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Morocco: Sahara & Beyond National Geographic Journeys

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• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Casablanca
• Day 2 Casablanca to Fez (1B, 1L)
• Day 3 Fez (1B)
• Day 4 Fez to Marrakech (1B, 1D)
• Day 5 Marrakech (1B, 1L)
• Day 6 Marrakech/Aït Ben Haddou (1B, 1D)
• Day 7 Aït Ben Haddou/Erg Chigaga (1B, 1L, 1D)
• Day 8 Erg Chigaga/Zagora (1B)
• Day 9 Zagora/Taroudant (1B)
• Day 10 Taroudant (1B)
• Day 11 Taroudant/Tafraout (1B, 1L)
• Day 12 Tafraout/Essaouira (1B)
• Day 13 Essaouira (1B, 1L)
• Day 14 Essaouira/Marrakech (1B, 1D)
• Day 15 Marrakech (1B)

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Operated by national geographic journeys with g adventures.

TRAVEL, ENHANCED National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures are a collection of unique National Geographic tours designed to take you deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. They offer more inclusions, greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and the freedom to roam, all within the structure and security of travelling in a small group.

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Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Good 3.8
• Itinerary Excellent 5.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.5
• Accommodation Good 3.5
• Food Average 2.5
• Tour Operator National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures 4.5

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currency د.م. Moroccan Dirham Morocco

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Morocco. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Morocco. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Morocco. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Morocco. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Morocco. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 13th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 13th July 2024, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Tripadvisor staff removed this post at the original author's request.

I hope you get a response to this question because I am trying to make the exact same decision. There are just not any reviews of the National Geographic Expeditions out there.

Never heard of them. Or anyone called A&K. Are they American?

My daughter's travelling with National Geographic Expeditions next year, so although no proper direct travel experience with them yet, I've found them to be informative and efficient to date.

Hi mumtazmahal,

"Is a saddle used?"

Are one's legs spread as widely as on horse?

Depends on the saddle, the girth of the beast and the style adopted!

It is realistic to consider a 3-hour camel trek each of two days?

Not with partner who is not 100% fit! Besides (and I'll be shot down for this comment) camels are bad natured, mephitic, and these tours can be notoriously overpriced. Although you stated that you would prefer not to arrange your own travel requirements. If you decide to go on one of these tours bring extra cushioning and arnica cream for the resultant bruising.

We stayed in beautiful hotels, saw wonderful places, and had an overnight in the Sahara.

It was an excellent trip. I loved every day of it and highly recommend it

Correction: the group was 18, not 30

Thanks for your insightful comments.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Morocco Hotels and Places to Stay

• Safety in Morocco / Terror Threat
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• Using a Smartphone in Morocco
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• Morocco's road numbers are being changed (2018)
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• Al Boraq LGV (Morocco's high speed train service)
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Southern Morocco: The Sahara, The Coast & Marrakech

12 days, marrakech to marrakech.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Can’t choose which amazing Morocco experience to have? This epic trip means you don’t have to. You’ll hike through the Sahara to a desert oasis camp where you’ll stay overnight and watch the sun rise and set over towering dunes. Next, you’ll explore the markets of Marrakech and Agadir, learn about regional cuisine with a tanjia-making demonstration, and then visit the Ouzoud oasis and waterfall for a refreshing dip and a delicious lunch. Then, you’re off to the coast! You’ll sandboard on dunes and visit a Berber Village, visit the walled city of Essaouira and the ceramic market of Safi, before capping off your trip by kicking back on the beach at Oualidia.

Marrakech to Marrakech

Is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 3 - Average

Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 14, Avg 12.

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check Your Visa Requirements

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world — with trees! Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 12

Ripple Score

Want to create ripples that change lives? The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 99

Places visited

Day 1 marrakech to ouarzazate.

Arrival Day. Make your way to the joining hotel for a brief welcome meeting before driving to Ouarzazate for an overnight stay at our accommodations there. Please arrive at the hotel meeting point before 2:30PM.

Please plan for your flight to arrive at the airport in Marrakech no later than 12:30PM.

Meals included:

Day 2 ouarzazate to erg lihoudi desert camp.

