Marrakech to Erg Chegaga Desert Tour

(115 Reviews)

Overview

Discover the magic of Morocco on our 4-Day Marrakech to Erg Chegaga Desert Tour, a journey that blends adventure, culture, and comfort in perfect harmony. From the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas Mountains to the golden sands of Erg Chigaga, this desert experience offers breathtaking scenery, authentic encounters, and luxurious accommodation.

Explore iconic landmarks such as the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou, the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, and the lush Draa Valley, before venturing deep into the Sahara Desert. Ride camels over rolling dunes, dine under a canopy of stars, and fall asleep in your private luxury tent, this is Morocco at its most enchanting.

Please note: This itinerary is just a suggested program. If it doesn’t fully match what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to design a customized itinerary tailored to your preferences, travel dates, and duration of stay. We specialize in creating personalized tours and experiences across Morocco.

Pricing: The cost of the tour varies depending on the number of travelers, the more people joining, the lower the price per person. Since transportation is a fixed cost, it will be divided among participants. Prices also depend on the category and quality of accommodation selected.
Please contact us for an exact quote based on your group size and travel preferences.

Trip Highlights

Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Visit the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover the Taourirt Kasbah and Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate.
Explore the vast palm groves of the Draa Valley.
Ride your camel across the Erg Chigaga dunes and witness a magical Sahara sunset.
Sleep in a luxury desert camp under a star-filled sky.

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Zagora Dunes

Your adventure begins at 7:30 a.m., with a comfortable pick-up from your Marrakech hotel or riad. We’ll travel through the winding roads of the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, admiring spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains and traditional Berber villages.

Our first stop is the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, an ancient fortified village and UNESCO site famous for its appearance in Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After lunch, we continue to Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” before driving through the Draa Valley, Morocco’s longest valley, filled with thousands of date palms.

Arrive in Zagora, where dinner and a cozy overnight stay in a traditional kasbah await.

Day 2: Zagora – Tamegroute – M’hamid – Erg Chigaga

After breakfast, we’ll head to Tamegroute, known for its ancient Quranic library, underground kasbah, and distinctive green pottery workshops. Continuing south, we reach M’hamid, the gateway to the Sahara Desert, where the paved road ends and the real adventure begins.

We’ll traverse a mesmerizing mix of Erg (sand dunes), Reg (stony desert), and Hammada (rocky plateaus) before arriving at Erg Chigaga, one of Morocco’s most remote and breathtaking dune fields. Ride camels into the desert, savor a delicious dinner, and enjoy local Berber music by the campfire beneath a starry sky.

Day 3: Chigaga Dunes – Iriki Lake – Foum Zguid – Tazenakht – Ait Benhaddou

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, then enjoy breakfast in camp. Our off-road journey leads through the dry Iriki Lake, once a seasonal water basin and now a serene desert landscape.

We’ll pass through Foum Zguid, a small Berber town known for its desert gateway charm, and continue to Tazenakht, a hub for traditional Moroccan carpets. By afternoon, we’ll reach Ait Benhaddou, where dinner and your final desert night await.
Accommodation: 4★ Kasbah Hotel in Ait Benhaddou

Day 4: Ait Benhaddou – Telouet – Tichka Pass – Marrakech

After breakfast, explore the Kasbah of Telouet, once the seat of the powerful El Glaoui family. Though partly in ruins, it remains an architectural treasure. Enjoy a scenic lunch stop along the Tizi n’Tichka Pass before returning to Marrakech in the late afternoon, where your unforgettable Sahara adventure concludes.

What's included

Free airport transfer to your Marrakech hotel or riad.
Private 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser or air-conditioned vehicle.
Professional English-speaking driver/guide.
Pick-up and drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation.
Guided visit to Ait Benhaddou Kasbah.
Visit to Cinema Studios in Ouarzazate.
2 nights in traditional Kasbah hotels (Zagora & Ait Benhaddou).
1 night in a luxury desert camp at Erg Chigaga (private ensuite tent).
Breakfasts and dinners throughout the tour (vegetarian options available).
Camel trekking with sunset and sunrise.
Private bathroom with hot shower and toilet in your tent.
Free time to explore sites such as Taourirt Kasbah, Cinema Sets, and Ait Benhaddou.

What’s Not Included

Know Before You Go

Travel time (Day 1): approx. 8–9 hours with scenic stops.
Desert nights can be cool, bring warm clothing (especially October–March).
4x4 support vehicles accompany camel rides for comfort and safety.
Suitable for couples, families, and small groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is the Erg Chigaga Desert different from Merzouga?

Erg Chigaga is larger, wilder, and less touristy than Merzouga. It offers a deeper Sahara experience with vast dunes, off-road driving, and a true sense of isolation, ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and tranquility.

2. How long is the drive from Marrakech to Erg Chigaga?

The total drive takes about 8 to 9 hours on the first day with several scenic and cultural stops, including Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate.

3. What type of vehicle is used for the desert journey?

We use comfortable 4WD Toyota Land Cruisers or air-conditioned SUVs, perfect for navigating the off-road tracks between M’hamid and Erg Chigaga.

4. Do I have to ride a camel to reach the camp?

Camel trekking is optional. Guests who prefer can travel by 4×4 vehicle directly to the camp. However, most travelers enjoy the short camel ride at sunset and sunrise for the full desert experience.

5. Are the desert camps comfortable?

Yes! Our luxury desert camp features private ensuite tents with real beds, hot showers, and flush toilets, blending authentic design with modern comfort.

6. Is there electricity or internet at the Erg Chigaga camp?

Electricity is solar-powered, enough for lighting and charging small devices. Wi-Fi is limited, the perfect excuse to unplug and enjoy the desert peace.

7. What should I pack for this 4-day Sahara trip?

Pack comfortable clothes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and warm layers for cool nights. Don’t forget your camera and a light scarf for dust protection.

8. What’s the best time of year to visit Erg Chigaga?

The best months are September to May, when temperatures are mild. Summer months (June–August) can be very hot during the day.

9. Can I add an extra night in the desert?

Yes! We can customize your itinerary to include an additional night at Erg Chigaga, allowing more time for sandboarding, stargazing, or visiting nomad families.

10. Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The route is safe and scenic, and kids love the camel rides and camping experience. Family tents are available upon request.