November 24, 2008

Morocco - Sands of Gold

After burning some of my vacation days in Portland and Puerto Rico, I decided to use up the remainder in a country that always intrigued me and a continent I had never set foot upon. Morocco would be my gateway to Africa.


I spent several days in Marrakech (or Marrakesh), escaping the hubbub of the city for a six day desert adventure and two separate day trips:
  • Marrakech
Desert Adventure:
  • Ouarzazate
  • Tazzarine
  • Merzouga
  • Erfoud
  • Tineghir
  • Todra Gorge
  • Dades Gorge
  • Ait Ben Haddou
Day Trips:
  • Ourika Valley
  • Essaouira

Over the days I would cross a variety of unpredictable terrain, with sand, snow, shops, and sea within hours of each other. The weather cooperated during my visit, with not a rainy day to be seen. The desert climate left me very warm during the day and quite chilly during the night. My complexion and diet both became olive. I traveled solo and as part of groups, and enjoyed a few dates along the way.