Special 4WD Atlas and Desert Morocco tour, High Atlas Mountain – Chegaga desert sand dunes – Anti Atlas
The High Atlas Mountains, stretching over 1,000 kilometers, form an imposing and diverse landscape that defines the geographical heart of Morocco. This massive mountain range not only stands as the largest in North Africa but also plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s climate and culture. Amidst the rugged terrain of the High Atlas, characterized by deep valleys such as Zaouiat Ahansal, Ait Bougumez, Dades, Imilchil and Todra valleys, there are endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you embark on a challenging tour in morocco of this special 4WD Atlas and Desert Morocco tour.
The Middle Atlas and High Atlas are not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also a repository of Berber heritage and architecture. Nestled within the mountains are charming Berber villages, each with its distinct traditions, crafts, and hospitality. The architecture, showcasing mud-brick homes and kasbahs, reflects a harmonious integration with the natural surroundings.
Unfolds forward through the Middle Atlas Mountain and High Atlas Mountain heading to the southern part of Morocco. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, palm groves, traditional mud-brick villages (ksars), and the meandering Draa valley often called the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs” due to its historic fortresses. Meanwhile, the Erg Chegaga,
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GROUP SIZE | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6+ |
PRICE/PERSON | €1750 | €1720 | €1690 | €1660 | €1620 |
This adventure tour in Morocco starts from €1750 per person based on 2 people.
This rate is calculated based on individuals traveling together and sharing a double room.
The final rate may vary depending on the number of participants, your departure dates, the vehicle category, and availability during the selected period.
4WD Trip in Morocco Highlights
Take up on an enchanting Tour from Fes to discover the irresistible charm of Morocco’s Middle Atlas, High Atlas and Anti Atlas mountain and the vast, mesmerizing expanse of the Sahara Desert. Immerse yourself in a tapestry of rich culture, and architectural wonders as you walk through the desert sand dunes, palm groves and the labyrinthine streets of old fortified villages that once served as caravans refuge.
are characterized by traditional mud-brick or stone houses, often stacked against the mountainsides. The structures are designed to withstand the harsh climate of the mountains and are well-suited to the natural environment. Many villages also feature distinctive kasbahs (fortified structures) that serve as communal meeting places or homes for local leaders.
This ample experience that we will share with you will undoubtedly guide you to an unforgettable tour in Morocco.
Upon your arrival at Fes/Tanger airport, you will be welcomed by your tour guide and transferred to your riad or hotel for an overnight stay. If you arrive early enough, you can visit some of Fes’s beautiful monuments and take a stroll in the bustling markets of the Medina.
Take note: If you plan to arrive at Tanger Airport, please inform us in advance if you are interested in this option.
Our Fes City tour guide will meet you at your hotel at 9:30 to lead you on a captivating Fes medina guided tour. Immerse yourself in this imperial city with this enriching experience, an extraordinary walled city that stands as one of the world’s largest. Immerse yourself in the labyrinth of narrow streets adorned with vibrant displays of fresh fruits, aromatic heaps of spices, and the mesmerizing sight of intricately woven Berber carpets. Morocco’s artistic essence will surround you as you encounter a myriad of captivating works of art.
As the day unfolds, your exploration will unveil the superbness of the Palace of the Kings, a historical gem steeped in regal tales that echo through its magnificent halls. Witness the age-old craft of tanning at the tanneries, where vibrant hues come to life in the hands of skilled artisans. Marvel at the dexterity of Fassi ceramicists, whose hands breathe life into exquisite creations, showcasing the enduring beauty of Moroccan craftsmanship.
