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Explorateur
Essential Morocco
Car hire with driver
Based on 15 nights 16 days
From $4 381
Itinerary
This journey blends cultural encounters, scenic landscapes, and the magic of the desert, offering a true taste of Morocco’s southern treasures, where every village, kasbah, and dune tells a story waiting to be discovered.
unique 9-day itinerary in the surroundings of Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the desert : valleys, gorges, oases, mountains, fortresses, perched villages, desert dunes and other breathtaking spots in à self drive tour with or without ( as you wishes ) à private driver .
From Ouarzazate, set off on unforgettable excursions through breathtaking and diverse landscapes: explore the Draa Valley and its lush oases, the Skoura palm grove, the impressive Dades Gorges, and the famous Route of a Thousand Kasbahs. Continue your journey to Zagora and be amazed by the majestic dunes of Chegaga. Many other hidden gems await you throughout this enriching and memorable adventure. To fully enjoy your stay with complete freedom, renting a car is highly recommended.
Day 1 – From Marrakech to Aït Ben Haddou
Your journey begins with a scenic drive across the High Atlas Mountains via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass, following the historic P31 road that links Marrakech to Ouarzazate.
Along the way, you’ll reach the traditional Chleuh village of Telouet, nestled in the mountains. Here, visit the remarkable Kasbah of Telouet—once the opulent residence of the powerful Glaoui family. Built in the mid-19th century by Si Hammou El Mezouari El Glaoui and expanded over generations, the kasbah blends intricate Moroccan craftsmanship with a surprising Andalusian-style wing added in the 1950s.
After exploring this hidden architectural treasure, continue your journey through the breathtaking Ounila Valley. This lesser-known route reveals a series of ancient kasbahs, vibrant red-earth villages, and lush landscapes contrasting beautifully with the surrounding mountains.
Stop in the charming village of Wawnsemt for a traditional lunch in a Berber home, offering an authentic glimpse into local life.
In the afternoon, visit the fascinating salt mines tucked within the valley before continuing toward Aït Ben Haddou. Upon arrival, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with panoramic views over the iconic ksar.
Overnight stay in a guesthouse in Aït Ben Haddou.
Day 2 – Exploring Aït Ben Haddou
After breakfast, take time to fully explore the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Ben Haddou—one of Morocco’s most iconic and well-preserved fortified villages. Wander through its maze of earthen alleys, climb to the top for stunning views, and discover the rich history of this ancient caravan stop.
The rest of the day is at leisure: relax at your guesthouse, enjoy the surrounding landscapes, or take an optional walk along the river and nearby hills for different perspectives of the kasbah.
Overnight stay in Aït Ben Haddou.
Day 3 – Ouarzazate – Skoura – Tamallalt
Accommodation: 1 night in an eco-lodge in Tamallalt
Journey through Oases and Valleys Depart at 9:00 AM from Aït Ben Haddou, heading toward Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Desert.” This southern Moroccan city is renowned for its cinematic landscapes, vast palm groves, and proximity to some of the country’s most beautiful oases. Continue toward Skoura, a lush oasis famous for its dense palm groves and high-quality dates. This peaceful area is dotted with traditional kasbahs, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich architectural heritage and rural life. The journey then follows the left bank of the Draa Valley, one of the longest and most scenic valleys in Morocco. Along the way, discover a region that remains remarkably authentic, far from mass tourism. Nearby, the famous Valley of Roses—where Damask roses are cultivated—adds a fragrant and colorful dimension to the landscape, especially in spring. Surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the M’Goun and Dades valleys, the area is known for its preserved traditions, from earthen village architecture to the production of rose water and local crafts. In many villages, Berber women still carry ancestral traditions, including distinctive tattoo art that reflects cultural identity and heritage. Optional visits can include local museums or guided walks through palm groves to better understand oasis life and traditional farming systems. Arrival in Tamallalt in the late afternoon. Settle into your eco-lodge and enjoy the tranquility of this remote and natural environment.
