An ideal chance to combine a 4X4 excursion in the dunes with 2 night’s observation of the Southern Hemisphere in a Dark Sky Zone.

Day 1: Setting out early in the morning, across the Glaoua Plains, over the Atlas Mountains you will see a dramatic change in the scenery, from high mountain ranges to semi-desert and oases. Stopping en-route at the magnificent Ksour of Aït Ben Haddou, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most spectacular sights in the Atlas, set upon a rock, commanding the area for miles around, this Ksour controlled the route to Marrakech until the French blasted a road through the Tizi n’Tichka in the late 1920’s. Continuing further south to Ouarzazate and down the beautiful Draa Valley, through Zagora and on to your final destination, Tinfou, and the unique Hotel Sahara Sky.

Day 2: After breakfast our A/C Landcruiser will collect you for a day-trip into the dunes of Ch’Gagga, the highest sand dunes in Morocco. After stopping in a nomad encampment for a delicious lunch of salads, grilled meats/tajine and fruit, followed by a welcome glass of mint tea! Return to the hotel around 6pm, time for a shower before dinner, and then the stars await!

Day 3: Departing northwards a stop at the ancient village of Tamgroute, with its library of ancient illuminated Koranic scrolls written on gazelle hide, some works of Pythagoras - a voluntary contribution to the upkeep of the library is always appreciated. Continuing your stroll through the alleyways of the underground Kasbah to the ancient Pottery cooperative, originators of the distinctive green glaze seen on many roof tiles. Continue via Zagora back up the Draa valley, with some 14km off-road touring of the Valley of 1000 Kasbahs and on to the city of Ouarzazate before continuing on up over the Adrar N’Deren and down across the Glaoua plains to Marrakech, back to your hotel or riad, after a spectacular journey into the Sub-Sahara.

Prices start from £300 per person based on 4 guests and includes return 4x4 transfers from Marrakech, accommodation on Half Board basis in Tinfou and use of hotel's telescopes for star-gazing, English speaking guide, lunch, visit to Ait Ben Haddou, potteries and libraries at Tamgroute, excursion through sand dunes to nomad camp and all lunches.