Our Fes medina guided tour also includes a visit to the famous Al-Qaraouine University. which is the oldest in the world, the Tanneries, and the Moulay Idriss mausoleum. We will also explore the tile cooperative and then enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the entire Medina of Fez from the historically significant Merenid Tombs, perched on a hill overlooking Fes. The half-day tour in Fez lasts about 5 hours, followed by a transfer to the Middle Atlas. We head towards Sefrou, a town referred to as the ‘Cherry Capital’ due to its extensive cherry orchards and the annual Cherry Festival that takes place in June. The city is also famous for its ancient medina. We continue driving to reach Skoura village nestled in the heart of the mountains. Depending on our arrival time, we can enjoy a walk around.
After breakfast, we will continue our discovery of the Middle Atlas Mountain Range by driving through cedar forests and natural lakes. Along the way, we will enjoy a short break to meet Barbary macaques. We will then proceed to a large lake called Afounir, renowned as one of the best spots for bird-watching in Morocco. Here, we will have our picnic lunch and take a leisurely walk around the area. Afterward, we will continue our tour trek to our final destination for the day, Z. Ifrane, a quiet village nestled at the foot of scenic waterfalls.
Departure after breakfast to discover this magnificent site with beautiful waterfalls of over 100 meters which water the roofs of the houses. On the large cliff, we enjoy a panoramic view of the village. We will cross the cider forest, lakes such as Wiwan and Aguelmam Aziza, and vast pastures inhabited by nomads, we enjoy a short break visiting Oum Rabia Spring, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals seeking relaxation and natural beauty. After a relaxing moment drinking a cup of mint tea, we continue to reach the large natural lake of Aguelmam Azigza. After a brief stop, we head towards Medilte through Cedar forest and villages. Our day concludes with a visit to Titaouwen valley, where we will have a cup of mint tea with a local Berber family. Then, we return to the hotel.
We set out to explore the Eastern High Atlas with its wild valleys and high pastures that host nomads from various tribes of the region. We continue along a mountain road, crossing wild areas where tourism is not yet known. Along the way, we visit some villages, gorges, and lakes such as Tisslit and Isli. We end our High Atlas discovery in Imilchil.
Our breakfast followed as we drove along the small roads that traversed a forest of green oak trees until reaching the village of Anrgui. From there, we took an off-road through the Assif Milloul gorges, which offered a picturesque landscape. Emerging from the gorges, we arrived at Tamga Village, nestled at the foot of a famous mountain known as the Cathedral, owing to its distinctive shape. We continue driving into the enchanting Ahansal Valley, our ascent unveils a tapestry of villages adorned with timeless Tighremt houses, each echoing the whispers of ancient tales. We are beckoned by the main village of Zaouiat Ahencal, where we leave our car and embark on a wanderfull walk through captivating gorges that lead us to the Taghia circus—a haven of natural splendor and a utopia for climbers, with its awe-inspiring rock walls ranking among the world’s most exquisite climbing sites. We head back to Z. Ahansal village where our amazing day concludes with an overnight stay at a nice hotel.
After a delightful breakfast, we set out on our tour through the high Atlas, bidding farewell to the spellbinding landscapes of the Zaouiat Ahansal valley. Our Top 4WD tour in Morocco unfolds along the winding road at the foothills of the Aroudan dolomite, revealing breathtaking views and traversing mountain pastures that, especially in Summer, host the transient presence of nomads making their migratory journey from the South.
Our expedition leads us to the Ait Bougumez valley, aptly named the “happy valley,” where an enchanting hike awaits, weaving through fields and picturesque villages. A midday pause invites us to savor a delectable lunch at a local restaurant. As the afternoon sun bathes the surroundings in a warm glow, our Ait Bougumez hike continues on foot, guiding us to the historic granary of Sidi Moussa. From this vantage point, a panoramic spectacle unfolds, offering an awe-inspiring view of the entire valley.
Descending from our lofty perch, we follow the meandering course of the river, winding our way through the landscape until we arrive at the village where our accommodations for the night eagerly await, promising a tranquil and restful haven after a day of exploration and discovery.
