to take a refreshing dip in the hotel pool. (L)

After breakfast, join your leader for a walk through the valley farmland towards the Todra Gorges, towering red-hued sandstone canyons up to 400 metres high. Cap off your hike with a brunch picnic in the valley, featuring stuffed bread, mint tea and olive oil prepared by members of a local Amazigh (Berber) women’s association.

Onwards to the Sahara! Drive through the changing scenery, from barren mountain sides to fertile valleys to the end of the road at the small Saharan settlement of Merzouga. On the edge of the desert, Merzouga feels wonderfully isolated. Drop your bags at your overnight camp and hop aboard your desert-ready transport: your own camel. Head out on a one-hour ride across the Erg Chebbi sand dunes as the sun sets around you and the surrounding sea of sand morphs through shades of red and orange. The Erg Chebbi dunes are constantly morphing in the Saharan breeze, shapeshifting into picturesque, undulating crests and valleys. Back at camp, your hosts will prepare a hearty Moroccan feast before you’ll spend the night in a simple but comfortable tent under the stars. (B/L/D)

You’ll want to rise early this morning and get yourself to the nearest dune for a spectacular sunrise over the Sahara. Once you’ve greeted the day, fuel up with a traditional breakfast at camp and begin your return trek to Marrakech, where you’ll be dropped off and your adventure will come to an end. (B)