Moroccan Adventure: From Canyons to the Sahara

Planning a trip to the Moroccan desert? Discover the key attractions that make the route from Marrakech to Erg Chebbi unforgettable. Drive through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains, where breathtaking views signal the start of a true adventure. Don’t miss the ancient Ait Ben Haddou ksar – a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as a filming location for productions like “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones”.

Further east await spectacular gorges: Todra Gorge with its vertical 300-meter walls, perfect for photography and watching climbers, and Dades Gorge, known as the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” offering some of Morocco’s most beautiful landscapes. The journey culminates at the Erg Chebbi desert with majestic orange dunes reaching up to 150 meters in height. Here awaits a magical camel ride at sunset or sunrise – a moment that will stay with you forever. Remember: one hour of riding is completely sufficient to feel the magic of the Sahara, and the views are identical to those on longer expeditions.

Todra Gorge in Morocco
Spectacular Todra Gorge with vertical walls

Why is it better to go to the desert with a rental car? It gives you complete freedom to stop at the most beautiful places without time constraints. While organized tours often cut time short at key attractions in favor of visits to souvenir shops, you can spend as much time as you want admiring the breathtaking landscapes.

Ait Ben Haddou Morocco
Historic ksar Ait Ben Haddou – UNESCO World Heritage site

When is the best time to go? Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the ideal seasons for a desert expedition. Temperatures are pleasant then, and the views are at their most beautiful. Avoid summer when the heat can be dangerous, and winter when nights can be exceptionally cold.

Sunrise in Erg Chebbi Desert
Magical sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes

Camel ride – practical tips: Don’t be persuaded into multi-hour expeditions. One hour of riding at sunset or sunrise is completely enough to experience the magic of a Saharan adventure. Remember to bring water, a head covering, and sunscreen – even in cooler months the desert sun can be intense.

Camels in Morocco desert
Camel ride on the Erg Chebbi dunes

In summary: The route through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, Ait Ben Haddou ksar, Todra and Dades Gorges all the way to the Erg Chebbi desert is one of the most beautiful roads in Morocco. Renting a car gives you a unique chance to discover these places at your own pace, without the rush and compromises typical of organized tours.