Take part in real palaeontological excavations in Morocco, discovering dinosaurs both large and small.
As an added bonus: informative tours and an immersion in Berber culture. All our participatory science trips can be found here
Science project: setting up a museum
Morocco’s fossil record is incredibly diverse: dinosaurs, trilobites, various teeth and bones, sauropods, Spinosaurus, mosasaurs, elasmosaurs, crocodilians, pterosaurs, as well as crinoids, gastropods, bivalves, stromatolites, orthoceras, ammonites, sea urchins, whales, shrimps, fish, jellyfish and starfish.
Geologists and palaeontologists
This project arose from fruitful encounters with specialists such as Ali Bajja, Nour Eddine Jalil and Abdelouahed Lagnaoui, which have helped forge strong bonds centred on promoting Morocco’s geological heritage. Since 2022, each expedition has brought together geologists, palaeontologists, students and enthusiasts to explore, share and promote Morocco’s fossil treasures together.
Enabling Moroccan students to take part in archaeological excavations
The aim of the trip is twofold: to create mini palaeontological museums in schools using local fossils, and to enable Moroccan pupils to take part in field excavations. This expedition also aims to make new palaeontological discoveries, with the long-term ambition of contributing to the creation of a national museum dedicated to Morocco’s fossil treasures.
In search of fossils in southern Morocco
This trip takes you deep into the heart of southern Morocco, between Erfoud, Merzouga and the Atlas Mountains, to discover the country’s exceptional fossil heritage. You’ll set off to search for a variety of fossils — trilobites, ammonites, dinosaur teeth and bones — whilst exploring spectacular landscapes.
Meeting with Moroccan scientists
You will visit the workshops of artisans and fossil hunters, and discover their working methods and unique collections. The trip also includes meetings with Moroccan researchers and geologists, as well as outreach activities in local schools to help children discover the palaeontological treasures of their region.
Discovering Berber culture
Between prospecting sessions, you’ll enjoy a range of cultural experiences: an immersion in Berber culture, a walk through the dunes of the Sahara, a visit to the traditional market in Rissani, an introduction to pottery and weaving, and a taste of the local cuisine. Finally, time will be set aside for discussion and observation to study the finds and understand their history, in a friendly and enthusiastic atmosphere.
- From 21 February 2026 to 28 February 2026
- €1,840.25 – tax déduction may be available
Tax Deduction *
The partner NGO is recognized for the high-quality, meaningful, educational, and solidarity-based nature of its programs and training courses dedicated to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
The NGO operates on a donation-action principle: a person makes a donation and takes part in one of the NGO’s activities. Please note that the donor and the participant may be two different people.
As such, the cost of the training course or scientific expedition may be tax-deductible up to 66% in France, in accordance with current French tax regulations.
- Families with children aged 7 and over
- Unaccompanied teenagers aged 14 and over
- Adults only
The location: In Morocco, between the Atlas Mountains and the desert
Accommodation
You will mainly be staying at the Berber Marhaba guesthouse, near Erfoud. You will be hosted there by our host and warm friend, Said. If you wish, you can experience spending a night in the desert.
As for meals, you will be provided with dinner by our hosts, whilst at lunchtime you will enjoy a packed lunch. The team does its utmost to provide local, seasonal and traditional food in order to respect the local area and culture.
Group size: 12 people
Arrival in Casablanca
From Casablanca, you will need to take another flight to Errachidia, where the team will be staying overnight.
You can choose to arrive in Casablanca between 12:30 and 20:00. Our flight to Errachidia will not depart until 23:00.
The team will be waiting for you at Errachidia airport on the evening of Day 1.
For participants who would like assistance, the team can meet you at Casablanca Airport a few hours before the 11.00 pm flight to Errachidia.
The team will also be at Casablanca Airport between 12.30 pm and 8.00 pm to meet minors.
- Biodiversity, Environment, Geology, Geological Time Scale, Palaeontology, Cartography…
- The leaders will have a dual role: ensuring the expedition runs smoothly and supporting you in acquiring knowledge through an educational and hands-on approach. Trained in project-based learning and group management in a mountain environment, they all possess a strong background in palaeontology and geology.
Tous les avis des missions d’Objectif Sciences international
About our partner NGO
The partner NGO holds Special Consultative Status with the UN (ECOSOC) and is a member of the AAAS Science and Human Rights Coalition. Specialising in science trips, science and participatory research, the NGO believes that education is the driving force behind the Sustainable Development Goals. It offers a range of participatory science trips for both adults and children.
