Morocco´s most popular destination, “the Red City” is the ideal starting point to delve into the magic and mystery of this country´s fascinating culture. And beyond its bustling souks and historic palaces, there´s also the vast golden sea and endless landscapes of the great Sahara Desert which invite both adventure and relaxation – especially in the winter, when the daytime temperatures are quite comfortable (in January, for example, they peak at 19⁰ Celsius/66⁰ Fahrenheit, as opposed to the ovenlike summer climate). The experiences out here are as varied as they are unforgettable, and many local outfitters can take you on one or more adventures of a lifetime. including:
Camping Under the Stars
Away from the noise and the lights of the big city, spending a night amid the dunes under a starry firmament is a spectacular – and even emotional – experience The closest destinations Marrakesh include Agafay, Merzouga, and Zagora. And you can choose between “bare” camping – bringing your own tent and supplies – and signing up with a local outfitter which will take you out to a desert camp with more amenities (including a dining tent). Just remember:
Hitting the Sands on a Quad
Also known as ATV´s these hardy little vehicles presents a perfect combination of adrenaline and connection with nature, ideal for those looking for a totally exciting experience. In addition, quads are not only perfect for covering long distances in a short time, but also for discovering the most unexpected corners that show the most authentic beauty of the desert. You´ll generally be part of a group tour, and after a quick introduction on how to work the controls, you´re off, at top speeds typically up to around 80 kilometres per hour (50 miles per hour). And by the way, if you don´t have a driving license, no worries – they´re not necessary offroad out in the desert.
Sandboarding the Dunes
Who needs water to surf? Grab a board and slide down the dunes over and over again. Many people go sitting, but others manage to stand – either way, it´s tonnes of dusty fun to share with family and friends, and equipment can be rented at all the above destinations – and a number of the quad/ATV excursions mentioned above include sandboarding in their itineraries.
If you find yourself near the Sahara deserts, especially Zagora, and you’re up for a fun time with your friends or family, we recommend renting the equipment found near the camps. This experience is ideal to share in company. Imagine climbing to the top of a dune and then sliding down, either standing or sitting on the board! Incredible, right? Of course, if you dare to do it again, be prepared to climb again! And if you visit the desert and Marrakech during the winter, the pleasant temperatures will allow you to enjoy this adventure at any time of day. Although, in reality, any season of the year is perfect for sandboarding.
Climbing onto a Camel
If it’s your first trip to the Sahara, it´s an iconic experience, to plod through its golden hills of sand on the back of a camel – well, actually Morocco doesn´t have camels but rather dromedaries, which have one hump, not two. In any case, it’s a serene, unique experience that should be taken advantage of on any trip to Marrakech. It’s a one-hour ride that ends with a traditional tea break.
Learning About Berber Culture
The Berber people (also known as the Amazigh) are a fundamental part of Morocco’s cultural landscape, many still living traditional nomadic or semi-nomadic lives in the desert, move throughout the year, following seasonal cycles and preserving the practices of their ancestors. And during your visit to the Sahara, many local tour operators offer the opportunity to visit their small traditional communities and immerse yourself in their lifestyle, food, and art.
Hot Air Ballooning Over the Desert
For those looking for a truly special experience, it doesn´t get more special than floating above the dunes. First of all, for truly unforgettable memories we recommend that book a flight at sunrise or sunset. For the former, the perfect time is usually five in the morning, and most packages include pick-up in a 4×4 vehicle that will take you to the take-off point. For example, if you’re staying in the Medina, your meeting point would be the closest place that cars can access. At the end, outdoors and surrounded by the Atlas Mountains., you´ll be treated to a traditional Berber breakfast of sweet mint tea, freshly baked bread and local sweets such as msmemmen (a flatbread served with honey) and baghrir (small pancakes served with jam or a honey-butter mixture). (Just keep in mind that it’s essential that you pay attention to the safety rules that will be presented to you moments before take-off.)
Getting Wet at Lalla Takerkoust Lake
Just a half hour from Marrakesh and surrounded by hotels and restaurants, this beautiful lake is great for swimming, boating, and water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. A refreshing alternative to all that sand, for sure!
Admit it, you´re intrigued, right? So book a trip to Marrakesh with Iberia, taking care to set aside several days to spend in the great Sahara!