4 days
Daily Tour
1 person
English, Espanol, Francais
Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey from Marrakech to the majestic Erg Chegaga dunes, Morocco’s largest and most remote desert expanse. This extraordinary expedition takes you across the High Atlas Mountains, through the verdant Draa Valley, and deep into the Sahara’s wild heart. Experience the thrill of off-road desert driving, ride camels at sunset over towering golden dunes, and sleep under a blanket of stars in a traditional Berber camp. Along the way, discover ancient kasbahs, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the warm hospitality of nomadic communities. This carefully crafted itinerary balances adventure with cultural discovery, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Your desert adventure begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, heading toward the majestic High Atlas Mountains. The journey takes you across the legendary Tizi n'Tichka Pass, standing at 2,260 meters altitude, offering breathtaking panoramic views and numerous photo opportunities of the mountain landscapes and traditional Berber villages. Continue to Ouarzazate, famously known as the "Gateway to the Desert" and Hollywood of Morocco, where you'll have an optional stop to visit the Taourirt Kasbah or the famous film studios where movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed. The route then follows the magnificent Draa Valley, Morocco's longest valley, lined with thousands of palm trees and ancient kasbahs dotting the hillsides. Arrive in the peaceful town of Agdez by evening, where you'll check into a charming guesthouse or hotel. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and rest before the next day's desert adventure.
After breakfast, continue your journey south through the ever-changing landscapes of the Draa Valley. Pass through Zagora, a historic desert trading town famous for its sign indicating "Timbuktu 52 days" – a reminder of the ancient caravan routes that once connected Morocco to West Africa. Stop to explore the local markets and palm groves before continuing to M'Hamid El Ghizlane, the last village before the vast Sahara desert begins. Here, the paved road ends and your true desert adventure begins as you switch to off-road tracks. Your experienced driver navigates through rocky plateaus and sandy terrain toward Erg Chegaga, Morocco's largest and most remote dune field. Unlike the more touristy Erg Chebbi, Chegaga offers a wilder, more authentic desert experience with dunes reaching up to 300 meters high. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by your camel guides for a magical sunset camel trek across the golden sands. Watch as the setting sun paints the dunes in shades of orange and red – a truly unforgettable moment. Return to your desert camp for a delicious dinner prepared by nomadic cooks, followed by traditional Berber music and drumming around the campfire under the brilliant Saharan night sky. Overnight in comfortable nomadic-style tents.
Wake early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the dunes – an experience that makes the journey worthwhile. After breakfast at camp, begin your return journey across the desert plateau, crossing the fascinating dry Lake Iriki, an ancient lake bed that stretches for kilometers. This area is part of Iriki National Park and offers unique desert landscapes with occasional desert vegetation and wildlife. Arrive in Foum Zguid, the first town on the desert's edge, before continuing toward Taznakht, renowned throughout Morocco as the capital of Berber carpet weaving. Stop to visit local cooperatives where you can observe artisans creating intricate handmade carpets using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Continue to one of Morocco's most spectacular sites: Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed ksar (fortified village) that has appeared in numerous films including Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones. Explore the narrow alleys and climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Check into a traditional riad or hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation.
After breakfast, take time to further explore the Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou if you wish, capturing morning photos when the light is perfect. Depart toward Marrakech via an alternative mountain route that includes a stop at the historic Telouet Kasbah. This former palace of the powerful Glaoui family, who controlled the High Atlas and desert trade routes, stands as a hauntingly beautiful ruin with intricate tilework and stucco decorations hidden behind its crumbling exterior. Your optional visit offers a glimpse into Morocco's complex history and the power of the Glaoui dynasty. Continue through the High Atlas Mountains, descending toward Marrakech with final scenic views of mountain landscapes and Berber villages. Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening, where your unforgettable 4-day desert expedition concludes. Transfer to your accommodation or the airport as needed.
Member Since 2024
