Overview
Discover Morocco like never before, where every corner of this breathtaking country tells a story of unique wildlife. Join us for a 13 days birdwatching journey that spans from the rugged coastlines of Agadir to the vast, golden sands of the Sahara Desert. This unforgettable experience will be in the fascinating world of birds, mammals, and reptiles in Morocco’s most captivating habitats. Discover rare species like the Northern Bald Ibis at Tamri Estuary, spot desert wildlife in Merzouga’s Erg Chebbi Dunes, and witness the stunning scenery of the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas mountains.
Explore wetlands, valleys, and palm groves, while encountering species such as the Crimson-winged Finch, Bonelli’s Eagle, and desert fox. This immersive journey offers a perfect blend of wildlife photography, nature exploration, and unforgettable experiences in Morocco’s most iconic birding destinations. Enjoy exceptional landscapes, rich wildlife, and expert guidance.
Highlights
- Bonelli's Eagle in Boumalne Dades
- Atlas Horned Lark in Oukaimeden
- Crimson-winged Finch in Oukaimeden
- Flamingos at Oued Souss
- Black-crowned Tchagra at Oued Massa
- Seabirds at Cap Rhir
- Northern Bald Ibis at Tamri Estuary
Itinerary
After greetings we will drive to your hotel in Agadir. To relax for our 13 days birdwatching From Agadir, Mammal and Reptiles tour
Your 13 days birdwatching From Agadir adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Agadir or from the local airport, should you have arrived the day before. After a brief orientation to the tour, we will embark on a 13 days birdwatching From Agadir northward along Morocco’s stunning coastline. Our first stop is Cap Rhir, a rugged headland renowned for its diverse bird population.
Along the beach and its surroundings, we will encounter a variety of seabirds, including Lesser Black-backed Gulls of two distinct races, Audouin's Gulls, and Yellow-legged Gulls. The area is also home to other coastal species, offering an excellent opportunity for bird enthusiasts to spot numerous seabird species in a scenic setting.
Continuing on our route, we will head towards the peaceful Tamri Estuary, a significant wetland area that serves as a habitat to several rare and endangered bird species. The estuary is particularly particularly known for being one of the last remaining sanctuaries of the Northern Bald Ibis, a globally threatened species. This remarkable bird, with its striking bald head and long curved bill, is a highlight of the day and a must-see for any bird-watching enthusiast.
After spending time at the estuary, we will make our way to Agadir for the evening. The drive back provides time to reflect on the day's sightings, and once we arrive, you'll check into a comfortable local hotel where you can unwind. Dinner will be served at the hotel, allowing you to relax after a day of birding in Morocco's diverse coastal ecosystems.
On Day 3, our 13 days birdwatching From Agadir along Morocco’s Atlantic coast will lead us to the mesmerizing wetland of Oued Massa, teeming with diverse bird species waiting to be discovered including the elusive Black-crowned Tchagra, the native Moroccan Cormorant, and the colorful Moussier’s Redstart. The rare Marbled Duck, Laughing Dove, Sardinian Warbler, and Brown-throated Martins will also be on our radar.
Our next stop will be at Oued Souss, a hotspot for Flamingos and other waterfowl. The riverbanks also host a mix of gulls, terns, and shorebirds, perfect for observing migratory species.
After a rewarding day of bird-watching, we’ll return to Agadir for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Souss-Massa National Park offers diverse wildlife and landscapes perfect for photography. The Addax Antelope, critically endangered, can be captured in open, arid areas. Graceful Dorcas Gazelles graze the plains, while Barbary Sheep are found in rocky hills. The wetlands attract flamingos and the rare Bald Ibis, both excellent bird subjects. Reptiles like lizards and tortoises add texture to your shots. The park’s landscapes, with vast desert dunes, rocky hills, and lush wetlands, provide stunning backdrops.
Early morning and late afternoon light create dramatic effects. Capturing animal behaviors, like gazelles leaping or animals interacting, adds life to your photos. The unique Argania trees offer interesting framing opportunities.After a day of exploration, we’ll return to Agadir for your final dinner and accommodation. If you need an airport transfer for the next day, we can arrange it for you.
Today we are going to drive from Agadir to Oukaimeden. Our 13 days birdwatching From Agadir will take us on a scenic drive through the stunning High Atlas Mountains, where we’ll pass through breathtaking landscapes and explore the rich birdlife that thrives in this region. Over night at Oukaimeden area.
