Photograph Marrakech and star trails in the Sahara
Morocco is an Unforgettable experience: a unique blend of history, culture and incredible desert and mountainous landscapes. You will experience the crowded, bustling souks of Marrakech and complete solitude in the dunes of the Sahara Desert.
We will be returning to the fantastic cities of Marrakech and Essaouira, as well as photographing star trails above the ancient Ksar of Ait Benhaddhou and exploring the little known walled city of Taroudant – recently hailed by CNN as 'little Marrakech' as it is like visiting its larger neighbour before the advent of tourism.
We will be visiting a couple of new desert areas that Intrepid Travel have recently 'discovered', at Agafay and Erg Chegaga, along with the historic town of Tamegroute and the atmospheric village of Tafraoute on a little visited sweep through Southern Morocco. The result will be a trip that takes in some of the most iconic places in Marrakech, but also takes you well off the beaten track into little known historic towns and villages.
This exceptional itinerary sees us undertake a cultural loop through the very best that Morocco has to offer the keen photographer, and will include extensive photography support from professional travel photographer, Steve Davey, countless photo opportunities and the company of fellow photography enthusiasts.
We start our trip in the incredible city of Marrakech, which is steeped in history and culture. Walking around the endless souks, and narrow alleyways of the old Medina truly is like stepping back in time, and spilling out into the Djemaa el-Fna Square is like walking onto a film set.
Although somewhat touristy during the day, it still has a great atmosphere. Drummers and dancers entertain the crowds, snake charmers compete for your attention and henna painters, traditional medicine stalls and even old school dentists view for your business. It is an intense assault on the senses, and if it all becomes too much, you can simply head to the edge of the square for a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or sit on one of the terraces overlooking the square for a relaxing glass of local tea.
At the start of the trip, we don't spend long in Marrakech: we will explore further on our return. After a brief exploration, we quickly drive the short distance to the stunning desert scenery of Agafay, where we will have our first chance to shoot star trails.
From Agafay we head on a scenic drive over a high pass to reach the iconic ruined ksar of Ait Benhaddou, which has appeared in countless films and series, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Ait Benhaddou is perfectly placed for astro photography, lying just underneath the North Star, allowing for a perfect circle of star trails, and weather permitting we will have a workshop to achieve this incredible image.
Another atmospheric drive takes us to the town of Tamegroute, which is home to an ancient library, before we drive in 4WDs out to an atmospheric series of dunes in the Sahara Desert, at Erg Chegaga.
After a night in a comfortable desert camp amidst soaring dunes we embark on a loop through Southern Morocco en route to the traditional and largely unspolit town of Taroudant – known as Little Marrakech, for its resemblance to its more well-known neighbour.
On the way we will visit the little-visited villages of Tata and Tafraoute. Along the way we will photograph a salty waterfall and a historic collective granary. We will even have the chance for a hike through a number of Amazigh villages – another name for the Berber people.
From Taroudant we head to the coast and the fortified port town of Essaouira. As we drive, we will look out for things to photograph, such as local goat herders, who encourage their flocks to climb Argan trees to eat their nutritious fruits.
Essaouira is a charming walled coastal town, which featured as Astapor in Game of Thrones. We will explore the network of alleys and fortifications, as well as photographing the traditional blue fishing boasts in the harbour, and sampling fresh seafood.
A short drive takes us back to Marrakech, where we will have time to explore the souks, and the ancient medina, as well as Yves Saint Laurant's Majorelle Garden, before this exciting expedition finishes.
Why I think this tour is unmissable
I love Morocco - not least as it is one of the most atmospheric and eclectic places that you can fly to in under four hours from the UK - and even on a budget airline if you choose. It keeps drawing me back, and walking across the Djemaa el-Fna square at night, to the reverberating sound of drums and with the smoke from foodstalls hanging overhead is a top travel experience.
I also love wandering through the Medina of Marrakech, and especially through the many miles of covered souks. Some of these will sell goods for tourists, but there are also areas for locals and even for selling spices and other remedies. I will be able to show you some of the most traditional and also photogenic spots.
