6 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Meditation and Yoga Retreat Morocco
THIS IS THE ITINERARY OF THE 6 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Meditation and Yoga Retreat Morocco:
DAY1: FROM MARRAKESH TO DADES VALLEY VAI AITBENHADOU
We begin in Marrakech, traveling over the High Atlas Mountains, which offer breathtaking views. Along the way, we’ll stop at a traditional Argan oil cooperative, where you can learn about how this famous oil is made.
We’ll continue to visit the famous UNESCO site of Ait Ben Haddou, a stunning ancient fortress used in many movies. After that, we’ll stop in Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Then we’ll pass through Skoura and the Rose Valley, famous for its flower farms, before spending the night in Dades Valley.
DAY2: DADES GORGE- TODRA GORGE-ERFOUD -SAHARA DESERT
After breakfast, we’ll explore Dades Gorge, known for its dramatic rock formations. We’ll then visit Todra Gorge, where the cliffs are over 300 meters high. Along the way, we’ll stop at a Berber village where you can try traditional clothes and henna tattoos.
We’ll continue our journey through the desert landscape, arriving at a Sahara Desert hotel in the evening, where you can rest and prepare for more adventures.
DAY3: YOGA PRACTICE IN MERZOUGA DESERT and 4×4 DESERT TOUR
Wake up to a refreshing yoga session in the calm of the desert. After breakfast, we’ll start a 4×4 adventure across the Sahara. We’ll visit nomadic families living in the desert, see the Mifis mines, and experience the unique sounds of Gnawa music in the village of Khamlia.
For lunch, you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber pizza. Later, we’ll visit Merzouga Lake, a peaceful spot in the desert, before returning to the hotel to relax. As the sun begins to set, we’ll take a camel ride into the deep desert, where you’ll spend the night under the stars in a desert camp.
DAY4: PRACTICE YOGA & EXPLORE THE CITY OF RISSANI & ARFOUD
After morning yoga and breakfast, we’ll travel to Rissani, a small town known for its traditional markets and delicious Madfouna bread (often called “Berber pizza”).
After exploring Rissani, we’ll visit the town of Erfoud, famous for its fossils. You’ll have time to learn about the fossil industry and even see how fossils are made into jewelry and other items. Afterward, we’ll return to your desert hotel for another peaceful night.
DAY 5 PRACTICE YOGA &DISCOVER THE VILLAGE OF HASSILABIED & TREKKING IN THE SAHARA AND SANDBOARDING & A SMALL PARTY
After breakfast, we’ll visit Hassilabied village and take a trek in the Sahara dunes. Later, we’ll return to the hotel for a fun Berber cooking lesson, where you’ll make your lunch.
After some rest, we’ll go for a camel ride into the dunes for your last sunset yoga session, followed by sandboarding. The day ends with a lively party and traditional music in the hotel near the desert dunes.
DAY 6: MERZOUGA – ALNIF – TAZARINE – AGDZ – MARRAKECH.
After breakfast, we’ll start our journey back to Marrakech. On the way, we’ll pass through the Draa Valley, known for its beautiful palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
We’ll also stop in Alnif, Nakob, and Ouarzazate, giving you one last look at the stunning Moroccan landscape. By the end of the day, we’ll reach Marrakech, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport.
Know Before You Go: Yoga Tour in Morocco
Yoga Sessions: We’ll do daily yoga in beautiful desert spots. Bring your own yoga mat, comfortable clothes, and anything else you like to use for yoga. The sessions are for all levels, so everyone can join.
Desert Weather: The desert can be hot during the day and cool at night. Bring clothes that you can layer, plus sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Relax and Meditate: This tour is all about relaxation, mindfulness, and yoga. Be ready to slow down, meditate, and enjoy the calm of the desert.
What to Pack: Besides yoga gear, bring comfortable clothes for walking, good shoes, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your toiletries and any medicine you need.
Respect the Culture: You’ll visit Berber villages where people have traditional customs. Dress modestly and be respectful to get the most out of your cultural experience.
Health and Comfort: Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Listen to your body during yoga and other activities. Take breaks if needed and make sure you have travel insurance.
Food: You’ll eat healthy Moroccan meals with lots of fresh vegetables and grains. If you have any food preferences or allergies, let us know in advance.
Unplug and Enjoy: There may be little or no Wi-Fi in the desert. This is a great chance to disconnect from technology and focus on yoga, meditation, and enjoying the beauty around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What level of yoga do I need to join this tour?