Day 4 – Zagora – M’Hamid – Erg Chegaga
After breakfast, depart from Zagora and journey deeper into the desert toward M’Hamid, the last village before the vast emptiness of the Sahara. Here, the paved road ends and the adventure truly begins.
From M’Hamid, continue off-road across ever-changing desert landscapes—rocky plains, dried riverbeds, and wide-open horizons—on your way to the majestic Erg Chegaga dunes, the largest and most remote dunes in Morocco.
Along the way, enjoy the raw beauty and silence of the desert, far from any signs of modern life. You may stop for tea with nomads or simply take in the immensity of this untouched environment.
Arrive at your desert camp in the late afternoon. Settle into your bivouac and experience the magic of the Sahara: climb the dunes to watch a breathtaking sunset, followed by a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars.
In the evening, gather around the campfire for local music and storytelling before spending the night in your tent, surrounded by the peaceful silence of the desert.
Day 5 & 6 – Erg Chegaga Dunes
Accommodation: 2 nights in a desert camp at the foot of the dunes
Meals: Half board (dinner & breakfast)
A Timeless Escape in the Sahara
Spend two unforgettable days in the heart of the Sahara at the majestic Erg Chegaga, far from the crowds and deep within Morocco’s wild desert landscapes.
These days are dedicated to fully experiencing the magic and serenity of the desert. Surrounded by endless golden dunes, enjoy a true immersion in nature where time seems to stand still.
Take part in optional activities such as camel trekking across the dunes at sunrise or sunset, guided walks to discover the unique desert ecosystem, or 4x4 excursions to explore hidden corners of the region. You may also visit nomadic families to learn about their traditional way of life.
Back at camp, relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere—whether it’s reading under the shade of a tent, sipping mint tea, or simply admiring the ever-changing colors of the الرمال dunes.
As night falls, experience the beauty of the Sahara sky, incredibly clear and filled with stars. Evenings are spent around the campfire, enjoying traditional music, local cuisine, and the quiet charm of desert life.
Day 7 – Agdz & the Draa Valley
Accommodation: 1 night in a homestay
Meals: Breakfast included
From the Desert to the Palm Groves of Agdz
After breakfast, depart from the dunes of Erg Chegaga and begin your journey north through the spectacular landscapes of southern Morocco. Travel back via M’Hamid and Zagora, following the lush ribbon of the Draa Valley—Morocco’s longest river valley, lined with endless palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
Arrive in Agdz, a peaceful town set at the foot of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. Historically, Agdz was an important stop along the trans-Saharan caravan route connecting Marrakech to Timbuktu, and it still retains a strong sense of authenticity and heritage.
Settle into your traditional homestay and enjoy a warm welcome from your hosts. In the afternoon, take time to explore the surrounding palm groves, either on foot or by bike, discovering small villages, irrigation systems, and everyday oasis life.
If your visit falls on a Thursday, don’t miss the lively weekly souk—an authentic local market where villagers gather to trade goods, livestock, spices, and handmade crafts, offering a vibrant glimpse into rural Moroccan culture.
Optional visits include nearby kasbahs and scenic viewpoints overlooking the valley, especially beautiful at sunset when the light softens over the palm groves.
Dinner can be arranged with your host family (optional), providing a chance to enjoy home-cooked Moroccan cuisine and share stories in a friendly, intimate setting.
Day 8 & 9 – Taroudant & the Souss Valley
Accommodation: 2 nights in a riad
Meals: Half board (dinner & breakfast)
Discovering the “Little Marrakech”
Continue your journey to Taroudant, a charming and historic city nestled in the fertile Souss Valley, between the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas Mountains. Often referred to as “Little Marrakech,” Taroudant offers an authentic atmosphere, far from the crowds, while preserving a rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Once the capital of the Saadian dynasty in the 16th century under Sultan Mohammed Echeikh Saadi, the city played a key political and military role in southern Morocco.
