One of the most delightful experiences in Morocco is the opportunity to meet local people, far from the cities, and learn about their way of life. 

Villagers and nomads typically lead very humble lives, but the richness of their welcome and hospitality is one of Morocco’s greatest treasures.  Sahara Atlas Tours’ driver-guides and hiking guides originally come from mountain villages, nomad tribes, and the Sahara Desert, and still have close contact with those communities. It is these personal connections that allow you to get beyond the everyday tourist experience and get a deeper insight into Morocco. Many of our tours allow you the chance to visit local people in their house, tent, or cave.  You can share a glass of tea or a meal with them, and learn about their culture and traditions.  Your Sahara Atlas Tours guide will act as your interpreter, so that you can chat with the inhabitants and share good moments with them.

One of the best excursions for this is the Sahara Atlas Tours daytrip from the Dades Gorge to the Valley of the Roses, in the M’Goun range of the High Atlas Mountains.  The trip is mainly off-road in a very comfortable and safe Toyota Landcruiser 4×4.  Not only do you see spectacular landscapes and elegant kasbahs, but you can also stop to visit a nomad family in their cave – maybe play with their lambs or baby goats, maybe find a woman weaving a carpet on a traditional wooden loom. This excursion can be an optional extra on a short tour to the Sahara Desert, or can be part of a longer customized tour.

For guests who love hiking, Sahara Atlas Tours can include a trek in the High Atlas on your tour.  On a day-long hike with one of our expert local guides, you can stop at a beautiful remote oasis and take lunch with the nomads there. Or we can also arrange for a trek of two or more days (with mules to carry your belongings and equipment), staying overnight with villagers or nomads on the way.

Here at Sahara Atlas Tours, we want to help you discover the real Morocco – and meeting the locals can be a charming part of that experience.