5-Day Erg Chigaga Desert Trip from Marrakech
DURATION
5 Days / 4 Nights
TOUR TIME
Daily
GROUPE SIZE
Unlimited
Overview of the 5-Day Erg Chigaga Desert Trip from Marrakech:
This 5-day Erg Chigaga expedition offers an extended opportunity to discover Morocco’s most secluded desert landscapes. Traveling by 4×4 from Marrakech, you will cross the High Atlas Mountains and pass through ancient kasbahs, historic caravan routes, and the lush Drâa Valley before reaching the edge of the Sahara in M’hamid. The added duration allows for a richer and more relaxed desert experience, including two full days among the towering dunes of Erg Chigaga. Enjoy authentic camel trekking, cultural encounters, peaceful evenings around the campfire, and nights under starry skies. This journey is ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.
5-Day Erg Chigaga Desert Trip from Marrakech, Highlights:
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m)
- Visit the Kasbah of Telouet with its traditional Moroccan interiors
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Benhaddou
- Ouarzazate and surrounding cinematic landscapes
- Follow the lush palm groves of the Drâa Valley
- Discover Tamegrout’s ancient manuscripts and pottery workshops
- Overnight in M’hamid, gateway to the Sahara
- Two full days exploring the dunes of Erg Chigaga
- Camel trekking during sunset across the dunes
- Off-road desert driving through Lake Iriqui toward Foum Zguid
- Learn about traditional Berber carpet weaving in Tazenakht
Details of our 5-Day Erg Chigaga Desert Trip from Marrakech:
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Telouet – Aït Benhaddou – Agdz
Depart from Marrakech in the morning toward the High Atlas Mountains. Travel along winding roads to the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, enjoying spectacular views of rural Berber life and rugged mountain scenery. Visit the Kasbah of Telouet before continuing through the Ounila Valley to Aït Benhaddou, a fortified village and UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring the ksar and lunch, head to Agdz via Ouarzazate and the Anti-Atlas. Dinner and overnight stay in Agdz.
Day 2: Agdz – Drâa Valley – Zagora – Tamegrout – M’hamid
Enjoy breakfast, then follow the picturesque Drâa Valley, dotted with palm groves and ancient settlements. Continue to Zagora before arriving in Tamegrout to visit the historic manuscript library and traditional clay pottery workshops. Travel to M’hamid, the last village before the open Sahara. Experience the early desert atmosphere, enjoy dinner, and spend the night in a local desert lodge or camp.
Day 3: M’hamid – Desert Tracks – Erg Chigaga Dunes
After breakfast, leave the paved road behind and journey deeper into the desert along ancient caravan tracks. Arrive at the remote Erg Chigaga dunes, the largest and wildest dune region in Morocco, reaching up to 300 meters. In the late afternoon, take a camel ride across the sands during sunset. Dinner, traditional music, and an overnight stay in a comfortable nomadic desert camp.
Day 4: Full Day in Erg Chigaga Desert
A full day dedicated to Saharan exploration. Optional activities include dune climbing, sandboarding, and off-road adventures to discover desert oases and rocky plateaus. There is also the possibility of visiting nomadic families living in the region to learn about their traditions. Enjoy another night in the desert camp, savoring the quiet and beauty of the dunes.
Day 5: Erg Chigaga – Lake Iriqui – Foum Zguid – Tazenakht – Marrakech
After breakfast, travel off-road across the dramatic landscapes surrounding Lake Iriqui, an ancient dry lakebed. Reach Foum Zguid to join the paved road before heading to Tazenakht, a well-known center for Berber carpet weaving. After lunch, continue toward Ouarzazate and cross the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech. Arrival in the late afternoon or evening. End of services.
included :
- Tour in 4×4 vehicle/minibus with A/C
- Fuel
- Driver-Guide
- Hotel overnight stays (breakfast & dinner included)
- 1 night in the desert camp
- Camel ride
excluded :
- Lunches
- Visites
- Drinks
- Tips
BOOK THIS TOUR
NB: There is a 30% reduction for children under 12 years old whilst we do not charge for children under 5 years
Photos of the 5-Day Erg Chigaga Desert Trip from Marrakech
5-Day Erg Chigaga Desert Trip from Marrakech on Map
FAQS about the 5-Day Erg Chigaga Desert Trip from Marrakech
1. What is the best time to visit the Erg Chigaga Desert?
The ideal time is from October to April, when temperatures are milder. Summers can be extremely hot during the day, though nights are cooler.
2. How long is the drive from Marrakech to Erg Chigaga?
The journey is approximately 8–10 hours, including scenic stops along the way. Most of the route is paved, but the last part to the dunes involves off-road tracks.
3. What type of accommodation is included in the tour?
You’ll stay in a mix of comfortable desert camps and traditional guesthouses along the route. Desert nights are in well-equipped tents with basic amenities.
4. Is the desert trip suitable for children and elderly travelers?
Yes. The tour is family-friendly, but some walking on sand dunes is involved. Those with mobility limitations should be prepared for uneven terrain.
5. What should I pack for the desert?
Essential items include:
- Comfortable clothing and layers for temperature changes
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Closed shoes for walking on sand
- Camera and binoculars for wildlife and landscapes
6. Are meals included during the trip?
Yes. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring traditional Moroccan cuisine, including tagines and local specialties.
7. Can I experience camel riding during the trip?
Absolutely. A camel trek at sunset is included on the dunes, offering a classic desert experience.
8. Will I have mobile or internet connectivity in the desert?
Connectivity is limited in the remote desert areas. Most camps do not have Wi-Fi, which allows you to fully enjoy the tranquility of the dunes.
9. Is it safe to travel in the desert?
Yes. Our tours prioritize safety, with experienced drivers and guides who know the terrain well.
10. How do I book this trip?
You can book directly on our website or contact us via email or phone. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.