8 Day Morocco Discovery: A Horseback Adventure Tour From the Coast to the Desert

The journey begins inland, guiding you through lush valleys, open fields, and whispering Argan forests. You’ll ride winding mountain trails and pass through hidden Berber villages nestled among dramatic canyons, places where time moves slowly and the hospitality is heartfelt.

As the adventure unfolds, the rhythm of the ride changes. You’ll make your way back to the Atlantic coast, where endless beaches await. Here, the more experienced can feel the exhilaration of wild gallops, while all riders can enjoy peaceful moments by the sea.

More than a trek, this is a soulful immersion into Morocco’s untamed beauty and ancient traditions, a harmonious blend of riding, exploration, and unforgettable connection with the land and its people.

The Riding Schedule

Day 1: Arrival in Essaouira

Feel the ocean breeze as you arrive in the bohemian coastal town of Essaouira. A private transfer will escort you to a tranquil riad tucked away in the medina. Take time to unwind and soak in the charm of this artistic seaside haven. In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner featuring Moroccan flavors, the perfect way to begin your journey.

Day 2: Into the Wild – Horseback Trek Begins

Start your day with a delicious breakfast in your riad. This morning marks the beginning of your two-day horseback adventure. Ride through a patchwork of argan groves, mimosa trees, and rolling dunes.

Pause for a scenic picnic lunch en route. The air is rich with the scent of eucalyptus as you follow winding paths through wild landscapes and along endless shores.

By late afternoon, arrive at a peaceful villa with a pool, an oasis of calm where you can relax and stay close to the horses. End the day with a traditional Moroccan dinner.

Day 3: Beach Gallops and Return to Essaouira

Wake to the sounds of nature and enjoy breakfast at the villa. Continue your ride along wide, open beaches, the perfect setting for thrilling gallops. Capture these moments in photos and videos to remember the experience.

Stop for lunch at a rustic fishermen’s cabin or a scenic coastal spot. In the late afternoon, return to Essaouira. That evening, enjoy a festive dinner with music, immersed in the vibrant energy of the Medina. Overnight in your cozy riad.

Day 4: Argan Roads to Marrakech

After breakfast, journey inland with a stop at a local women’s argan cooperative, a chance to connect with local traditions and craftsmanship.

Upon arriving in Marrakech, explore the city’s historical wonders: perhaps the Saadian Tombs, the Bahia Palace, or El Badi Palace. Wander the souks, take in the colors and energy, and enjoy dinner together in a lively spot. Spend the night in a charming riad or a stylish Marrakech Airbnb.

Day 5: The Road to Aït Ben Haddou

Have breakfast and depart Marrakech, heading into Morocco’s dramatic southern landscapes.

(Trek Transfer: Marrakech to Aït Ben Haddou: 190 kilometers / approximately 4 hours)

Arrive at the ancient Ksar of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site where history and desert scenery meet. Explore the area on horseback. As the sun sets behind the clay walls, share a traditional dinner and stay overnight in a local guesthouse filled with Berber hospitality.

Day 6: Farewell and Group Journey Begins

Enjoy breakfast and a slow morning. At 13:00, meet up with your travel group and begin the next leg of the adventure. Visit the historic Kasbah of Taourirt in Ouarzazate, then travel through the beautiful Valley of the Roses. Follow the road of 1001 Kasbahs, with dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in the dramatic Dades Gorges.

Day 7: Dades Gorges - Todra Gorges - Merzouga

After breakfast, head to Tinghir and the spectacular Todra Gorges. Walk through the lush Todra Oasis, surrounded by towering canyon walls.

Continue your journey to Merzouga and take a sunset camel ride into the Sahara. Spend the night in traditional nomadic tents, with dinner under the stars and music by the campfire.

Day 8: Return to Marrakech

Begin the day with a sunrise camel ride across the dunes. After breakfast at a Merzouga hotel, set off for Marrakech.

(Transfer: Merzouga to Marrakech: approximately 9 hours)

Stop for lunch along the way with arrival in Marrakech expected around 20:30, just in time for a final evening stroll or a relaxed dinner in the medina.

Optional: Guests can choose to be dropped off in Fes instead of Marrakech (approximately 7.5 hours) - additional charges apply.

Trek Transfer Times:

• Essaouira to Ouirgane: 4.5 - 5 hours
• Ouirgane to Marrakech: 1.5 hours
• Marrakech to Aït Ben Haddou: 4 hours
• Merzouga to Marrakech: 9 hours
• Merzouga to Fes (optional return): 7.5 hours (extra cost)

Personalized gallop video includes

• Full gallery from the journey including:
• Argan forest rides
• Coastal gallops
• Mountain and desert scenery
• Berber village visits

Riding time:

• 2-8 hours per day

Please note that riders must be confident at walk, trot, canter, and gallop