An Immersive Journey through Morocco by Sabine Spethling
The Harmonious Fusion of Music, Cultural Exploration, and Travel
Morocco, a land of vivid colours and captivating scents, offers a sensory journey that feels truly magical. Musk, amber, and rose scents waft through the dry desert air, infusing it with an oriental allure that enchants the soul. Beyond its aromatic wonders, Morocco is a realm of festivals, and combining a road trip through this diverse nation with a festival visit promises an unforgettable adventure.
Discovering the diverse facets of Morocco is best done before or after immersing yourself in the fervour of its festivals.
This culturally rich country, inhabited by warm-hearted people, boasts a captivating desert landscape that calls for exploration.
A venture into the Sahara, in particular, can create a profound connection with your inner self, offering a mystical journey that deepens your bond with the country and opens your heart to the enchanting rhythms of its festivals. Alternatively, a trip to Essaouira is akin to a musical treasure hunt with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop.
Essaouira and Moga Festival
The city of Essaouira hosts the enchanting Moga Festival, an electronic music and cultural celebration that blends harmoniously with the coastal winds, inviting your spirit to dance to the universal rhythm.
Essaouira offers the perfect blend of Moroccan culture and seaside activities, earning its reputation as the hippie city of Morocco. It has a strong musical heritage, connecting traditional Gnawa music with contemporary electronic trends, which attracts digital nomads from Morocco and around the world. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, immerse yourself in local culture, music, and hotspots, all while savouring Moroccan delicacies and contemporary cuisine.
Essaouira’s cultural tapestry is enriched not only by foreign artists but also by local influences, particularly the Gnawa music tradition.
Oasis Festival in Marrakech or the Atlas Mountains
The renowned Oasis Festival, the biggest electronic music event in Morocco, unfolds against the stunning backdrop of Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains, delivering an extraordinary experience. The days before or after a festival offer an ideal opportunity to explore the country’s culture, rich heritage, and the desert’s beauty.
Begin your four day journey in Marrakech and rent a 4×4 vehicle and embark on this thrilling adventure. It’s advisable to avoid the scorching summer months and opt for the more temperate seasons of autumn and spring.
The route leads you through picturesque villages and towns like Tizi n’Tichka, Tamdakht, Telouet, and Tighza, which once served as the traditional caravan path from the Sahara to Marrakech. Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous Kasbahs steeped in history, such as the Kasbah de Telouet, where you can enjoy a refreshing mint tea break.
Continue your journey with a one-hour drive to Aït-Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a backdrop for famous films like “The Mummy” and “Gladiator.” The ancient ‘ksar’ offers breathtaking views from its heights.
After traversing the Atlas Mountains and immersing in these rich experiences, find respite at Riad Caravane, an elegant boutique hotel. Here, you can unwind, take a dip in the pool, and savour a delectable tajine. Owned by Andrea, a French proprietor, the Riad Caravane provides a sanctuary to rejuvenate your spirit.
Refreshed by a breakfast with locally sourced ingredients, set your sights on Mhamid, passing through Ouarzazate, known for its film studios, as well as Agdz and Zagora, where you can indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Villa Zagora.
As you approach M’Hamid, the landscape shifts, signaling your imminent arrival in the Sahara. M’Hamid marks the point where the road ends and the Sahara begins. A local tour guide will accompany you on an off-road journey of two to three hours through the desert to Erg Chegaga, the largest desert expanse in Morocco, bordering Algeria.
Enjoy a mesmerising sunset, followed by an evening of local music at the campsite, a night under the stars, and an indescribable sunrise.
The Sahara’s silence is a symphony, a unique experience that reconnects you with your primal desires, liberates your mind, and immerses you in the rhythms of nature.
After this life-altering experience and newfound perspectives, allow yourself one or two days to return to Marrakech and the comforts of civilisation.
Sabine is the founder of tunes&wings – exclusive travel guides for electronic music lovers.
Their travel guides are truly unique. Whether you’re looking for iconic sights or hidden gems, local music scene insiders have got you covered. Discover exciting clubs and music venues, as well as cosy bars, authentic local restaurants, extraordinary hotels and much more – all recommended by your favourite artists.
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