After we depart from our Hotel and As we ascend the rocky slopes of the Atlas, we’ll keep an eye out for a variety of resident species. Look out for the striking Moroccan Magpie, Moussier's Redstart, Southern Grey Shrike, and Little Owl. The rugged environment also harbors Sardinian Warbler and House Bunting. We may even spot the vibrant Blue Rock Thrush and the elusive Levaillant’s Green Woodpecker, both of which are well-adapted to the mountainous terrain.
Our destination for the day is Oukaimeden, a renowned ski resort in the High Atlas, where the birding opportunities are exceptional. Here, we’ll search for the magnificent Crimson-winged Finch, Rock Sparrow, Alpine Chough, and the beautiful Atlas Horned Lark, all of which are commonly found in this alpine environment.
After a day filled with incredible bird sightings, we’ll settle in for a well-deserved dinner and overnight stay at a local hotel, ready to rest for the adventures ahead.
We leave behind the High Atlas Mountains and head towards Ouarzazate, crossing the impressive Tizi-n’Tichka pass at 2260 meters. As we make the approximately 4-hour drive through this dramatic mountain landscape, we’ll keep a lookout for raptors soaring overhead, including the Long-legged Buzzard and Bonelli's Eagle, both of which are commonly spotted in this region.
Our first birding stop will be at the Mansour Eddahbi barrage, a large reservoir that attracts a variety of waterfowl. Here, you may spot the Marbled Duck, Ruddy Shelduck, and Black-winged Stilts, along with other birds like Maghreb Lark and various species of Cormorants. The area is also home to numerous shorebirds and waterbirds, making it an excellent location for birdwatching.
We’ll continue our 13 days birdwatching From Agadir to Skoura, famous for its palm groves, and then on to the Valley of Roses, known for its stunning landscapes and unique flora. Finally, we’ll arrive in Boumalne Dades, where we’ll enjoy dinner and relax for the night at a local hotel, reflecting on the day’s birdwatching highlights.
After breakfast in Boumalne Dades, we embark on a planned bird-watching adventure to the famous Tagdilt Track, a distinguish location as one of Morocco's premier birding hotspots. This vast, open landscape is home to a variety of fascinating species, such as the Red-rumped Wheatear, Hoopoe Lark, and Temminck's Lark. Keep your eyes peeled for Short-toed Lark, Thekla Lark, and the striking Trumpeter Finch, as well as the Cream-coloured Courser and Thick-billed Lark.
Our exploration also leads us to a rugged canyon, where a local community resides in unique cave dwellings. In this setting, you may encounter the elusive Maghreb Wheatear, the Houbara Desert Lark, and even the majestic Pharaoh Eagle Owl, a rare sight in this dramatic landscape.
At the end of the day, we return to Boumalne Dades for a delicious dinner and overnight stay at a traditional riad, where you can relax and unwind after a day of bird-watching in one of Morocco's most captivating regions.
After breakfast in Boumalne Dades, we journey toward Todra Gorge, a breathtaking location known for its striking cliffs and rich bird population. As we explore the area, you’ll have the chance to spot various bird species like Tristram's Warbler, Black Wheatear, and Blue Rock-thrush. Look for Rock Dove and Crag Martin soaring above, while the majestic Bonelli's Eagle might also be seen circling high in the sky.
As we progress along our route toward Merzouga, we pass through Goulmima, offering another exceptional opportunity to observe the local bird species found in the region. While traversingthe desert landscape, we may the chance to witness Scrub Warblers, Thick-billed Larks, and Trumpeter Finches as they navigate their natural habitat.
Finally, upon our arrival in Merzouga, a desert oasis where you can unwind and relax after a day of bird-watching. Enjoy a comforting dinner and a restful overnight stay in a traditional desert hotel, where you can experience the serenity of the Sahara under the starlit sky.
Today, we explore the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga,a landscape that stands as one of the most iconic in all Morocco. These vast sand dunes provide a unique habitat for a variety of desert bird species. During our adventure, you’ll have the chance to observe fascinating species such as Brown-necked Raven, Hoopoe Lark, and Desert Sparrow, as well as the African Desert Warbler and Desert Lark. Watch for Bar-tailed Larks, Spotted Sandgrouse, and Crowned Sandgrouse, all well-adapted to the harsh desert environment.
