Sahara Desert Camp & Trek
Trip Overview
Live like a nomad: camp and trek in the Sahara desert and explore Marrakech.
Dive into a 9-day journey of a lifetime with our Sahara Oasis Adventure, venturing deep into the Moroccan desert for an authentic exploration. Spend five unforgettable days trekking and camping under the stars in the vast Sahara, guided by camels, local nomads, and professional guides. Beyond the desert, you'll discover the ancient kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou and the bustling life of Marrakech. Designed for adventure seekers, this trip offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. Prepare to live like a nomad, with the desert winds in your hair and the endless sky above, as you experience Morocco in its purest form.
Trip Start
Marrakech
Trip End
Marrakech
Trip Duration
9 Days, 8 Nights
Group Size
4 - 12 People
Ages
16+
Physical Rating
Moderate to Vigorous
Trip Style
Trekking & Local Life
Service Level
Adventure
Trip Highlights
Visit with Local Guides
Ait Benhaddou Kasbah
Discover Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its striking earthen clay architecture and role in films like "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones." This ancient kasbah is a window into Morocco's rich history and traditional Saharan trade routes.
Diverse Landscape Trek
Embark on a journey through varying terrains, from lush valleys to arid deserts, showcasing Morocco's incredible natural diversity. Trek alongside local nomads and camels, experiencing the traditional ways of desert navigation.
Camping Under the Stars
Experience the tranquility of the Sahara Desert with nights spent camping under a canopy of stars. Our campsites provide all necessary amenities while allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene desert atmosphere, with the comfort of traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Majestic Sand Dunes
Trek in the sand dunes of Foum Tizza and Serdar, offering breathtaking views and a unique sense of vastness. These natural wonders are perfect for contemplation and adventure, providing unforgettable sunrise and sunset experiences.
Berber Village Immersion
Journey through Berber villages like N'koub, where time seems to stand still. This leg of the trip offers a deep dive into the local culture, with opportunities to interact with the inhabitants and learn about their centuries-old traditions and lifestyle.
Stroll Jamaa El Fnaa
Jamaa El Fna Square, the UNESCO-inscribed cultural space of Marrakech, is a sensory extravaganza waiting to be explored. Lose yourself in the vibrant culture, delicious street food, and captivating street performances that make this place come alive. Don't miss the chance to be part of the captivating story that is Jamaa El Fna.
Hammam Experience
Let go of stress and indulge in an authentic Hammam experience, an age-old Moroccan bathing ritual steeped in tradition. This rejuvenating ritual involves a meticulous cleansing process, including steam, scrubbing, and massages, offering a invigorating and revitalizing retreat.
Meet Your Mountain Guide
Driss Himmi
At Mauresk, we’re proud to introduce you to Driss Hemmi, a remarkable guide who embodies the spirit of Moroccan hospitality and adventure. A proud Berber from the Oriental High Atlas, Driss’s journey began with a deep commitment to his family and community. “I’ve always wanted to uplift the lives around me,” he shares, and this dedication led him to pursue a career as a mountaineering guide.
In 2002, Driss earned his certification at the Mountain Training Center in the High Central Atlas. Since then, he has spent over two decades mastering his craft and sharing his passion for Morocco's breathtaking landscapes. His defining moment came in 2005 when he was featured in the National Geographic Magazine article “Among the Berbers.” Reflecting on this milestone, he says, “That experience opened my world and inspired me to open it to others.”
Driss’s trips are more than treks; they’re invitations to connect deeply with the land and its people. “I want you to witness, reside, and feel the warmth of Moroccan hospitality,” he says with a smile. With Driss as your guide, you’re not just exploring Morocco; you’re embracing its heart and soul.
Let Driss take you on a journey you’ll never forget—a journey steeped in tradition, adventure, and genuine Berber warmth.
