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11-Day Morocco Fossil Hunting Tour from Marrakech

Overview

Overview

If you're passionate about fossils, join us for an unforgettable adventure in Morocco! Experience firsthand how fossils are prepared while exploring the incredible geology of this geo-diverse nation.

Travel by 4x4 through the stunning Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, where rocks are rich in minerals and fossils. Discover remarkable sites like the Fezouata Ordovician Lagerstätte, trilobite quarries in Alnif, and dinosaur fossil beds in Kem Kem.

Marvel at towering sand dunes and visit UNESCO World Heritage kasbahs. This journey blends paleontology and geology, offering a unique glimpse into Morocco's prehistoric wonders!

Highlights

start your adventure in this vibrant city, exploring its markets and culture.

  • Atlas Mountains: Cross the stunning mountains while learning about various geological formations.
  • Zagora and the Draa Valley: Discover ancient stromatolites and giant Ordovician trilobites.
  • Alnif: Visit renowned fossil sites, including Orthoceras and Calymene trilobite quarries.
  • Erg Chebbi Dunes: Experience the beauty of the Sahara Desert, with opportunities for camel rides and stargazing.
  • Kem Kem Dinosaur Site: Explore fossil-rich areas known for significant dinosaur discoveries.
  • Cultural Sites: Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou and engage with local communities.

Welcome to Marrakech! Upon arrival at Marrakech Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax or explore the vibrant markets and historic sites of Marrakech, known for its rich culture and stunning architecture.

Crossing the Atlas Mountains
Embark on a scenic journey through the Atlas Mountains. Ascend to the Col du Tichka (2,260 m), where you’ll witness a remarkable array of geological layers, including Cambrian, Ordovician, Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous formations. Arrive in Ouarzazate for an overnight stay at a comfortable three-star hotel.

Unearth Ancient Fossils
Begin your day by visiting ancient stromatolites (600 million years old) in the Draa Valley. Continue to a site renowned for giant Ordovician trilobites, thriving when Morocco was near the South Pole. These fossils can grow up to 30 cm long! Spend the night in Zagora.

Orthoceras and Trilobites
Visit the Saredrar Orthoceras quarry near Tazzarine, famous for beautiful fossil products. Next, explore mid-Ordovician sites near Battou for trilobites and echinoderms. Discover Jebel Tiskaouine, where abundant ‘Calymene’ trilobites can be found. Overnight in a hotel near Alnif.

Explore the Lost World
Travel to Bou Dib, located on the north escarpment of Jbel Isoumour, to examine Devonian fossils. Enjoy a rest at a café in Fezzou, where you can meet local fossil miners. Return to Alnif for another overnight stay.

Adventure in the Sahara Desert
After breakfast, visit sites extracting Calymene trilobites. Observe local craftsmen at work and shop for unique fossil souvenirs. Head to Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes, for two nights of desert exploration.

Explore Prehistoric Fossils
Visit the renowned Kem Kem site, rich in fish, crocodiles, and dinosaur fossils, including Spinosaurus. Observe geological layers showcasing Ordovician, Silurian, and Devonian fossils. Return to Merzouga for stargazing and an optional sunset camel ride.

Fossil Quarries and Museums
Explore Hamar Laghdad, known for Devonian coral reefs and mud volcano mounds. Visit the Erfoud quarry for Orthoceras slabs and tour the Erfoud Museum to view incredible fossil specimens. Enjoy dinner in Erfoud before your overnight stay.

Breathtaking Landscapes and Rose Oil
Depart Erfoud for Ouarzazate, stopping at the stunning Todgha Gorges. Explore the City of Roses, famous for its rose oil production. Enjoy lunch en route before arriving in Ouarzazate for the night.

Cultural Heritage Sites
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou, a historic trading post. After crossing the Atlas Mountains, enjoy lunch before returning to Marrakech. Spend the afternoon shopping in the vibrant souks of the Old Town.

Farewell to Morocco
After breakfast, transfer to Marrakech Airport for your departure. Reflect on your incredible journey through Morocco's fossil-rich landscapes and cultural treasures.

Includes/Excludes

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