Ait Bouguemez Valley is a picturesque valley located in the heart of the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco. It is often referred to as the ‘Happy Valley’ due to its stunning landscapes, traditional Berber villages, and welcoming local communities. The valley is known for its agricultural activities, including apple orchards, walnut groves, and fields of barley.
Tourists and trekkers are attracted to Ait Bouguemez for its hiking and trekking opportunities, allowing them to explore the natural beauty of the region, encounter local Berber culture, and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains far from the typical tourist attractions. Popular activities in the area include hiking to Jebel M’goun, one of the highest peaks in Morocco, trekking through Mgoun Gorges, which are the best in Morocco, and visiting the various villages scattered throughout the valley.
Our breakfast unfolds with two options;
First option;
We set off for an unforgettable Ait Bougumez day trek as you set out to explore new horizons in the picturesque valley. Your adventure begins with a departure to visit the charming villages of Idkkalen and Agouti, each offering a unique glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
We immerse ourselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Tamzret gorges, where nature unfolds in a spectacular display. The walk through these superb gorges will leave us in awe, surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscapes that characterize this enchanting part of Morocco. Continue your exploration into the beautiful Arouss valley, a small yet stunning oasis that captivates with its natural allure.
A well-deserved picnic lunch break will be amidst the scenic surroundings. In the afternoon, our Ait Bougumez valley day trek homeward takes us through other captivating villages. The return track promises to unveil even more hidden gems, making it an amazing 5 to 6-hour walk filled with discoveries
Second Option: Day excursion to Ait Bouali valley to visit a Neolithic rock carving of Tizi n Tirghist and the dinosaur footprints of Ait Blal.
After breakfast, we set off driving towards Ait Boualli valley to visit Neolithic rock carvings of Tizi N Tirghist, dating from around 3500 to 4000 years. We then continue to visit the dinosaur footprints of Ait Blal, which were inhabited during the period from the Lower Jurassic to the Lower Cretaceous, spanning between 180 Ma and 80 Ma.
The three mentioned sites, including Ait Bougumez valley, are remarkable locations showcasing high ecological and archaeological significance within the MGOUN Geopark. This extensive project covers an impressive area of 5730 km² and earned the prestigious UNESCO label in 2014. The geopark stands as a testament to the rich diversity of both ecological and archaeological treasures, making it a captivating destination for those eager to explore the wonders of our natural and cultural heritage.
We head backing to Ait Boualli village to have lunch in a lodge. In the afternoon, we drive back to our guest house.
Our day Starts with an immersive visit to the Ibaklliwn Dinosaur site. Following this intriguing exploration, we set forth on an enchanting and uncharted trail that winds its way through the majestic Central High Atlas. Ascending to the lofty elevation of 2900m at the Ait Imi pass, the panoramic views unfold, revealing a mesmerizing tapestry of landscapes.
Descending into the idyllic Ouzighimt valley, we find ourselves surrounded by untamed beauty before ascending once again to the breathtaking height of 3100m, the highest road pass in Morocco. From this vantage point, the southern slope unfolds, offering sweeping vistas that stretch across the Valley of Roses and the Saghro mountain range.
Our road from Ait Bougumez valley to Dades valley continues as we descend to the Amejgag gorges and Boutaghrar village. Embarking on an exhilarating off-road adventure spanning 20km, we traverse lunar landscapes that lead us to the captivating Dades valley which is one of the highlights of southern Morocco, we delve into the valley until we reach its most spectacular section. Retracing our steps from the Dades valley, our route unfolds through a vast stony desert nestled between the Atlas and Saghro mountains.
As the day draws to a close, we find ourselves at the doorstep of the Todra valley, our final destination.
After breakfast, our day unfolds with the enchanting exploration of Todra’s gorges and picturesque palm groves, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey. Moving onward, our expedition propels us towards the majestic Saghro mountain, a captivating landmark on our 15-day top Morocco 4WD tour.
Embarking on this scenic adventure through Southern Morocco, each moment reveals the hidden treasures of the land—charming valleys, serene oases, resilient fortified villages, and lush palm groves that paint a vivid tapestry of the region’s beauty.