One of the most relaxing places in Marrakech are the Jardins Marjorelle, the former gardens of Yves St. Laurant. These have been expertly designed, and many of the angles that work so well for landscape gardeners also provide wonderful angles for photography. We will aim to get to these gardens early to avoid the crowds and I will be on hand to point out some of the most effective angles.
This trip is about far more than Marrakech though, and we will be heading to some of my favourite places in this fascinating country, and to some unique locations that will give you an incredible insight into the true culture of Morocco.
We will be visiting the desert areas of Agafay and also the dunes at Erg Chegaga - a less visited region of the Sahara Desert. Both of these area will offer stunning landscapes and also the perfect chance to experiment with astro photography. I will be able to show you how to photograph both star trails and shots of the Milky Way.
My favourite location for night photography is the truly captivating ancient fortified ksar of Ait Benhaddhou. The backdrop to countless movies, it lies under the North Star allowing for the creation of a circle of stars above this atmospheric site.
More off the beaten track, we will be able to see the Quranic library and ancient covered kasbah of Tamegroute, and ancestral villages and collective granary of the Amazigh (Berber) people as we travel through a more traditional area. This region will also offer us salty waterfalls, and even an art installation.
The walled city of Taroudant has recently been described as Little Marrakech, by CNN, reflecting the fact that it resembles its larger neighbour before the advent of mass tourism. It's main square is lively and a great place to wander and photograph.
Our final destination before we return to Marrakech is the walled part of Essaouira. The colour scheme here is decidedly blue: blue traditional fishing boats in the harbour, blue skies above the city walls, blue seas washing up against the ramparts and blue doors and shutters - most often with a sleeping cat in front of them.
Morocco is not the easiest place to take photographs of people, but it has got easier over the years as more people have smartphones and are getting into taking pictures themselves. I will be able to give you a number of tips as well as creating situations to help you to be able to take some truly expressive and engaged portraits.
What characterises my approach to travel and photography is a drive to experience as much as possible and to engage with people that we meet with empathy and humour. I will encourage you to do the same – and to photograph your own photographic vision of Morocco – rather than pushing you into endless canned photo-opportunities. The aim is for you will develop your own photographic style and will learn to approach subjects for yourself – vital for your future travels.
If this isn't enough, I know of a few atmospheric watering holes in both Marrakech and Essaouira where we can enjoy a drink at the end of a productive day. For me these tours are about more than just taking pictures: I realise that they must be a holiday as well, and go out of my way to make sure that you have an enjoyable time.
You will be able to immerse yourself into the culture of Morocco and learn a considerable amount about its traditions and history, sample some of the fantastic food and also enjoy a lot of laughs in the company of like-minded people; whilst coming home with more great pictures than you ever thought possible.
I hope that you decide to join me on this unique photographic journey.
Steve Davey
Photography opportunities
There are a number of incredible things that you will be able to experience and photograph on this trip. We have created the itinerary to give you as many real, and organic things to photograph as we can fit into our time away. We are also able to include pretty much anything that you find interesting as we pass. This might be ruined kasbahs, people working in a field or even goats feasting in Argan trees.