In the morning before leaving the group will explore the famous atlas film studios in Ourzazate and learn a bit about the film making in Morocco. Drive to Zagora and then to Mhamid. From there head out into the Sahara desert for two nights of camping under the stars. The walk will take about two hours and we will arrive at the camp around sunset. Enjoy a cup of tea and watch the colors change in the sky as the sun slips below the horizon.

Day 3 Erg Lihoudi Desert Camp to Rass Nkhal Oasis.

Wake up to a stunning sunrise, enjoy some breakfast at camp and then start the day. This is our second day of the Berber desert journey. Then you have a choice of walking or riding a camel to our lunch stop. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Sahara as you travel like people have for millenniums. After lunch we’ll enter the 21st century again and travel to the next desert camp by 4x4. Arrive at the oasis of Rass Nkhal to catch sunset before having dinner fireside with stories and music.

Day 4 Rass Nkhal Oasis to Skoura

After another sunrise out in the desert and some breakfast at camp the group will travel to Zagora by 4x4. Enjoy some free time to shower, freshen up, and relax by the hotel pool after our Sahara adventure. After lunch continue on to Skoura. Explore this oasis city famed for its date palms. Have dinner as a group in Skoura.

Day 5 Skoura/Marrakech

Travel back to Marrakech and enjoy free morning to see the city. In the afternoon the group will attend a cooking demonstration and learn how to make tanjia, a different form of tagine.

We'll make the dish and seal it in the clay pot to cook overnight in the hamman. Then, explore the various food vendors in the Medina with your CEO and learn about the different ingredients. End the day with evening tea on the rooftop terrace overlooking the main square of Jemaa El Fnaa.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 6 marrakech.

Visit the important sites within the medina this morning. Make stops to Jardin Secret and Bahia Palace. End the morning adventure with a trip to the bakery to learn a brief introduction into Moroccan bread making, then have a taste.

Collect your tanjia lunch on the way back to the Riad. Enjoy your own cooking as lunch on the terrace. The afternoon and evening are free for you to explore Marrakech on your own. Don't miss a chance to visit Jardins Majorelle with their vibrant blue garden houses and thriving plants.

Day 7 Marrakech

Set out on a full day excursion to Ouzoud, a beautiful oasis waterfall near the Atlas Mountains. Walk up the stairs to the top of the falls, enjoy breathtaking views, and then take a refreshing swim in the flowing water. After a delicious lunch right near the falls the group will travel back to Marrakech. Enjoy a local dinner in the heart of Jamee Lafna Square.

Day 8 Marrakech/Agadir

Take advantage of a free morning in Marrakech to do some walking around and maybe shop in the medina for spices and Moroccan pottery. Depart for Agadir in the early afternoon. Upon arrival, visit Souk Lhad, the local market and have dinner on your own from one of the many food stalls.

Day 9 Agadir/Sidi Kaouki

Today we go local. Drive to Sidi Kaoukki and walk along Tamri beach to take in the views of the shoreline and rock formations before an exhilerating sandboarding experience on the nearby towering dunes. Finish the journey to Sidi Kaouki for lunch and take part in a cooking class with a local family. After lunch, have tea on the terrace and end the day with free time to simply go for a walk along the beautiful waterfront of this small fishing town or stroll down the beach and search for the perfect place to watch sunset.

Day 10 Sidi Kaouki/Oualidia

Travel to Oualidia today with a few stops en route. First up is Essaouira for a visit to this historic walled city. Spend time in the old city and oldest international port city in Morocco. Choose to grab some lunch or visit the beach and sample some of the fresh fish dishes prepared by the local food stalls along the water. Then continue further north to Safi, famous for having the largest pottery market in Morocco. See the old town and the Ceramic Market. You’ll arrive in Oualidia in the evening.

Day 11 Oualidia

Enjoy a full free day in Oualidia. Here the beach is beautiful and there’s a lagoon that allows for a more quiet area for swimming away from the surf. Later in the day choose to go to the OSTREA oyster farm for a farewell dinner overlooking the beach. In the evening if the weather is permits, the group will enjoy the sunset.

Day 12 Oualidia/Marrakech

After breakfast transfer back to Marrakech, about three hours from Ouilidia, arriving around 12pm. The tour ends on arrival to the airport or at the Marrakech hotel for those have booked post-tour nights.

