7 Days Birding Tour to Atlas Mountains & Sahara Desert

Picture this: the sun rising over the snow-dusted peaks of the High Atlas Mountains, the call of a rare bird echoing through a desert oasis, and the golden dunes of the Sahara stretching endlessly before you.

This 7-day birding tour is a journey through Morocco’s most iconic landscapes, where every day brings new discoveries, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable encounters with the country’s rich birdlife. From the rugged mountains to the vast desert, this adventure is a celebration of nature, culture, and the thrill of exploration.

This 7-day birding tour is more than just a trip—it’s an immersion into Morocco’s natural and cultural wonders. From the dramatic peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara, every moment is a chance to connect with nature and witness the beauty of Morocco’s birdlife. Whether you’re marveling at a Crimson-winged Finch in the mountains or listening to the call of a Desert Sparrow in the dunes, this tour is a celebration of the wild and the wonderful.

Pack your binoculars, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you inspired and in awe of Morocco’s avian treasures.

Package Overview:

Every day brings a new birding experience, with expert-led excursions to discover Morocco’s rich avian biodiversity. Whether you’re listening to the haunting calls of the Double-spurred Francolin in the King’s hunting forest or marveling at flamingos gracing the Blue Lagoon, this journey promises to captivate bird lovers of all levels.

Join us for a memorable exploration of Morocco’s breathtaking natural wonders, blending exceptional birding with warm hospitality and cultural charm.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Marrakech - High Atlas Mountains - Oukaimeden

Meet and welcome you in Marrakech, we will drive up into the High Atlas Mountains and visit Oukaimeden (2600m). As we drive along the cultivated fields, we should find a good mix of resident species such as Southern Grey Shrike, Little Owl, Sardinian Warbler, Spotless Starling, Moroccan Magpie, Moussier’s Redstart and House Bunting.

Slightly higher up, among the rocky slopes, we will search for Blue rock Thrush and the endemic Levaillant’s Green Woodpecker. When we reach the ski resort at Oukaimeden, we will check the snowline for the handsome African Crimson-winged Finch. Other species here include Rock Sparrow, Black Wheatear, Alpine Chough and Atlas Horned Lark.

Dinner and accommodation at the Atlas Mountains.

Day 2: High Atlas Mountains - Ouarzazate - Boumalne du Dades

After an early breakfast we leave the mountains behind, perhaps pausing again en route for Levaillant’s Green Woodpecker. From the flat plains of Marrakech we turn back uphill, and drive to Boumalne du Dades via the Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2260 meters), a spectacular and long drive. On the Pass we’ll try for yet another endemic “Tristram’s Warbler”.

This species has very specific habitat requirements away from its wintering grounds and is not always easy to find. As the road climbs into the hills, we may start to see some raptors such as Long-legged Buzzard and Bonelli’s Eagle both possible. Before reaching Boumalne du Dades we’ll stop in Amerzgane to look for the rare Wheatear “Maghreb Wheatear”.

Dinner and accommodation in Boumalne du Dades.

Day 3: Boumalne du Dades - Tagdilt Track

Today we will start early, to head to the Tagdilt Track. This is without doubt one of the top areas for birding in the Southern of Morocco. Excellent chances exist for seeing Red-rumped Wheatear, Thekla Lark, Trumpeter Finch, Temminck’s Lark, Short-toed Lark, Trumpeter Finch, Cream-coloured Courser and the highly nomadic Thick-billed Lark.

If the heat allows, we will dedicate most of our day to exploring this area, then we visit a rocky canyon searching for Maghreb Wheatear, Desert Lark

Dinner and breakfast accommodation in Boumalne du Dades.

Day 4: Boumalne du Dades - Todra Gorge - Goulmima - Merzouga

First we visit a Todra gorge for Tristram’s Warbler, Black Wheatear, Blue Rock-thrush, Rock Dove, Crag Martin and possible Bonelli’s Eagle! Next we travel eastwards and stop at a scrubby wadi to seek out the elusive Scrub Warbler, maybe also rewarded with Thick-billed Lark and Trumpeter Finch. Finally after another exciting stop we arrive at our Desert Hotel for two nights.

Dinner and accommodation in Merzouga.

Day 5: Merzouga - Erg Chebbi Dunes - Rissani

We will dedicate a relaxing birding day to exploring the sandy dunes and the nearby stony desert of Erg Chebbi – the largest dune system in Morocco by 4×4 vehicle. Brown-necked Raven, Hoopoe Lark, Desert Sparrow, African Desert Warbler, Desert Lark, Bar-tailed Lark, Fulvous Babbler, Spotted Sandgrouse, Crowned Sandgrouse, Lanner Falcon and chances also exist for Egyptian Nightjar at daytime.

Dinner and accommodation in Merzouga.

Day 6: Merzouga - Tazzarine - Draa Valley - Anti Atlas Mountains - Ouarzazate

Transfer day from Merzouga to Ouarzazate. Drive through the Anti-Atlas Mountains, a series of rocky hills, cliffs and deep gorges of volcanic formations. Roadside birding could produce plenty of White-crowned Wheatear and Southern Grey Shrike.

Before reaching our hotel in Ouarzazate we’ll stop to explore the Barrage at Mansour Eddahbi. Here we have the chance of seeing Ruddy Shelduck, Black winged Stilts and Maghreb Lark, as well as Cormorants and Herons and a selection of waders.

Dinner and accommodation in Ouarzazate.

Day 7: Ouarzazate - High Atlas Mountains - Marrakech

A long journey back from Ouarzazate to Marrakech. We will drive through the High Atlas Mountains, stopping at the scenic and impressive Tizi `n’ Tichka Pass (2260 Meters) to admire its fabulous geological rock formations, We will make some stops along the road. Late in the afternoon we arrive in Marrakech where the private trip will end.

Package Includes:

Not Included:

Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll visit prime birding hotspots, where the calls of nature harmonize with breathtaking landscapes. Alongside birdwatching, enjoy Morocco’s rich cultural tapestry, as you pass through picturesque villages, historic towns, and scenic oases. This adventure blends thrilling birding experiences with opportunities to connect with Morocco’s natural beauty and vibrant traditions.