Morocco’s breathtaking scenery and extensive geological past are explored during this 5 geological and cultural tour departing from Marrakesh. Discover fossil-rich locations, mineral quarries, and famous cultural sites as you travel through the High Atlas Mountains, Draa Valley, Anti-Atlas, Merzouga desert, and Toudra Gorges. Experience traditional Berber culture, desert life, and UNESCO World Heritage sites while learning about trilobites, ammonites, dinosaur bones, and unusual minerals.
Marrakesh (Google Map)
Depart from Marrakesh and cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, with opportunities for photography. Stop at a local salt mine before continuing through the Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest valley, known for its palm oases and desert landscapes. After lunch in Ouarzazate, arrive in Zagora for dinner and overnight stay.
From Zagora, travel into the Anti-Atlas Mountains to explore Cambrian and Ordovician fossil sites. Visit areas famous for large yellow trilobites, calymenes, and flexicalymenes. Learn about the geological history of the region while enjoying the striking desert landscapes.
Discover the legendary Isoumour trilobite site, home to Devonian trilobites and red ammonites. Continue to Mecessi and Jbel Mdawar to explore Devonian goniatites and other fossils. In the afternoon, drive to Merzouga and experience the Erg Chebbi sand dunes, spending the night under the stars in a desert camp.
Depart early from Merzouga to Ebagaa to examine dinosaur bones and shark teeth. Visit fossil quarries in Erfoud and the Botchrafine mountains, including crinoid sites. Continue through the Toudra Gorges to Boumalne Dades, enjoying the dramatic landscapes along the way. Overnight in Boumalne Dades.
After breakfast, drive through Berber villages and the Skoura Oasis before reaching Ouarzazate. Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a filming location for Gladiator, The Mummy, and Babel. Continue via Tizi n’Tichka Pass back to Marrakech, concluding your geological and cultural adventure.