Please do not book departing flights any earlier than 4PM.

What's Included

• Your Foodie Moment: Tanjia Cooking Experience, Marrakech
• Your Discover Moment: Marrakech
• Your Foodie Moment: Local Lunch and Traditional Cooking Demonstration, Sidi Kaouki
• Visit to the Souk Lhad market
• Tamri Beach Sandboarding
• Bread making and lunch with a local family
• Visit to Essaouira
• A stop at Safi old town and pottery market
• Free time in Oualidia and Marrakech, Cooking class in Marrakech
• Food tasting in the medina
• Tea on terrace overlooking Jemaa El Fnaa
• Visit to Jardin Secret or Bahia Palace and Ben Yousset Medressa
• Local bakery stop for some moroccan bread
• Tanjia pots lunch
• Visit to Ouzoud, an oasis waterfall
• Dinner in Jamaa Fnaa Square food stall
• Film Studio visit in Ouarzazate
• Welcome Tea and bonfire at Erg Lihoudi desert camp
• A camel ride and 4x4 jeep excursion to desert oasis camp
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (6 nts), Traditional Riad (3 nts), Desert Camp (2 nts).

11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners Allow USD220-290 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicle, walking, 4x4.

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

My own room - from $779.00.

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

RJ Travel LLC » Travel Agency & Tour Operator

Re-writing the concept of tourism and taking you on adventure tours to Iraq, Morocco, Afghanistan, Yemen, Persia, Lebanon, Saudi, Libya, Uzbekistan.

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Geography of Morocco: National Geographic Tapestry

Table of Contents

The geography of Morocco is a captivating blend of diverse landscapes and historical significance. Situated in North Africa, this nation’s geographic location has played a pivotal role in shaping its history and cultural identity.

Nestled on the northwest corner of the African continent, Morocco geography invites adventurous travelers with its sweeping Sahara desert, towering Atlas mountains, and fertile coastal plains. From exploring the ancient alleys of Marrakech to uncovering the cultural tapestry of Fes, Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich history offer an unforgettable journey for intrepid tourists seeking a unique and enriching experience.

The physical geography of Morocco paints a picture of awe-inspiring natural wonders. From the vast dunes of the Sahara, symbolizing the nation’s desert legacy, to the diverse ecosystems that span from the Mediterranean coasts to the mountainous interiors, Morocco stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur.

Top Geographic Features of Morocco

• Atlas Mountains : The grand Atlas Range divides Morocco into distinct climatic regions, influencing its landscapes and cultures. It includes the High Atlas, the Middle Atlas, and the Anti-Atlas, with Jebel Toubkal being the highest peak in North Africa.
• Oum Er-Rbia River : One of Morocco’s major rivers, Oum Er-Rbia courses through the central part of the country, providing pivotal water resources for agriculture and daily needs.
• Sahara Desert : The vast golden sands of the Sahara stretch into the southeastern parts of Morocco, creating an awe-inspiring landscape dotted with oases and unique Berber settlements.
• Rif Mountains : Located in the northern part of Morocco, these mountains are characterized by their lush forests, steep terrains, and unique flora and fauna.
• Chefchaouen : Situated amidst the Rif Mountains, this blue-painted town is a favorite among travelers and is known for its charming architecture and serene ambiance.
• Sous Valley : A fertile region in southern Morocco, the Sous Valley is crucial for the country’s agricultural endeavors, especially citrus fruits and olives.
• Draa River : An essential river in Morocco, the Draa River flows from the High Atlas Mountains through the Sahara, playing a significant role in sustaining life in its adjoining regions.
• Merzouga Dunes : Part of the Sahara Desert, these iconic sand dunes are famous for their changing colors during sunrise and sunset, offering a mesmerizing sight.
• Agadir Beaches : Located along the Atlantic coast, the beaches in and around Agadir are known for their golden sands, surfing opportunities, and marine life.
• Medina of Marrakech : A historic center filled with colorful souks, centuries-old structures, and buzzing squares like the Jemaa el-Fnaa, it offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich past.

These geographic features play a pivotal role in determining Morocco’s terrain, climate, and rich cultural tapestry, making them vital factors in understanding the nation’s geography.

