Getting there
The trip is an unforgettable experience
The trip from Marrakech to the desert is an adventure in itself. The scenery is hugely diverse and there is much to see. To many, it’s a wonderful surprise.
The drive to the camp includes outstanding mountain scenery, palm-filled valleys dotted with numerous kasbahs, Berber villages clinging to mountainsides, and eventually the gradual entrance into the desert.
Whilst the trip is quite long, provided one departs from Marrakech reasonably early, it is thoroughly enjoyable. There is plenty of time to stop, take pictures, have coffee, take lunch and do a bit of sightseeing. And to make a really relaxing journey the trip can be split over two days and overnight in one of two charming maison d’hôtes we recommend.
The route to and from Marrakech is circular. One way is via Ouarzazate, the Drâa Valley and M’Hamid and takes 9 hours. The other way via Foum Zguid is more direct, but still dramatic, and takes 8 hours.
Our drivers stop where you want. Whilst they will recommend places, stopping points depend on your interests and preferences (be it photography, dining, Berber villages, kasbahs, pottery, film locations and film studios).
Alternatively it is possible to charter a light aircraft or helicopter from Marrakech to the desert. Guide price is 3800 euro for the aircraft and 5500 euro for the helicopter (see light aircraft section).
Also, one can fly from Casablanca to Ouarzazate with Royal Air Maroc which reduces the trip by 4 hours.