Accomodations
Every accommodation we offer has been meticulously selected to provide you the best possible experience. We prioritize quality, sustainability, and appreciation for Morocco's rich cultural and natural heritage. Each venue we collaborate with shares our values. By choosing locally owned accommodations, you actively contribute to the prosperity of local communities. Together, we embark on a journey, while fostering a positive impact on the places you visit and the people you meet. We offer various carefully curated and hand-picked locally owned accommodations.
step into the authentic vibe of Marrakech with our Riad. These traditional Moroccan homes, scattered across these historic cities, are infused with timeless charm and architectural elegance. Featuring interior courtyards and ornate designs, they offer an authentic taste of Morocco's heritage and provide an intimate and culturally immersive stay. Interact with the welcoming local staff and savor the flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Our Sahara camping experience offers a genuine desert adventure with all necessary amenities provided for your comfort under the stars. You'll sleep in tents and enjoy meals prepared by our local team, bringing the Moroccan culinary experience directly to the dunes. Please note, while we ensure a comfortable camp setup, travelers are responsible for bringing their own sleeping bags to suit personal comfort and preferences. For a detailed list of what to pack to ensure you're fully prepared for this experience, please refer to our packing list.
Your Itinerary
Marhaba in Morocco, our team will pick you up from the airport in a private car. We'll escort you to your hotel, allowing you to settle in and unwind after your journey. Later in the day, you'll have the opportunity to meet the rest of the group and our team, getting acquainted with fellow travelers.
To kick off your Moroccan adventure, we'll transfer from the vibrant city of Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a striking example of Moroccan earthen clay architecture but has also served as a dramatic backdrop for numerous films, including the epic "Gladiator," the captivating "Lawrence of Arabia," and scenes from the iconic TV series "Game of Thrones." Explore the ancient kasbah that stands as a testament to the traditional Saharan trading routes that once passed through this region.
Included Meals: Dinner
Included Activities:
- Marrakech airport arrival transfer to the Riad.
- Explore Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Learn about movies filmed here: "Gladiator," "Lawrence of Arabia," and "Game of Thrones."
Journey from Marrakech to Nkoub, traversing the scenic landscapes that offer a glimpse into the diverse natural beauty of Morocco. Nkoub sits amidst lush palm groves, offering a stark contrast to the desert you're about to enter, serving as a reminder of the country's varied ecosystems.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities:
- Scenic drive from Marrakech to Nkoub.
- Witness the contrast of Morocco’s landscapes from lush areas to desert.
Embark on a 5-hour trek from N'koub to Ait Ouazik, where the real adventure begins. The walk takes you through breathtaking sceneries of valleys and traditional Berber villages, immersing you in the local culture. Camp under the stars in Ait Ouazik, a perfect opportunity to connect with the serene desert environment.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities:
- 5 hours trek from N'koub to Ait Ouazik.
- Immerse in local culture passing through valleys and Amazigh villages.
- Bivouac under the stars in Ait Ouazik.
Continue your trek to Al Barrage, covering around 5 hours of walking through increasingly dramatic desert landscapes. The route offers an insight into the rugged beauty of Morocco's lesser-known paths. Your bivouac at Al Barrage provides another night under the vast desert sky, offering peace and tranquility.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Includeld Activities:
- 5 hours trekking to Al Barrage.
- Experience the beauty of Morocco’s Sahara
- Overnight bivouac at Al Barrage.
Today's journey leads you to the stunning Dunes of Foum Tizza. Over the course of five hours, you'll trek through changing landscapes, witnessing the Sahara's full splendor as you approach these majestic sand dunes. The night spent here allows you to experience the desert's changing colors at sunset, an unforgettable sight.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Includeld Activities:
- 5 hours trek to the Dunes of Foum Tizza.
- Witness the changing landscapes and the sand dunes.
- Enjoy a sunset over the dunes.
Trek from Foum Tizza to Serdar, spending another 5 hours traversing the beautiful desert terrain. The dunes of Serdar offer a unique landscape, with the opportunity to climb high dunes and enjoy panoramic views of the Sahara. Camping here, you're enveloped in an incredible sense of vastness and beauty.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Includeld Activities:
- 5 hours Trek from Foum Tizza to Serdar.