Morocco Geography

Exploring the Morocco National Geographic canvas unveils a mesmerizing array of geographic features. From the towering Atlas Mountains to the sweeping Saharan dunes and the bustling souks of Marrakech, the country offers a beguiling panorama of natural and cultural wonders.

• Mountain Ranges – The Crown of Diversity : Just as documentaries frequently spotlight grand mountain landscapes, Morocco is home to the impressive Atlas Mountains. These peaks don’t just elevate the country’s scenic splendor but also teem with unique biodiversity and have deeply influenced its cultural essence.
• Oases – Desert’s Green Miracles : Morocco’s oases, like those in the Draa Valley, are akin to the picturesque landscapes captured in paintings. These green pockets, set against the backdrop of dunes, emphasize the region’s geological and ecological marvels.
• Deserts – Waves of Golden Sands : Much as documentaries bring forth vast terrains, Morocco’s Sahara exhibits waves of golden sands that host a myriad of life forms. This arid expanse narrates tales of Berber nomads and ancient caravan routes.
• Historical Sites – Unveiling the Past : Morocco’s historical treasures, such as the ancient city of Volubilis, transport visitors to bygone eras of vast empires and intriguing cultures. These relics underscore the country’s deep-rooted historical lineage.
• Ethnic Diversity – A Cultural Melting Pot : In the spirit of National Geographic’s spotlight on varied cultures, Morocco is a blend of ethnicities, including Berbers, Arabs, and Sahrawis. Each community enriches the nation with distinct traditions, dialects, and customs, crafting a vivid cultural tapestry.
• Wildlife – A Refuge of Desert Adaptations : Morocco’s national parks, such as Souss-Massa, reflect the country’s commitment to wildlife conservation. These areas are vital refuges for various species, ensuring biodiversity in a diverse habitat.
• Geological Wonders – A Natural Showcase : Morocco’s geological gems, like the Todgha Gorge, emphasize the nation’s natural allure amidst the vast Sahara and rugged Atlas Mountains. These formations are testimony to the relentless forces of nature sculpting the land.
• Remote Exploration – Untrodden Paths : The remote stretches of the Rif Mountains invite explorers, akin to voyages into undiscovered realms. These regions grant insights into pristine terrains and unparalleled ecosystems.

Morocco geographic features are highlighted by the imposing presence of the Atlas Mountains. These magnificent peaks, which slice through the heart of the country, provide a dramatic contrast to the nation’s varied landscape. Ancient caravan routes, once essential for trade and communication, snake their way through these formidable heights, connecting regions of North Africa.

Serpentine through the Moroccan landscape is the rejuvenating waters of the Draa and the Moulouya Rivers, essential for agriculture and sustenance. Additionally, the vast Sahara and the verdant plains of the Rif region enhance the country’s distinctive geography.

Morocco Geographic Location

Morocco geographic location is very strategic, and its position has played a significant role throughout history. Located in the northwestern part of Africa, the country has been a nexus for trade, culture, and ideas, emphasizing its historical importance.

Borders of Morocco

Morocco shares borders with three countries. Here is Morocco physical geography with the neighboring countries and the approximate total length of each border:

• Algeria : The border between Morocco and Algeria is approximately 1,559 kilometers long.
• Mauritania : The border between Morocco and Mauritania is approximately 1,561 kilometers long, along the southern part of Morocco.
• Spain (via Ceuta and Melilla) : While mainland Spain does not share a direct land border with Morocco, the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla are situated on the northern coast of Morocco. Ceuta’s border with Morocco is about 8 kilometers long, and Melilla’s border is about 9.6 kilometers long.

These international borders define Morocco’s connections to different regions and contribute to the country’s geopolitical significance as a crossroads between North Africa and the Mediterranean.

Geography of Rabat Morocco

As the capital city of Morocco, Rabat is a captivating microcosm of the country’s human geography. Here, various ethnic groups, including Arabs, Berbers, Andalusians, and Sahrawis, coexist, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry.

