Marrakech to Sahara Sands: Your Private Journey Through Southern Morocco - 12 Day Exclusive Adventure Itinerary for 2-6 Guests

Curated By
Anas Dalai
Curator’s statement
This Moroccan journey feels extra special to me because it combines the best of both worlds — luxury and authentic local experiences. From relaxing in a private riad at the Royal Mansour, Marrakech to discovering hidden gems with local artisans, every day is filled with unique adventures. Whether it's soaring over the Atlas Mountains in a hot air balloon, learning to cook traditional dishes or simply stargazing in the desert, there’s always something magical waiting around the corner. It’s the perfect way to truly connect with Morocco’s beauty, culture and warm-hearted people.
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Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech

Your Moroccan journey begins at the magnificent Royal Mansour Marrakech, where each guest has their own private three-story riad within this palatial property. Your mornings might start with breakfast on your rooftop terrace, overlooking the Atlas Mountains in the distance. Venture into the medina with your private guide to uncover hidden treasures: meet master artisans in their workshops, from leather workers in the dyers' souk to metalworkers crafting intricate lamps. Stop at a traditional bakery to learn how the neighborhood's bread is made daily and visit the foundouks - ancient merchant inns now housing artist cooperatives.
In the afternoon, explore the city's spiritual side at the Ben Youssef Madrasa, marvel at the intricate artistry of the Saadian Tombs or learn the art of Moroccan perfume-making in a private workshop. As sunset approaches, weave through the souks to emerge at Djemaa el-Fna, where storytellers, musicians and street food vendors create an unforgettable spectacle. Return to your riad for a hammam ritual at the Royal Mansour's spectacular spa. Followed by dinner at La Grande Table Marocaine, where traditional recipes are elevated to new heights.
Day 2: Marrakech

Start with an early morning hot air balloon ride over the Palmeraie, followed by a cooking class in a private garden where you'll learn to make traditional dishes like pastilla and tagine. In the afternoon, visit the Majorelle Gardens and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, followed by a private shopping experience with a guide. End your day with a sunset cocktail at a rooftop bar overlooking the Medina. After, you will enjoy a private dinner in a restored palace, accompanied by traditional Gnawa musicians.
Day 3: Azrarag Village

Welcome to your first private home on The Private Road. This beautiful three-bedroom house, exclusively yours during your stay, clings to a hillside above an Argan valley. With panoramic terraces and elegant living spaces, this white stone sanctuary becomes your personal retreat. Take a guided walk through the valley with your local host, discovering traditional agriculture and medicinal herbs. Experience the ancient art of Argan oil production at a women's cooperative, connecting with local traditions. Your day culminates in a magical candlelit dinner on your private terrace as the sun sets over the Argan groves.
Day 4: Guelmim Region

Your exclusive desert haven awaits in two beautifully designed Berber-inspired villas. Here, at the edge of the Sahara, you'll find a sophisticated blend of local craftsmanship and desert charm. Start your mornings with dawn walks in the desert, watching the landscape transform in the early light. Participate in traditional tea ceremonies and enjoy meaningful exchanges with local communities. As evening falls, recline on your private terrace for incredible stargazing or let the rhythms of traditional music transport you to another world.
Day 6: Foum El-Hisn Region

Step into your private desert kingdom, where three traditional Mauritanian tents encircle a majestic acacia tree. This exclusive camp, set up just for you, offers an authentic Saharan experience without compromising on comfort. Discover ancient cave paintings that tell 12,000-year-old stories, ride camels to the summit of towering dunes for sunset and embrace the nomadic spirit. Your evening unfolds around a crackling campfire with local musicians, under a canopy of stars that seems close enough to touch.
Day 7 & 8: Taroudant Region

Your private red stone residence in the Small Atlas Mountains offers breathtaking 180° mountain views. This three-bedroom haven becomes your exclusive mountain retreat, perfectly positioned to discover the unique matriarchal village nearby. Explore traditional irrigation systems, hike through spectacular red rock formations and connect with local families who share their daily traditions. Don't miss the optional visit to the historic Granary of Timliline — it's truly spectacular.
Day 9: Tiskmoudine

Step back in time in your private residence within this restored 14th-century village. Your candlelit accommodation, one of three refurbished traditional homes, offers an authentic glimpse into historical Moroccan living. Start your day making traditional bread, explore the beautifully restored mosque and unique granary and learn about the ingenious aqueduct system feeding the oasis. Meet the inspiring women leading local cooperatives who keep ancient crafts alive. As night falls, the absence of electricity creates a magical atmosphere lit only by candlelight.
Day 10 & 11: Dar Ahlam

Hidden within the Skoura palm grove, this restored Kasbah becomes your gateway to authentic southern Moroccan life. Here, every meal is served in a different surprise location. You might find breakfast laid out in a secret garden, lunch in an abandoned Kasbah or dinner under the stars in a candlelit grove.
Your days unfold like chapters in a story. Start with a sunrise walk through the palm grove with Ahmed, learning about the ancient khettara irrigation systems that have sustained this oasis for centuries. Visit Momo's organic garden, where you'll pick vegetables for your cooking lessons and learn about traditional agricultural practices. Meet Saïd and his birds in his palm grove sanctuary, where he shares stories of desert life passed down through generations.
For the more active, trek through the Atlas foothills to remote Berber villages, or explore the palm grove by mountain bike, stopping at ancient Kasbahs.
Day 12: Casablanca

Complete your Moroccan journey in the country's vibrant economic capital. Marvel at the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the world's largest, stroll through the Art Deco district and enjoy the ocean breeze along the Corniche. Your stay at Royal Mansour Casablanca provides the perfect finale to your Moroccan adventure.
Need to know
The private road experience - exclusively yours:
Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy:
Complete privacy at each property
Your personal butler and driver
Flexibility to shape each day as you wish
Genuine connections with local communities
Activities tailored to your interests
Private dining experiences in stunning settings
Meaningful cultural encounters
Comfortable travel in a private 4x4
You're not just traveling through Morocco — you're becoming part of its story, supporting sustainable tourism and contributing to the regeneration of these remarkable communities and landscapes. Every stay, every meal, every encounter is exclusively arranged for you and your companions. Ensuring an intimate and authentic experience of Morocco's hidden treasures.

Travel Advisor
Anas Dalai

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