As this was a more expensive item within our budget for our trip, we spent some time researching options for Sahara tours. We had read some horror stories from other providers, we are glad to say we loved our trip with Authentic Sahara Tours (AST). From the start Ibrahim and Lehcen communicated with us really well. They clearly outlined the different itinerary options, what was included, not included and the different attractions we would see. ATS advertises no forced shopping; we can vouch for this. Our tour was secured through a deposit within PayPal with the remainder paid in cash at the start of the first day.
Our driver Jamal Hdiddiwi was excellent. He collected us from our Riad in Marrakesh on the first day (dropped us off at our Riad in Fes), explained our itinerary (making sure we were happy) and off we went. We highly recommend Jamal, he was very professional, knowledgeable, had great English and drove safely. Jamal really looked after us and made sure we were safe, comfortable and having fun along the way. The tour was a great way to explore other parts of Morocco, outside of the big cities. The scenery was a highlight.
Accommodation - we stayed at Riad Tamdakhte and Canyon Dades. The service at Riad Tamdakhte was fantastic (see our review). We also stayed at Canyon Dades, which was a bit ‘Faulty Towers-esque’, we would recommend taking up one of the other options AST has available.
Our stay at the Itrane Oasis Camp was excellent. Jamal took us to the edge of the desert where we were promptly escorted on camel to our tent for the evening. The tent had wifi, USB charging charging ports, a toilet, sink, shower and a door (we have read other reviews of camps which only had tent flaps which let in the breeze all night). Dinner was fun and tasty. After dinner, the band played around the fire, we had a very nice night. Thanks to Ibrahim and his crew for a memorable night in the Sahara.
Some of the stops are more touristy than others, but they are also beautiful. We would definitely recommend the 3 night/4 day option, so you aren’t too rushed and get to have plenty of stops along the way. It was nice to know were weren’t going to be hassled to buy things at each of our stops.
Important things - This is a driving tour, you spend plenty of time on the road to get to the Sahara. The car was a new 4 wheel drive, very comfortable, air conditioned.
We visited the desert over New Years (winter), it can get pretty cold, so come prepared with extra layers for sleeping.
We brought wine to the desert camp to have with dinner.
If we did it again, we would take more small bottles of water and fruit or chocolate for the many kids you see along the way.
Thank you Jamal!