One of Taroudant’s most remarkable features is its impressive 6-kilometer-long ramparts, built around 1523. These ochre-colored walls, considered among the best-preserved in Morocco, are reinforced by around 130 towers and 19 bastions, all connected by a defensive walkway that once protected the city from invasions.
The ramparts are punctuated by several monumental gates in elegant Moorish style, traditionally aligned with the cardinal directions. While some original gates remain intact, others have been added over time to facilitate access to the growing city.
During your stay, explore the lively souks, known for local crafts such as jewelry, leather goods, and traditional textiles. Take time to wander through the medina’s narrow streets, visit the Great Mosque (exterior), and discover the city’s spiritual heritage, including sacred sites and tombs important to the Jewish community.
Enjoy relaxing moments in your riad, and perhaps take a walk or carriage ride along the ramparts at sunset, when the golden light enhances the beauty of the city walls.
Day 10 – Agadir – Departure
Meals: Breakfast included
Coastal Farewell & Departure
After breakfast, depart for Agadir, a modern seaside city known for its long sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
Enjoy a visit to the vibrant Souk El Had, one of the largest markets in Morocco. Stroll through its lively alleys filled with spices, local crafts, fresh produce, and traditional goods—an ideal place for last-minute souvenirs and a final immersion into Moroccan daily life.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may also take a short walk along the seafront promenade or relax at a café overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
At the appropriate time, transfer to Agadir–Al Massira Airport for your return flight to Paris.
Day 16 Departure
Enjoy your last morning by the ocean before your transfer to Colombo airport for your flight back to Paris.
Homes
Stay in very well located, carefully selected superior homestays or boutique hotels , offering comfort, warm hospitality, and authentic Sri Lankan experiences. Enjoy home-cooked local cuisine and meaningful cultural immersion with your hosts for a truly personal and enriching stay.
Transportation
Private tours with a dedicated driver, providing comfortable and flexible travel throughout your journey. A range of vehicles is available to suit all needs, from classic sedans to 4/4 or spacious minivans for larger groups. All options include an English-speaking driver for 6 hours a day , fuel, insurance, and driver expenses ( tips not included) .
Price
Starting from
$4381
Included
Accommodation
15 nights accommodation in double rooms in charming hotels or lodges
Negombo – Jetwing Beach (2 nights) Sigiriya – Roo Mansala Boutique Villas (2 nights) Kandy – Queen’s Hotel (2 nights) Nuwara Eliya – Hill Club (1 night) Ella – Tea Cabins (1 night) Tissamaharama – Yala Lake View Cabanas (3 nights) Mirissa – Villa Atulya at Ocean Edge (4 nights)
Pension
Ample and delicious breakfasts and dinners prepared by your Cuban host
Full pension buffet style meals at Hotel Cayo Levisa
Transportation
Comfortable car with english-speaking driver for 9 days (Days 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16), fuel included (maximum 8 hours per day) Round-trip airport transfers (Colombo/Negombo & Mirissa/Colombo) All transfers for excursions
Activities
Visits to cities, sites, monuments, parks, and galleries as per itinerary (some entrance fees payable on-site)
Train transfer from Kandy to Ella in first-class air-conditioned carriage
Kandyan dance show
Tuk-tuk tour in Kandy and visit to the local market
Yala National Park jeep safari (entrance included)
Entrance to Sigiriya site
Dinner with a Sri Lankan family
Minneriya National Park jeep safari (entrance payable on-site: €60/person)
Visit to a tea plantation and factory with a guide in Ella
Guided visit of Sigiriya
Tourism card/Visa
ETA visa application assistance
Not Included
Airfares
Option to add flight from your choice of airport to CMB Colombo
Pension
Meals not mentioned in “The package includes”
Travel Insurance
Option to add travel insurance: Cancellation, Multi-risk or repatriation
Gratuity
Tips for the driver (€20 per day)
Request this trip
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