DAY 1: MARRAKECH – HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS – AIT BEN HADDOU

Depart Marrakech around 07:30 AM. Travel through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka pass (2260 m), passing traditional Berber villages. Stop for photos and enjoy Moroccan tea or coffee. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah with a guided tour. Lunch break in the area. Overnight in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s “Hollywood of Africa,” and optional visit to local studios.

DAY 2: OUARZAZATE – DRAA VALLEY – ZAGORA

Drive through the Northeastern Anti-Atlas Mountains toward Agdez. Stop briefly in the oasis town for photos. Continue through the lush Draa Valley, known for its palm trees and fortified Kasbahs. In the late afternoon, ride camels into the Zagora desert for sunset, followed by a traditional Berber camp dinner and drum show under the stars.

DAY 3: ZAGORA – MERZOUGA

Early sunrise in the desert. Depart Zagora toward Merzouga, crossing villages and desert landscapes. Optional stops at local markets and Kasbahs along the way. Arrive in Merzouga for a second desert night, including camel trekking and sandboarding on the dunes. Overnight at a desert camp with dinner.

DAY 4: MERZOUGA – TODRA GORGE – DADES VALLEY

Morning desert sunrise and camel ride back. Depart Merzouga to explore Todra Gorge, famous for its dramatic cliffs and rock climbing. Continue to Dades Valley, known for its scenic “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and traditional Berber villages. Overnight in Dades Valley.

DAY 5: DADES VALLEY – OUARZAZATE

Drive through the stunning landscapes of the Valley of Roses, stopping in local villages and markets. Visit Skoura Oasis and its kasbahs, then return to Ouarzazate for overnight stay. Optional visit to Taourirt Kasbah or Atlas Film Studios.

DAY 6: OUARZAZATE – AIT BEN HADDOU – MARRAKECH

Morning departure back toward Marrakech. Stop again at Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah for photos or deeper exploration. Cross the High Atlas Mountains and Tizi n’Tichka pass. Arrive in Marrakech late afternoon. Overnight in Marrakech.

DAY 7: MARRAKECH CITY TOUR

Guided tour of Marrakech: Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the bustling souks. Experience Moroccan culture, street performers, and local food. Evening free to explore or relax at your accommodation.

DAY 8: ESSAOUIRA DAY TRIP (Optional)

Full-day excursion to the coastal city of Essaouira, famous for its fishing port, fortified medina, and beaches. Enjoy fresh seafood, local art, and relaxed vibes. Return to Marrakech in the evening.

DAY 9: DEPARTURE

Relaxed morning in Marrakech. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Transfer to the airport for departure.

This 9-day itinerary keeps all desert highlights and cultural experiences from your original 2-day trip, while expanding to cover more Moroccan landscapes, cities, and historical sites.