As we continue our odyssey, the path leads us towards the mesmerizing Draa Valley, an absolute highlight that beckons with its awe-inspiring landscapes. The road gracefully winds through the valley, unveiling its secrets and captivating views until we reach the captivating destination of Zagora, where our day gracefully concludes
After breakfast, our scenic journey through the enchanting Draa Valley unfolds, promising a day filled with cultural richness and natural wonders. Break to immerse in the artistry of Tamgrout ceramics, where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary elegance. Our next destination awaits at the historic Oulad Driss village. Here, a fascinating museum beckons, offering a captivating glimpse into the bygone eras that shaped this ancient settlement.
After the last village of Mhamid, our path transforms into an off-road adventure, spanning 60 kilometers towards the awe-inspiring Chegaga desert sand dunes. The anticipation builds as we approach our camp, nestled in the heart of these majestic dunes. The surreal landscape invites us to explore its unique charm, and what better way to do so than by ascending the dunes. Spend your time indulging in the captivating beauty of this extraordinary desert sanctuary, Allow the peaceful moment of the surroundings to captivate our senses as we wait for a breathtaking sunset over the dunes.
Awaken early to bask in the tranquil beauty of the sunrise, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings with a leisurely stroll. Following this peacfall interlude, a delectable breakfast awaits, setting the stage for a day of exploration in this unique land until midday. Our desert tour continues after lunch at the camp, navigating through the mesmerizing dunes towards the expansive Iriki dry lake, traversing 70 kilometers of desert track to reach the charming village of Foum-Zguid.
We set off on a scenic drive along the asphalt road, leading us to the village of Tissinte, renowned for its captivating canyons and waterfalls. Our adventure unfolds further as we explore the enchanting old and fortified village of Agadir Aserhgine, its beauty echoing through the ages. Crossing an unfinished stony desert and Oases, our path unfolds until we reach Aguinan Oasis as our chosen destination for the day.
Our day tour from Ait Benhaddou starts with the visit of Ksar Ait Benhaddou, we then guiding us through the winding roads of the Atlas Mountains towards Tichka pass 2660m. From here, we follow down to join Marrakesh. This Special 4WD Atlas and Desert Morocco tour concludes with a visit through the heart of Marrakech, where the tapestry of its vibrant culture awaits your exploration. The Marrakech half-day tour begin upon our arrival as you meet with a knowledgeable local Marrakesh city tour guide.
Marrakech half-day tour odyssey unveils the jewels of Marrakech, weaving through the storied corridors of Bahia Palace, the intricate beauty of Ben Youssef Coranic School, the bustling energy of a traditional handicraft market, the labyrinthine charm of Souk, the historical richness of Basha Museum, and the lively vibrancy of the iconic Jamaa Lafna main square.
As the day unfolds, allow yourself to delve deeper into the city’s essence. Indulge in a rejuvenating hammam experience, immersing your senses in relaxation. The afternoon beckons with the tantalizing allure of local street food, providing a culinary tour through the flavors of Marrakech. As the sun sets, surrender to the captivating rhythms of live entertainment, a finale that encapsulates the city’s spirit.
Private transfer to Marrakech airport. Optionally, with an additional fee, we can arrange a transfer to Casablanca airport for you, Feel free to contact us if you need assistance. Lunch and dinner are not included.
We’ve gathered a selection of commonly asked questions to provide you with further insight into this extraordinary tour.
All meals are included during this tour from Breakfast on Day 2 to breakfast on Day 15.
Mineral water will be provided throughout this tour in Morocco, except in hotels and cities.
Moroccan cuisine boasts worldwide acclaim for its diverse range of flavors, vibrant colors, and fresh ingredients. During this special Morocco tour all meals are included, Below are the main menus that we will taste during our tour.