Rabat, the capital city of Morocco

• City of Contrasts : Rabat is known for its stark contrasts, where modern high-rises coexist with traditional medinas, creating a unique blend of old and new.
• Bouregreg River : The Bouregreg River flows alongside the city, playing a significant role in its trade and transportation.
• Rabat’s Elevation : The city is perched along the Atlantic coast, with fertile plains and hills surrounding it.
• Green Spaces : Rabat is home to several beautiful parks and gardens, including the Andalusian Gardens, offering a serene escape amidst the bustling city.
• Rabat’s Historical Significance : With a history deeply rooted in ancient and colonial times, Rabat has witnessed various epochs and played a pivotal role in North African politics and trade.
• Diverse Architecture : The city showcases a diverse architectural heritage, reflecting influences from Moorish, Andalusian, and modern styles.
• Music and Art Culture : While not the birthplace of any particular dance like tango, Rabat is known for its vibrant music and art scenes, including traditional Moroccan music and contemporary performances.
• Royal Palace : The grand Royal Palace, situated in the heart of the city, is an iconic symbol of Morocco’s political history.
• Rabat’s Economy : The city serves as Morocco’s political and administrative center, attracting people from all over the country seeking opportunities and education.
• Population Growth : Rabat has experienced steady population growth, with a significant influx of migrants from various regions, leading to urbanization and infrastructure challenges.

Historical Geographical Importance of Morocco

Throughout the ages, Morocco’s geographical significance has made it a sought-after stage for historical drama. As empires and nations rose and fell, from the Moors to the Amazigh empires and European powers, Morocco geographic position played a pivotal role in shaping the world’s history.

• Strategic Gateway : Morocco geographic location as a gateway between the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the vast expanse of North Africa has made it a strategic point for trade, cultural exchange, and military endeavors throughout history.
• Ancient Trade Routes : The trans-Saharan trade routes passed through Morocco, connecting various civilizations and facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.
• Islamic Expansion : Morocco was a key territory during the Islamic expansion in the 7th century, as they sought to spread Islam and Arabic culture in North Africa.
• Reconquista and the Berber Dynasties : During the Middle Ages, Morocco became a focal point of the Reconquista, where local dynasties like the Almoravids and Almohads resisted and counteracted European Christian advances.
• European Intrigue : Morocco’s strategic position attracted significant interest from European powers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, vying for influence and control.
• Influence of Amazigh Culture : Morocco was home to various indigenous groups, primarily the Amazigh (Berbers), influencing its early history and culture.
• Conquests of the Arabs and Moors : The Arab invasions of the 7th century had a profound impact on Morocco’s history, leading to a blend of cultures and traditions.
• The Atlas Mountains and Nomads : The vast terrains of Morocco, featuring the Atlas Mountains, and the iconic figure of the nomad have become symbols of the nation’s cultural and historical identity.
• Influence of Andalusian Music : Morocco’s position at the crossroads of Africa and Europe gave birth to Andalusian music, a genre that has since captivated the region, influencing its culture, art, and architecture.

The geographical position of Morocco is a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and historical richness. Nestled in the northwest corner of Africa, with coastlines along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco boasts a diverse landscape ranging from vast desert expanses to rugged mountain ranges. This strategic location has made Morocco a historical crossroads of cultures, influencing its unique blend of Arab, Berber, and European legacies.

In conclusion, Morocco’s geographical significance has shaped its historical narrative, attracting various civilizations and empires throughout the centuries. Its strategic position not only tells a story of past conquests and cultural exchanges but also continues to play an influential role in the geopolitics of the African and Mediterranean regions today.

More About Morocco

Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University in Morocco

Ancient city of Volubilis in Morocco

Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate) in Morocco

Chefchaouen (The Blue City) in Morocco

Fes el Bali, the Ancient Heart of Fes in Morocco

Flag of Morocco: Exploring the Rich Heritage of a Country

Food from Morocco: Savor the Best of Moroccan Cuisine

Jardin Majorelle in Morocco

Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail in Morocco

Medersa Ben Youssef in Morocco

Medina of Essaouira in Morocco

Morocco Culture and Customs » All you need to know

Morocco Tour Guide

Ouarzazate Film Studios in Morocco

The Ancient Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou in Morocco

The Majestic Bab Mansour Gate in Morocco

The Moulay Idriss Town in Morocco

The Royal Palace of Dar el Makhzen in Morocco

Todra Gorge in Morocco

Tours in Morocco

Where is Morocco located on the World map?

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Meet the tomb diver going for gold with a career in underwater archaeology

The American tomb diver was among the first to swim beneath a pyramid in remote Sudan, ​where the water ​glittered with gold.