Some of the photographic opportunities you will enjoy on this trip include:
- Djemaa el-Fna Square, Marrakech - Bustling central square
- Entertainers, Marrakech - Dancers and acrobats
- Water sellers, Marrakech - Portraits of traditional costumed traders
- Snake charmers, Marrakech - Snake charmers with Egyptian Cobras
- Marrakech medina - Covered souks in the old town
- Place des Épices, Marrakech - Square selling traditional medicines
- Tannery, Marrakech - Traditional leatherworks
- Souk Sebbaghine, Marrakech - Colourful Dyers' Souk in the Medina
- Mellah Spice Market, Marrakech - Souk selling spices
- Bahia Palace, Marrakech - 19th Century decorated courtyards
- Narrow alleys, Marrakech - Picturesque alleys leading through Medina
- Agafay Desert - Bizarre rocky rolling desert scenery
- Star Trails, Agafay Desert - First chance for astro photography
- Ait Benhaddhou - Ancient kasbahs (fortified clay homes)
- Star Trails, Ait Benhaddhou - Night photography over ancient ksar
- Tamegroute - Decorated exterior of Quranic library
- Tamegroute - Ancient covered kasbah
- Zagora - traditional homes and remains of fortress
- Sand dunes, Erg Chegaga - Dunes of the Sahara Desert
- Astro photography, Erg Chegaga - Photographing stars in the desert
- Tissant - Photographing salt waterfall
- Tata - Traditional town and date palm groves
- Tleta Tagmoute - Amazigh village and collective granary
- Tafraoute - Traditional village and souk
- Tafraoute - Pierres Bleues Boulders (Painted Rocks)
- Ameln Valley, Tafraoute - Palm groves and scenery
- Ameln Valley, Tafraoute - Traditional Amazigh house
- Taroudant - Traditional souks and carpet shops
- Taroudant - Lively main square
- Taroudant - Old city walls
- 'Flying Goats' - Goats feeding in Argan trees
- Traditional Harbour, Essaouira - Traditional blue fishing boats
- Portraits of Fishermen, Essaouira - Traditional blue fishing boats
- Fish market, Essaouira - Unloading the catch amidst seagulls
- Round Window, Essaouira - Classic shot of porthole in city walls
- Ramparts, Essaouira - Walls and canons overlooking the sea
- Medina, Essaouira - Jewish Mellah, alleyways, blue doors and cats!
- Jardins Marjorelle, Marrakech - Peaceful gardens of Yves St Laurant
- Ben Youssef Madrasa, Marrakech - Exquisite Islamic decoration
- Nesting Storks, Marrakech - On rooftops near the El Badi Palace
- Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech - Night photography overlooking the square
- Foodstalls, Djemaa el-Fna - Goats heads and other delicacies
Morocco Photo Tour - Full Itinerary
The full itinerary of our unique travel photography tour to Morocco, and the entrancing towns of Marrakech and Essaouira and the ruined Ksar of Ait Benhaddou, with land arrangements and comprehensive travel industry ATOL protection by Intrepid Travel; led by professional photographer, Steve Davey.
Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Marrakech - a fantastic city which is evocative of the North Africa of your wildest dreams. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, visit Djemaa el-Fna Square, a lively hub of performers and food stalls in the centre of the medina – the traditional old town.
After the meeting, we will head out for dinner and savour traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagine and couscous at a local restaurant - a perfect introduction to the country's rich culinary heritage.
Arrival transfer:
Included on Group flight basis only
Accommodation: Riad Almisk or similar
Meals included: Welcome dinner
After breakfast today, meet with a local guide who will bring the magic of Marrakech to life as we set off on a morning tour of the old medina, through the bustling souks that are the lifeblood of the city. We will explore tranquil courtyards filled with the scent of orange blossom and the many salons and chambers that make up Bahia Palace. We will stop by the Koutoubia Mosque: the inside is for Muslims only, but the famous minaret is a sight to behold. Walking back through the streets of the old medina to Djemaa el-Fna, we will stop off to taste some of the marvellous freshly squeezed orange juice from a local stall; which is sure to be one of the most delicious glasses of orange juice you’ve ever tasted!
Afterwards, we drive to the beautiful rocky desert of Agafay. After we arrive and check in, take some time to enjoy the beauty of the camp and the surrounding landscapes. The vast desert is perfect for exploring and provides a peaceful getaway from the busy city life. As night falls, we will enjoy a delicious dinner under the starry sky, savouring the flavours of traditional Moroccan cuisine.
This will be our first chance to explore shooting the thousands of stars that will be visible in the night skies. Then, settle into your comfortable accommodation for a peaceful night's sleep, surrounded by the calm atmosphere of the desert.
