Who hasn’t dreamed of falling asleep under the stars and waking up in the company of camels? This is the story of a breathtaking journey to the heart of the Moroccan desert, between Zagora and Merzouga.
From Marrakech, it’s a long way to the desert. A full day’s drive is needed to reach Zagora and make sure you don’t miss the sunset. Fortunately, the road is beautiful and offers a breathtaking variety of landscapes. Between snow-capped mountains, red rocks, palm groves and oases, time flies.
Photo credit: Eléonore VERN
Along the way, young and old alike will be delighted to hold a chameleon and a baby iguana in their hands. Don’t miss the Berber village of Agdez and the Draa Valley with its procession of palm trees.
Photo credit: Eléonore VERN
At around 5pm, as the sun begins its descent, the 4×4s are replaced by camels. In around forty minutes, the gentle – and sometimes grumpy – animals with their swaying gait bring visitors to their destination in peaceful silence.
In luxurious tents, mint tea and royal couscous await guests. Musical entertainment follows: to the rhythm of Tam-tam and Berber folk songs, the starlit night is animated. Later, with only the stars to illuminate the camp, the total silence may surprise many accustomed to the lights and ambient noise of the city.
Photo credit: Pierre Néant
Atlas Studios in Ourzazate
On the way back, a stopover in Ouarzazate is a must. Nicknamed « the gateway to the desert », the town is home to the film studios that are the town’s trademark. As the setting for Game Of Thrones, visitors will be able to take a walk through the larger-than-life sets, like budding actors.
From Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves to Gladiator and Prince of Persia, Atlas Studios has contributed to many famous films, some of whose sets and costumes can be admired on a guided tour of the studio museum.
Photo credit: Eléonore VERN
Buddhist statues, Egyptian boats and fake Ferraris: all the elements are brought together to guarantee total immersion in the cinematic universe. Does this famous shot sound familiar?
Photo credit: Eléonore VERN
The year is 50 AD. All of Gaul is occupied by the Romans…All?…No! One village of die-hard Gauls is still holding out against the invaders.
What’s next?
Another little nugget not to be missed is the tiny fortified village ofAit-Ben-Haddou, in the Ounila valley. Listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site, this famous typical filming location offers a glimpse of traditional Morocco.
Photo credit: Eléonore VERN
Merzouga and its endless sand dunes
Sand as far as the eye can see. Immensity. A breathtaking spectacle. An experience that only those staying a week or more can afford. It takes 3 days and 2 nights to reach Merzouga, a small Saharan village 50 km from the Algerian border.
Photo credit: Pierre Néant
The silence on site is astonishing. Only the sounds of Berber music can disturb this ambient calm, guaranteeing a cure for tranquillity.
Main photo credit: Pierre Néant