You’re one of just 16 people in the world to have dived beneath a pyramid. What led you there?

Good luck, really. In 2018, American archaeologist Pearce Paul Creasman came into my dive shop in Phoenix, Arizona, with this crazy idea of excavating a flooded tomb beneath a pyramid in Nuri, a really remote part of Sudan. I’d already dived a lot of unusual places, so he asked me to start making a plan — thinking about everything from airflow to lighting and mapping — to help the team of underwater archaeologists that he had in mind to complete the project. A year later, he called me, explaining that they may have underestimated the challenge slightly, and he asked me to come along. “Can you be in Africa in a week?” he asked, and I was there.  

What’s the significance of the site?

It’s the resting place of King Nastasen, who ruled the Kingdom of Kush from 335 to around 315-310 BCE. The Kushites held sway over some 750 miles of territory in the Nile Valley, but there’s still a lot we don’t know about the area during that period. Our project, which is still ongoing, is critical to understanding the ancient kingdom, its environment and its people.

How does underwater excavation work?

We bring in buckets and scoop up the contents of the chambers in mapped sections, then have additional divers stationed at intervals to send the buckets back above ground. We typically do two hour-long dives, six days a week, using surface-supplied air through tubes rather than tanks for ease of movement. If we find something significant, we pack it in with clay or mud and seal it in a protective case. For preservation, we keep these artefacts underwater until they can be collected by a conservationist. In the case of the pyramid in Nuri, any artefacts belong to the Sudanese people, and we hope they will go to the museums in the capital, Khartoum.  

For a lot of people, underwater archaeology will seem terrifying. What’s the draw?

It can be scary and uncomfortable. Often you have no way of knowing the depth, temperature, visibility and structural stability of the site in advance. It’s dark and really disorienting, but if you can push the fear aside, you get to experience something no one else has. The first time we went into King Nastasen’s tomb, we had crystal clear visibility — there was gold everywhere, and so much of it had degraded in the water that the whole place was glistening. Finding the sarcophagus in the third chamber was mind-blowing. We didn’t even have to dig; it was right there. The last person to see it was alive in 300 BCE, and then there’s me. It’s crazy.  

Where would you recommend for those wanting to experience underwater archaeological sites?

Playa del Carmen in Mexico has a bit of everything. You can dive the cenotes [subterranean lakes] and experience Mayan history, as they were used for sacrificial offerings, and explore wrecks or head out on reef dives. Also worth considering is the Submerged Archaeological Park of Baia, Italy. You really feel like you’re in ancient Italy, with mosaics and pillars and statues all around. Alternatively, the Second World War wrecks in the Middle East are epic. There’s Jordan’s Underwater Military Museum, where they’ve sunk helicopters, tanks — a whole host of military vehicles to explore. It’s not ancient, but it’s fascinating.

What qualifications do divers need to visit such sites?  

As a minimum, I’d say the PADI Advanced Open Water qualification, which allows you to dive almost anything within a recreational limit — up to 100ft deep. The PADI website has a list of dive shops at most destinations, as well as information on dive sites and depths.

Where’s next on your list?

The Dead Sea Diving Society, an off-shoot of the Pyramid Dive Club that I belong to, is looking at an archaeological site in the Dead Sea. It’d be the first time one has been excavated there and, like Sudan, the lake poses its own challenges. The high salt concentration affects buoyancy and makes diving tough, so logistically, it’s a nightmare — but we don’t want things to be easy.

Do you ever feel afraid?

It’s a mind game more than anything. The most important thing is not to panic, as often you're in deep water and panic creates so many problems for you and the divers around you. You have to become very comfortable being uncomfortable down there. It gets dark, it gets super disorienting. Sometimes when we’re digging, the silt gets so thick that you can’t even see the bright light of the team member you’re passing your bucket to. The only thing you hear is your breathing, your bubbles – it’s solemn, humbling. It puts things into perspective, especially the tomb, which is essentially an underwater grave. And then there are what we call the 'tomb jellyfish' – plastic bags that have blown into the water and float past you in the darkness or get stuck to your mask. They can be pretty scary.

Related Topics

• ARCHAEOLOGY
• UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGY

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