5-day Paris-Dakar Tracks Guided Tour through Sahara Desert

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Marrakech to Ouarzazate
3 stops
1
The journey through the Tichka Pass (reaching an elevation of 2,260 meters (7,415 feet) above sea level) offers breathtaking panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains. Travelers can enjoy the rugged landscapes, deep valleys, and traditional Berber villages along the route.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
2
Visit the Telouet Kasbah which was once the stronghold of the Glaoui family, which was a powerful Berber family in Morocco during the 20th century. The Glaoui family held considerable political influence and were Pashas of Marrakech and Ouarzazate.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
3
Ait Ben Haddou
Ait Benhaddou is an ancient village that has been a key trading post along the caravan route between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech for centuries. Ait Benhaddou has been featured in several international films and TV productions, making it one of the most famous ksars in Morocco. Movies like "Lawrence of Arabia," "Gladiator," and TV series like "Game of Thrones" have used this site as a backdrop.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Ouarzazat to Tafraout Sidi Ali via Zagora
3 stops
4
Draa Valley was part of important caravan routes connecting sub-Saharan Africa to the northern cities of Morocco. The valley served as a hub for trade, and its oases provided essential rest stops for travelers and traders.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
5
Zagora
Zagora marks the beginning of the famous "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," a scenic route that takes travelers through the Draa Valley, known for its kasbahs (fortified villages) and lush oases.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
6
After Zagora, you will take what was once the Paris-Dakar ralley off-roads to reach Tafraout Sidi Ali . The offroading conditions can vary, and it's important to be prepared for rough and unpaved tracks. The routes will pass through desert landscapes, rocky terrain, and mountainous areas. Your vehicle is suitable for offroading and to explore more remote areas.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Tafraout Sidi Ali to Merzouga
3 stops
7
Offroading in Morocco often provides stunning scenery. You will have some stops along the way to appreciate the landscapes, take photographs, and enjoy the unique beauty of the region. Stop at Oubahllou Ruines for pictures.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
8
Khamlia
Khamlia is primarily inhabited by people of the Gnawa ethnic group. The Gnawa people have a unique cultural and musical heritage that incorporates traditional African and Islamic elements. Gnawa music is characterized by its use of traditional instruments, such as the guembri (a three-stringed bass instrument), qraqeb (metal castanets), and vocals.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
9
Merzouga
Here you will do one of the most popular activities for visitors to Merzouga (taking a camel trek into the dunes). Camel rides provide a unique and immersive experience, allowing travelers to witness the changing landscape of the Sahara.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Merzouga to Dades Valley
3 stops
10
Rissani
Rissani is known for its lively and traditional market, or souk. The market is particularly famous for its large date market, where various varieties of dates, including the prized Medjool dates, are traded. The souk also features stalls selling spices, textiles, handicrafts, and other local products.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
11
Todra River
The gorges offer breathtaking views of the towering cliffs, which change color depending on the time of day and sunlight. The contrast between the deep blue sky, the reddish rock formations, and the greenery along the riverbanks creates a stunning visual spectacle.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
12
Boumalne Dades
The valley is characterized by dramatic landscapes, including deep canyons, lush oases, and towering rock formations. The rock formations in the Dades Gorges are known for their red and ochre hues, creating a visually striking and picturesque setting.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Dades to Marrakech via Ouarzazate
3 stops
13
Vallee Des Roses
Kelaa M'gouna is known for its extensive rose cultivation, particularly of the Damask rose variety. The valley is filled with lush rose gardens, and the roses are harvested in the spring, usually in May. The blooming roses create a visually stunning and fragrant landscape.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
14
Taourirt Kasbah is a well-preserved fortress that was once the residence of the Glaoui family, who were powerful leaders in the region during the 19th and 20th centuries. The kasbah reflects traditional Moroccan architecture, featuring clay walls, turrets, and decorative elements. The Glaoui family played a significant role in Moroccan history, and the kasbah stands as a testament to their influence.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
15
Atlas Studios has been the filming location for numerous major motion pictures, including historical epics, adventure films, and television series. Some well-known movies shot at Atlas Studios include "Lawrence of Arabia," "Gladiator," "Kingdom of Heaven," and "Game of Thrones."
1 hour • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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