Embark on a captivating 3-day journey that not only showcases the splendor of Morocco’s diverse landscapes but also delves deep into the heart of the Sahara for an immersive experience in the enchanting Merzouga desert. With two nights in the desert and a full day dedicated to desert adventures, this tour is designed for those who seek a deeper connection with the desert’s mystique.
Marrakech to Fes with a full day in Merzouga desert 3 days Morocco tour
The earliest morning time possible
The 4×4 excursion through the Merzouga desert offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the vastness of the surrounding landscape, exploring quaint villages, ancient fossil sites, and the homes of nomadic families. Embark on a journey around the Erg Chebbi dunes, with stops in the small communities of Hassi Labied, Merzouga, and Khamlia. In Hassi Labied, pause to admire a thriving garden that showcases the region’s traditional canal irrigation system. Near Merzouga, seize the chance to visit Dayet Srji Lake, a seasonal haven that draws pink flamingos and diverse wildlife, making it a perfect spot for bird watchers seeking tranquility.
As the journey continues towards Khamlia, anticipate encounters with locals and their desert foxes, a testament to the region’s rich biodiversity. Khamlia itself, a village with deep historical roots tied to descendants of Sudanese slaves, offers a warm welcome with a cup of tea and the mesmerizing rhythms of spiritual Gnawa music.
Gnawa music is a rich repertoire of ancient African Islamic spiritual religious songs and rhythms. Its well-preserved heritage combines ritual poetry with traditional music and dancing. The music is performed at ‘Lila’s’, entire communal nights of celebration, dedicated to prayer and healing, guided by the Gnawa Maalem and his group of musicians and dancers. Though many of the influences that formed this music can be traced to sub-Saharan West Africa, its traditional practice is concentrated in Morocco
The expedition includes a visit to a nomadic family’s Berber tent, where you’ll gain insight into their lifestyle, centered around caring for herds of cattle, goats, and camels. The adventure culminates in exploring areas marked by black volcanic rocks, adding a geological dimension to this rich cultural tapestry.
The summer sand baths of Merzouga In the heart of the Sahara desert, offer an age-old Berber remedy reputed to heal ailments affecting the joints, muscles, and tendons. This unique treatment is particularly sought after during the peak warmth of July and August. To prepare for the bath, a person-sized hole, approximately 20cm deep, is excavated in the sand. This pit is then left exposed for thirty minutes to absorb the intense desert heat.
Once the sand reaches an optimal temperature, the individual reclines in the hole and is gently covered with sand, leaving only the head exposed to the open air. The duration of this therapeutic sand immersion ranges from 10 to 30 minutes, throughout which water is readily available to keep the bather hydrated. This traditional method leverages the natural heat of the desert to offer relief and rejuvenation, embodying the profound connection between the Berber culture and their environment.
Merzouga stands as the premier destination for those eager to experience the thrill of quad and buggy driving across the sprawling desert landscape. This adventure is open to all, from novices to seasoned drivers, offering a unique chance to traverse the sands in an exhilarating way.
Your journey begins with an introduction to the equipment and a comprehensive briefing from a professional instructor, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the adventure ahead. Following a hands-on session on how to maneuver your quad or buggy, you’ll set off on an unforgettable trip into the heart of the desert dunes. This experience promises not just a rush of adrenaline but also a new way to explore the vast beauty of the Sahara.
While ice may be the traditional surface for skating, the Merzouga desert offers a tantalizing twist with sandboarding, a board sport that takes the adventure to the dunes. Imagine the thrill of gliding across or descending the towering dunes of Merzouga, with your feet securely attached to a board, embracing the warmth of the sand beneath you.
Our sandboarding activities are meticulously organized within the sweeping dunes of Merzouga or Mahamid, providing an unparalleled experience while you reside in our bivouac amidst the Sahara desert. Whether you’re a seasoned board sport enthusiast or looking to try something entirely new, sandboarding in Merzouga offers a unique blend of excitement and scenic beauty, promising an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the desert.