Included activities:
• Marrakech - Medina walking tour
• Marrakech - Palais Bahia
• Marrakech - Fresh orange juice tasting
Accommodation: Yes We Camp (Lodge) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Today, we journey from the serene Agafay Desert to the historic UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou. This is a ancient ksar, or fortified village which is built on a steep hillside, made up of individual kasbahs, or fortified homes. You may well recognise the town: it has a long list of film and TV credits, including Game of Thrones and Gladiator. Join our leader for walk through the ksar, exploring its fascinating earthen clay architecture and rich history.
After the walk, enjoy tea at Tawesna Association, a community-run establishment that provides local women with an income to support themselves and their children. Spend the night in Ait Benhaddou, enjoying the serene atmosphere and preparing for the next day's adventures.
Ait Benhaddhou is the perfect location for shooting star trails, as the North Star lies directly above the old town so that the trails form a perfect circle in the sky. Depending on the weather we can have another star trails session to capture this most unique location.
Special information:
Our travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours
Included activities:
• Ait Benhaddou – Leader-led Ksar walk
• Ait Benhaddou – Tea at Tawesna Association
Accommodation: La Baraka Auberge (standard room) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
We start our day with a scenic drive from Ouarzazate to the enchanting town of Zagora, where we’ll see the original route of the caravans. Then, travel along the rugged and desolate Jbel Tadrart ranges through seas of sand and past the occasional desert oasis of date palms to the township of Tamegroute. Here, we will visit a library filled with ancient scripts of science, literature and stories of the prophet Mohammed.
I have always wanted to stop in Tamegroute to see some of its treasures, but we have always been passing through on the massive drive to the dunes at Erfoud and have never had the time. On this trip we are heading for closer and less touristy dunes, and have the time to break our journey here.
After exploring the library we will join a local guide to uncover the underground Kasbah. After a day filled with discovery, we'll arrive in Zagora, where we'll settle in for an overnight stay, enjoying the tranquil desert atmosphere and preparing for the adventures that await us tomorrow.
Special information:
Our travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours
Included activities:
• Tamegroute – Ancient Library
• Tamegroute – Underground kasbah guided tour
Accommodation: Kasbah Sirocco (standard room) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Embark on an exciting journey to the majestic Erg Chegaga dunes. Start our day with a drive through the stunning landscapes, heading deeper into the Sahara Desert. Upon reaching the edge of the dunes, switch to a 4WDs vehicle for an exhilarating off-road adventure to our desert camp. As we traverse the vast, golden sands, take in the breathtaking views and the serene beauty of the desert. Arrive at our luxurious desert camp, where we will be welcomed with traditional Moroccan hospitality.
In the afternoon enjoy a peaceful camel ride across the dunes, soaking in the golden light as the sun dips below the horizon a truly unforgettable experience.
In the evening enjoy a delicious dinner and the unique ambiance of the desert. End our day with a magical evening under the starry desert sky, and our final opportunity on this trip to photograph star trails.
Special information:
Our travel time today will be approximately 5 hours, including 2.5 hours in the 4WDs.
Included activities:
• Erg Chegaga – 4WDs access to the camp
• Erg Chegaga – Sunset camel ride.
• Erg Chegaga – Dinner at the Camp
Accommodation: Le Sand Chegaga chez pacha (standard tent) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
If you’re an early bird, then we can head to the top of the nearest dune this morning and watch the sunrise over the Sahara Desert. After breakfast, we will hop back into the 4WDs and drive out of the desert, switching to our private vehicle on the way to Tata.
On the way, stop at the waterfall of Attiq in Tissint for a refreshing change of scenery. These waterfalls are all saltwater and the translation of Tissint in the local language is ‘salt’. When we arrive in Tata mid-afternoon, we’ll have a free evening to relax.
Special information:
Our travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours including 4WDs
Included activities:
• Erg Chegaga – 4WDs from camp to Foum Zguid
• Tata - Leader-led orientation walk.
