Overview:
Embark on a mesmerizing 3-day journey from Marrakech to the Erg Chegaga Desert, one of Morocco’s most rewarding and captivating desert experiences. This tour allows you to explore Morocco’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty as you travel through iconic locations.
Begin your adventure with visits to the renowned Kasbahs, including Telouet and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ait Ben Haddou, famous for its dramatic architecture. As you pass through the scenic Ounila and Dra’a Valleys, you’ll follow the ancient route once used by cross-Saharan caravans, immersing yourself in a unique and breathtaking landscape. Along the way, discover the beauty of the Tamnougalte Kasbah and experience the vibrant culture of Morocco.
Admire the country’s famous green pottery in the village of Tamgroute and explore the Koranic Library, home to priceless manuscripts. In Taznakht, learn about the intricate art of Berber carpet-making, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the region.
The highlight of this desert adventure is the experience of camel trekking at sunset, leading you to a comfortable luxury or standard desert camp. Spend the night at the foot of the towering dunes of Erg Chegaga, where you can gaze up at a sky full of stars—a true highlight of the trip. This 3-day tour promises an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and adventure in the heart of Morocco’s desert.
Tour Highlights from Marrakech to Erg Chegaga:
- Visit Historic Kasbahs: Explore ancient kasbahs showcasing Morocco’s cultural heritage.
- Off-Road Adventure: Travel through the scenic Ounila and Dra’a Valleys with palm groves and kasbahs.
- Camel Trekking: Ride camels through the magnificent dunes of Erg Chegaga.
- Tamgroute Visit: Discover green pottery workshops and the ancient Quranic Library.
- Sunset & Stargazing: Watch a breathtaking sunset from 300m dunes and stargaze in the desert.
- Fossil Hunting & Berber Rugs: Hunt for fossils near Iriki Lake and learn about Berber rug-making in Taznakht.
Activities Included in the 3-Day Erg Chegaga Tour from Marrakech:
✔️ Private transport in a 4×4 or deluxe van
✔️ Pick-up and drop-off at your riad/hotel
✔️ Experienced driver
✔️ Stay in a luxury camp with private toilet and shower
✔️ Breakfast and dinner (vegetarian/vegan options available)
✔️ 1-hour camel ride and free sandboarding
✔️ Free time for photos and tea/coffee breaks
✔️ Flexible stops during the journey
✔️ Berber drumming and music
Activities Not Included in the Tour:
❌ Drinks
❌ Tips
❌ Lunches on the way
❌ Expenses for optional visits
❌ Tipping
Important Information to Know Before Your Trip
✨ Transport in a private, air-conditioned 4×4 or deluxe van, including fuel
✨ Pick-up and drop-off from your riad/hotel in Marrakech
✨ Experienced driver/guide to accompany you throughout the journey
✨ Stay in a luxury camp at Erg Chegaga with private toilet and shower, featuring traditional Moroccan handmade furnishings
✨ Delicious breakfast and dinner, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request
✨ Enjoy a 1-hour camel ride and free sandboarding
✨ Ample free time for photos and tea/coffee breaks
✨ Flexibility to request stops during the journey
✨ Traditional Berber drumming and music during your desert experience
Essential Information for Your Erg Chegaga Desert Tour
Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Telouet Kasbah – Ounila Valley – Ait Ben Haddou – Zagora
Departure: 8:00 AM from Marrakech
Your adventure begins as you depart from your hotel or riad in Marrakech, heading towards the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains. After descending from the highest point, you’ll stop at the historic Telouet Kasbah, once the home of the Glaoui family, also known as the “Lords of the Atlas.” Though in ruins, the Kasbah still reveals remarkable features and intricate decorations at its far end.
As you continue south, you’ll drive through the stunning Ounila Valley, where vibrant rock formations and lush landscapes contrast with Berber villages and humble kasbahs. Next, you’ll arrive at Kasbah Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its stunning earthen architecture. This 17th-century kasbah has served as a backdrop for many Hollywood films.
After a brief stop in Ouarzazate, you’ll continue your journey south, crossing the Tizi-n-Tinfifte Pass towards Zagora. As you descend, the lush oasis and palm groves will signal your arrival into the Draa Valley, renowned for its date palms. You’ll finally reach Zagora, where you’ll spend a magical night at Zagora Camp, experiencing the peaceful desert landscape.
Day 2: Zagora – Tamgroute – M’hamid – Erg Chegaga
After enjoying a delicious breakfast while watching a magical sunrise, you’ll continue your journey towards Tamgroute, a village famous for its stunning green-glazed pottery. You’ll also visit the ancient Quranic library, home to exquisite handwritten Arabic texts, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history and culture.
In the afternoon, you’ll head towards M’hamid, the gateway to the desert and the last stop along the paved road. Here, in the Erg Lihoudi dunes, you’ll pause for a delicious lunch at a desert oasis. From there, you’ll drive 60 kilometers through the desert to reach the magnificent Erg Chegaga dunes, towering at 300 meters. These remote dunes offer a peaceful escape from civilization, where the silence and vastness of the desert create a serene atmosphere.
You’ll then enjoy a one-hour camel ride, immersing yourself in the desert experience. As night falls, you’ll enjoy dinner and spend a magical evening at a luxury camp, featuring private bathrooms, comfortable beds, and beautiful traditional Moroccan furnishings.
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