This tour is for everyone, from beginners to people who do yoga often. The yoga teacher will guide you through the poses and offer changes to fit your level, so you can enjoy the practice at your own pace.
2. Do I need to bring my own yoga mat?
Yes, it’s best to bring your own yoga mat for comfort. If you like using things like yoga blocks or straps, feel free to bring those too.
3. What should I wear for yoga?
Wear loose, comfortable clothes that let you move easily. Since the desert can be hot during the day and cool at night, it’s a good idea to bring layers, like a light jacket or sweater.
4. How is the weather in the desert?
The desert can be very hot in the day and chilly at night. Bring clothes that you can layer and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
5. Are meals included? What kind of food is served?
Yes, all meals are included. You’ll enjoy traditional Moroccan food like tagine, couscous, and fresh salads. If you have any food allergies or special diet needs, let us know in advance.
6. Will there be Wi-Fi in the desert?
Wi-Fi might not be available in the desert. This tour is a chance to disconnect from the outside world and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. If you need to stay connected, tell your friends and family before the trip.
7. What other activities are included in the tour?
Along with yoga, you’ll do activities like desert trekking, camel riding, visiting Berber villages, and even a cooking class where you’ll learn to make traditional Moroccan food.
8. What are the accommodations like?
You’ll stay in comfortable desert hotels and camps. One night, you’ll sleep under the stars in a luxury desert camp, which is a highlight of the tour.
9. Is this tour physically difficult?
The tour includes gentle yoga, trekking, and camel rides. It’s not too hard, but having some basic fitness will help you enjoy it more. Yoga is meant to be relaxing, and we can change the activities to fit your needs.
10. What should I pack?
Pack comfortable clothes for yoga and walking, a warm jacket for cool nights, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Don’t forget any personal items like toiletries and medicine.
11. Can I join the tour if I’m traveling alone?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome! This is a great chance to meet new people and share experiences, while also having some quiet time for yourself.
12. What language is spoken during the tour?
The tour guide and yoga instructor speak English. You’ll also have a chance to learn some basic Arabic or Berber words during the trip.
13. Is there anything special I should know about local customs?
Morocco has a rich culture, and when we visit Berber villages, it’s good to dress modestly and be respectful. Your guide will explain more about the local customs to help you feel comfortable.
14. What is the cancellation policy?
It’s important to check the cancellation policy before booking. Usually, there are different refund options depending on how close it is to the tour date. We recommend getting travel insurance in case plans change.
15. Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we recommend travel insurance for this tour. It should cover any unexpected changes, medical issues, and activities like camel riding and trekking. Make sure your insurance includes everything you need.
16. Is this tour suitable for beginners in yoga?
While the tour is open to beginners, some may find the yoga sessions challenging if they are not familiar with the basics. It’s recommended to have a bit of yoga experience to fully enjoy the sessions, but adjustments can be made.
17. Can I go on this tour if I’m pregnant?
It depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy and how comfortable you feel with the activities. The tour has yoga, walking in the desert, and camel riding, which may not be easy for pregnant women. It’s best to ask your doctor before deciding.
18. What should I think about before booking this tour?
If you’re pregnant, consider the heat, physical activities, and distance from medical help. Talk to your doctor and think about how comfortable you will feel with the activities. The tour can be adjusted a little, but it might still be too challenging, especially in later pregnancy.
Your health and safety are most important. Always talk to your doctor before deciding if this tour is right for you. Let me know if you have any other questions or need more information!
19. Are there medical facilities nearby?
There are not many medical services in the desert, and they can be far away. If you need medical help, it might take time to reach a doctor or hospital. It’s important to have a plan in case of an emergency.
20. Can I ride a camel if I’m pregnant?
Camel riding isn’t recommended for pregnant women, especially later in pregnancy. The ride can be tough and might not be safe or comfortable. It’s best to skip this activity to stay safe.
details:
- pick up and drop-off at your hotel/riad
- our A/C modern 4x4 or van/minivan.
- drivers/guides speaking English....
- clean vehicle A/C with air condition along the way
- visit some interesting place along the way
- fuel
- 4 nights at hotel/riad with "dinner&breakfast"
- sunset camel ride in sahara desert erg chebbi
- overnight at private luxury tent on sahara desert erg chebbi camp
- lunches, drinks
- entrance the monuments
- personal expenses
- local guids in any