• Tissint – Waterfall of Attiq
Accommodation: Hotel Le Relais Des Sables (standard room) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & dinner
Begin our day with a scenic drive to Tleta Tagmoute, a charming village known for its oasis granaries, date palm groves, and flourishing fruit trees. This area showcases a distinctive way of life, shaped by its traditional irrigation systems and deep-rooted agricultural practices. We'll visit an ancient collective granary still actively used, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s enduring traditions.
After our visit, continue onward to Tafraoute, arriving in the afternoon. Nestled beneath the dramatic peaks of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, this laid-back village may be popular among campervan travellers today, but it has preserved its authenticity and remains a perfect gateway for exploring the surrounding landscapes. We will have two nights here, which will be a welcome break after a number of long travel days.
Once settled in, take a stroll through the village and browse the local souqs, where you can see artisans crafting traditional babouche slippers a colourful highlight of local craftsmanship.
Special information: Our travel time today will be approximately 5 hours
Included activities:
• Tleta Tagmoute – Amazigh village and collective granary visit
• Tafraoute – village walk and souk visit
Accommodation: Auberge Kasbah Chez Amaliya (standard room) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
We will start our day with a scenic hike through the breathtaking Ameln Valley, where we will pass through a series of Amazigh villages, both historic and modern. As you walk, take in the natural beauty of the valley a peaceful blend of palm groves, almond trees in bloom, and green fields of alfalfa, a crop traditionally used by locals to feed their animals.
Along the way, enjoy a unique opportunity to step inside a traditional Amazigh home. Carefully maintained by our host, this house offers a rare glimpse into a lifestyle that’s rapidly changing. Over a warm cup of freshly brewed mint tea, we will hear first hand stories of our host’s upbringing in the valley and discover how a typical Amazigh household once functioned.
The terrain can be rocky, so be sure to wear sturdy footwear. Midday, pause for a relaxed lunch surrounded by panoramic views of the valley's dramatic scenery.
In the afternoon, visit one of the region’s most talked-about landmarks, the Pierres Bleues (Painted Rocks). Created in 1984 by Belgian artist Jean Verame, these vividly coloured boulders continue to spark conversation and curiosity. Are they bold art or an intrusion on nature? That’s for you to decide.
Special information: Our travel time today will be approximately 3 hours
Included activities:
• Tafraoute – Ameln Valley hike
• Tafraoute – Tea and picnic lunch
• Tafraoute – Traditional Amazigh House visit
• Tafraoute – Pierres Bleues Boulders (Painted Rocks)
Accommodation: Auberge Kasbah Chez Amaliya (standard room) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, Embark on a captivating journey from the picturesque town of Tafraoute to the historic city of Taroudant, which is often called 'little Marrakech' for the striking resemblance and because it was a temporary capital during Saadian period before Marrakech. With ochre-coloured houses, high ramparts with defensive walls inside of which much of the town is hidden.
In the afternoon, head out on a walking tour with your tour leader explore the ancient medina. We will wander through its bustling souks, where artisans craft leather goods and intricate jewellery, and admire the impressive city walls that once protected the town. As we explore, we can immerse ourselves in the rich Berber heritage and listen to stories of Taroudant’s past.
Special information:
Our travel time today will be approximately 5 hours
Included activities:• Taroudant – Leader walking tour
Accommodation: Al Mounia Hotel & spa (standard room) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we’ll leave behind Taroudant and journey north to the charming town of Essaouira whose name fittingly translates to 'pretty picture.' Enclosed within centuries-old stone ramparts, Essaouira boasts whitewashed houses with vivid blue shutters, cozy art galleries, and bustling wood workshops.
Upon arrival, check into our accommodation and take a moment to relax and settle in. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You might choose to experience a traditional hammam, go for a horse ride along the beach, or simply unwind with a cup of coffee at a rooftop café, taking in sweeping views of the sea and the city's laid-back charm.
