The Sahara

Water? Check.  Scarves? Check.  Emergency Oreos? Double check.

We were stopped at the last supply store before entering the Sahara on our two day journey into the desert, and taking in as much of the Bear Grylls-esque scenario ast we could.  Never mind that we would be in the desert for less than 24 hours and had selfie sticks, we were ready for survival.

After finding out we wouldn't be running into many camels in Casablanca, I was ready to book a tour to the south of Morocco within the first week, but cold temperatures and high risks of sand storms through January and February meant that we would have to wait until the spring. Desert tours begin in Marrakesh and run through snow capped Atlas mountains, Ouarzazate, and Ait Ben Haddou. Snow is quite a sight to see on your way to the desert, especially after leaving Casablanca's 70 degree temperatures. The three hours of twisting and turning through mountain passes kept my eyes glued straight out of the van windshield, but the view of high mountains and snow made up for the twisting and turning of my insides. After exiting the Atlas, the landscape quickly descended into flat and dry land that could have been Arizona or New Mexico if it weren't for the "Camel Crossing" signs and camels grazing on the side of the road.

We then made a stop in Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou where shows and movies like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones were filmed, and where trusted sources say it can get up to 122 degrees Farenheit in the summer. 

Finally made it to a Moroccan Mcdonald’s.  If you’re abroad and there’s a McDonald’s nearby, definitely go try it, not only to fulfill your duties as an American tourist, but also to see the differences in the menu and style from country to country.  Featured here is a halal certified BigMac and McFondue.

Sunset over the Djemâa el Fna marketplace in Marrakesh.  Despite having already visited, we couldn’t resist spending the day going through the medina and marketplace again.

Ait Ben Haddou and Game of Thrones fan heaven.  Temperatures thankfully hadn’t hit 122 degrees yet, but instead were a nice 75 and sunny.

Inside Ait Ben Haddou which has the feel of going back to biblical times.  Most of the residents live outside of the old city, but there are four families that still live in and maintain it. 

Our fearless desert crew at the top of Ait Ben Haddou.

And an unimpeded view from the top.

The Berber or Amazigh people were the first in Morocco and much of North Africa.  This symbol on the door is the sign of Berber speakers and can been seen throughout many Berber towns in the Atlas mountains and southern Morocco.  Berber is not yet an official language, but many people are fighting for its recognition.

Entering the Sahara. 

Hiking one of the sand dunes near the camp before sunset.  They’re much bigger and steeper up close than they would appear from afar, but the view is well worth the climb. 

Golden Oreos: Official snack of the Sahara

Dinner was served in the main tent insulated from the cold night by blankets and carpet.  Afterwards the guides played Berber music with drums and guitars that almost chanted you to sleep after a full meal of chicken tajine and fruit for dessert. Laying outside in the evening we had five think blankets over us just to stay warm, but seeing the star-filled sky was worth the cold toes.

Early morning rise to get back on the camels and ride out.

Catching the sunrise.

The nobel steed.