Saturday, October 1: Another bus day but not nearly as long as the 550 km journey on Thursday. First, we were able to admire another sunset over the dunes which were bathed in the most beautiful light.

And then it was farewell to desert camp life and into the 4WDs to take us back to Majid and the bus.

We drove to Ksar El Khorbat in Tinejdad — a mud brick, largely underground village that is still inhabited and dates back hundreds of years. They have a fascinating museum there that showcases Berber life with very good explanations printed in multiple languages.

Then a group lunch — goat tagine for Pam and me …

… before continuing to the Todra Gorge, where awe-inspiring rock cliffs drop down to the river.

After at least 1,000 photos had been taken, Majid drove us the last 55 km of today’s journey to the Perle du Dadès riad outside the city of Boumalne on the outskirts of the Dadès Gorges. A bit more rain after we arrived but a few drinks on the terrace and a magnificent feast in the dining room lifted everyone’s spirits.

Hopefully the date stamps on these most recent blogs don’t confuse, but I was unable to post from the desert (no Internet) and last night I could only manage one catch-up. I should be on track again now and will post today’s blog (Sunday, October 2) later tonight Moroccan time.