Step back in time on a captivating private day trip from Fes to explore an imperial capital and the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire. This full-day excursion will guide you to the heart of Meknes, the magnificent 17th-century Ismaili capital, to discover its grand monuments. Afterwards, you will journey to the sprawling Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a day filled with incredible history, architecture, and scenic landscapes.
Tour Highlights:
Day 1: Marrakesh – Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Draa Valley – Zagora Dunes Your Saharan expedition begins with an early morning departure from Marrakesh. We’ll ascend into the High Atlas Mountains, navigating the spectacular Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2260m), with stops to admire the panoramic vistas and pass through traditional Berber villages. Our journey takes us to the famed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, an ancient fortified village and a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizable from films like “Gladiator” and “Lawrence of Arabia,” as well as the series “Game of Thrones.” After exploring this historic marvel and enjoying lunch (at your own expense) either here or in Ouarzazate, we’ll continue our drive. You’ll travel through the starkly beautiful Anti-Atlas Mountains, passing through more Berber settlements and alongside the lush Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest river and largest palm oasis. As afternoon approaches, we’ll arrive in Zagora. Here, your desert adventure truly begins with a memorable camel trek into the dunes. Witness a spectacular sunset paint the desert sky before proceeding to your Sahara desert camp. An authentic Moroccan dinner awaits, followed by an evening of traditional Berber drumming and music beneath a canopy of brilliant stars.
Day 2: Zagora – Ouarzazate – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakesh Rise early to the serene beauty of the desert. Experience another camel ride over the dunes to greet the magical sunrise, a truly unforgettable moment. After a hearty Moroccan breakfast at the camp, we bid farewell to Zagora and journey towards Ouarzazate, often called “The Gateway to the Desert.” In Ouarzazate, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the historic Taourirt Kasbah and see the renowned film studios where many famous movies have been filmed. Later, we begin our scenic drive back to Marrakesh, once again crossing the Tizi-n-Tichka pass and the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Your incredible 2-day Zagora desert tour concludes with a convenient drop-off at your accommodation or the airport in Marrakesh in the late afternoon/early evening.