Special information:
Our travel time today will be approximately 6 hours
Accommodation: Riad Mimouna (standard room) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, set out on a guided walking tour of Essaouira with a local expert. We will wander through the atmospheric old medina, explore the historic Jewish mellah, visit the lively port, and stroll along the iconic Skala (sea wall) with its dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
As one of Morocco’s oldest port cities, Essaouira retains its deep maritime roots. At the port, we will have the unique opportunity to meet a seasoned local fisherman who will share his story, demonstrate traditional fishing techniques, and explain the importance of seasonal rhythms in their trade.
After the tour, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure whether you choose to explore more of the medina, relax by the beach, or indulge in some local seafood.
Included activities:
• Essaouira - Guided walking tour
• Essaouira – Local fisherman visit
Accommodation: Riad Mimouna (standard room) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning after breakfast, we drive to the vibrant city of Marrakech. Upon arrival, check in to our accommodation and take some time to rest and unwind. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Marrakech at your own pace. Whether you choose to visit the bustling souks, relax in a traditional hammam, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.
Special information:
Our travel time today will be approximately 4 hours
Accommodation: Riad Almisk or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
This morning, head to the charming 'Jardins Majorelle', a stunning garden spot intrigue curiosity toward unique colours and hundreds of exotic plants. Stroll softly in the garden, pass by various flora, sit by the pool, and appreciate the peaceful surrounding. Carry on visiting the Berber Museum located within the garden grounds, where we’ll explore an impressive collection of Berber artefacts that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Morocco’s indigenous people.
Just next door, step into the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, dedicated to the legendary designer who found endless inspiration in Morocco. The museum offers a fascinating look into his iconic work, as well as his connection to Marrakech and the artistic spirit of the Majorelle Garden itself. The rest of the day is free at your leisure. I will be exploring the souks and the spice market, and you are welcome to join me to get the most out of this most vibrant of cities.
As the day draws to a close, join our fellow travellers for an unforgettable farewell dinner. Celebrate the incredible journey we’ve shared and the lasting memories you’ve created, all while enjoying the elegant ambiance. Reflect on the remarkable experiences that will stay with us long after our journey ends.
Special information:
Our travel time today will be approximately 5 hours
Included activities• Marrakech – Majorelle Garden visit including YSL & Berber Museum.
• Marrakech – Farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Riad Almisk or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Your trip ends today after breakfast, and the check out time at our riad will be at noon. If you want to stay longer to savour this incredible city, then please speak to Intrepid Tavel about booking further nights accommodation, or one of Intrepid's exciting Urban Adventures.
Departure transfer:
• Included (on a Group Basis)
Meals included: Breakfast
We have made some changes to our usual Morocco itinerary to reduce some of the driving times, and to take in some new and less well known places. This will give you a chance to see more off-the-beaten-track Morocco, as well as some of the iconic highlights.
Driving times are always, quite frankly, long in Morocco. This is partly the result of the long distances between places and partly due to the rigid enforcement of driving speeds.
We have tried to get the right balance though, and have replaced the sand dunes at Eg Chebbi with a new set of dunes at Erg Chegaga. These are a bit smaller, but considerably closer and less touristy. Crucially they can also be a part of a circuit which avoids having to backtrack, and takes in a number of other, less touristy places such as Tafraoute and Taroudant.
There is still a fair bit of driving though: there is no way to avoid this and still visit the incredible places that we visit. What we have done though is to spell out the estimated driving times on the itinerary.
Please do review these travel distances and make a decision for yourself as to wether this adventurous itinerary is for you.
Although we have set out an itinerary above, there are always a number of gaps and things that are organised on the ground. One of the things that we specialise on my trips is wringing the most photo-opportunities out of any trip. In essence, this is the basis of all of our trips: it is not just the things that are listed on the itinerary that are the things that people remember, we are always seeking out things to stop for, engage with and photograph. There are a number of times when we have built in time to be flexible.
When we have 'free time' I will usually be heading out to do something and you will, of course, be more than welcome to join me.