- Climb and explore the dunes of Serdar.
- Camp in the dunes of Serdar.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Includeld Activities:
- Return to Marrakech.
Today, your journey leads you to th heart of Morocco, the city of Marrakech. Your exploration of the ancient medina will immerse you in rich history and culture. As you navigate the labyrinthine streets, you'll encounter architectural marvels like the Koutoubia Mosque. This site is an example of Moorish architecture, a masterpiece of 12th-century. Its minaret's design has inspired structures worldwide. And you will visit the intricately designed Bahia Palace, offering insight into Morocco's royal past.
The bustling Jamaa el Fna Square awaits, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can witness the artistry of local artisans, from leatherworkers and metalworkers to carpet weavers and pottery artisans. Don't miss the opportunity to get souvenirs from the souks that surround the square, where centuries-old trading traditions still thrive.
In the evening, prepare for a traditional Moroccan hammam night, a rejuvenating and culturally immersive experience. The hammam is a communal bathhouse where you can cleanse and relax in a soothing steamy environment. It's a chance to unwind and rejuvenate in the age-old Moroccan way, leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Includeld Activities:
- Explore Marrakech's medina
- Visit Koutoubia Mosque and Bahia Palace
- Tour Jamaa el Fna Square
- Enjoy a traditional Moroccan hammam night
On the final day of our Moroccan adventure, we'll ensure your departure is as seamless as your arrival. After enjoying breakfast at your riad, we'll arrange your transfer to the airport, ensuring you have plenty of time to bid farewell to this country.
As you prepare to depart, reflect on the incredible experiences, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality that have defined your journey through Morocco. Cherish the memories you've created, the flavors you've savored, and the friendships you've formed. With your heart full of Morocco's magic, you'll embark on your journey home, carrying the spirit of this destination with you forever.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Includeld Activities:
- Marrakech's airport transfer
Inclusions
Meals:
- 8 Breakfasts
- 7 Lunches
- 8 Dinners
- Snacks
Accommodations:
- 8 Nights in various types of locally owned accommodations & wild camping.
Transportation:
- Private vehicle, camel, & walking
- Marrakech airport arrival transfer to the Riad
- Marrakech Airport Departure Transfer
- All transportation between destinations
- All transportation for included activities
Activities:
- Trekking activities averaging approx. Five hours daily in the Sahara desert.
- Explore Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Learn about movies filmed here, including Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones.
- Scenic drive from Marrakech to Nkoub.
- Trek from N'koub to Ait Ouazik.
- Immerse yourself in local culture by passing through valleys and Amazigh villages.
- Bivouac under the stars in Ait Ouazik.
- Trekking to Al Barrage.
- Experience the beauty of Morocco’s Sahara.
- Overnight bivouac at Al Barrage.
- Trek to the Dunes of Foum Tizza.
- Witness the changing landscapes and the dunes.
- Enjoy a sunset over the dunes.
- Trek from Foum Tizza to Serdar.
- Climb and explore the dunes of Serdar.
- Camp in the dunes of Serdar.
- Marrakech - Guided visit of Jmaa el Fna, Koutoubia Mosque, Palais Jamaii, Bahia Palace
- Traditional Hammam experience
- Farewell dinner
Exclusions
Meals:
- Alcoholic beverages
Transportation:
- Transportation for activities that are not included in the itinerary
- Airport transfers to airports that differ from the itinerary’s start & end point.
- Flights to & from Morocco
Camping & Trekking Gears:
- Sleeping bags are NOT included; travelers should bring their own.
- Any needed camping & trekking gear, such as lightweight backpacks, flashlights, towels, poles, etc.
Please check our packing list for more information on what to pack for your trip.
Other:
- Visas fees, when applicable
- Trip cancelation insurance
- Any travel insurance
- All gratuities
- Personal shopping
- All other personal expenses
Add-ons
Transportation:
- Airport arrival or departure transfer to and from other cities. Please get in touch with us for more information.
Activities:
- Marrakech sunrise hot-air balloon
- Marrakech side-car tour