Day 1 – Arrival in Ouarzazate
Today you will travel to Ouarzazate. If you’re coming from Marrakech it’s a scenic journey of just over four hours over the High Atlas Mountains.
Ouarzazate, a.k.a the Hollywood of Morocco, is home to Atlas Studios which is (surprisingly) one of the biggest film studios in the world! Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator and Game of Thrones have been filmed here (amongst others). You may want to drive the short distance to the studios for a visit as it’s open to the public. You’ll stay in a cosy, traditional riad set in gardens on the edge of town.
Day 2 – Mountain biking
This morning is all about getting active. After breakfast, you’ll drive just outside the centre of Ouarzazate to the start of your cycling tour, where you’ll meet your guide and get set up with a mountain bike and helmet. It’s a scenic pedal over small bridges and alongside rivers towards the Fint Oasis. After around 1.5 hours of cycling, the desert landscape gives way to a lush valley of palm trees and flowing water, tucked between rocky hills. Once you arrive, there’s time to explore the oasis on foot and cool off in one of the streams that run through the valley, so it’s worth bringing a small backpack with a towel or spare clothes. Enjoy a glass of Moroccan tea before cycling back to Ouarzazate.
The bike tour is suitable for children aged 12years+. If your children are younger we will remove the bike tour and you have the day to relax. Or you could visit the nearby Kasbah of Taourirt – one of Morocco’s best-preserved kasbahs. Once home to the powerful Glaoui family, it’s a maze of mud towers, narrow passageways and decorative rooms.
Day 3 – Departure from Ouarzazate
It’s time to continue your journey. From Ouarzazate, you could head to Zagora for a desert adventure. Or drive the short distance to the ancient walled city of Ait Benhaddou. Or you may be returning to Marrakech.
Accommodation
