At 7:00 AM, our anticipation was palpable as we gathered outside our hotel, poised for an unforgettable adventure. With our skilled driver leading the way, we departed from the city’s confines, immersing ourselves in the enchanting allure of local villages and vibrant markets. With each passing mile, urban life faded, giving way to the majestic High Atlas Mountains—towering giants that beckoned us forward.

Our journey along the Tizi-n-Tichka road, the second-highest peak after Toubkal at 2,260 meters, was truly mesmerising. The winding path revealed breathtaking vistas that left us in awe of nature’s grandeur. Our first destination was the legendary Ait Benhaddou Ksar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, a testament to Morocco’s rich history. This ancient palace has graced the silver screen in epic films such as Gladiator, The Mummy, Prince of Persia, and Game of Thrones, making it a must-see on our journey.

After absorbing the rich stories of the Kasbahs, we pressed on to Ouarzazate, often called the “door of the desert” or the “Hollywood of Africa.” Just a quick 20-minute drive brought us to this captivating city, where we relished a delicious lunch and explored renowned attractions, including the striking Kasbah Taourirt and an intriguing cinema museum showcasing the area’s cinematic heritage.

Yet the highlight of our journey awaited us in the renowned Valley of Roses. Here, the local inhabitants have perfected the art of rose cultivation, meticulously crafting oils and perfumes through traditional methods that far surpass their synthetic counterparts in quality and authenticity.

As we traversed the landscape, we paused to marvel at surreal rock formations that appeared to mimic playful monkey toes or colossal gorilla fingers—a delightful reminder of nature’s whimsical creativity. After covering approximately 26 kilometres, we finally arrived at our charming accommodation, Hotel Dades. As the day drew to a close, we enjoyed a sumptuous dinner. We reflected on the incredible experiences of our first day, knowing that this was only the beginning of an extraordinary journey ahead. tions that appeared to mimic playful monkey toes or colossal gorilla fingers—a delightful reminder of nature’s whimsical creativity. After covering approximately 26 kilometres, we finally arrived at our charming accommodation, Hotel Dades. As the day drew to a close, we enjoyed a sumptuous dinner. We reflected on the incredible experiences of our first day, knowing that this was only the beginning of an extraordinary journey ahead.

Greetings and welcome! This morning is simply breathtaking, especially after a delightful night spent in the enchanting straits of Dades. Despite the biting chill of the mountainous terrain during winter, the warm hospitality we encountered at the local hotels has added a truly memorable touch to our journey.

Today’s itinerary is nothing short of extraordinary as we venture into the captivating city of Tinghir, explore the magnificent Todra fjords, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant local districts. We’ll kick off our adventure with an insightful appointment with a knowledgeable local guide, who will lead us on a 90-minute exploration of the stunning Tinghir Oasis. Following this, we’ll journey to the spectacular Todra Gorges, where the dramatic landscapes will surely leave you in awe. Lunch will be served in a nearby quaint village, offering a taste of local cuisine.

Next, we’ll traverse through the picturesque towns of Tinjdad, Erfoud, and Rissani on our way to Merzouga. Here, you’ll have the unique chance to embrace the serenity of the Sahara. Get ready for an unforgettable 45-minute camel ride as the sun sets over the golden dunes, creating a mesmerising backdrop. The adventure continues as we rise early the next morning for another 45-minute journey to witness the breathtaking sunrise, a moment that promises to be etched in your memory.

Our second night will be spent under a blanket of stars in the Sahara, where we’ll find comfort in traditional Berber tents. Prepare for an enchanting evening filled with fire camp stories and exhilarating folkloric dances, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration. This experience will be a highlight of your travels and a poignant reminder of the richness of Berber culture.

As the sun boldly rises from the horizon, it signals the perfect moment to awaken and savour a delightful breakfast. With our appetites satisfied, we eagerly anticipate the breathtaking sunrise, prepared to capture countless photos of the spectacular scenery before us. As the golden rays illuminate the sky with vibrant hues, we stand in awe, spellbound by the stunning beauty surrounding us.

After sunrise, we’ll embark on our journey back to Marrakech, choosing a different route that promises discoveries. While the landscape may change, our sense of adventure remains as fierce as ever. As we navigate the rugged terrain, we’ll encounter the varied landscapes of Morocco—ranging from stark deserts to lush valleys, and everything in between.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll find ourselves both exhausted and exhilarated, treasuring the memories of our travels and the delight of embracing the unfamiliar. With the sun setting on the horizon, we’ll take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary sights we’ve experienced, ready to return to Marrakech rejuvenated and enriched by the wonders we’ve witnessed.