Overview
From Marrakesh into the desert
Follow the ancient trade route of camel trains from the bustling souks of Marrakesh, through the Atlas Mountains and oasis kasbahs into the Saharan Desert on this romantic Moroccan adventure.
Begin with three nights in a luxury riad, discovering the Ochre City’s past and present on private tours to spice-scented markets, ornate palaces, hidden gardens and museums.
Then head south to Skoura before driving into the desert and a remote luxury camp surrounded by a shifting sea of dunes for an unforgettable night under the stars and a taster of the nomadic Berber life.
Highlights
Trip highlights
-
Fascinating private experiences to discover Marrakesh
-
A night under canvas in the Sahara
-
Exploring the oasis town of Skoura
-
An insight into traditional Berber culture and history
Inclusions
What's included
-
Six nights of luxury accommodation
-
Tours, experiences and activities
-
Private transfers
-
Price per person based on two people sharing
An unforgettable trip with a positive impact
-
Community & Culture
Properties and experiences that uplift and empower local communities.
-
Conservation
Supports wildlife projects, protected areas and ecosystem regeneration.
-
Footprint
Lodges and camps chosen for their sustainability credentials and initiatives.
Days 1 — 4
Magical Marrakesh
From the open-air theatre of the Jemaa El Fna Square to the legendary Majorelle Garden, Marrakesh’s alluring atmosphere has long attracted visitors. Staying in a grand oasis-like riad on the edge of the old Medina, join a private guide for a selection of fascinating private tours and experiences to really get a taste of the ‘Ochre City’ and a millennium of history.
You’ll be led through bustling markets and atmospheric souks, sampling spices, oils and delicacies, meeting local artisans, wandering palaces, mosques and secret gardens. Other highlights include the Yves Saint Laurent Museum and a cooking class at a local home, plus plenty of time to soak up the city at your own pace.
Days 4 — 5
Skoura's oasis
Today you’ll be driven south, through the Atlas Mountains with lunch in a Berber village en route to the magnificent Aït Benhaddou. This striking fortified settlement of earthen buildings dates back centuries and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From here, continue the rest of the way to Skoura, an oasis and stunning palm grove dotted with historic kasbah mansions and ksour villages, some crumbling romantically while others have been restored to their former glory. Like the caravan trains who followed this trail for hundreds of years, rest up in one such kasbah before the adventure continues in the morning.
Days 5 — 6
Saharan sands
Meet your private driver and hop aboard a 4x4 for the drive into the Sahara, watching as the palms and scattered villages into sand as far as eye can see. When the road ends, cross a sea of dunes to reach your remote camp to be greeted by a refreshing mint tea.
Get a feel of the nomadic lifestyle as you ride camels before gathering around the fire for a fabulous candlelit dinner while admiring the stars and hearing stories of the desert. Then settle into your tent for your night in the desert.
Days 6 — 7
Relax back in Skoura
Wake up when the sun rises and admire the changing colours of the desert. You’ll then be driven back north, stopping at small villages on the way to visit local cooperatives that produce the most beautiful Berber carpets and crafts.
Arriving back in Skoura for lunch, relax by the pool or head out to wander the local market, and admire the palm groves. On your final morning you’ll be driven to nearby Ouarzazate to catch your flight.
Start your adventure here
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
-
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
-
Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
-
Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
-
Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