Breakfast, tea, coffee, milk, chocolate… jams, honey, cheese… bread, sometimes Berber pancakes.
Lunches usually starts with a cup of mint tea, assorted salads, and a hot dish, fruits,… (Vegetables are washed, peeled).
Dinner, starts off with soup and bread. The main course is usually rice, pasta, couscous, spaghetti or chips, with a vegetable stew (or tagine) consisting of some of the following – onion, potato, carrot, green pepper, zucchini, turnip, parsnip, green beans, and peas. There will be some meat (usually chicken, lamb or beef), however meat is not prominent in the menu. All dishes come with traditional sauces which are rarely (spicy) hot. To round off dinner, there is the usual range of hot drinks and some fruits.
While we make efforts to accommodate vegetarians, the options may be limited at times. Unfortunately, we may not always be able to accommodate special dietary needs due to the nature of our trips and the area we visit. It can be challenging, and in some cases impossible, to cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. You may need to bring supplementary food or snacks from home if your dietary needs are specific. For inquiries about specific dietary requirements, please contact our sales team. Please understand that we cannot guarantee to fulfill all requests and cannot be held liable for any issues related to dietary restrictions or intolerances.
During this trip, the group will spend nights in a riad/hotel/guest house/lodge and one night in a standard camp in the desert of chegaga. While there are a range of high-end hotels in Fes and Marrakesh, we try to strike the right balance of a comfortable and conveniently located base while maintaining a really good value holiday.
If you are traveling by yourself, you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. Single hotel rooms and/or single rooms are available for a supplementary cost. If you are planning on extending your holiday, additional nights at the group hotel or in a range of different hotels and riads in Fes and Marrakesh are available on request.
The group will be led by a professional and qualified driver proficient in English or another language of your preference, depending on the confirmation date.
The highest altitude reached for an overnight stay during this special Morocco tour is in Imilchil at 2120 meters. However, the highest point crossed on this itinerary is 3050 meters.
Plan to hold around £200 per person (or its equivalent in US dollars or Euros) for tips, soft drinks, snacks, and other incidental expenses. Keep in mind that additional costs may arise for souvenirs, and optional activities, so it’s wise to budget for these separately.
While Moroccan Dirhams are not typically available for purchase outside the country, you can conveniently withdraw local currency from ATMs upon your arrival at the airport or in Fes. ATMs offer the option to withdraw funds in pounds sterling, dollars, or euros, which you can easily exchange at the airport. Carrying a credit card is advisable for emergencies and additional peace of mind.
Tipping is the customary way to express gratitude to your local guides and driver… It’s important to note that tips do not constitute a part of their wages; rather, they are viewed as a personal gesture of appreciation from group members. We advise our local teams that tips are not obligatory or expected but are rather a reflection of the service provided.
It is customary for the group to collectively decide on the final amount of tips to be distributed among the guide and driver and hotels team, as their responsibilities differ. We suggest that approximately from £55 per group member would be an appropriate amount to ensure fair compensation, which you can give directly to them.
For this best Morocco tour, you should bring one piece of luggage (maximum weight on arrival at the group hotel is dependent on your international flight restrictions) and a daypack (of around 30 – 40 litres).
Please note that there is a strict weight limit of 15-20kg maximum for bags to be allowed, and no fresh produce should be left in these bags.
Upon your arrival at the airport, you can purchase a local SIM card for 1/2 euro, or sometimes it’s free. Then, all you need to do is top it up with an internet option, and you’ll have a connection when needed. We recommend Maroc Telecom as the company, but please keep in mind that in some places, other companies might offer better service. It all depends on the reception in each area.
All our Tour proposals in Morocco are guaranteed for a minimum of two people. There is a required minimum number of participants to ensure the trip proceeds. Once this minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from ‘Available’ to ‘Guaranteed to run.
