Day 1: Essaouira – Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Ouarzazate

Today, we leave Essaouira at 8:00 a.m., travel Marrakech, and proceed to Ouarzazate along the breathtaking vistas of the Tizi n’Tichka Road. We will have a lunch break in Telouet’s Kasbah. Then we’ll continue our journey toward Ait Ben Haddou. Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate are well-known filming locations, having appeared in films such as Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, etc…

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Todgha Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert.

We will leave Ouarzazate early in the morning to travel to Merzouga. But first, we’ll go to the Kasbah of Taourirt. Then, we’ll make a quick trip to Rose Valley and  Dades Valley. We will next spend some time at Toudra Gorges and eat lunch before going for a walk through the tight gorges. Then, we’ll travel to Erfoud via Tinjdad, which is located in a fossil-rich area. We will park our car at Merzouga and ride camels to the Erg Chebbi Dunes. After admiring the breathtaking sunset over a high dune, we will travel to the desert camp to spend the night with the band of nomad musicians in their tent.

Day 3: Merzouga, Sahara Desert, Camel Trek

After breakfast in your riad, you can have a short explore of the local region before the commencement of your camel ride. You will Visit the Gnawa people, originating from Mali, Senegal, and Sudan, in their village of Khamlia to learn about their music and way of life. Later, we will go to the desert to visit nomadic families and learn about their way of life. Today’s lunch will be a classic Berber cuisine (Berber Pizza). You will also be able to explore the old city of Rissani, which was founded by the Alaouite dynasty, Morocco’s current governing royal family. Rissani is bordered by over 360 ksars (fortified villages with several towers) and has a large souk (an open market) that is held three times every week. This was once known as Sijilmassa, and it served as a rendezvous point for salt caravans traveling from Tombouctou, Mali. Here you will walk. Through the souk, selling spices, veggies, and garments. Continue your journey back to Merzouga. In the afternoon, you will ride a camel with an experienced guide to explore the tallest dunes in Morocco, including the opportunity to watch the sunset. Dinner and overnight stay at the Berber camp in Merzouga’s Erg Chebbi dunes.

DAY 4: MERZOUGA-ZIZ VALLEY-MIDELT-CEDAR FOREST-AZROU-IFRANE-FES

Today, we will leave the Sahara Desert and go via the Tafilalt region and the middle Atlas Mountains. After a quick lunch break in the apple village of Midelt, we’ll visit the Monkeys of the Cedar Forest near Azrou before returning to Ifran. Later in the afternoon will arrive at Fez where it end of our 4 days tour from essaouira.

What’s Included?

Hotel/Riad pickup and drop-off

3 nights 4 days of lodging in three separate places with full board.

Transportation in a private, air-conditioned minivan or SUV with an English-speaking driver/guide.

Camel Ride Tour Experience / Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners, and Drinks

Professional local guide (Moroccan history and heritage places).

All entry costs, municipal taxes, and gasoline are included.

Breakfast (3) & Dinner (3).

What is not included?

Lunch & Drinks

Tipping and gratuities for your driver are optional.

🏰 Top Attractions in Essaouira

Essaouira is one of Morocco’s most charming coastal cities — a blend of culture, history, and seaside beauty. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, whitewashed walls, blue doors, and strong Atlantic winds, Essaouira is often called the “Wind City of Africa.” Here’s a guide to the top things to visit and do in Essaouira:

1. Medina of Essaouira (Old Town) – UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Wander through the narrow streets filled with blue-and-white houses, artisan workshops, spice shops, and local art galleries.

• Don’t miss the Skala de la Ville, the old city ramparts with stunning ocean views and historic cannons.

2. Essaouira Port

• A lively place to see fishermen bringing in their daily catch.

• Visit the blue fishing boats and enjoy fresh grilled seafood right by the water.

• Great spot for photography, especially at sunset.

3. Skala du Port (Fortress)

• Climb the old Portuguese fortress for panoramic views of the Medina and Atlantic Ocean.

• Fans of Game of Thrones may recognize this location (it appeared as “Astapor”).

4. Essaouira Beach

• Long, wide, and windy — perfect for kitesurfing, windsurfing, camel rides, or a peaceful walk along the shore.

• You can rent quad bikes or enjoy horseback riding along the beach.

5. Jewish Quarter (Mellah)

• Explore the old Jewish neighborhood with its distinctive architecture and history.

• Visit the Synagogue Slat Lkahal or Haim Pinto Synagogue to learn about Essaouira’s Jewish heritage.

6. Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah Museum

• Located in a former mansion, this museum displays local art, musical instruments, jewelry, and historical artifacts from the Essaouira region.

7. Art Galleries & Craft Shops

• Essaouira is famous for Thuya wood handicrafts, argan oil products, and local artwork.

• Visit local cooperatives where artisans create unique handmade souvenirs.

🌴 Nearby Attractions

8. Argan Oil Cooperatives

• Just outside Essaouira, you can visit women’s cooperatives that produce pure argan oil and learn the traditional process.

9. Diabat Village

• A small village 5 km south of Essaouira — once visited by Jimi Hendrix in the 1960s.

• You can explore ruins of an old palace, ride camels, or enjoy tranquility away from the main town.

10. Sidi Kaouki Beach

• About 25 km from Essaouira, it’s a quieter spot popular for surfing and relaxing.

• Perfect for a half-day or full-day excursion.

🍴 Local Food to Try

• Grilled fish & seafood platters at the port.

• Tajine with sardines or seafood.

• Moroccan mint tea overlooking the sea.

• Gnawa music cafés for a local vibe in the evening.

🎶 Cultural Tip

• If you visit in June, don’t miss the Gnaoua World Music Festival, one of Morocco’s best-known music events — a mix of African rhythms, jazz, and blues in Essaouira’s vibrant streets.