Predators like the Barbary Falcon and Lanner Falcon may be spotted as they hunt above the dunes, while the colorful Blue-cheeked Bee-eater adds a splash of vibrancy to the desert skies. You may also hear or see the elusive Saharan Olivaceous Warbler, a rare and fascinating bird of the region.
If the season is right, we’ll visit a nearby seasonal lake in Merzouga village, where we may spot ducks, waders, and the nocturnal Egyptian Nightjar.
After a day filled with excitement and discovery, we will return to Merzouga to enjoy a delicious dinner and unwind in comfortable accommodation, preparing for the next stage of our adventure.
Today, we explore the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga, A 2-hour ATVs ride through the sand dunes of Merzouga offers an unforgettable experience, combining adventure with the thrill of wildlife photography. Starting from the hotel, you’ll head out into the vast Sahara Desert, where the towering sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a stunning landscape.
The ride is an exhilarating journey across the desert’s shifting dunes, with each turn revealing new vistas of golden sand under the endless blue sky.
As you traverse the dunes, you’ll have the opportunity to look for elusive desert wildlife, such as the desert fennec fox, known for its large ears and nocturnal behavior. Spotting one requires patience and a keen eye, but your guide, familiar with the desert’s ecosystem, will help you track signs and possibly spot a fennec or its burrows.
The Cerastes Vipera, a venomous snake with distinctive “horns” on its nose, is another highlight of the trip, though these creatures are often well-camouflaged in the sand. In addition to these animals, you might also encounter other reptiles like spiny-tailed lizards and desert-dwelling mammals, such as jerboas and desert hedgehogs.
The golden dunes provide the perfect backdrop for photography, with opportunities to capture both the unique landscape and wildlife in their natural habitat. The shifting light of the desert, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, creates a magical atmosphere for great photo opportunities. Along the way, your local guide will share insights about the desert’s wildlife and natural history, enhancing the experience.
After an exhilarating ride and a chance to capture some incredible photos, you’ll return to Merzouga, feeling both awe-struck by the beauty of the desert and fulfilled by the adventure. The combination of the thrilling ATV ride and the search for wildlife in such a striking environment makes for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Sahara.
Predators like the Barbary Falcon and Lanner Falcon may be spotted as they hunt above the dunes, while the colorful Blue-cheeked Bee-eater adds a splash of vibrancy to the desert skies. You may also hear or see the elusive Saharan Olivaceous Warbler, a rare and fascinating bird of the region.
If the season is right, we’ll visit a nearby seasonal lake in Merzouga village, where we may spot ducks, waders, and the nocturnal Egyptian Nightjar.
After a day filled with excitement and discovery, we will return to Merzouga to enjoy a delicious dinner and unwind in comfortable accommodation, preparing for the next stage of our adventure.
Transfer day from Merzouga to Ouarzazate. Drive through the Anti-Atlas Mountains, a series of rocky hills, cliffs and deep gorges of volcanic formations. Roadside birding could produce plenty of White-crowned Wheatear and Southern Grey Shrike. Before reaching our hotel in Ouarzazate we’ll stop to explore the Barrage at Mansour Eddahbi. Here we have the chance of seeing Ruddy Shelduck, Black winged Stilts and Maghreb Lark, as well as Cormorants and Herons and a selection of waders.
Dinner and breakfast accommodation in Ouarzazate.
Today, we embark on a long drive westward, crossing the Anti Atlas Mountains and venturing into the Souss Valley on our way to Agadir. Throughout our drive, we will keep an eye out for various larks along the roadside, as well as wheatears.
In the picturesque Souss Valley, we may catch glimpses of Black-Crowned Tchagra, Laughing Dove, Cirl Bunting, and Spanish Sparrow, all adding to the diverse birdlife of the region. As we pass over the town of Taroudant, the sight of Little and Pallid Swifts soaring through the skies. After a day filled with bird-spotting adventures, we will finally arrive at our hotel in Agadir, where we will stay for the last night.
Dinner and accommodation will be in Agadir.
End of the trip. End of our service.
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Private A/C 4x4 or safari-ready van
- Expert local guide (English/Spanish)
- Custom stops for wildlife and viewpoints
- Overnight in 3 - 5 Stars hotels and Luxury camps
- Pick-up/drop-off at hotel or airport
- All breakfast available
- Free time for nature walks and exploration
Excludes
- Drinks and lunches not included
- Tips for driver, guide, and staff
- Personal expenses and extra activities not in itinerary