If you suffer from a severe allergy, kindly notify the Morocco Hike Tours Team (support) prior to your departure. While we will make every effort to assist you, please note that we cannot ensure an allergy-free environment during Your trip to Morocco. It is imperative that you carry your own allergy treatment, as ‘adrenaline auto-injectors’ are not provided as standard equipment by Morocco Hike Tours leaders and staff. Upon arrival, please inform your leader about your allergy and indicate the location where you store your adrenaline pen.
Vaccinations:&It’s advisable to reach out to your physician or travel clinic to verify if any particular vaccinations are necessary for your trip.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
Travelers hailing from the UK, US, and EU typically enjoy visa-free access to Morocco. However, it’s essential to bear in mind that visa regulations can undergo alterations. Ensuring compliance with visa prerequisites falls under your purview for this journey. Hence, we advise consulting the closest embassy or consulate pertaining to your designated destination(s), as well as any countries involved in transit or transfer.
Certain local authorities furnish information regarding the requisite visas for their nationals. To assist you further, we’ve compiled a set of helpful links below:
If you wish to have your clothes washed during this 4WD Morocco tour, it will be possible for an additional fee of 10 Dirhams per item (underwear not accepted) and 4/5 Dirhams per item for ironing.
Morocco’s monetary unit is known as the Moroccan Dirham. Below are some currency exchange rates, which can fluctuate daily:
– 1 Pound Sterling = 12.5 Dirham
– 1 Australian Dollar = 6.5 Dirham
– 1 Canadian Dollar = 7.4 Dirham
– 1 US Dollar = 10.00 Dirham
– 1 Euro = 10.6 Dirham.
During this Atlas and desert tour, the weather typically offers pleasant conditions with daytime temperatures ranging between 20 and 25°C, and nighttime temperatures dropping to 7 – 10°C. However, there are instances when nighttime temperatures may plummet to as low as 0°C, or even a few degrees below freezing. When traversing passes and high villages, temperatures are expected to hover around 10 to 15°C.
Morocco Hike Tours does not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We ensure that all our staff across Morocco work together to reduce this issue and educate those around them. During our imperial cities tours, desert and mountain treks, we are committed to collecting our rubbish and bringing it back to the big cities. Our footprints are the only thing we should leave behind.
To participate in a holiday organized by Morocco Hike Tours, it is imperative that you possess a valid travel insurance policy. This insurance should adequately cover the expenses related to medical treatment and safeguard the value of your holiday in case of cancellation. Prior to obtaining insurance, please verify that the chosen policy provides coverage for the activities and altitudes specified in your itinerary.
In the event that one participant leaves the group for any reason, the customer must assume responsibility for all the charges, and no reimbursement will be provided.
This mountain and desert tour operates from April to November, and is flexible to depart on any date of your preference within these months.
Please select the tour that piques your interest, then reach out to us via email to initiate a discussion regarding your preferred tour and to verify its availability. Once we have agreed upon the specifics of your tour, including its duration, route, and the number of participants, we will proceed to make a tentative reservation, providing you with the dates and associated costs.
To secure your booking, we kindly request a 20% deposit, which can be paid online through a bank transfer in Euros, pounds sterling, or US dollars. The remaining balance is settled upon arrival in Morocco, payable in cash using the same currencies—Euros, sterling, or dollars—at the outset of the tour.
Please note: Should you find it inconvenient to carry cash, you have the option to settle the balance online via bank transfer a few days prior to the departure date.
Our Cancellation Policy:
In areas with low tourist numbers (Berber villages in the desert such as in the Mountain), you are advised to avoid a short shorts, tank tops or loose shirts. The same avoiding transparent fabrics and tight-fitting outfits. A scarf on your hair is not essential. You can try to dress in local fashion, which seems better suited to the climate.
This packing guide aims to assist you in organizing your belongings efficiently. It’s advisable to aim for minimal weight when packing your equipment.
Please ensure you have the following items with you:
You have the choice to opt for the following items:
Rental Services:
You can rent/lease this via Morocco Hike Tours.
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